There are also a number of food and drink festivals held in Chicago, such as Ravenswood on Tap, a festival celebrating various craft beers, and the Lincoln Park Wine Festival, which is ideal for sampling a variety of wines from around the world. The Magnificent Mile is an area of Michigan Avenue in Chicago that serves as one of the main retail areas in the city as well as home to a number of Chicago landmarks, upscale restaurants, museums, and more. Recommended for Romantic Things to Do because: The lush interior, vibrant artwork and 1950's inspired Copacabana Club show whisks lovers from chilly Chicago to the heat of Latin America. From the Queen Anne mansion to the carriage house, all of the rooms on this property come with breakfast, access to a social hour with free beverages, cheese, and fruit. Eat & Drink Regional Getaways Illinois Made Chicago Activities Family Fun Architecture Arts & Culture & History Outdoors & Regional Offbeat Illinois 4-5 Days 5+ Days From Local Experts 1-3 Days Top 10 Winter Events & Festivals in Illinois Skiing? When visiting Chicago, Navy Pier is a must-go spot, ideal for catching some landscape and cityscape photos in one place, relaxing and enjoying the good weather, and taking part in some interesting local events. When you're both ready to tuck in, the Beall Mansion B&B will serve you well, with fireplaces, whirlpool tubs, included continental breakfast and free Wi-Fi. in With over 45 rides and attractions, Six Flags Great America is ideal for entertaining children of all ages. With many interactive exhibits covering a wide range of topics including natural sciences, inventions, and discoveries as well as arts, the Science Center is a great day trip for the whole family. There's no better place for romance than Chicago. If you make it all the way down to the southern tip of the state, the Cairo Custom House Museum is a historically significant stop along the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail. Public art installations and gardens are strewn throughout, making exploring the park an exciting and enjoyable adventure. However, it is also the second-largest city in Illinois and is home to a great number of museums and cultural buildings. The festival always includes a range of live entertainment and events for kids and adults alike. Illinois, area. When its too hot to do anything else and youre too far from a beach, a water park is the next best thing. For more details on Ohio Street Beach, click here. Each issue offers a mix of travel stories, stunning photography and timely trip ideas that make the most of each season. While you're browsing for something special, peek into bakery-meets-wine bar Bread & Vine or fuel up with a cup of joe from Galena Roasters. There are many wineries in the area, and going on a winery tour while enjoying the beautiful scenery is a great way to support local businesses while also experiencing the area. Address: 200 North Main Street, Bloomington, Illinois. Romantic touches here include a spa, a rose garden and a variety of intimate accommodations, including freestanding cottages with their own fireplaces and soaking tubs. Three of the rooms in this once-school are set up as romantic luxury suites, and you can treat yourself to extras like wine, roses or candle lighting in your room. There are many beautiful parks and gardens throughout Illinois which feature a great range of plants and flowers in a range of different designs. Experience Illinois with your significant other by exploring Chicago, driving the Great River Road, hiking in Ottawa and more. Customizable packages are available so you can treat your sweetie with flowers, champagne, a special turndown service, or cheese and fruit. Follow these steps (and allow plenty of time) to get your child a passport. Visitors can explore the mounds, either with a guide or independently. There are many unique fossils, bones, and more featured in the museum along with exhibits on geology, ancient human civilizations, and more. These include competitions, pumpkin carving, face painting, pageants, and more. For some of the best wineries in Galena, we have our top 5 list here. If youre in Illinois on a budget, taking advantage of free things to do is a great way to still get some great experiences without breaking the bank. National Forests, hiking, ziplining, horseback riding, state parks and animal pa. Illinois is ideal for family vacations with everything from theme parks and water parks to educational yet fun museums and tours. Back in the 21st century, couples can stroll downtown Bloomington to browse the storefronts with a possible detour back in time at the Arcadia arcade, which charges just a quarter for more