It can also be a fun activity for adults, making it a great bonding experience. 2023 Guide, 12 Best Airbnbs in Sagres You Need To Stay At. The park itself is a one-stop outing, featuring an ice rink, a 120-foot-tall bandshell designed by Frank Gehry that attracts top-notch musical talent, the seasonal Lurie Garden, staggering public art installations and a roster of free events held on the Great Lawn. To find out more about the Lincoln Home National Historic Site, click through to see our more detailed post. Come fall in love with Chicago. The National A. Phillip Randolph Pullman Porter Museum goes into further depth about the struggles of African Americans in the community and how they worked to gain representation and rights. There are also extended-stay suites available for between one and six months. These range from hiking to horse-riding to picnicking. The Caterpillar Visitors Center is a unique museum covering the beginnings and development of the machinery company, Caterpillar. 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. Learn more about coverage options for frequent travelers and those with multiple upcoming trips. Chicago, 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. The Arts and Crafts-style property features a quiet atmosphere and about a dozen flower-themed rooms, four of which come with balconies. 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. Find the best places to eat, drink and have fun. With the use of zip lines, aerial bridges, rappelling, and more, canopy tours explore the forest in a new way. The theater is multifaceted, showing first-run films, concerts by the Belleville Philharmonic and other live stage performances. It is actually a part of ancient history, putting it in a separate category from most other historic sites listed. 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. 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. Trip Ideas Explore Things To Do PLACES TO EAT BREWERIES & DISTILLERIES WINERIES & VINEYARDS HISTORY Places to Stay Inn at Irish Hollow We're a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates program. in This tour is so popular and intriguing that it has been named the number 1 boat tour in Chicago. Complete with five beautifully decorated suites, a parlor, library, music room, and dining room, The Vrooman Mansion offers a seasonal gourmet breakfast each morning and is conveniently located near wineries, breweries, the Miller Park Zoo, and several quaint restaurants. Illinois State Museum 323 Speciality Museums Natural History Museums By SusanM893 The second floor included several art exhibits and the People of Illinois. From the 'Galena Brick' in historic downtown to the Farmer's Guest House Bed and Breakfast. One of the more interesting gardens is the Anderson Japanese Gardens, which as the name suggests, have been designed in a traditional Japanese style. This is necessary as some zip lines can reach up to 40mph and can be very high off the ground. Whether you prefer natural history, art, science, or something a bit quirky, there is a museum for everyone. Tags: Travel, Illinois Vacations, Midwest Vacations, US Vacations, Couples Vacations. Stroll through Chicago Botanic Garden. Friendly, leashed dogs are welcome on the lakeshore. Another top pick is Matthiessen State Park, which is located close to the aforementioned Starved Rock. Maybe an unstructured road trip is what you seek to infuse a little spontaneity into your relationship. Head out to quaint downtown Alton to shop the boutiques, dine at the family-owned restaurants, or sip cocktails at the local bars. Illinois has a wide range of water parks, including both indoor and outdoor options as well as parks that are better for young children and others that are suitable for all ages. The beach has space for swimming, kayaking, and canoeing and is a popular spot on weekends. There are two great lodging options located within Geneva proper: The Herrington Inn & Spa and the Oscar Swan B&B. Stay in a cabin at picturesque Starved Rock (Utica). Bunk with the bison and stay here in one of 13 unique lodging rooms or 20 tent campsites. A 10-foot waterslide leads from the loft bedroom to the pool. 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. The Lincoln Home can be viewed on a guided tour while other exhibits can be independently explored. Admire The Chicago Skyline From The Oak Street Beach. Eight suites, plus three luxury suites each come with complimentary breakfast - some suites even feature spa Jacuzzi tubs and fireplaces. . Discover these empowering women's history destinations selected by the U.S. News travel editors. These include Lincolns house, the presidential library, and more. 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. The riverfront is the place to look for a dinner reservation; try The Blue Duck Barbecue Tavern. Both options require a combination of patience and advance reservations, but they're well worth it, according to patrons. Some couples may prefer an upscale resort with a range of amenities and facilities. See and be seen at these stunning natural wonders. The Burpee Museum of Natural History is an amazing three-floor museum full of interactive exhibits and unique pieces of history. Illinois has a great range of beaches available along both Lake Michigan and various other lakefronts in the state. Of course, no romantic getaway is complete without wine, and Inn at 835 offers wine each night. For those interested in politics, history, and architecture or who are just interested to learn more, Springfield is an ideal place to visit. If you arent interested in hiking, biking is another option when looking for ways to explore nature. Surrounded by the Shawnee National Forest, this region is lush with trees and vineyards. Typically held the Saturday before St. Patrick . From exhilarating roller coasters to costumed characters, these parks offer fun for everyone. Amusement parks and theme parks are always as hit with kids and luckily, Illinois has a great range to choose from. Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum. If youre planning a family vacation to Illinois, you may be looking for fun, kid-friendly activities to enjoy together. There are also many boardwalks and similar paths that are great for a more relaxed bike. Rather than taking in nature slowly, canopy tours create a fast-paced and adventurous activity. Head to Skydive Chicago for a thrilling skydiving experience. Spread the trail out over multiple days and stay overnight in one of the wineries that offer accommodation or choose the wineries youre most interested in and make an afternoon of it. These include competitions, pumpkin carving, face painting, pageants, and more. Chicago River dyeing. For more information about this beach, click here. 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. A sparkling, wine-colored gem of southern Illinois is the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail near Pomona. 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. From big city fun to presidential experiences, find the perfect couples escape. Elgin History Museum 27 History Museums By STCIL Interesting local history. 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. Step back in time to the golden age of train travel and settle in for a peaceful ride to discover some of Illinois most charming towns and hidden treasures. Here are twelve great places in Illinois that are sure to set a romantic tone: 1. The Oak Street Beach is one of the most unique and fun things to do in Illinois. Whether it is through interactive exhibits or finding museums relevant to their interests, museums can be an ideal way to spend a day as a family. Choose your favorite accommodation such as a suite in the main house or a country cottage dispersed along the property. Head to Zion, on the border with Wisconsin, where Illinois Beach State Park extends for 6.5 miles along Lake Michigan. Another must-visit Geneva establishment is the Little Traveler, a Victorian house that is part cafe and part sprawling store. It was once part of the famous Route 66 but is now a walking and biking-only bridge. 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 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. 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. 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. Springfield is only 80 miles from the lodge. Featuring indie artists, Pitchfork Music Festival is a great way to support up-and-coming music talent and discover new artists. 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. ( https://www.visithannibal.com) Springfield, Illinois - Enjoy a day trip to the historic home town of Abraham Lincoln. For more on Galena, see our previous post here. From the history of Lincoln to ancient Cahokia mounds, the history in Illinois is wide and varied and able to be interesting for anyone. Grafton is a great place to experience nature as there are also a number of wildlife sanctuaries and bird- and wildlife-watching enthusiasts regularly gather. Many of these wind through forests and along state parks, allowing you to enjoy some of the same scenery. This allows the zoo to have a strong focus on conservation and animal care. Tour Chicago by helicopter. Perhaps the most famous state park, Starved Rock State Park, is loved by many for its miles of trails, opportunities for hiking, boating, photography, and more. U.S. News rates the cheapest travel insurance options, considering expert and consumer recommendations. Chicago is one of the most romantic cities in the American Midwest. 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. Any visiting duo is practically required to take a picture with "The Bean" (officially titled Cloud Gate), the iconic reflective sculpture in downtown's Millennium Park. Established in 1969 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1975, Naper Settlement, located at 523 South Webster Street, is situated on land bequeathed to the City of Naperville in 1936 by Caroline Martin . 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? Outdoor enthusiasts will embrace this scenic driving route for its proximity to hiking, mountain biking and fishing hot spots like Pere Marquette State Park in Grafton or Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site. Enjoy some finger sandwiches and then take a look around to see what you can find; shoppers say Little Traveler sells lots of decorative items, especially for Christmas. The best part? Chocolate lovers are in luck more than 20 varieties are available to nibble at all times of day for Beall Mansion guests at the complimentary chocolate buffet. For more information on Rockford, see our previous post here. For more detail on Springfield, see our post here. Described as landscape art under glass, the conservatory features 120,000 plants over hundreds of species and has flower shows seasonally. All food tastings are included, and the tour covers an easy 1.5 miles (2.4 km) suitable for most fitness levels. To see more about the best way to enjoy the Shawnee Wine Trail, see our previous post here. The saying "Will it play in Peoria?" There are many castles located throughout Illinois built in a range of styles from different periods of history. Edwards Place Historic Home 100 Historic Sites By 866TaylorB Edwards was brother-in-law of Mary Todd Lincoln's sister Elizabeth. This Depression-era eatery operated here from the 1930s to the 1960s. by Erica Abdnour For golfing enthusiasts, it can be an interesting experience as there is a range of types of courses available throughout the state. Often featuring artists and local products, Makanda Boardwalk is a great way to explore and support the local community. For those more interested in science and the natural world, the Field Museum may be a better fit. Centennial Beach 162 Beaches By litttlelaura75 Ice skating is very popular in Illinois and so there are many different places