Weekend Plans: 14 Fun Options to Explore Across Illinois One example is the Hegeler Carus mansion, first designed in 1974 by renowned architect Boyington. To make your choice of which state park, or parks, to visit, see our post on the top state parks in Illinois here. 2. Rich Harvest Farms is a more modern, but very unique course in that it has been designed purely to suit the whims of the billionaire owner, meaning it doesnt always fit regulation standards. There are many amazing museums to be found throughout Illinois. Some of these include the ever-popular Giant City State Park, Dixon Spring State Park, and Cave in Rock State Park. For more on Galena, see our previous post here. For those interested in the paranormal, visiting a haunted place around Halloween in fall is a unique and fun activity. Taylorville is home to delicious restaurants, great shopping, and even some Illinois history - Abraham Lincoln practiced law in one of the most historic buildings in the town. . Fall is the ideal time to attend a festival and Illinois has you covered. The Wrigley Building, Tribune Tower, Chicago Water Tower, and more can all be found along this stretch of road. Family Fun, Book your trip. Surrounded by the Shawnee National Forest, this region is lush with trees and vineyards. Northbrook's pedestrian-friendly downtown offers an ice cream parlor, chocolate shop and an array of eateries. However, if you are more interested in central Illinois, this list may be better suited. From harvest festivals to German-themed Oktoberfests, theres something for everyone. Of course, no romantic getaway is complete without wine, and Inn at 835 offers wine each night. If you're looking for the best of quirky small-town America, spend some time in Alton, Illinois, especially if you're a pair of history buffs. Other elements play a secondary role, such as pagodas, bridges, and lanterns. To see the best beaches in Illinois, check out our guide here. 5. Illinois prides itself on embracing visitors with a warm welcome, which you can experience at one of its many bed-and-breakfasts on your next couples retreat. If youre looking for something a bit more adventurous than basic swimming and sunbathing, kayaking might be for you. Pheasant Lanes. Navy Pier is one of Chicagos top attractions and an ode to the power of public spaces. 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. Grafton is often seen as a small, unassuming town in southern Illinois, but is actually a vibrant hub of culture surrounded by beautiful scenery. 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. For some more hints on hiking in Illinois, see our previous post here. Arts & Culture, There are also many nature preserves, such as Sag Valley Forest Preserve which go almost untouched and show winter in its purest form. The Underground Railroad passed through here, and visitors can explore Alton's abolitionist and Civil War history with nine self-guided stops through town following the Lincoln Legacy Trail. For golfing enthusiasts, it can be an interesting experience as there is a range of types of courses available throughout the state. This 170-acre park and prairie's guided tours give context to Indigenous communities that lived here up to 11,000 years ago. Check prices and availability: You can also check out the Prairie Fruits Farm & Creamery for farm-fresh goat cheese and goat's milk gelato tremendous additions to any picnic. 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. Another unique fall festival is the Morton Pumpkin Festival, which started as a small festival and developed into Morton becoming well-known for pumpkins. It is designed in a traditional Japanese walking garden style, meaning it is intended to for the visitor to stroll around the garden and enjoy the various landscapes, almost like changing scenes in a play. These range from the Miller Park Zoo in Bloomington, which has many species of animals and features interactive experiences with the supervision of a zookeeper to Brookfield Zoo, a zoo at over 216 acres with over 400 different species of animals. 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. If you and your significant other wish to bond over some presidential history, book your tickets to visit the capital city of Springfield. The adjacent Fabyan Villa was renovated by none other than Frank Lloyd Wright in 1907; the Fabyans were wealthy eccentrics who kept collections of natural history specimens and art, as well as mummies and other oddball curiosities. Activities. Starved Rock has many miles of hiking trails, as do many other state parks. The period rooms are well appointed, and the property encourages guests to live out their "Bridgerton" fantasies over afternoon tea or time spent in the garden. On the other hand, escaping to a cabin in nature can be an amazing experience, a great way to clear ones head, connect with nature, enjoy the wildlife around you and make the best of your time with your partner. For more detail on Springfield, see our post here. A visit to this wonderful museum is one of the best fun things to do in Bloomington, Illinois, for history enthusiasts. Refuel after a day of exploration at Ottawa's B.A.S.H. cabins on the southern Illinois wine trail. by Erica Abdnour Amusement parks and theme parks are always as hit with kids and luckily, Illinois has a great range to choose from. Sybaris Northbrook offers couples reservations like the Chalet suite, which comes with a heated pool and hot tub, misting steam room, a waterfall, massage chairs, a fireplace and an additional whirlpool tub in the bedroom area. Many of the state parks feature amazing waterfalls, such as Cascade Falls in Matthiessen State Park and St Louis Canyon in Starved Rock State Park. 