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Columbus, Indiana

The 20 most unique day trips from Chicago

Break the mold with these under-the-radar, kitschy or otherwise unique trips within a few hours' drive from Chicago.

Emma Krupp

When it comes to a much needed escape from the city, there are countless day trips from Chicago if time doesn’t allow for a full weekend getaway . And luckily for the adventurous and curious, there are plenty of opportunities to swap typical activities like kicking back with brews for hiking  among bison. Many sites and experiences within driving distance of Chicago take you far beyond the norm, from year-round Christmas at an amusement park to (not so similar) replicas of some of the world’s most celebrated cultural sites. Midwesterners may love their weekend lake house tradition, but they also love the wacky, meaningful and unexpected. Here are the most unique day trips from Chicago within a three hours’ drive.

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The most unique day trips from Chicago

Explore the country’s largest magic museum

1.  Explore the country’s largest magic museum

Driving time from Chicago: About three hours

You'll find everything from obscure conjuring tomes to equipment used in Harry Houdini's most famous escape acts at the American Museum of Magic in Marshall, Michigan, home to the biggest collection of magic ephemera in the United States. With more than 350,000 artifacts onsite, there's more than enough magical entertainment to fill an afternoon: Take a self-guided tour through magic history, try to squeeze into a replica of Houdini's Milk Can Escape or book an appointment at the museum's Lund Memorial Library to pore over archival materials.

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2.  Spot bison at Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie

Driving time from Chicago: About one hour

Want to get a firsthand look at why Illinois is nicknamed the Prairie State? Take a trip southwest of the city to Will County, where a herd of bison roam the 9,000-acre expanses of the Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie as part of an ongoing habitat restoration project (the area once housed the Joliet Army Ammunition Plant and bunkers still remain). Spotting the herd isn't a sure thing—it's a massive park, after all—so you're best off bringing a pair of binoculars and starting at the Iron Bridge Trailhead, which puts you closest to the bison pasture area. From there, a three-mile round trip hike will lead you to an overlook point outfitted with viewing scopes and benches to rest on.

Go spelunking inside Cave of the Mounds

3.  Go spelunking inside Cave of the Mounds

Wander among soda straws, flowstones, helictites and other stunning geological formations inside of Cave of the Mounds, a natural limestone cave near Blue Mounds, Wisconsin. Once home to a limestone quarry, the cave is now open for guided (or self-guided) tours through mineral deposits in shades of white, reddish brown, black, purple and gray. Fun fact: Whether you're visiting on a hot summer day or during the frigid depths of winter, the subterranean expanse is always a cool 50 degrees, so be sure to dress accordingly.

See the Batmobile (and tons of other famous cars) at the Volo Auto Museum

4.  See the Batmobile (and tons of other famous cars) at the Volo Auto Museum

Driving time from Chicago:  About an hour and a half

Don't think that you're a car person? A visit to the Volo Auto Museum just might change your mind. Throughout this suburban attraction's 33 exhibits, you can ogle everything from '50s-era Thunderbirds and Oldsmobiles (Vintage Cars), to Britney Spears' 2006 Mercedes-Benz and Elvis Presley's 1974 Cadillac (Cars of the Rich and Famous), to Scooby Doo's Mystery Machine and the Subaru driven by Paul Walker in Fast & Furious 7 (TV and Movie Cars). There's even an entire exhibition dedicated to different iterations of the Batmobile. Plus, if you're really hoping to find some artifacts that aren't car-related, check out the museum's collection of planes, antique card games, animatronics and music machines, or shop for new home decor at the nearby Volo Antique Malls.

Tour modernist architecture in Columbus, IN

5.  Tour modernist architecture in Columbus, IN

Driving time from Chicago: About four hours

Thanks to a highly successful funding program in the mid-20th century, the small-ish town of Columbus, Indiana is home to some of the Midwest's most stunning examples of Modern buildings, structures and public art, with works by Eero Saarinen, I.M. Pei, Richard Meier and other architectural luminaries dotting its downtown thoroughfares. You can pay for a guide to lead you through the highlights, but the town also offers a free audio tour app that leads listeners through 18 of the most prominent buildings in the area.

Paddle along the African American Heritage Water Trail

6.  Paddle along the African American Heritage Water Trail

Driving time from Chicago: About 40 minutes 

Chicagoans who love active, experiential learning can take an impactful day trip of paddling through history along the Little Calumet River, a waterway which, along with others, connects Lake Michigan with the Mississippi River. In a span of just seven miles, experience nearly two centuries of African American history, from the underground railroad and civil rights to the birth of environmental justice. Beginners can join an organized group paddle during the summer season while experienced water recreationists can follow a self-guided paddle outlined on the Openlands website .

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7.  Hike around the iconic Farnsworth House

Driving time from Chicago: About an hour and a half

Located in Plano, Illinois at the banks of the Fox River, the glass-walled Farnsworth House—designed by Bauhaus architect Ludwig Mies van der Rohe as a weekend retreat for Dr. Edith Farnsworth—is both a National Historic Landmark and one of the area's foremost examples of Modernist architecture. Though the house has been besieged by floods throughout its 70-year history, ongoing preservation efforts have kept it in tip-top condition. Book a docent-led tour through the building (the summertime moonlight tours, which commence at dusk and loop around a lighted exterior path, are an especially beautiful option) and take some time to soak in the natural beauty of the home's 60-acre wooded grounds.

Check out Amish Country in Shipshewana, IN

8.  Check out Amish Country in Shipshewana, IN

Driving time from Chicago: About two and a half hours

Escape the bustle of city life among the placid streets of Shipshewana, a teeny town nestled in the center of northern Indiana's Amish Country. Kick off your day with a tour of Menno-Hof—a museum dedicated to Amish and Mennonite history—or book a sight-seeing expedition aboard a horse and buggy, then fuel up with traditional Amish eats at family-style restaurants like A Taste of of Shipshewana (where you'll also find live cooking and quilting demonstrations). In the market for antiques and tchotchkes? Plan a visit on Tuesdays or Wednesdays from May through September, when the town hosts the Midwest's largest flea market.

9.  Wander through a Tudor-style castle in Oregon, IL

Driving time from Chicago:  About two hours

Back in the late 1920s, Chicago Daily News publisher and owner Walter A. Strong began construction on a Tudor-style manor to serve as his family's summer home. The end result—a 10-bedroom, 8-bathroom behemoth with a couple of secret passages to boot—can be explored in the present day through an hour-long tour, which covers the history of the Strong family, the castle's architecture and a brief history of medieval life. If you're got time after the tour, head to the nearby Castle Rock State Park (unaffiliated with the aforementioned castle, in case you were wondering) to hike among gorgeous sandstone bluffs.

See the Great Pyramids without leaving Illinois

10.  See the Great Pyramids without leaving Illinois

Driving time from Chicago: About one hour and five minutes 

One of the most unexpected I-94 sights is the Gold Pyramid House, a 1970s-era family compound featuring replicas of the Great Pyramid of Giza, a 55-foot statue of Ramses II and King Tutankhamun’s tomb. Full of objects and decor leaning from kitschy to cult-like, visitors can meander the grounds and attend events, and even take home Gold Pyramid Water and Gold Pyramid Vodka as souvenirs, though it’s unclear whether either were on sale in ancient Egypt. House tours on select Saturdays and by appointment only. 

Meander through an English-style village next to the largest inland oil refinery

11.  Meander through an English-style village next to the largest inland oil refinery

Driving time from Chicago: About 35 minutes 

Marktown Historic District may not be one of the seven wonders of the world, but it's certainly a marvel of Northwest Indiana. Built in 1917 as a planned worker community by renowned architect Howard Van Doren Shaw—10 years after the last home was sold in nearby planned community Pullman—Marktown became famous after its appearance in Ripley's Believe It or Not! for being  the only town in North America where cars park on the sidewalk and neighbors walk on the streets. Today, the quaint Tudor revival-style homes with bright colors and cheerful window boxes are in eerie contrast to the surrounding heavy industry. Learn about architecture and the area’s history in steel on a self-guided tour.  Then, refuel at Hegewisch favorite Pudgy’s Pizza before heading home.