you can enjoy the activity. Other top sights here to check out are the Air Combat Museum, Frank Lloyd Wright's Dana Thomas House, and the Camp Butler National Cemetery. What to Do in Illinois: Museum of Science and Industry Courtesy of Henryk Sadura - Fotolia.com Explore Illinois Architectural Oddities 27 Statues 25 Museums And Collections 25 Shops 25 History 23 Art 23 Sculptures 21 Monuments 20 Collections 20 Abandoned 17 Cemeteries 14 Illinois Obscura. If youre looking for something a bit more adventurous than basic swimming and sunbathing, kayaking might be for you. Customizable packages are available so you can treat your sweetie with flowers, champagne, a special turndown service, or cheese and fruit. Indulge in a weekend that features gourmet tea and coffee and breakfast made-to-order. Lovebirds can also head to the country for a stay at a Victorian farmhouse operating as the Fox River Bed and Breakfast. Make sure to sample the boutique wines of Starview Winery and experience the cozy cabin-like atmosphere of Honker Hill Winery. One popular example is Millennium park, located in downtown Chicago. Follow these steps (and allow plenty of time) to get your child a passport. Top Attractions in Illinois 2022 1. This makes a castle tour a great way to experience a wide range of architectural styles and see the different inspirations for each castle. Explore the top ways to celebrate St. Patrick's Day with events and things to do in Chicago. 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. As mentioned above, playing in the water is a great family activity. This 45-mile trail follows a former rail line and passes through beautiful forests, and abandoned towns, and crosses stunning ravines. Another great option is Oak Street Beach with its white sands and clear waters. Originally written by Erica Abdnour of Concierge Preferred. One example is the Hegeler Carus mansion, first designed in 1974 by renowned architect Boyington. There are over 200 different species, each living in an environment designed for them. You can also try Cooper's Hawk Winery & Restaurant in nearby Wheeling for walk-in wine tastings in addition to an extensive food menu. 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. This festival caters to fans of various genres with over 160,000 attendees yearly. 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. There are many places throughout the state that are amazing to enjoy the autumn colors. To see the best beaches in Illinois, check out our guide here. History, Ottawa calls itself "The Middle of Everywhere," a motto that rings true for this destination and for much of Illinois. If youre looking for a gorgeous, historical getaway, look no further than The Vrooman Mansion. We have the list for you! Chart a course for the Buffalo Rock, Matthiessen, Illini or namesake Starved Rock state parks. 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. September is Illinois Wine Month if you're looking to take utmost advantage of the grape harvest and all its accompanying events. Then head to Arts and Antique Row, which as the name suggests is the downtown antique shopping district. Source: Henryk Sadura / shutterstock. Not a hiking or biking fan? Often belonging to important figures in the states history, these mansions are interesting from both architectural and historical standpoints. Just trying to get away from the cold? 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. Less than 10 miles south of Cloran Mansion sits the grand Goldmoor Inn near the Mississippi River. 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. Its also home to many local artists and artisanal businesses. For a getaway within a getaway, head to Galena's year-round Chestnut Mountain Resort, which offers skiing and snowboarding in the winter or zip lining and river cruising in the summer. For more details on Ohio Street Beach, click here. A trip to one of these Illinois destinations will uncover plenty of opportunities for romance and a zest for living well. Reserve a two-top for an intimate meal at Epiphany Farms, a farm-to-table restaurant on East Front Street. If you are interested in finding the most interesting haunted places in Illinois and the stories behind them, see our full guide here for a spooky read. To see more information, see our post here. If you don't want to camp out where the wolves roam, maybe you'll opt for the Mark Twain Hotel for a boutique stay or the fully restored Peoria Marriott Pere Marquette downtown. Illinois is ideal for family vacations with everything from theme parks and water parks to educational yet fun museums and tours. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content. Look beyond the large chains to find boutique hotels, mom-and-pop shops and locally owned restaurants for a truly romantic getaway to small-town America. 30 Things Seoul is Famous For, Driving in Sweden in Winter: All You Need To Know, Globetrotters in heart and soul. The architecture cruise winds along the Chicago river and teaches visitors about the buildings and figures who shaped Chicagos history. Book your trip. 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. While fall foliage can be beautiful anyway, something about the cool, windy weather and ambient atmosphere of Illinois makes it ideal for really appreciating the stunning colors. Itinerary options for a variety of budgets make Chicago a versatile choice for a couples escape. However, if you are going to be spending time in Grafton, you may prefer some of the following wineries. The London House boasts a tri-level rooftop bar, as well as a inhouse restaurant, with a terrace overlooking the river serving a fresh take on regional cuisine.. 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. 