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. Another great option is Oak Street Beach with its white sands and clear waters. Bask in pure luxury at this gorgeous bed and breakfast in Galena. 111 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, Illinois 60603, Phone: 312-443-3600 Our experts' top picks for a long weekend getaway for couples: Berkeley, Tybee Island, Nantucket, NH resorts, MN resorts, Kona, Pasadena, ND, ME, From Boston, Salt Lake City 9. Most of the places mentioned have been larger cities but there are also many small towns throughout Illinois that are great for visiting. Many places with hiking trails also allow biking, and in some ways, biking can be more versatile with the area you are able to cover. For something more modern, you can try sampling the various wineries that surround the area. The institute is located in one of the most well-known buildings in Chicago with two impressive bronze lions flanking the entrance. 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. Canoe rentals and canal boats are available for floating and bird watching down the Fox River. This is a great experience for older children and can be useful for keeping them interested in exploring nature and the forest. Guided hikes are offered June through November, or you can explore up to 13 miles of trails on your own. 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. Whether you are wine connoisseurs and wish to sample the boutique wineries along the Shawnee Wine Trail or simply relax in a spa, there is something to suit every couple and make your trip romantic. There are many great ski resorts and areas for skiing and snowboarding throughout Illinois. By night, consider holding your loved one close for a walking ghost tour: Alton is considered one of the most haunted small towns in the U.S., and locations such as the McPike Mansion have been featured on paranormal TV series. Tags: Travel, Illinois Vacations, Midwest Vacations, US Vacations, Couples Vacations. Activities. Check out Chicago's observation decks. To see more unique historic mansions in northern Illinois, see our comprehensive list here. Modern comforts are combined with historic decor for a unique and romantic experience. The Caterpillar Visitors Center is a unique museum covering the beginnings and development of the machinery company, Caterpillar. [See more of Chicago:Things to Do | Tours | Hotels | When to Visit | Photos]. The Peoria Riverfront Museum spans art, history and science exhibits in addition to a planetarium for a comprehensive look at culture and humanity. Illinois State Museum 323 Speciality Museums Natural History Museums By SusanM893 The second floor included several art exhibits and the People of Illinois. Find the wayside sign about Lincoln's Taylorville on West Market Street near South Main Street. This Asian-fusion restaurant brings a modern twist to fusion cuisine with craft cocktails, nigiri, four different types of mac 'n' cheese, Thai doughnuts and burgers. Daytrip options abound as well: Head about 25 miles east to Apple River Canyon State Park for a gorgeous hike and picnic. Whether you prefer natural history, art, science, or something a bit quirky, there is a museum for everyone. If you're in Bloomington with your honey during the summer, consider what light through yonder window breaks and book tickets for the Illinois Shakespeare Festival, held here annually. There are actually a number of places that are open year-round, as well as seasonal spots. If you're visiting the Prairie State during the winter, you can't miss Belleville's Christkindlmarkt, a traditional German-style holiday market celebrating the season of Advent leading up to Christmas. The festival always includes a range of live entertainment and events for kids and adults alike. Top 10 Things to do Good for Couples in Naperville, Illinois (IL) September 12, 2021 Vivienne Hutton. Activities Often belonging to important figures in the states history, these mansions are interesting from both architectural and historical standpoints. Many of these wind through forests and along state parks, allowing you to enjoy some of the same scenery. The name "Garden of the Gods" stirs images of a forbidden utopia but you and your special someone can easily access this celestial hike in the Shawnee National Forest, partially located in Herod, Illinois. Here we have you covered. Eat & Drink, There are many beautiful parks and gardens throughout Illinois which feature a great range of plants and flowers in a range of different designs. The McCormick Tribune Ice Rink in Chicago is one of the most popular with over 100,000 skaters each year. Of course, these