than half of its vintage games. Canoe rentals and canal boats are available for floating and bird watching down the Fox River. Tandem bike along the Chicago lakefront trail. Chicago is also a festival-goers paradise, with an array of festivals ranging from big-name music festivals to indie art festivals and more. The Skydeck provides panoramic views of not just Chicago, but the surrounding states. Luckily, many buildings and sites have been preserved from this history and are now available to be observed and learned from in the modern day. Illinois has a great range of beaches available along both Lake Michigan and various other lakefronts in the state. While shopping may seem like something you can do anywhere, there are often unique and interesting aspects to shopping in a new place and Illinois is no different. At 1353 ft from the ground, this is the highest observation deck in the US and the glass box allows you to see straight through to the ground below. If youre planning a family vacation to Illinois, you may be looking for fun, kid-friendly activities to enjoy together. in Tour Chicago by helicopter. Learn more about coverage options for frequent travelers and those with multiple upcoming trips. Here we have you covered. If youre looking for a gorgeous, historical getaway, look no further than The Vrooman Mansion. originated from an 1890 novel but later became popular on the vaudeville circuit the idea was that if your show was a hit in Peoria, it would be an overall success. A full breakfast comes complimentary, and you dont want to miss an array of Belgian waffles, French toast, eggs, farm-fresh meats, and much more. Illinois State Museum 323 Speciality Museums Natural History Museums By SusanM893 The second floor included several art exhibits and the People of Illinois. Table games, more than 800 slot machines and dining options make this a potentially late night out. You can read our complete privacy policy here. Regional Getaways, For a more unique theme park experience, you can check out Boo Castle Park, originally built as a memorial park for Jeremey Boo Rochman after a car accident but themed around a childhood love of dragons, wizards, and role-playing games. There are also a number of historic buildings, such as the Clock Tower and the many historic houses, which depict how the community would have been at the time and give information on daily life. Also potentially of interest in Herod is a roadside park on U.S. Route 34 that leads to a cave once home to the Fairy Cliff Caf. As mentioned previously, the area around Cloud Gate in Chicago is also turned into an ice rink in winter each year and is another very popular spot. For our full list of winter activities in Illinois, see our more detailed post here. Or, about 15 miles south of Galena, you can honor the area's rich Native American heritage with a visit to the Wapello Land & Water Reserve. Customize your romantic stay with a romance package or a spa package as well. Illinois is The M. Arts & Culture & History With the use of zip lines, aerial bridges, rappelling, and more, canopy tours explore the forest in a new way. To see our list of the top things to do in Grafton, see our post here. A National Historic Landmark District, Nauvoo showcases a Mormon heritage with dozens of restored homes and shops available to tour by horse-drawn wagon ride for free. Romantic touches here include a spa, a rose garden and a variety of intimate accommodations,. From late November through December, you can bundle up and browse the outdoor stalls in the city's Public Square selling handicrafts and gift items, as well as gingerbread and hot mulled wine. Travelers may want to catch a show at the Lincoln Theatre, opened in 1921 as a stage for vaudeville that welcomed stars in the making such as Ginger Rogers and the Marx Brothers. in Family Fun, The best part? There are many amazing museums to be found throughout Illinois. Panoramic views of Chicago can be found from the top of the John Hancock Center or history can be explored in one of the many museums. Less than 10 miles south of Cloran Mansion sits the grand Goldmoor Inn near the Mississippi River. The inn offers a package bundling museum tickets with a bottle of sparkling wine and dessert, among other romantic amenities you can add on to your stay. Other elements play a secondary role, such as pagodas, bridges, and lanterns. We mentioned already a few museums above but here is a list of more interesting museums. A spa treatment is also ideal for feeling refreshed and reinvigorated for approaching life together. Many of the wineries along the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail include on-site lodging so you don't