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. Each issue offers a mix of travel stories, stunning photography and timely trip ideas that make the most of each season. Located on the Chicago Loop, the lavish London House Chicago is perfectly situated for a couples weekend getaway. In the warmer months you can enjoy watersports, a caf, beach rentals, and activities on the shore. The African American communitys legacy emerges through exhibits and events at t Find unexpected ways to enjoy Illinois in this biannual magazine that explores every corner of the state. You and your partner may find yourselves hiking to the heavens at the Garden of the Gods, swimming the shores of Lake Michigan or barreling down the Great River Road scenic byway. Saturday, March 11, 2023, begins at 10 a.m. Chicago River between State and Columbus The Chicago River dyeing is one of the most unique St. Patrick's Day celebrations in the world. New policies may be in place, including capacity restrictions, reservation requirements or mask mandates. 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. Illinois' lakeshore offers couples the chance to unwind on the waterfront. To see more of the top canyons to explore in Illinois, check out our previous post here. The Cloran Mansion Bed & Breakfast is an Italianate mansion designed by Irish immigrants John and Ann Cloran in 1880, where today guests can enjoy cozy rooms with fireplaces and whirlpool baths, complete with a gourmet breakfast daily. The museum features over 11,000 pieces of art dating from as far back as the 4th Century BCE. Tandem bike along the Chicago lakefront trail. Eleven of the state's best wineries, including some of the oldest vineyards in Illinois, are dotted along a 40-mile trail for you to discover at your own pace. (photo credits: The Shawnee Bluffs Canopy Tour) Chicago is well-known for its vast array of beautiful parks and green spaces. To see our list of the top things to do in Grafton, see 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. 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. Today, couples can tour Peoria for its theaters but also for its shopping and natural attractions. 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. Allowing the both of you to enjoy some pampering together is a great way to connect without any stresses of daily life interfering. 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. Are you planning a trip and looking for the best things to do in Illinois to truly make your trip the best ever? If you're looking to make it a full lakefront retreat, book a stay at the Illinois Beach Hotel, which reopened in July 2022 and features an indoor pool, sauna, health spa and Wi-Fi though being here might make you want to unplug. Winter hiking can prove to be a very different experience from hiking during the warmer months, with stark landscapes and frozen scenery. It is top of the list for many who enjoy Illinois state parks. Set just outside Chicago you'll find the affluent suburb of Northbrook, where filmmaker John Hughes once called home and which inspired the setting for many of his cult classics such as "Sixteen Candles," "Ferris Bueller's Day Off" and "The Breakfast Club." One of the best examples of juxtaposition between city and nature, skyscrapers and beach, is Ohio Street Beach. 28, 2023, Holly Johnson and Ann HensonFeb. With its many parks and gardens, it is great for wandering through natural landscapes and enjoying the scenery. There are a number of restaurants nearby offering a range of cuisines, making Navy Pier ideal for an extended stay. Activities in Some of the golf courses found in Illinois also have a long history, such as Chicago Golf Course, ranked as the top golf course in Illinois, and first built in the 1890s. (Burger and Sushi House). 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. The cabins are located less than 3 miles from the Garden of the Gods. We mentioned already a few museums above but here is a list of more interesting museums. It is a beautiful, open, state-of-the-art facility. 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. For some more hints on hiking in Illinois, see our previous post here. With a long history as the Peoples Pier, Navy Pier has always featured as a space for the public to gather and relax. Getting around Chicago and Illinois is easy with our guide to ways to travel around the state. However, hiking isnt limited to just the state parks. Most of the places mentioned have been larger cities but there are also many small towns throughout Illinois that are great for visiting. The beach is open from 6 am 11 pm, with swimming allowed while a lifeguard is present. 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. These include Bent River Brewing Companys coffee-infused oatmeal stout and Pig Minds Brewing Co.s vegan beers. The Peoria Riverfront Museum spans art, history and science exhibits in addition to a planetarium for a comprehensive look at culture and humanity. One park that stands above the rest is the 2,630-acre Starved Rock State Park. For example, Cairo is a unique town with many abandoned structures. Arts & Culture, 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. There are also many breweries that are working towards a good cause, such as Black Horizons Brewing Company, the only black-owned brewing company in the state, which also donates a portion of the proceeds to various causes. This boardwalk features a number of locally-owned artisanal shops run by members of the community. The best part of the Shawnee Wine Trail is the customizability it can be as long or short as you like. There are actually a number of places that are open year-round, as well as seasonal spots. Many small cities and towns throughout Illinois feature local amusement parks. For a unique winter activity, you can try the popular Midwest activity of snow tubing. To see more unique historic sites across Illinois, you can see our full list here. To see some of the best spa resorts in Illinois, check out our post here. The festival always includes a range of live entertainment and events for kids and adults alike. 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