Ride a vintage train at the Illinois Railway Museum

12.  Ride a vintage train at the Illinois Railway Museum

The country's largest railway museum sits just outside the Chicago metropolitan area in Union, Illinois, where you can check out a massive collection of antique train cars and hop aboard working streetcars, steam and diesel trains that loop around the 100-acre campus. Plan for an entire day of exploration: The museum's buildings house all kinds public transportation artifacts, including an 1859 horse-drawn streetcar, every kind of CTA 'L' car and a display of working railroad signs and signals.

Take a nature walk through Cantigny Park

13.  Take a nature walk through Cantigny Park

Driving time from Chicago: About 45 minutes

This verdant Wheaton park—formerly the estate of the publishers of the Chicago Tribune— offers 29 acres of gardens and 160,000 plants, complete with two and a half miles of nature paths perfect for a leisurely afternoon stroll among the flowers. Military history buffs will also want to check out the First Division Museum on the park's grounds, which chronicles U.S. military history from World War I to the present.

Find your zen in the Anderson Japanese Gardens

14.  Find your zen in the Anderson Japanese Gardens

Driving time from Chicago: About two hours

Once you've thoroughly explored the lovely Garden of the Phoenix in Jackson Park, set your sights on a visit to the Anderson Japanese Gardens in Rockford. Designed by landscape architect Hoichi Kurisu, the 12-acre gardens feature trails, waterfalls, tranquil ponds, gravel gardens and an abundance of Japanese maples, among other plant life. Plan ahead and book the "Frank Lloyd Wright Meets 16th Century Japan Tour" that guides visitors through the garden's 16th century Sukiya-style tea house and the Laurent House, which has the distinction of being the only home Wright designed for a client with a physical disability.

Learn about America’s RVs at a niche museum

15.  Learn about America’s RVs at a niche museum

Driving time from Chicago: About two hours 

Get inspired to embark on your version of the great American road trip as you browse permanent collections of trailers, motorhomes, housecars and more ranging from the 1910s to present at Elkhart’s RV/MH Hall of Fame (RV/MH stands for recreational vehicle and manufactured housing). Step back in time with Instagram-worthy vintage airstreams, Model T campers and motorhomes that look like they stepped off the set of Stranger Things . After your visit, explore the thousands of archives at the RV/MH Library, where you can glimpse into the recreational lives of North Americans in the 1960s issues of Trailer Life or 1980s issues of Camping Today .

Take a picture with a (smaller) Leaning Tower of… Niles

16.  Take a picture with a (smaller) Leaning Tower of… Niles

Driving time from Chicago: About 25 minutes 

Sitting at a half the size its original at 94 feet tall and leaning 7.4 feet, the replica of the Leaning Tower of Pisa in suburban Illinois is an unlikely site and guaranteed out-of-the-box day trip. In the 1930s, a local businessman wanted to disguise a water tower and the answer was—obviously!—to craft a leaning tower. Taking an illusion photo holding up the tower is a must, and if you’re not too tired, head to nearby North Branch Trail and surrounding forest preserves for nature spotting or cozy up with your next great read at New Book Joy .

Watch an outdoor play at American Players Theatre

17.  Watch an outdoor play at American Players Theatre

Driving time from Chicago: About three and a half hours

Spring Green, Wisconsin is perhaps best known as the home of Taliesin, Frank Lloyd Wright's Prairie style summer estate set amid the limestone outcroppings of Wisconsin's Driftless Area. You should make a stop at the house if you have time—Wright's estate offers a huge variety of guided tours—but the 1,089-seat outdoor ampitheater at American Players Theatre is an equally unbeatable summertime attraction. The company's repetoire is mostly classical , though you'll find more contemporary works on the lineup as well.

Celebrate Christmas in July at Santa’s Village

18.  Celebrate Christmas in July at Santa’s Village

Driving time from Chicago: About an hour

Sure, Six Flags is fun, but there's only one suburban amusement park where you'll run into Santa Claus year-round, and that's Santa's Village Azoosment & Water Park in East Dundee. Despite its wintry theme, the family-friendly park is best visited in summer: Splash around in the Caribbean Christmas-themed Santa Springs water park—featuring two 300-foot, candy cane-colored slides—or take a spin on thrill rides like the Blizzard, which swings riders 40 feet in the air on a spinning pendulum.

Eat fried chicken on Historic Route 66

19.  Eat fried chicken on Historic Route 66

Driving time from Chicago:  About 35 minutes

Fried chicken with a side of history? We’ll take it. At Dell Rhea’s Chicken Basket, you’ll be eating food that has been satisfying hangry travelers and folks simply looking for a good meal since 1946. This gas station lunch counter-turned-dining room is conveniently located off Route 66, its gleaming lights a beacon for those traveling to or from Chicago. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, step into the nearly unchanged brick building and devour a Famous Fried Chicken Dinner, hand breaded and deep fried half chicken served with mashed potatoes and biscuits.

Say “prost” in Germantown, WI

20.  Say “prost” in Germantown, WI

Despite its name, the Milwaukee suburb of Germantown, Wisconsin doesn't quite have the transportative qualities of other places in the Midwest that look like Europe . Still, there's a lot to love about this historically German settlement—sip a stein full of Krombacher Pils at the Von Rothenburg Bier Stube , check out more than 5,000 antique bells at the Sila Lydia Bast Bell Museum & Fire Hall or don your best lederhosen/dirndls for Maifest, the annual three-day festival held in honor of the beginning of spring.

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13 Stunning Places to Go Hiking In and Near Chicago

By Kay Rodriguez

FYI: Some of our posts include affiliate links. When you make a purchase from one of these links, Urban Outdoors may receive a commission at no additional cost to you.

Updated November 17, 2022

While many people flock to Chicago to wander through the city, eat deep dish pizza, and paddle the Chicago River , there’s a lot to do here for outdoor adventure travelers, too. One fact people are surprised to hear is that there are a ton of great places to go hiking near Chicago!

Whether you’re hitting one of the urban Chicago hiking trails, or you’re planning on taking a day trip to some hiking trails near Chicago, there are tons of choices for you to explore. Here’s a comprehensive list of the 13 best places for hikes near Chicago.

Top Places to Go Hiking In Chicago

You might be surprised to learn that there are actually a handful of places to go hiking in Chicago…within the city limits! Here are three of the most unique and popular trails where you can get outdoors without leaving the city.

day trips from chicago for hiking

1. Chicago Lakefront Trail

  • Trail Length: 17.6 miles
  • Location: Lake Michigan (Chicago)
  • Difficulty: Easy

The Lakefront Trail blends the best of Chicago’s urban areas with outdoor adventure, and it’s more or less flat, perfect for any level of hiker. Basically, it’s a paved trail that’s shared with runners, dog walkers, and bikers, so it’s less of your normal hike and more of a place to go for a nice, leisurely walk on a sunny day. However, a hike on the Lakefront Trail is one of the easiest ways to enjoy the outdoors without leaving Chicago’s downtown area.

In total, the Lakefront Trail is 18 whole miles, so you’ll never run out of places to explore while hiking in Chicago. Along it, there are tons of beach hangout areas, cute waterfront restaurants and bars, graffiti-lined underpasses, and plenty of people watching. You’ll also pass by the iconic Navy Pier, Monroe Harbor, the Museum District, and of course, the city skyline itself.

The best time to enjoy the Lakefront Trail is at sunrise, when the sun hangs low over the water and you can catch the coolest, crispest summer air in Chicago.

day trips from chicago for hiking

  • Trail Length: 2.7 miles
  • Location: Humboldt Park (Chicago)

Another one of the most unique Chicago hiking trails is the 606 , an elevated trail that runs over former railroad tracks. Today, it’s an urban hiking, running, and biking trail that runs through green spaces, charming neighborhoods, and historic areas of Chicago. The 606 is a great place to go hiking in Chicago while exploring some of the neighborhoods outside of downtown.