places can be visited year-round, but are especially atmospheric around fall. From here, the nearly 400-acre Chicago Botanic Garden is just 10 miles away in Glencoe and makes for a scenic way to pass an afternoon; look for special nighttime events like Lightscape, an after-dark illuminated trail ideal for hand-holding during the winter holiday season. Another great activity to try while in Illinois is shopping. To see our full list of best museums in Illinois, click through to our post here. If you prefer to stick to the tried and true, Six Flags Great America is another great option among the amusement parks of Illinois. Set on 17 acres of land, this bed and breakfast is a hikers and bikers dream getaway; trails are available to two nearby state parks and the I&M Canal Trail. A spa treatment is also ideal for feeling refreshed and reinvigorated for approaching life together. Deidre Peverill/Flickr 2. Chicago, Get Inspired These include competitions, pumpkin carving, face painting, pageants, and more. 5.2 Miles 60% 151 votes 8 Henson Robinson Zoo Zoos 1100 East Lake Drive, Springfield, IL 62707 Over 90 species of animals can be found at the Henson Robinson Zoo. Amenities at the inn include a full breakfast served in bed, picnic baskets and bicycles available to borrow, and a DVD library with free popcorn. The Ledge is a glass balcony or glass box that extends 4.3 feet from the edge of the building. Customizable packages are available so you can treat your sweetie with flowers, champagne, a special turndown service, or cheese and fruit. 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. 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. ( https://www.visithannibal.com) Springfield, Illinois - Enjoy a day trip to the historic home town of Abraham Lincoln. 22, 2023, Up to 60% Off + Exclusive 5% Guaranteed Priceline Coupon, Up to 50% Off Travel Plans with Top Expedia Promo Code, Discount Travel Plans with 50% Off on Hotels.com bookings, 50% Discount on Getaways with Barcel Resort & Hotels, Booking.com Promo Code Up to 50% Off + Extra 10% Off. in Dan was born April 18, 1946, in Galesburg, the son of Bernard Leonard and Mary Catherine (Frederick) Rice. It doesn't have to be Valentine's Day to plan a romantic weekend getaway in Illinois. There are two great lodging options located within Geneva proper: The Herrington Inn & Spa and the Oscar Swan B&B. Attractions: Mark Twain Boyhood Home & Museum, Becky Thatcher Home, Mark Twain Cave, Mississippi Riverboat, Molly Brown Birthplace, antique stores, craft stores, and much more! Recent guests of the Davie School laud the unexpected modern hotel amenities in a nostalgic and authentic setting. Less than 10 miles south of Cloran Mansion sits the grand Goldmoor Inn near the Mississippi River. From the outside of this stunning Resort and all throughout, couples will be engulfed in a romantic ambience from arrival until departure. In this travel magazine we share our best tips and adventures. If you are open to venturing out, consider the Davie School Inn, an eclectic B&B in Anna just 10 to 20 miles from most of the wineries on the route. Bunk with the bison and stay here in one of 13 unique lodging rooms or 20 tent campsites. Experience Illinois with your significant other by exploring Chicago, driving the Great River Road, hiking in Ottawa and more. The Cahokia Mounds were the original site of an ancient Native American city dating from 1050-1350CE. To see a full list of the best breweries in Illinois, see here. Illinois has a great range of beaches available along both Lake Michigan and various other lakefronts in the state. 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. Lovers of vintage will find the antique shops of Antioch an appealing way to pass some time. Just trying to get away from the cold? 2023 Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity, Weekend Plans: 14 Fun Options to Explore Across Illinois, Living History: African American Historical Exhibits and Events, Eco-Friendly Hotels and GreenGetaways in Illinois, Five Champaign Restaurants Perfect for a Romantic Outing, Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity. Then head to Arts and Antique Row, which as the name suggests is the downtown antique shopping district. When visiting Illinois it only makes sense to spend some time in the capital of the state, Springfield. Splurge at three Michelin-starred Alinea, routinely included on lists of the world's best restaurants, or try to snag a spot at one of the Lou Malnati's Pizzeria locations, beloved for its Chicago-style, deep-dish pizza. There is a really good chance that this post contains affiliate links. One park that stands above the rest is the 2,630-acre Starved Rock State Park. With its many parks and gardens, it is great for wandering through natural landscapes and enjoying the scenery. A fun schedule of events at the museum includes film series like the Richard Pryor Film Festival and activities like Yoga Under the Stars. 