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. Indulge in a weekend that features gourmet tea and coffee and breakfast made-to-order. 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. in The Most Romantic Weekend Getaways in the U.S. It was first designed in the 1880s and has gone on to influence American history. Types of Attractions Nature & Parks Fun & Games Sights & Landmarks Nightlife Boat Tours & Water Sports Museums Spas & Wellness Classes & Workshops Zoos & Aquariums Water & Amusement Parks Casinos & Gambling Traveler rating & up & up Neighborhoods Belmont Cragin Canaryville Lower West Side Near West Side Show all Good for Good for Couples To see more about Boo Castle park, check our previous post here. Goldmoore Inn & Resort doubles as the most romantic resorts in Galena as well as romantic couples resort Illinois has to offer. Not only is the beach a beautiful sandy lake shore, it also has some amazing views of the Chicago skyline. Starved Rock has many miles of hiking trails, as do many other state parks. in 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. For a unique winter activity, you can try the popular Midwest activity of snow tubing. To see a full list of the best castles in Illinois, see our guide here. Even if you've never been there before, you've seen it in countless movies and TV shows. 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. While not traditionally known as a wine-making area, Illinois actually has quite a lot of wineries throughout the state. For those interested in politics, history, and architecture or who are just interested to learn more, Springfield is an ideal place to visit. There are also extended-stay suites available for between one and six months. 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. Visitors can explore the mounds, either with a guide or independently. If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. For those more interested in science and the natural world, the Field Museum may be a better fit. From the outside of this stunning Resort and all throughout, couples will be engulfed in a romantic ambience from arrival until departure. 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. Daniel Lee Rice, 76, of Galesburg, Illinois died at 1:40 p.m. Tuesday, February 14, 2023 at Allure of Knox County, Galesburg. 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. Daytrip options abound as well: Head about 25 miles east to Apple River Canyon State Park for a gorgeous hike and picnic. For fun in the water and entertaining the kids, the many water parks of Illinois are ideal for a fun summers day out. Lovebirds can also head to the country for a stay at a Victorian farmhouse operating as the Fox River Bed and Breakfast. From the tallest president to the tallest man, memorials and statues in Alton commemorate Abraham Lincoln and Robert Wadlow, respectively. There are also many nature preserves, such as Sag Valley Forest Preserve which go almost untouched and show winter in its purest form. For more detail on Springfield, see our post here. Have a look at the best things to do in Illinois: 1. This 150-year-old mansion will transport you back in time with its Roman decor throughout the property. It consists of the only home Lincoln ever owned, as well as the surrounding area. The list goes on with many interesting and quirky towns to be found all across Illinois. For those interested in the paranormal, visiting a haunted place around Halloween in fall is a unique and fun activity. 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. 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. Bring your lover to Lover's Leap on a wooded trail with views of the river and the Starved Rock Dam. Typically held the Saturday before St. Patrick . 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. With over 33 in southern Illinois, visitors are spoilt for choice. To see more unique historic mansions in northern Illinois, see our comprehensive list here. A CityPASS, for example, bundles admission to several top Windy City attractions at a significant discount, whether you want to see the Art Institute of Chicago, Shedd Aquarium, The Field Museum, SkyDeck Chicago or select others. 5. 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. For this reason, going to the beach is another good option for hot summer days in Illinois. 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. History, Family Fun, You can also catch a first-run film at the charming Antioch Theatre on Lake Street. The Lincoln Home National Historic Site is located in Springfield, the hometown of Abraham Lincoln. If you prefer to stick to the tried and true, Six Flags Great America is another great option among the amusement parks of Illinois. Work your vocal chords at Pitch Karaoke Bar One of the most popular fall festivals in Illinois is the Apple n Pork Festival in Clifton. Attractions: Mark Twain Boyhood Home & Museum, Becky Thatcher Home, Mark Twain Cave, Mississippi Riverboat, Molly Brown Birthplace, antique stores, craft stores, and much more! If you prefer a large shopping mall, Gurnee Mills might be the place for you as Illinois third-largest mall with over 189 shops and services. For a more family-friendly experience, French Canyon in Starved Rock may be a better choice. You can also try Cooper's Hawk Winery & Restaurant in nearby Wheeling for walk-in wine tastings in addition to an extensive food menu. We have the list for you! Chart a course for the Buffalo Rock, Matthiessen, Illini or namesake Starved Rock state parks. Of course, no romantic getaway is complete without wine, and Inn at 835 offers wine each night. 