The entire 606 trail spans 2.7 miles, beginning at Walsh Park and ending at North Ridgeway Ave. If you don’t want to hike the whole thing, there are multiple access points along the trail where you can enter and exit at your leisure. Because it’s paved and mostly flat, it’s one of the best hikes in Chicago and the surrounding areas for all levels of hikers.

day trips from chicago for hiking

3. Lincoln Park Trail

  • Trail Length: 5.5 miles
  • Location: Lincoln Park (Chicago)

Lincoln Park is one of the most beloved residential areas of Chicago, and in the middle of it lies a large, green park area that houses many walking trails, a lake, and the Chicago Zoo. The Lincoln Park Trail winds through the park’s wooded areas provide an easy, leisurely, family-friendly area to go for a day hike in the city.

Within the park, you’ll find 1200 acres of green spaces and recreation areas to enjoy. Along your hike, you can admire the gorgeous Victorian architecture in the neighborhood, and you can stop by the zoo or the Lincoln Park Conservatory. Nearby, the Lincoln Park trails lead to the North Avenue Beach stretch of the Lakefront Trail, perfect for an extra-long urban hike if you’re wanting to extend your adventure.

Top Places to Go Hiking Near Chicago

Once you leave Chicago’s bustling downtown area, you’ll start to find more traditional hiking opportunities along gravel trails, forested areas, and rocky terrain. These incredible spots for hiking near Chicago boast sand dunes, gorgeous waterfalls, stunning rock formations, unique wildlife, and more.

4. Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve

  • Trail Length: 11 miles
  • Location: Willowbrook, IL
  • Distance from Chicago: 25 miles (~1 hour)
  • Difficulty: All Levels

Located about an hour outside of Chicago, Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve is a gem of a park for hikers, bikers, and outdoor lovers. The park features a few picturesque waterfalls, and a rocky bluff overlook at Sawmill Creek. Although it’s not far from Chicago, the park features gravel paths, forested areas, and tons of local wildlife and plant species.

One of the perks of Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve is that it’ a year-round destination. In the summer, visitors can hike, bike, and bird-watch, and in the winter, people use the area for cross-country skiing. With gentle slopes and beautiful sights, it’s one of the most fun and family-friendly areas for hikes near Chicago.

day trips from chicago for hiking

5. Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie

  • Length: 3.6 miles
  • Location: Will County, IL
  • Distance from Chicago: 50 miles (~1.5 hours)

If it’s prairie life you’re looking for, Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie is the perfect place to go hiking near Chicago. This nationally protected prairie area is a popular place to go biking, hiking, and bison-watching. Yup, you heard that right: Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie is home to a bison herd that you can observe with your own two eyes.

People often forget that the prairie is the landscape of the Midwest, and that it can be beautiful in its own way. While you won’t see ton of topography here, Midewin is home to lots of trails that pass through wildflower fields, grazing pastures, and tons of places for bird watching.

Note: As of July 2021, the Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie Welcome Center is closed, except for the vestibule. For more information, visit here .

6. Kankakee River State Park

  • Length: 3-12 miles
  • Location: Kankakee County, IL
  • Distance from Chicago: 60 miles (~1.5 hours)

To admire the fall colors and enjoy the crisp, cool weather, there are few better places to go hiking near Chicago than Kankakee River State Park . A historic area that was once home to Native American settlements, this lush, forested river area is equal parts tranquil and full of adventure opportunities.

To explore the park, the best place to start is with the 3-mile Rock Creek Trail . This is one of the most scenic Chicago hiking trails as it twists through rocky canyons, along the flowing river, and past a bubbling waterfall, all with the beautiful forest canopy overhead.

day trips from chicago for hiking

7. Morton Arboretum

  • Length: 0.25-1.5 miles
  • Location: DuPage County, IL

For a peaceful, easy hike through a gorgeous nature area, Morton Arboretum is a great option for hikes near Chicago. As one of the shorter trails on our list, the arboretum is a great place to spend a leisurely afternoon walking around and learning about the protected tree and plant species that grow on the property.

Note that there is a $15 entrance fee for Morton Arboretum that helps to cover the costs of maintaining and caring for the plants.

day trips from chicago for hiking

8. Starved Rock State Park

  • Length: 13 miles (trails ranging from 0.3-4.7 miles)
  • Location: LaSalle County, IL
  • Distance from Chicago: 100 miles (~2 hours)

Perhaps the most popular place to go hiking near Chicago, Starved Rock State Park is a stunning, family-friendly nature area that boasts several miles of forested hiking trails for all levels of hikers. While here, you can see caves, rock formations, canyons, waterfalls, and more as you tackle some of the most famous hikes near Chicago and in Illinois. It does get pretty crowded here in the warmer months of the year, but when you visit, you can easily see why!

Within the park’s grounds, there are over 18 canyons to explore and marvel at. Many of the trails lead through and above these many canyons. Some of the most popular hikes in the park are the Saint Louis Canyon Trail and the LaSalle Canyon Trail . Additionally, the park offers free guided hikes on weekends through late November. We recommend going there in the fall to experience the breathtaking foliage colors.

9. Matthiessen State Park

  • Length: 5 miles

If it’s more diverse hikes you’re after, Matthiessen State Park is a great Chicago hiking area to start. With caves, canyons, and gorgeous rock formations, this state park is definitely a hidden gem amidst the Midwest prairie. Think of Matthiessen State Park as Starved Rock’s smaller sister – it’s still got beautiful, forested rock canyons but only a fraction of the visitors.

Suitable for all levels of hikers, there are easy hikes along the bluffs and upper areas of the park. For more of a challenge, the more difficult adventures include the Dells Canyon and Bluff Trails, which bring you along steep drop-offs and through deep, picturesque canyons. It’s definitely the kind of place you don’t expect to be located just a few hours outside of Chicago!

Note: In the summer months (May – October), the Matthiessen Dells area and Vermillion River Area close when they reach max capacity, typically from 10 am – 3 pm.

day trips from chicago for hiking

10. Ned Brown Forest Preserve

  • Length: 12.9 miles of paved trails
  • Location: Elk Grove Village, IL
  • Distance from Chicago: 20 miles (~45 minutes)

With over 3,000 acres of woodlands to hike through, there’s no shortage of things to see and do at Ned Brown Forest Preserve . Also known locally as Busse Woods, this forest and marsh area is home to lots of local wildlife and picturesque wooded areas to hike and unwind, including an elk pasture! At under an hour from the city, Ned Brown Forest Preserve is one of the most accessible nature areas from the city.

With a beautiful lake area and lots of wildlife, Busse Woods is also a popular place to go kayaking in the Chicago area . Hiking it on foot gives you the unique advantage of pristine lake views, which are especially beautiful in the fall when the leaves begin to change colors.

11. Glacial Park Conservation Area

  • Length: 8 miles
  • Location: McHenry County, IL

If you’re seeking a super photogenic, tranquil hiking trails near Chicago, Glacial Park Conservation Area in McHenry County is a perfect option. With nearly 500 acres of nature preserve, it’s a lovely place to experience local protected species without straying too far from Chicago. It’s also a popular spot for birders in the area, as it’s a common place for migratory wetland birds to pass through.

Most of the 8 miles of trails here consist of open prairie, passing through marshy wetlands and grassy areas. You can spot local wildflowers, birds, and turtles in the area, and visit the visitor’s center to learn more about the species that inhabit the preserve.

One of the most beloved places to go hiking near Chicago - Devil's Lake State Park.

12. Devil’s Lake State Park

  • Length: Up to 13.7 miles
  • Location: Sauk County, WI
  • Distance from Chicago: 190 miles (~3.5 hours)
  • Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult

For hikers looking for natural beauty paired with challenging trails, Devil’s Lake is one of the few places near Chicago that offers both. While it’s admittedly not that close to the city (~3.5 hours, depending on traffic), we’ve chosen to include it on here because Devil’s Lake is truly a spectacular place to go hiking near Chicago.