have to wander far from your new favorite red. The riverfront is the place to look for a dinner reservation; try The Blue Duck Barbecue Tavern. While it may not seem like the most interesting topic, the center has gone above and beyond to make the experience interactive and exciting. A scenic drive is also ideal for personalization it can be a full-day activity or just a few hours before you move on to something else. It can also be a fun activity for adults, making it a great bonding experience. Hawk Valley Retreat and Cottages screams romance, as it sits on a stunning 10 acre property with valley views, a gorgeous garden, walking trails, and a pond. They include private baths, plush towels, hand-milled French soap, cable TV, state-of-the-art telephones, Wi-Fi and high-speed wired internet. Top Attractions in Illinois 2022 1. Autumn is an ideal time to visit when the leaves are at their peak fall colors. Its also home to many local artists and artisanal businesses. However, if you are more interested in central Illinois, this list may be better suited. 8 Romantic Getaways in Illinois. About 25 miles outside of Springfield, the Market Street Inn Bed & Breakfast in Taylorville also makes a great home base to explore central Illinois and the impact of former resident Abraham Lincoln. The Lincoln Home National Historic Site is located in Springfield, the hometown of Abraham Lincoln. This is a great experience for older children and can be useful for keeping them interested in exploring nature and the forest. Planning a trip around seeing the state parks of Illinois is not uncommon, and so staying in the areas closest to these state parks is quite popular. Foodies seeking an Illinois escape can head to Champaign, a great Midwestern food town that's home to a lively community from the University of Illinois campus. These are great for enjoying all the fun of the attractions with fewer crowds. As mentioned above, playing in the water is a great family activity. There are a number of biking trails available in Illinois, with the Tunnel Hill State Trail as one of the most popular. You could spend the 14 weekends between Memorial Day and Labor Day exploring Ill Fresh Picks The Art Institute of Chicago 24,409 Art Museums Grant Park By caront671 The first was major retrospective of the Chicago influenced works of John Singer Sargent, who had many patrons among 2022 2. Additionally, The Beall Mansion offers massage packages and breakfast in bed is available to truly make your stay a memorable one. 2. With so many to choose from, there is no better way to spend a nice sunny day than exploring some of the best parks on offer. The Ledge is a glass balcony or glass box that extends 4.3 feet from the edge of the building. You won't taste quite the same bread there today, but your stay includes a full breakfast made with seasonal ingredients, which can be enjoyed on the patio or in the dining room. Just outside Peoria, the 1,800-acre Wildlife Prairie Park is home to more than 150 animals spanning 50 species native to the state. Living History: African American Historical Exhibits and Events For photography enthusiasts, there is also a photography cruise that follows the same route as the normal CAFC tour, but takes place in the early morning and pauses at key points to allow photographers to get perfect shots in the morning light. No matter where in the state you are planning to go, what type of group youre traveling with, and what your budget is, we have something for you so you can enjoy the beautiful state of Illinois to its full potential. Yosemite, Yellowstone, and the Grand Canyon might receive the brunt of the attention when it comes to USA's national parks, but there are a few hidden gems scattered across Illinois as well. Family Fun, Recreate some iconic movie romance with a tour of the North Shore and keep an eye out for the many places used as filming locations. Not only is the beach a beautiful sandy lake shore, it also has some amazing views of the Chicago skyline. For more information on Six Flags Great America, see here. Back at Cypress, unwind in one of the many apartments or cottages available to rent including some dog-friendly accommodations, if your couples getaway isn't complete without your pup. Of course, no romantic getaway is complete without wine, and Inn at 835 offers wine each night. 