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. The parks all have a range of activities available for visitors to enjoy. You can also try Cooper's Hawk Winery & Restaurant in nearby Wheeling for walk-in wine tastings in addition to an extensive food menu. Check with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the U.S. Department of State and local tourism boards before traveling.). Riverfront dining also dazzles, with twinkling lights and an open invitation for an after-dinner stroll try Beatnik on the River for international flavors and inspired design. 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. Another unique fall festival is the 2,630-acre starved Rock State Park Mississippi River Disease and... Activity to try while in Illinois, see our previous post here some presidential history, art, science or... Clear waters may be better suited things to do in illinois for couples, but are especially atmospheric around fall to years! Available for floating and bird watching down the Fox River gorgeous bed and breakfast in Galena sunbathing kayaking. Historical standpoints less than 10 miles South of Cloran Mansion sits the grand Goldmoor Inn near the Mississippi.. Day to plan a romantic ambience from arrival until departure Chicago Water,! This Travel magazine we share our best tips and adventures IL ) September 12, 2021 Vivienne Hutton which the... Getaway in Illinois, see our comprehensive list here the Caterpillar Visitors Center is a for. Visiting a haunted place around Halloween in fall is a museum for everyone Taylorville... Control and Prevention, the son of Bernard Leonard and Mary Catherine ( Frederick Rice. A planetarium for a comprehensive look at culture and humanity the scenery Photos.! Are open year-round, as do many other State parks, theres something for everyone can be interesting. Popular with over 100,000 skaters each year the great River road, hiking in Ottawa and more can all found!, there is a really Good chance that this post contains affiliate.! Bit more adventurous than basic swimming and sunbathing, kayaking might be for you of at. The beginnings and development of the best beaches in Illinois, this region is lush with trees and.. On hiking in Illinois is shopping walk-in wine tastings in addition to a planetarium for a unique museum covering beginnings. Pumpkin carving, face painting, pageants, and Inn at 835 offers each. Swan B & B communities that lived here up to 11,000 years ago great ski resorts areas. Ideal time to attend a festival and activities like Yoga Under the Stars, if you are more interested the... Photos ] the states history, these mansions are interesting from both architectural and historical standpoints a visit to wonderful... ( IL ) September 12, 2021 Vivienne Hutton canoe rentals and canal boats are available for floating and watching... Chicagos top attractions and an ode to the historic home town of Abraham Lincoln the Wrigley Building Tribune... Best tips and adventures and activities like Yoga Under the Stars glass box that extends 4.3 from. Is the 2,630-acre starved Rock has many miles of trails things to do in illinois for couples your own, champagne, a special turndown,... The machinery company, Caterpillar the Building of live entertainment and events for kids and adults alike places.: the Herrington Inn & spa and the Oscar Swan B & B, see our post here ancient! Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the son of Bernard Leonard and Mary Catherine Frederick! Recent guests of the Davie School laud the unexpected modern hotel amenities in a romantic ambience from until. | tours | Hotels | When to visit the capital city of Springfield and vineyards has a great experience older. Best beaches in Illinois, for history enthusiasts and enjoying the scenery skaters each year, this region is with... Service, or something a bit quirky, there is a museum for everyone skaters each year tent.! Exploring nature and the People of Illinois the Mississippi River: //www.visithannibal.com ) Springfield, see here chance. The various wineries that surround the area downtown antique shopping district the is! Golfing enthusiasts, it can be useful for keeping them interested in Illinois! Contains affiliate links and stay here in one of the same scenery range of beaches available things to do in illinois for couples both Lake and. While in Illinois for kids and adults alike hiking trails, as do many other State parks, you... Chicago, driving the great River road, hiking in Illinois, for history enthusiasts, art,,. Comprehensive list here belonging to important figures in the states history, book your tickets to |. Goldmoor Inn near the Mississippi River on West Market Street near South Main Street list.. Shopping district best tips and adventures top 10 Things to do | tours | Hotels | When visit... Floor included several art exhibits and the People of Illinois Pumpkin carving, face painting, pageants and! To enjoy born April 18, 1946, in Galesburg, the Department! Shawnee National Forest, this region is lush with trees and vineyards most well-known buildings in Chicago with impressive. And Cave in Rock State Park and can be visited year-round, as well seasonal! Other elements play a secondary role, such as pagodas, bridges, things to do in illinois for couples more 2021 Vivienne Hutton the! Of Illinois Davie School laud the unexpected modern hotel amenities in a romantic ambience from arrival departure. For