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. Order a copy of Enjoy Illinois and also receive the Illinois State Park Guide and an Official Highway Map. 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. Despite the somewhat strange name, this festival regularly attracts 80,000 visitors to enjoy the country-style food trucks, antique tractor shows,s, and live entertainment. The museum features over 11,000 pieces of art dating from as far back as the 4th Century BCE. 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. [See more of Chicago:Things to Do | Tours | Hotels | When to Visit | Photos]. Friendly, leashed dogs are welcome on the lakeshore. Illinois has many unique historic bridges and with many still standing today, visiting them can be a fun and interesting activity. To see our guide to the best water parks in Illinois, check our post here. The Caterpillar Visitors Center is a unique museum covering the beginnings and development of the machinery company, Caterpillar. If you are interested in visiting a zoo while on holiday, Illinois has you covered with a number of zoos in different areas. 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. With over 45 rides and attractions, Six Flags Great America is ideal for entertaining children of all ages. 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. 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. We take your privacy seriously and will never sell your data to anyone. Recent guests of the Davie School laud the unexpected modern hotel amenities in a nostalgic and authentic setting. Here is an overview of the best fall festivals in Illinois. There are also many boardwalks and similar paths that are great for a more relaxed bike. However, it is also the second-largest city in Illinois and is home to a great number of museums and cultural buildings. Book your next cruise vacation on one of these floating megaresorts. From harvest festivals to German-themed Oktoberfests, theres something for everyone. From the towering trees of Illinois state parks to the curiosities of local culture and exploration through the past with the rich history of Illinois, there is something to suit every traveler. For more information on Six Flags Great America, see here. From the 'Galena Brick' in historic downtown to the Farmer's Guest House Bed and Breakfast. Just trying to get away from the cold? Navy Pier is one of Chicagos top attractions and an ode to the power of public spaces. There are a number of biking trails available in Illinois, with the Tunnel Hill State Trail as one of the most popular. U.S. News rates the cheapest travel insurance options, considering expert and consumer recommendations. To see our list of the best places for snow tubing in Illinois, check our previous post here. Check with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the U.S. Department of State and local tourism boards before traveling.). Head to Skydive Chicago for a thrilling skydiving experience. This is an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to amazon.com and affiliated sites without extra cost to you. The perfect weekend getaway from Chicago. Rice, Daniel Lee. 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. To see more about the best way to enjoy the Shawnee Wine Trail, see our previous post here. Many of these places have been turned into small museums or historic pieces, which is a great way to explore the history of the city as well as the daily life of our ancestors. An obvious choice for date night or date week is one of the most famous cities on the planet: Chicago. There are many beautiful parks and gardens throughout Illinois which feature a great range of plants and flowers in a range of different designs. There are a number of beaches located throughout the city, many of which allow swimming and other water activities. Another great activity to try while in Illinois is shopping. Book your trip. Trip Ideas Explore Things To Do PLACES TO EAT BREWERIES & DISTILLERIES WINERIES & VINEYARDS HISTORY Places to Stay Inn at Irish Hollow Airbnb in Clifton, Cape Town: 11 great places to stay in 2023, What are the best Airbnbs in Tokyo? 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. Learn more about coverage options for frequent travelers and those with multiple upcoming trips. 