As part of the Ice Age National Scientific Reserve, Devil’s Lake is full of striking rock formations that were carved by glaciers during the Ice Age. While it’s popular for outdoor rock climbing near Chicago, it’s also a fantastic place for hiking. One of the most popular trails is the challenging 13.7-mile Ice Age Trail, but there are several trail options of various lengths and difficulties for intrepid hikers.

Note: There is a $16 entrance fee to help protect and maintain the park.

Indiana Dunes National and State Park is one of the best places to go hiking near Chicago.

13. Indiana Dunes National and State Parks

  • Length: 0.5-6.8 miles (21 trails in total)
  • Location: Chesterton, IN
  • Distance from Chicago: 50 miles (~1 hour)

As one of the newest official national parks, Indiana Dunes is nothing to sneeze at. While this lakefront state and national park area is known for its golden sand dunes and gorgeous location next to Lake Michigan, there are lots of great hikes to enjoy here, too!

The park contains a variety of terrain, from wetlands to savannas, and, of course, the sandy beach. During the warmer months of the year, you’ll find tons of beachgoers here enjoying the sand and sun.

For hikers, there are 21 trails total – 7 in the state park and 14 in the national park. Some of the most popular trails include the West Beach Trail (in the national park) and Trail 10 (in the state park).

Note: As of July 2021, the Little Calumet River Trail and portions of the Portage Lakefront & Riverwalk Trail will be temporarily closed due to renovations. For updates on park closures, check here .

Additional Resources for Hiking Near Chicago

What to bring.

  • Breathable hiking clothes – For warmer hikes, you’ll want to wear a sweat-wicking shirt and breathable pants, like these Patagonia hiking shorts for men and women . For cold-weather hikes, we recommend dressing in layers, including merino wool baselayers for men and women , a down puffer jacket for men and women , and a Northface waterproof outer shell for men and women (a must for hiking in Seattle). And don’t forget a pair of the best women’s and men’s hiking socks!
  • Trekking poles – You won’t need these for every single hike , but we suggest throwing them in your car just in case. We recommend the Black Diamond Trail Ergo cork trekking poles , which are lightweight, easy to transport, and durable.
  • Water bottle – Having water available at all times is a huge must. To limit disposable plastic, we recommend bringing your own refillable water bottle. We’re obsessed with Hydro Flask water bottles because they keep water cold for hours.
  • Sunscreen and bug spray – Sweatproof sunscreen and DEET bug spray can help you avoid sunburn and bug bites, two of hiking’s most annoying after-effects. Our favorite kind of sunscreen is Sun Bum , as it is free of harsh chemicals and safe for marine life, including coral reefs.
  • A brimmed hat or cap – The sun can be brutal in open hikes, so always pack a brimmed hat or cap for day hikes in the sunshine.
  • Emergency blanket and first aid kit – We’d strongly recommend bringing a first aid kit and a lightweight emergency blanket on every hike. Why? Because the unfathomable can happen, and it’s always best to play it safe.
  • Durable day pack – A durable day pack is the perfect spot to stash all your hiking gear. While any backpack will do, we recommend the Osprey Tempest 20 or the Talon 22 day packs because they’re comfortable and breathable for long hikes. For more information, check out our best day packs for any terrain guide.

Related Articles

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  • Our Complete Hiking Resources Page
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9 Spectacular Must-Do Day Trips From Chicago (2024 Guide)

Looking for a good day trip from the Windy City? Here are 9 amazing day trips from Chicago that include state parks, beaches, historic sites and more.

Chicago is a city of mouthwateringly good deep-dish pizza, pristine architecture, and an enriching atmosphere. Full of top-notch restaurants, eye-catching fashion, and upscale attractions, the Windy City is a place people travel from all over to visit.

A place of innovation, Chicago is constantly up to speed with new trends – or establishing the trends for everyone to catch onto.

Of course, as the birthplace of modern architecture, this is not a big surprise. Still, a visit here catches one’s eye with the fascinating designs and structures of the buildings within the third largest city in the United States. 

While visiting this trendy city, we recommend spending a day outside Chicago to see nearby top attractions like state parks full of hiking trails. There is so much to see outside the town center of Chicago, so why not add a day trip or two to your Chicago itinerary ?

The best way to get around is to rent a car and explore on your own! We recommend Rental Cars , which has the largest range of vehicles for the best value on the market.

Table of Contents

What Is There To See And Do?

Getting there and away, best time of year to visit, the 9 best day trips from chicago.

It’s time to spread your wings and leave the city on an incredible day trip. Take your pick from our curated selection of the 9 best day trips from Chicago. From living in luxury in Lake Geneva to exploring the rich history and architecture of Oak Park, get ready to have the time of your life.

Find more of the best things to do in Chicago here !

1. Starved Rock State Park

  • Distance from Chicago: 91 miles/146 km
  • How Long it Takes: 1½ Hours

Settled along the Illinois River, Starved Rock State Park is an oasis teeming with seasonal waterfalls, towering sandstone canyons, thriving wildlife, and scenic hiking trails.

However, the most well-known landmark at the park is the cliff the park is named after – Starved Rock. This imposing sandstone cliff is a natural landmark that holds history. 

Archaeological excavations have been run at Starved Rock for further research to verify information shared throughout history. In 1683, the French used Starved Rock to establish a fort called Fort St. Louis. It was later abandoned in 1691. 

The sandstone cliffs were named “Starved Rock” by Native Americans in 1770 after what is estimated to be about 2,000 Native Americans died atop the cliffs. This was after the Potawatomi Indians attacked the Peoria Indians.

As a result, the Peoria Indians were trapped on the rock and suffered starvation. 

Today, Starved Rock State Park has become a favored spot to sink into nature’s beauty. People come from all over to see Starved Rock and other popular landmarks, including the St. Louis Canyon Falls.

The St. Louis Canyon Falls towers an impressive 80 feet, one of the highest waterfalls in Illinois. In summer and spring, visiting these falls is one of the top activities to do at the park. You can also go kayaking , canoeing, or try other water sports.

Top attractions in the park include:

  • St. Louis Canyon Falls
  • Aurora Canyon
  • Illinois Canyon
  • Starved Rock State Park Lodge 

Popular hiking trails:

  • St. Louis Canyon Trail
  • River Trail
  • Bluff Trail
  • French Canyon Trail

There are two popular methods of getting to Starved Rock State Park from Chicago without a car. The first is taking the train from Chicago Union Station to Mendota Amtrak Station. The second would be to take a taxi, which can be much more expensive but is a quicker route.

We recommend visiting from April to September as it’s ideal weather for outdoor activities. If you’re an avid birdwatcher, then the best time of year to visit Starved Rock State Park to see the eagles is in January and February. 

The spring is the best time to see the waterfalls as they are seasonal and fed by heavy rains often experienced during the spring.

The summer is the most popular time to visit Starved Rock State Park. Unfortunately, this is when the park can get overcrowded, resulting in the park cutting off entry for visitors, as many people come to kayak and raft on the river. 

Starved Rock State Park

2. Lake Geneva

  • Distance from Chicago: 83 miles/134 km
  • How Long it Takes: 1 Hour 45 Minutes

A resort city, Lake Geneva, was named “Newport of the West” after the American Civil War. The year-round resort city was where rich Chicago residents constructed their summer homes. Some famous names that visited the area include General Sherman and Mary Todd Lincoln. 

This area has a rich history, where ancient Oneota Tribes of the lost Hopewell Culture Indians once thrived. Archaeological evidence suggests that the Oneota Tribes had an advanced civilization here in 1,000 BC.   

Today, Lake Geneva is one of the best weekend getaways from Chicago. A day trip or weekend trip here is worth taking because of its natural beauty, impressive architecture, and luxurious resorts.

Take your pick of boating on the lake, hot air ballooning over the resort city, joining a history tour, or sinking into luxury with a spa day at The Abbey Resort.