5. There are also a number of nearby local wineries which also feature beautiful landscapes. More information on the Science Center as well as many other museums which are great for children can be found here, in our guide to museums in Illinois. Chicago, Illinois, is an amazing city to visit, offering a diverse selection of museums, tours, and Italian, and other restaurants.Enjoy a bird's eye view from 360 Chicago or the Skydeck, spend an afternoon at the Art Institute of Chicago, explore the famous Millennium Park, listen to an orchestra performance, and go for a romantic walk in one of the beautiful parks. The gardens have been officially recognized by the Japanese government as an effort toward international friendship. If you are planning a romantic couples trip, Illinois is an ideal place with a variety of things to do. Visiting Illinois at different times of the year can bring to life different aspects of the states nature, culture and attractions. With Illinois many beautiful state parks and miles upon miles of hiking trails, it would be a waste to leave them untouched for months of the year, and so winter hiking is also popular. Airbnb in Clifton, Cape Town: 11 great places to stay in 2023, What are the best Airbnbs in Tokyo? Visit Millennium Park, the Palmer House Hotel and other city landmarks. Chicago is one of the most romantic cities in the American Midwest. A large portion of the city has been added to the historic register, meaning they are preserved as a piece of history. Outdoor Activities Concerts & Shows Food & Drink Events Shopping Transportation Traveler Resources Types of Attractions Nightlife Sights & Landmarks Fun & Games Nature & Parks Spas & Wellness Museums Classes & Workshops Boat Tours & Water Sports Casinos & Gambling Water & Amusement Parks Zoos & Aquariums Traveler rating & up & up & up Neighborhoods On a trip to Bloomington, be sure to check in to the Vrooman Mansion, a former home brimming with legacy and life since the Scott family moved into the mansion in 1873. Then head to Arts and Antique Row, which as the name suggests is the downtown antique shopping district. Find the best places to eat, drink and have fun. Millennium Park is home to the famous Cloud Gate sculpture, more commonly known as The Bean. Enjoy cocktails at Green Mill Jazz Club. From the tallest president to the tallest man, memorials and statues in Alton commemorate Abraham Lincoln and Robert Wadlow, respectively. In the warmer months you can enjoy watersports, a caf, beach rentals, and activities on the shore. The cruise takes about 90 minutes and is now offered in the evening as well as during the day to provide a different view of the city. Camping and RV sites are plentiful if you plan to rough it together; otherwise, enjoy the modern conveniences and history at Pere Marquette Lodge in the state park, built by hand during the Great Depression. However, if youre looking for something a bit more niche, the Pitchfork Music Festival in Union Park is a great option. There are many buildings and places throughout the city that are important to the life and times of Abraham Lincoln and have been preserved as historic places. With many museums surrounding different topics located in the same city, it is ideal for learning about a wide array of subjects and areas of interest. Here you'll find both the Lincoln Home National Historic Site, where the Lincoln family lived for 17 years, as well as the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum. Gail Borden Public Library 125 Libraries By jefflC6195OD Gail Borden Library is a treasure in Elgin. With Chicagos great location on the edge of Lake Michigan, it is ideal for going to the beach and soaking up some sun. One of the more interesting gardens is the Anderson Japanese Gardens, which as the name suggests, have been designed in a traditional Japanese style. . For fun in the water and entertaining the kids, the many water parks of Illinois are ideal for a fun summers day out. A number of elements are key to this style, such as water through waterfalls or ponds, stones either rock paths or sculptures, and of course plants. Originally constructed as a permanent monument to the Worlds Columbian Exposition in 1893, the Field Museum still stands with 20 permanent exhibits featuring items from the Ice Age, Ancient Egypt, and even the time of dinosaurs. Couples can also opt for more luxurious lodging with a romantic cabin from Shawnee Forest Cabins, complete with a hot tub and fireplace. This 170-acre park and prairie's guided tours give context to Indigenous communities that lived here up to 11,000 years ago. Getting around Chicago and Illinois is easy with our guide to ways to travel around the state. The McCormick Tribune Ice Rink in Chicago is one of the most popular with over 100,000 skaters each year. For more information on the best beaches in Illinois, see our previous post here. In Illinois, you can make such a journey along the Great River Road. 30 Things Seoul is Famous For, Driving in Sweden in Winter: All You Need To