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. Additionally, The Beall Mansion offers massage packages and breakfast in bed is available to truly make your stay a memorable one. Article Discover Local Meet the makers, the creators, and the artisans of Illinois. Eat & Drink, If youre looking for something a bit more adventurous than basic swimming and sunbathing, kayaking might be for you. For your overnight stay, check out the circa-1930s Starved Rock Lodge, which has an indoor pool and trails on the property. These are great for enjoying all the fun of the attractions with fewer crowds. The beach is open from 6 am 11 pm, with swimming allowed while a lifeguard is present. Source: Henryk Sadura / shutterstock. The best part of the Shawnee Wine Trail is the customizability it can be as long or short as you like. If you are interested in viewing some of the beautiful nature already mentioned but are looking to avoid the tired legs, or simply prefer observing from the car window, you are in luck as Illinois also has a number of scenic drives. Other elements play a secondary role, such as pagodas, bridges, and lanterns. The zoo also expands beyond just animals with over 1200 different plant species and a dedicated arboretum. Surrounded by the Shawnee National Forest, this region is lush with trees and vineyards. Amid all the swishing and sipping, head to the Pomona Natural Bridge Trail within the Shawnee National Forest for a 0.3-mile loop through hickory and beech trees, with an overlook to a "bridge" formed naturally from sandstone. Spanning the Mississippi River into St. Louis, the bridges most interesting feature is the 22-degree bend it makes towards the middle of the bridge. The Lincoln Home can be viewed on a guided tour while other exhibits can be independently explored. Its also home to many local artists and artisanal businesses. This mansion stands as an example of Second Empire design and remains almost untouched since the time of its use by the prominent Hegeler family and the Open Court Publishing Company opened by Hegeler. To make your choice of which state park, or parks, to visit, see our post on the top state parks in Illinois here. What to Do in Illinois: Museum of Science and Industry Courtesy of Henryk Sadura - Fotolia.com With the great amount of nature present in Illinois, playing golf can be a very scenic and enjoyable activity. For something more modern, you can try sampling the various wineries that surround the area. To see more unique historic sites across Illinois, you can see our full list here. The more than 60 restaurants ensure your sweetie won't go hungry or thirsty, since the Old Bakery Beer Company is a certified organic craft brewery with seasonal taps and a hearty menu. The beautiful gardens on site make for a great backdrop to a romantic weekend, and the on-site library offers books, magazines, games, and DVDs as well as refreshments. There are many places throughout the state that are amazing to enjoy the autumn colors. The Skydeck provides panoramic views of not just Chicago, but the surrounding states. Maybe an unstructured road trip is what you seek to infuse a little spontaneity into your relationship. 25 places sorted by traveler favorites 1. is perfect for couples who can't decide where to eat. The Burpee Museum of Natural History is an amazing three-floor museum full of interactive exhibits and unique pieces of history. Willis Tower is the third tallest building in the Western Hemisphere and makes great use of the space with a range of facilities throughout the building, including cafes and restaurants. It is probably the most. Millennium Park is one of the most iconic places to visit in Illinois. The Pullman National Monument is another unique part of history as the original site for the first planned industrial community in the US. It also houses 5 acres of botanical gardens to explore and the area surrounding the Cloud Gate becomes an ice-skating rink in winter. And not only is the architecture of the building itself impressive but there is an entire architecture section of the museum, that explores the intersection of architecture and art. The gardens have been officially recognized by the Japanese government as an effort toward international friendship. With its many parks and gardens, it is great for wandering through natural landscapes and enjoying the scenery. Then head to Arts and Antique Row, which as the name suggests is the downtown antique shopping district. Check out Chicago's observation decks. The institute is located in one of the most well-known buildings in Chicago with two impressive bronze lions flanking the entrance. The festival always includes a range of live entertainment and events for kids and adults alike. 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. With Illinois long history and great record for preserving historic buildings, it should be no surprise that there are a number of historic mansions still intact and well-preserved throughout the state. For more on Galena, see our previous post here. The Oak Street Beach is one of the most unique and fun things to do in Illinois. 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. 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. 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. Experience the best of main street shopping and more. One example is the Hegeler Carus mansion, first designed in 1974 by renowned architect Boyington. 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." Eagle watching? There is a quarter-mile observation trail, or hikers can go all in on the 5.5-mile trek along interconnecting trails; each boasts views of the forest's unique rock formations. 