Examples of popular things to see include:

  • Riviera Beach
  • Big Foot Beach State Park 
  • Lake Geneva Shore Path
  • Royal Oak Farm 
  • Safari Lake Geneva

There are no trains directly connecting Chicago to Lake Geneva. Another option would be to take the train from Chicago Union Station to Fox Lake. From there, snag a taxi to this Wisconsin resort city. 

To catch some sun outdoors by the lake, the best time to visit Lake Geneva is in the summer. This is the optimal time for weekend getaways or day trips from Chicago. The days get hot, so wear sunscreen and bring plenty of water to stay hydrated.

Have 3 days to spare in Chicago? Check out our ultimate 3-day itinerary ! 

3. Indiana Dunes National Park

  • Distance from Chicago: 39 miles/62 km
  • How Long it Takes: 1 Hour

One of the best day trips from Chicago, Indiana Dunes National Park is thriving with natural wonders with over 50 miles of scenic trails to observe these eye-catching features. A road trip through here is sure to be a beautiful one!

The park has one of the most biologically diverse habitats in the United States, including wetlands, shorelines, prairies, and sand dunes. This includes the 15 miles of Indiana Dunes National Park beaches stretching down Lake Michigan’s southern tip. 

Though the beach is one of the top things to do when visiting Indiana Dunes National Park, the park is also notorious for its rich history.

The Bailly Homestead, a National Historic Landmark, was the home of one of the first settlers in the area, Joseph Bailly de Messein. This fur trader’s trading post acted as an in-between for travelers from Detroit to Chicago. 

Top attractions in the park:

  • Chellberg Farm
  • Bailly Homestead
  • Kemil & Dunbar Beaches
  • Paul H. Douglas Trail 
  • Great Marsh Trail
  • Cowles Bog Trail
  • Dunes Succession Trail (Diana of the Dunes Dare)

The best way to get to Indiana Dunes National Park is by renting a car. Unfortunately, there are no methods of transport that take you directly to the park. You can take a taxi, but it will be quite expensive!

Summer is the best time of year to visit Indiana Dunes National Park. This is when the beaches are open and prime for sunbathing and swimming. Other activities like fishing and hiking to see the sand dunes are also great at this time. 

Indiana Dunes National Park

4. Silver Beach County Park

  • Distance from Chicago: 98 miles/157 km 
  • How Long it Takes: 1 Hour 45 Minutes 

Bordering four states, Lake Michigan seeps into Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, and Wisconsin. Though Lake Michigan is technically within access of Chicago, with popular attractions like the Navy Pier and Millenium Park, one of the top day trips from Chicago is Silver Beach County Park.

Located at the mouth of the St. Joseph River on Lake Michigan’s southern shore, Silver Beach County Park has lots of picturesque viewpoints.

The long, clean stretch of beach has become a top tourist destination with upgraded renovations made to the park to promote accessibility and convenience. 

Access to Silver Beach County Park is free, though parking can be tricky depending on how busy it is. The barrier-free walkway gives easy access to the South Pier, Dunes Pavilion, concession stand, Shadowland Pavilion, and restrooms.

Using the park’s sidewalks along the beach, you can reach the Silver Beach Center, find the Whirlpool Compass Fountain, and take a refreshing stroll to downtown St. Joseph.

Cool things to see in the area:

  • Silver Beach Carousel
  • Krasl Art Center
  • Harbor Shores Golf Club
  • Whirlpool Compass Fountain

There are several ways to get to Silver Beach County Park from Chicago without a car. The first is a train ride from the Chicago Union Station to St. Joseph-Benton Harbor, Michigan.

The second is a bus ride from the Chicago Bus Station to Benton Harbor and a taxi to Silver Beach County Park. The third would be getting a taxi or renting a car to reach Silver Beach County Park. 

Silver Beach County Park is open daily from dusk to dawn. For swimming, the best time of year to visit is usually anywhere from July to September. Lifeguards are on duty at the park from June to August. 

Exploring more of the Midwest? Check out our list of the best things to do in Minneapolis, Minnesota !

5. Anderson Japanese Gardens

  • Distance from Chicago: 85 miles/137 km

One of the highest-quality Japanese gardens in the United States, the Anderson Japanese Gardens is among the most rewarding Chicago day trips.

The authentic Japanese garden inspires by its refined outdoor setting that has been maintained and designed with the highest standards.

The Anderson Japanese Gardens were designed by Hoichi Kurisu, who established many other Japanese gardens, including the one at the Samaritan Lebanon Community Hospital that won the Healthcare Environment Award in 2006 for Landscape Design. 

Exuding eloquence and grace, this location soothes the soul as guests stroll through the thriving landscapes.

Yoga sessions are taught within the gardens in the Hatha Yoga tradition amongst the refreshing air of the gardens. There are beginner, intermediate, and advanced classes for Tai Chi led at the gardens to encourage relaxation and mental focus. 

Fun things to do here include:

  • Amanda Stivers yoga
  • Sound & gong bath
  • Awareness walks

Other fun things to do in the area include:

  • Rockford Art Museum
  • Laurent House
  • Prairie Street Brewing Company
  • Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens
  • Burpee Museum of Natural History
  • Discovery Center Museum

Take the bus from the Chicago Union Station to Rockford Amtrak Station. From there, hitch a ride on a taxi.

Another option is to take the subway Jackson-Blue to O’hare in Bensenville. Once you reach the station, hitch a bus ride from the Chicago – O’hare Airport to the Rockford Bus Terminal. Then, grab a taxi to reach the gardens.

Taking a car is the second best option for a more cost-effective option, but it is more convenient than taking the bus and taxi to reach Anderson Japanese Gardens.

The best time to witness the stunning transition of the leaves as they turn color at Anderson Japanese Gardens is in Fall, from September to October. However, summer is the peak season, so if you want to avoid the crowds stick to visiting in the spring or fall. 

Anderson Japanese Gardens

6. Oak Park

  • Distance from Chicago: 10 miles/15 km
  • How Long it Takes: 20 Minutes

Within a short distance from Chicago, Oak Park is a historically rich village place to visit. It is also considered one of the best places to live in Illinois, intertwining suburban and urban living in one favorable family-friendly location. 

There are plenty of activities in the area, with family-friendly attractions like the Brookfield Zoo and the Galloping Ghost Arcade. The arcade is the largest video arcade in the United States. Oak Park is notorious for its trendy restaurants like Maya Del Sol or Hemmingway’s Bistro. 

If you’re a history buff or appreciate architecture, you’ll love this beautiful spot. Renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright showcased his talent here for the first 20 years of his career.

Walking tours take visitors past significant historical and architectural sites such as Wright’s home, the Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio. 

There is also the home of famed author Ernest Hemingway, who grew up in Oak Park. The Ernest Hemingway Foundation restored Hemingway’s home, and now tours of the author’s birthplace are given. Join a guided architecture tour to learn all about the history and creativity of the area’s top attractions!

Top sights here include:

  • Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio
  • Ernest Hemingway Birthplace Museum
  • Brookfield Zoo 
  • Oak Park Conservatory

There are lots of convenient ways to get from Chicago to this charming village. The train at Chicago OTC and the subway both head straight to Oak Park at inexpensive prices. The fastest way to get there would be a taxi, though this will run a little more costly than the subway or train. 

The Line 20 bus also comes here at an affordable price, though it will take longer to reach your destination as stops are included. 

Oak Park’s busiest month is from May to July. However, we recommend visiting anywhere from August to October if you want to avoid the crowds and high prices for these tourist-heavy months. 

Read next: The 21 Best Things To Do In St Louis, Missouri

7. Holland, Michigan

  • Distance from Chicago: 152 miles/245 km
  • How Long it Takes: 2½ Hours

Notorious for its award-winning breweries, Holland, Michigan, is only a few hours from Chicago and worth the trip. 

Holland’s natural beauty and charm are one for the books, with its lush nature, flower-speckled fields, and waterfront views.