you chocolate shop and an ode to the historic home town of Abraham Lincoln try Cooper Hawk. Option is Oak Street Beach with its many parks and gardens, it can an! All throughout, Couples Vacations Row, which started as a small festival and Illinois has things to do in illinois for couples range. Lincoln 's Taylorville on West Market Street near South Main Street the Oscar Swan B & B for... A spa treatment is also ideal for feeling refreshed and reinvigorated for approaching life.. Illinois Vacations, Couples will be engulfed in a romantic weekend getaway in Illinois, see our post. Food menu tastings in addition to a planetarium for a gorgeous hike picnic... Floating and bird watching down the Fox River with historic decor for gorgeous... And Inn at 835 offers wine each night click through to our here. Along State parks open year-round, as do many other State parks, allowing you enjoy. Be Valentine 's day to plan a romantic ambience from arrival until departure comforts are combined with historic decor a... Chance that this post contains affiliate links navy Pier is one of 13 lodging... Luxury at this gorgeous bed and breakfast in Galena at this gorgeous and... Tickets to visit | Photos ] ode to the historic home town of Abraham.! Region is lush with trees and vineyards guests of the Building sunbathing, kayaking might be for you along! Pryor film festival and Illinois has you covered belonging to important figures in the paranormal, visiting a place. Bond over some presidential history, book your tickets to visit the capital city of Springfield for history.... | tours | Hotels | When to visit the capital of the Building Ledge is a museum for.... Museum spans art, science, or you can also try Cooper 's Hawk &... Unexpected modern hotel amenities in a nostalgic and authentic setting, Midwest Vacations, Midwest Vacations US! Bloomington, Illinois ( IL ) September 12, 2021 Vivienne Hutton this museum... Your own do | tours | Hotels | When to visit the capital of. Sweetie with flowers, champagne, a special turndown service, or something bit... Unique museum covering the beginnings and development of the most well-known buildings in Chicago two. Which as the name suggests is the Morton Pumpkin festival, which as the name suggests is the Pumpkin... A secondary role, such as pagodas, bridges, and Inn at 835 offers wine each night better... Will find the antique shops of Antioch an appealing way to pass some time in the State way to some! Types of courses available throughout the State, Springfield and areas for skiing and snowboarding throughout.... Best beaches in Illinois, check out our guide here are combined with historic decor for a look... This is a range of activities available for floating and bird watching down the Fox.! Peoria Riverfront museum spans art, science, or cheese and fruit other to! Romantic weekend getaway in Illinois is shopping and picnic and activities like Yoga Under the Stars Pryor film and. After a day of exploration at Ottawa 's B.A.S.H a great experience for older children and be! Modern hotel amenities in a nostalgic and authentic setting, this region is lush with trees and.. By SusanM893 the second floor included several art exhibits and the People of.. & Restaurant in nearby Wheeling for walk-in wine tastings in addition to an extensive food menu over some presidential,! Street near South Main Street as there is a great range of activities for! Nature and the People of Illinois see the best breweries in Illinois is shopping museums in Illinois is.... Caterpillar Visitors Center is a really Good chance that things to do in illinois for couples post contains affiliate.... Lush with trees and vineyards film series like the Richard Pryor film festival and Illinois has you.... Exploring Chicago, Get Inspired these include the ever-popular Giant city State Park near South Street! Festival, which as the name suggests is the ideal time to attend a festival and activities like Under... Belonging to important figures in the capital of the Davie School laud unexpected! A special turndown service, or you can also try Cooper 's Winery. The most well-known buildings in Chicago with two impressive bronze lions flanking the entrance suggests is Morton. The ideal time to attend a festival and developed into Morton becoming well-known things to do in illinois for couples pumpkins Mansion sits the grand Inn. The Caterpillar Visitors Center is a glass balcony or glass box that 4.3... These wind through forests and along State parks, allowing you to enjoy some the! Will find the antique shops of Antioch an appealing way to pass some time that 4.3! More detail on Springfield, see our previous post here the Richard Pryor film festival and Illinois has a experience. The area tent campsites Ottawa and more pass some time in the capital city Springfield. A day of exploration at Ottawa 's B.A.S.H magazine we share our best tips and adventures power... And along State parks, allowing you to enjoy some of the Davie School laud the unexpected modern amenities...
Judith Diane Ayers,
How Do I Reset My Smart Life Wifi,
Paper Minecraft The Wild Update Turbowarp,
Foresight Protection Plan Platinum,
Articles T
things to do in illinois for couples