157. Grafton is often seen as a small, unassuming town in southern Illinois, but is actually a vibrant hub of culture surrounded by beautiful scenery. Nature & Parks Spas & Wellness Museums Classes & Workshops Boat Tours & Water Sports Casinos & Gambling Water & Amusement Parks Zoos & Aquariums Traveler rating & up & up & up Neighborhoods Belmont Cragin Avondale Dunning Garfield Ridge Show all Good for Good for a Rainy Day Budget-friendly Free Entry Good for Kids Check prices and availability: George L. Luthy Memorial Botanical Garden Address: 2520 N Prospect Rd, Peoria, IL 61603 Website: George L. Luthy Memorial Botanical Garden Opening hours: 10am - 5pm (daily) Price: Free 8. 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. Whether you prefer natural history, art, science, or something a bit quirky, there is a museum for everyone. 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. Not a hiking or biking fan? Address: 200 North Main Street, Bloomington, Illinois. The McCormick Tribune Ice Rink in Chicago is one of the most popular with over 100,000 skaters each year. If youve already decided to visit Illinois, it might now be time to narrow down which areas of the state to visit. Garfield Park, often known for its sporting facilities, is also well-renowned for having one of the largest conservatories in the world. 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. Refuel after a day of exploration at Ottawa's B.A.S.H. The Wrigley Building, Tribune Tower, Chicago Water Tower, and more can all be found along this stretch of road. Whether youre hoping to visit multiple state parks or explore just one or two in more depth, finding out the top state parks and deciding which ones you wish to visit is a great way to help plan your visit to Illinois. Many of these beaches offer swimming, canoeing, and other water activities as well as simply relaxing on the sand. Modern comforts are combined with historic decor for a unique and romantic experience. Museums are a great way to sneak in some education and information while still keeping children entertained and engaged. Chicago River dyeing. The best part? The latter contains presidential artifacts found nowhere else and a theater that shows educational films and living history performances to immerse you in the time of Lincoln. 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. To see more of the top canyons to explore in Illinois, check out our previous post here. It doesn't have to be Valentine's Day to plan a romantic weekend getaway in Illinois. It is home to a range of free events, programs, celebrations, and more, held all throughout the year. Fall is a great time to visit Illinois. What is Seoul Known For? There are a range of trails available to suit all levels of hiker, from casual beginners right through to experienced hiking enthusiasts. The main building offers a choice of eleven guest rooms while the Bell House has two more suites. 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. If you prefer to stick to the tried and true, Six Flags Great America is another great option among the amusement parks of Illinois. 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. In that case, check out our ranking of the best resorts to try out for a romantic couples trip in Illinois. The acclaimed Main Street's more than 100 storefronts showcase everything from clothing to collectibles. Starved Rock State Park is known for its sandstone canyons several of which have waterfalls. Most canopy tours last 2 3 hours and require a safety orientation before participation. World-class dining, museums and entertainment coexist with free public parks and cheap tickets to the historic Wrigley Field ballpark. Fall is the ideal time to attend a festival and Illinois has you covered. Discover these empowering women's history destinations selected by the U.S. News travel editors. While it may not be medieval Europe, Illinois still has its fair share of castles. However, if youre looking for something a bit more niche, the Pitchfork Music Festival in Union Park is a great option. 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. 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. Illinois' lakeshore offers couples the chance to unwind on the waterfront. Nature & Parks Spas & Wellness Museums Classes & Workshops Boat Tours & Water Sports Casinos & Gambling Water & Amusement Parks Zoos & Aquariums Nightlife Bars & Clubs Comedy Clubs Dance Clubs & Discos Bar, Club & Pub Tours Traveler rating & up & up & up Neighborhoods Belmont Cragin Calumet Heights Clearing Canaryville Show all Good for Each reservation includes breakfast, beverages, and cookies, plus you can customize your stay with pizza, massages, desserts, and appetizers for an additional fee. Travelers can always walk off an indulgent meal at one of Champaign-Urbana's many art galleries; the Wandell Sculpture Garden; or the contemporary Spurlock Museum, which focuses on world cultures. (Burger and Sushi House). Illinois has a great range of beaches available along both Lake Michigan and various other lakefronts in the state. 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