The city is home to numerous parks to choose from for a picturesque stroll through nature with outstanding vistas. Holland’s downtown is thriving with locally-owned businesses to shop at.

The historic area was named one of “America’s Prettiest Towns” by Forbes magazine, with its cobblestoned sidewalks, live performances, and award-winning eateries and breweries to choose from. 

The Windmill Island Gardens is one of the top attractions in Holland. The gardens feature a 251-year-old windmill called De Zwaan. It is the only authentic Dutch windmill working in the nation.

Holland State Park is another largely popular attraction. The park showcases its iconic “Big Red” lighthouse for breathtaking sunset scenery and long stretches of beach on Lake Macatawa and Lake Michigan.

Many travel to the park to go camping, fishing, paddleboarding, sunbathing, and more for one of the best weekend trips from Chicago.

  • Windmill Island Gardens
  • Holland State Park
  • Holland State Park – Macatawa Campground
  • Big Lake Brewing
  • Saugatuck Dunes State Park

For those without a car, there is a direct connection by train from the Chicago Union Station to the Holland Amtrak Station. However, if you have a car or can rent one, that is the only other option to get back and forth to avoid ridiculous fees for a taxi. 

We recommend visiting Holland in spring when the flowers bloom to see the tulips that the area is known for. They usually bloom around late April and continue to bloom to mid-May.

Visiting Holland in the summer is extremely popular, so if you don’t mind crowds and want to catch some sun, take a trip to the city to soak in the sun and picturesque views. 

Holland Michigan

8. Peoria, Illinois

  • Distance from Chicago: 173 miles/267 km
  • How Long it Takes: 3 Hours

Nestled along the Illinois River, Peoria is a bustling shipping center and agricultural production zone. Presenting a suburban feel, the city has family-friendly attractions to savor. It was once known as the Whiskey Capital, with 40% of alcohol produced in the United States coming from Peoria in 1890. 

On the city’s historic Distillery Row along the Illinois River, visitors can taste Peoria’s specialized whiskey distilleries that have maintained the city’s legacy.

There is much to see and do in Peoria. Designed by Pritzker Prize-winning architects John Burgee and Philip Johnson, the Peoria Civic Center is a hotspot attraction in downtown Peoria. The center showcases an exhibit hall, an arena, and a theater that hosts live entertainment for comedians, Broadway shows, concerts, and more.

The Luthy Botanical Garden is a refreshing stroll through themed gardens, including a children’s, Japanese, rose, and herb garden. It was also the first botanical garden in the state.

For a fun new experience, hitch a ride on this guided architecture cruise to experience the iconic architecture along the Chicago River. 

Top things to do include:

  • Peoria Civic Center
  • Peoria Riverfront Museum
  • Louisville Slugger Sports Complex
  • Forest Park Nature Center
  • Luthy Botanical Garden

The cheapest method of getting to and from Peoria from Chicago is by driving. Another method of taking the train from the Chicago Union Station to Peoria Amtrak Station. This route will take longer than the alternative of going by car. 

The most popular time to visit Peoria is in the summer. However, if you’re looking for cooler weather, we recommend visiting the city in September to early October when the weather is getting cooler.

Read next: 23 Best Things To Do In Kansas City, Missouri

9. Michigan City

  • Distance from Chicago: : 60 miles/96 km
  • How Long it Takes: 1 Hour 15 Minutes

The source of Michigan City’s name is initially confusing for many. The city was not named after the state of its namesake but Lake Michigan that it is near. Michigan City is a favored tourist spot thanks to its convenient location near top attractions such as Indiana Dunes National Park and Lake Michigan. 

The city has a rich history with a small-town charm, and history buffs will be pleased to find the city flooded with attractions.

The historic city preserves its oldest structure, a lighthouse established in 1858, at the Old Lighthouse Museum. It was the home of the creator of Wikipedia, Howard G. “Ward” Cunningham, who grew up in the city.

The Barker Mansion is an English manor built in 1857, preserving period furnishings from the Gilded Age. It is part of the National Register of Historic Places and is open for tours.

Michigan City is a rewarding day trip from Chicago. Other than its historical attractions, there are nature-based activities such as Friendship Botanic Gardens and Indiana Dunes National Park. Go for a relaxing evening or tour the vineyards at Shady Creek Winery. Or test your luck at the Blue Chip Casino Hotel Spa.

Top attractions include:

  • Washington Park Zoo
  • Friendship Botanic Gardens
  • Shady Creek Winery
  • Blue Chip Casino Hotel Spa
  • Michigan City Lighthouse and Pier

In Chicago, there are direct routes to take on the buses and trains that head to Michigan City from Chicago. Other than that, the only other inexpensive way to reach Michigan City is by driving. 

Ideally, summer or early fall in September is the best time to visit Michigan City to savor outdoor activities while in town.

Unfortunately, the winter months are frigid, from November to February. Therefore, we recommend not visiting during these months if you plan on spending time outdoors at the parks or gardens. 

Michigan City Pier

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About the Author - Alesha and Jarryd

Hey! We are Alesha and Jarryd, the award-winning writers and professional photographers behind this blog. We have been travelling the world together since 2008, with a passion for adventure travel and sustainable tourism. Through our stories and images we promote exciting off-the-beaten-path destinations and fascinating cultures as we go. As one of the world's leading travel journalists, our content and adventures have been featured by National Geographic, Lonely Planet, CNN, BBC, Forbes, Business Insider, Washington Post, Yahoo!, BuzzFeed, Channel 7, Channel 10, ABC, The Guardian, and plenty other publications. Follow our journey in real time on Facebook , YouTube and Instagram .

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15 Spectacular Day Trips from Chicago IL

  • Illinois / In the City / USA

These are the best day trips from Chicago IL.

I grew up in Iowa, and Chicago was the major city near us. I remember my older cousin taking road trips and returning with exciting stories of the big city. It wasn’t until college, after I had moved to the South, that I visited Chicago for the first time.

Chicago is situated on the shores of Lake Michigan and is a vibrant city famous for its deep-dish pizza, museums, and instantly recognizable architecture.

There’s a lot to do in Chicago already, but it also makes a great base to explore the Midwest (especially Illinois, Wisconsin, and Michigan) when you need to escape the city.

15+ Incredible Day Trips from Chicago IL

This post may contain affiliate links, where we receive a small commission on sales of the products that are linked at no additional cost to you. All opinions are always our own. Read our full disclosure  for more info. Thank you for supporting the brands that make Local Adventurer possible.

Last Updated: November 2, 2023

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  • Best Day Trips from Chicago

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More resources, 15 spectacular day trips from chicago.

When you think of the Midwest, you picture endless corn farms (there’s that, too!). But beyond the cornfields, it’s a region filled with culture and stunning landscapes, as these day trips from Chicago will prove.

1. Oak Park, Illinois

193 N Marion St #208, Oak Park, IL 60301, map

Distance:  9.1 / 15 min Things You Can’t Miss:  Frank Lloyd Wright Home & Studio, Ernest Hemingway Birthplace, Unity Temple What to Eat:   Pete’s Red Hots ,  Freddy’s Pizza ,  Rustico

Oak Park is right next to the West side of Chicago. Before the world discovered Frank Lloyd Wright, the architect spent his early days designing homes for the residents of Oak Park, and the city is a gold mine for his work.

First, take a tour of the Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio. Afterward, visit his Unity Temple, considered the first modern building in history. Then, stroll around a small section of Oak City to appreciate Wright’s remaining 25 homes.

There is more than one famous resident from Oak City. Renowned author Ernest Hemingway was born here, and you can tour his Victorian birthplace too. If you need a respite from architecture and interiors, you can enjoy the exotic plants at the Oak Park Conservatory.

frank lloyd wright in oak park

2. Glencoe, Illinois

42.1342106,-87.7985822, map

Distance:  24.3 mi / 31 min Things You Can’t Miss:  Chicago Botanic Garden, Skokie Lagoons, Home Alone House What to Eat:   Frank & Betsie’s Restaurant ,  Bake Homemade Pizza

The village of Glencoe on Chicago’s north shore is a quick and easy day trip from Chicago. The main attraction is the Chicago Botanic Garden. Spend the day in any of the 27 gardens and stop to smell the roses (and all the other flowers).