Know, Globetrotters in heart and soul. To see more of the top canyons to explore in Illinois, check out our previous post here. Looking to leave your room and explore? With over 45 rides and attractions, Six Flags Great America is ideal for entertaining children of all ages. Here is an overview of quaint cabins on the southern Illinois wine trail. Choose your favorite accommodation such as a suite in the main house or a country cottage dispersed along the property. We've got all the big city glitz and glamour, plus candle-lit restaurants, cozy hotels, and one-of-a-kind date night activities. There are also many boardwalks and similar paths that are great for a more relaxed bike. From harvest festivals to German-themed Oktoberfests, theres something for everyone. There are many beaches and lakes in Illinois where kayaking is available as an activity, and many of these offer guides or lessons, making it accessible to all experience levels. Close to Pere Marquette State Park, Grafton is blessed with amazing autumn foliage and stunning rock formations within easy reach. For those more interested in the history of Lincoln, following the Lincoln and Civil War Legacy Trail in Alton could be a fun and informative activity. There are a number of beaches located throughout the city, many of which allow swimming and other water activities. This city is very historically rich, as both the hometown of Abraham Lincoln and the place where Obama first announced his candidacy. To see some of the best spa resorts in Illinois, check out our post here. Its the most complex prehistoric site north of Mexico and shows a unique and sophisticated society. A fun schedule of events at the museum includes film series like the Richard Pryor Film Festival and activities like Yoga Under the Stars. 25 places sorted by traveler favorites 1. While exploring some of the state parks above, you may want to take part in some hiking. From Wildcat Canyon, the deepest canyon in Starved Rock Park at 90 feet to LaSalle Canyon, where you can stand behind the waterfall, there are many canyons to explore in Illinois. [See more of Chicago:Things to Do | Tours | Hotels | When to Visit | Photos]. As the biggest city in Illinois and home to a wide variety of art and culture, Chicago is a great starting place for any trip to Illinois. On the other end of the spectrum is Galena Oktoberfest and Oktoberfest Chicago, both of which celebrate the German event of Oktoberfest with beer, sausages, pretzels, and more aspects of German heritage. The Shoppes at Grand Prairie is an open-air shopping plaza with more than 20 specialty stores exclusive to the Peoria market. Weekend Plans: 14 Fun Options to Explore Across Illinois These include nature reserves, forests, natural areas, and more. You can start in Galena in the state's northwest corner and discover enchanting towns along the way, some of which might share a border with Iowa or Missouri, such as Nauvoo. Perhaps the most well-known is the now world-famous Lollapalooza 4-day music festival, held in Grant Park. Daytrip options abound as well: Head about 25 miles east to Apple River Canyon State Park for a gorgeous hike and picnic. The acclaimed Main Street's more than 100 storefronts showcase everything from clothing to collectibles. Watch the birds with a cup of coffee in hand or rent a canoe for a different view of the river. The Chicago Architecture Foundation Center in conjunction with Chicagos First Lady cruise boat has designed a river cruise to feature some of Chicagos most beautiful, interesting, and historic architectural delights. This tour is so popular and intriguing that it has been named the number 1 boat tour in Chicago. Get inspired by top travel stories, gain access to exclusive promotions and contests, and discover even more reasons to #EnjoyIllinois. Some highlights include the 16th Century style Ravenstone Castle, Bettendorf Castle which was modeled after the original Vianden Castle in Luxembourg, and Old Main Castle, built in a traditional Gothic style. Open every day of the week, McLean County Museum of History offers free admission to its visitors every Tuesday. Right in our state capital is a beautiful turn-of-the century inn that screams luxury. Source: Henryk Sadura / shutterstock. There are a range of trails available to suit all levels of hiker, from casual beginners right through to experienced hiking enthusiasts. However, winter can be an amazing time to visit Illinois. Stroll through Chicago Botanic Garden. Starved Rock has many miles of hiking trails, as do many other state parks. Navy Pier is one of Chicagos top attractions and an ode to the power of public spaces.
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