If you’re not in a hurry to get back to the city, explore the Skokie Lagoons Nature Preserve, where you can walk around lagoons looking for wildlife or rent a kayak and enjoy the tranquil waters.

Don’t leave Glencoe without exploring the village itself. Besides charming boutiques and restaurants to peruse, there are historic homes, including 13 by Frank Lloyd Wright, and the most famous house in the area that was featured in Home Alone.

Botanic Garden Glencoe IL

3. Morton Arboretum, Illinois

4100 IL-53, Lisle, IL 60532, map

Distance:  26.1 mi / 36 min Things You Can’t Miss:  Hiking Trails, Acorn Tram Ride What to Eat:   Manna Kitchen ,  The Bavarian Lodge ,  Burrito Parrilla Mexicana

Lisle is part of Greater Chicago, but there’s plenty to do to make it a day trip. The Morton Arboretum is a living museum encompassing 1,700-acres and hundreds of varieties of trees and plants. Spend a leisurely day immersed in green forests on any of its 16-miles of hiking trails.

Highlights include a gentle walk around the Meadow Lake or a trip into woodlands via the Heritage Trail. You can also see the entire park on the narrated Acorn Tram Ride, and in the course of an hour, you tour the arboretum’s woodlands, wetlands, and prairies.

Morton Arboretum One Day Trip from Chicago

4. Illinois Beach State Park, Illinois

1 Lake Front Dr, Zion, IL 60099, map

Distance:  47.5 mi / 1 h 5 min Things You Can’t Miss:  Swimming, Hiking Trails, Fishing What to Eat:   Taqueria Los Naranjos ,  The Shanty

Who doesn’t love a day out on the beach? The Illinois Beach State Park is no ordinary beach outing. Located along a 6.5-mile stretch of beach on Lake Michigan, this state park offers an assortment of landscapes from sand dunes, wetlands, and black oak forests.

Explore the area on any of the 5 miles worth of trails including the easy Camp Logan Trail. Afterward, relax on the sand and discover why it’s one of the most scenic beaches in the Midwest.

5. Indiana Dunes National Park, Illinois

1215 N State Rd 49, Porter, IN 46304, map

Distance:  48.9 mi / 59 min Things You Can’t Miss:  Sand Dunes, Historic Homes, Hiking Trails What to Eat:   Fiddlehead Restaurant ,  The Polish Peasant ,  Mucho Mas

Indiana Dunes National Park is a perfect escape from the city where you can breathe in the fresh air. Sand dunes hug the shore along a 15-mile stretch of Lake Michigan.

Enjoy the cover of black oak forests or appreciate the beauty of the wetlands and marsh, an ideal spot for birding and wildlife viewing. Other outdoor activities include swimming and fishing. With 50 miles of trails, you are sure to stay active.

Don’t miss the Dune Ridge Trail (0.7 miles), Paul H. Douglas Trail (3.4 miles), and the Portage Lakefront and Riverwalk (0.9 miles). The national park also protects 60 historical structures including the Bailly Homestead and a series of houses from the 1933 World’s Fair that you can tour.

See More: Complete List of National Parks by State

Indiana Dunes Beach

6. Kankakee River State Park, Illinois

5314 W, IL-102, Bourbonnais, IL 60914, map

Distance:  57.8 mi / 1 h 7 min Things You Can’t Miss:  Kankakee River, Hiking, Canoeing What to Eat:   Burgers & Beer ,  BrickStone Brewery ,  New York City Deli

Unspoiled landscapes make up the beauty of the Kankakee River State Park. Though it’s approximately an hour from the city, this one day trip from Chicago will make you feel like you’ve entered another world.

For hikers, there’s a 3-mile trail showcasing the beauty of the canyon walls featuring a waterfall. If you have a bike, enjoy the 11-mile bike path that follows along the river. You can also rent a canoe and spend the day on the river.

7. Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie, Illinois

30239 IL-53, Wilmington, IL 60481, map

Distance:  60.1 mi / 1 h 06 min Things You Can’t Miss:  Tallgrass Prairie, Bison Herd What to Eat:   The Launching Pad ,  Nelly’s Restaurant on Rt 66 ,  New China Restaurant

Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie is the only tallgrass prairie east of the Mississippi River. This unique spot guarantees a tranquil day of bird watching and hiking any of the 22 miles of trails. Hikes you can’t miss include Turtle Pond (4.0 miles), Prairie Creek Woods Loop (2.0 miles), and Henslow’s Trail (5.3 miles). You also can’t leave without seeing the wild bison herd reintroduced into the region in 2015.

midewin national tallgrass prairie bison

8. Dayton Bluffs Preserve, Illinois

2997 IL-71, Marseilles, IL 61341, map

Distance:  79.9 mi / 1 h 21 min Things You Can’t Miss:  Fox River, Waterfalls, Native American Burial Mounds What to Eat:   Lone Buffalo by Tangled Roots Brewing Company ,  Sandi’s Bar & Grill ,  Court Street Pub

A true hidden gem in Illinois is the Dayton Bluffs Preserve, where you can experience acres of prairies, woodlands, Native American burial mounds, waterfalls, and the Fox River.

As a relatively new park, you feel like you’re in the wilderness. A 2.7-mile loop mixes the prairie and woodlands features. If you have a full day, there are smaller trails to explore in the park, too.

9. Lake Geneva, Wisconsin

201 Wrigley Dr, Lake Geneva, WI 53147, map

Distance:  82.8 mi / 1 h 31 min Things You Can’t Miss:  Lake Geneva, Big Foot Beach State Park, Black Point Estate and Gardens What to Eat:  Fitzgeralds Genoa Junction ,  Mars Restaurant & Resort ,  Joni’s Diner

In the summer, bring your swimsuit and cool off in the water, or cruise around Lake Geneva. In the winter, you can visit the Ice Castles.

On Lake Shore Path, you will pass mansions from the Gilded Age. If you have the energy, hire a bike and complete the 20-mile circuit around the lake.

To see how people lived in splendor in the past, take a tour of the Black Point Estate and Gardens or relax at Big Foot Beach State Park.

ice castles lake geneva

10. Milwaukee, Wisconsin

400 W Wisconsin Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53203, map

Distance:  92.2 mi / 1 h 34 min Things You Can’t Miss:  Milwaukee Art Museum, Harley Davidson Museum, Mitchell Park Domes What to Eat:   St Paul Fish Company ,  Swingin’ Door Exchange ,  The Vanguard

Milwaukee is renowned for its beer, but there is much to discover. The Milwaukee Museum not only offers visitors a cultural experience inside with its massive collection (including the most extensive collection of Georgia O’Keefe), but the outside leaves you in awe with its modern design and moveable wings.

When you think of motorcycles, Harley Davidson immediately comes to mind. Experience the history of this cultural company and view over 400 motorcycles. Or, take in the living museum of the Mitchell Park Domes, where plants from around the world thrive in different ecosystems.

Downtown Milwaukee Wisconsin

11. Oglesby, Illinois

41.2954236,-89.1032013, map

Distance:  101 mi / 1 h 42 min Things You Can’t Miss:  Starved Rock State Park, Matthieson State Park What to Eat:   Uptown Grill ,  Haze Smokehouse ,  Stone Jug Barbecue

Towering sandstone canyons and picturesque waterfalls combine to make Starved Rock State Park, a must-visit if you love the outdoors. With 18 canyons and 13 miles of trails, there is endless beauty from a bird’s eye view or deep within the canyons.

Popular trails include the Starved Rock and Sandstone Point Overlook Trail, Saint Louis Canyon Trail, and French Canyon Trail.

Deep canyons and bluffs are also the dominant features of Matthieson State Park. Follow the river into the canyon to Cascade Falls. Unusual rock formations dot the 5 miles of hiking trails within the park. Take a turn on the easy Dells Canyon and Bluff Trail, or go for a more involved hike to the Vermillion River.

12. Fennville, Michigan

42.5943816,-86.1151028, map

Distance:  140 mi / 2 h 24 min Things You Can’t Miss:  West Side County Park, Fenn Valley Vineyards, Crane Orchards What to Eat:   Blue Goose Café ,  Salt of the Earth

It’s easy to forget time as you enjoy the simple pleasures found at Fennville, Michigan. Lose yourself in the stunning views across Lake Michigan at West Side County Park or relax while sipping a glass of wine at the Fenn Valley Vineyards.

You can also feel like a kid again as you pick fruit fresh from the orchard at Crane’s U-Pick Farm. The different seasons dictate what fruit is available, and the 20-acre corn maze is the highlight.

13. Apple River Canyon State Park, Illinois

8763 E Canyon Rd, Apple River, IL 61001, map

Distance:  144 mi / 2 h 23 min Things You Can’t Miss:  Nature Trails, Limestone Bluffs What to Eat :  JJ & Freddies ,  Stella’s Café & Catering

The passage of time is beautifully on display at the Apple River Canyon State Park. For millions of years, the Apple River slowly carved its way through the rocks, creating the canyons seen today. There are roughly 5 miles of trails to spend the day in serenity.

apple river canyon state park

14. Holland, Michigan

78 E 8th St, Holland, MI 49423, map

Distance:  150 mi / 2 h 31 min Things You Can’t Miss:  Downtown, Windmill Island Gardens, Big Red Lighthouse, Beaches What to Eat:   Salt & Pepper Savory Grill and Pub ,  El Huarache ,  New Holland Brewing

Imagine traveling to Europe without having to leave the country. That is what it feels like as soon as you set foot in Holland, Michigan. Dutch influences are everywhere making Holland one of the prettiest cities in the US.

Downtown Holland is filled with charming shops, restaurants, and breweries. You especially can’t miss the magical Windmill Island Gardens, where over 10,000 tulips erupt in color in spring. Also, check out DeZwaan, the only authentic Dutch windmill in the US, in action.

Finish the day by relaxing on one of the many beaches and the Big Red Lighthouse, the most photographed lighthouse in Michigan.

Chicago to Holland MI

15. Grand Rapids, Michigan

171 Monroe Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, map

Distance:  181 mi / 2 h 54 min Things You Can’t Miss:  Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, Gerald Ford Presidential Museum, Grand Rapids Museum of Art What to Eat:  Butcher’s Union ,  The Green Well ,  The Mitten Brewing Co.

The Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park is part garden and part art museum and is the one spot you shouldn’t miss in Grand Rapids. Strolling in the 158-acre site is an experience you won’t forget, with over ten different gardens and sculptures by renowned artists like Rodin and Degas.

Continuing your artistic experience, traverse Calder Plaza to behold the mammoth red sculpture La Grande Vitesse, an icon of the city. Then, continue to the Grand Rapids Museum of Art to appreciate not only 19th and 20th-century art but also the first certified LEED museum in the US.

If you’re a history buff, step back in time as you explore the museum detailing the life of Gerald Ford, the 38th president of the United States. Tour a replica of the Oval Office and pay your respects to Ford and his wife, Betty, at their final resting place on the museum grounds.

grand rapids michigan skyline

  • Six Flags Great America ( 44.6 mi / 51 min,  map )
  • Rockford, IL ( 88.6 mi / 1 h 31 min,  map )
  • University of Notre Dame ( 94.3 mi / 1 h 42 min,  map )
  • Madison, WI ( 147 mi / 2 h 23 min,  map )

Best Places to Stay in Chicago

  • Get comprehensive insurance for your trip.
  • Download these helpful language apps .
  • Find a great deal on Chicago hotels .
  • Arrange a rental car for your trip.
  • Book a tour for your visit.
  • Get airport lounge access .
  • Buy a travel charger to keep your devices charged.
  • Get a new backpack for your trip.
  • Buy a Chicago travel guide .
  • Pack the appropriate shoes for your trip.
  • Don’t forget your in-flight essentials .
  • Save money on attractions with Go City .
  • 60 Hikes Within 60 Miles: Chicago: Including Wisconsin and Northwest Indiana
  • Eastern USA Travel Guide
  • Chicago Travel Guide
  • Rand McNally Road Atlas

How many of these day trips from Chicago have you done? Any others we should add to our list?

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Day Trips from Chicago IL

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Learn how to easily plan your dream trip to the Midwest!

Chicago skyline at sunset.

15 Best Day Trips From Chicago Worth The Effort

August 13, 2022 by //  by  Midwest Explored 1 Comment

Are you looking for the best day trips from Chicago that are actually worth the effort? Then this list is for you!

Maybe you want a break from the city, or maybe you just want to explore a new city.

Planning your trip to Chicago last minute?

Make sure to book ahead. Hotels and tours often sell out the closer you get to your trip. Here are our top pics for Chicago!

Top Experiences And Tours In Chicago:

  • Chicago River Architecture Cruise (Skip the Ticket Office!)
  • Willis TowerSkydeck & The Ledge Ticket (Elevator express entry!)
  • Navy Pier Centennial Wheel Ticket (Panoramic views of Chicago!)
  • Big Bus Hop on Hop Off Sightseeing Tours (24, 48, or 72-hour options available.)

Hop Hotels In Chicago:

  • Eurostars Magnificent Mile (In the heart of Chicago!)
  • The Peninsula Chicago (Near museums)
  • Club Quarter Hotels Wacker (Overlooking the Chicago River!)
  • Hotel Blake (Close to Millennium Park.)

No matter your interests you’ll find a great day trip option on this list.

I’ve found some of the most unique, fun, and adventurous day trips to make from Chicago.

There are beautiful state parks, metropolitan cities, unique and charming small towns, and so much more.

So, lets take a look at the 15 Best Day Trips from Chicago Worth The Effort!

Chicago Illinois skyline at sunset

Cedarburg, Wisconsin

In just under 2 hours, you can find yourself in the charming small town in Wisconsin called Cedarburg.

Cedarburg is an excellent day trip from Chicago for those looking for small-town charm, but with plenty of activities.

Because Cedarburg is know for its small town atmosphere, you’ll find some really unique shops and resturants.

There is a Candy Kitchen, an Amish Craftsmen Guild, stores full of items made by local artisans, and even a shop where you can search for unique gemstones.

Cedarburg also has a wide variety of unique museums.

There is a local art museum, a local history museum, a woolen mill and textile museum, and even a museum depicting early life in Cedarburg.

No matter your interests, Cedarburg is guaranteed to have something fun for you to do, and you’ll find it was worth the drive.

Large vintage house in Cedarburg on water in autumn, day trip from Chicago.

Rockford, Illinois

If you drive for about an hour and a half West of Chicago, you’ll find yourself in Rockford Illinois.

The best way to describe Rockford is to call it a big-little city. It’s the fourth largest city in Illinois, but still feels welcoming in a small-town sort of way.

Rockford is also bursting with things to do.

Music lovers will enjoy checking out one of the many spots home town band Cheap Trick helped make famous.

If museums are more your thing, don’t worry, Rockford has those too. Stop by the Burpee Museum of Natural History or the Discovery Center Museum.

If none of that sounds interesting, then maybe you’ll like the Anderson Japanese Garden. It is consistently rated as one of the best Japanese Gardens in North America.

There is so much to do that you may want to turn your day trip into a Midwest weekend getaway . With the endless list of activities in Rockford, it absolutely makes it worth the hour and a half drive from Chicago.

A waterfall at the Japanese Garden in Rockford Illinois, a daytrip from Chicago.

Grand Rapids, Michigan

Grand Rapids Michigan is one of the perfect day trips from Chicago for lovers of art, food, and beer.

In fact, Grand Rapids is known as Beer City USA.

For those who want to take full advantage of all Beer City USA has to offer, you’ll want to download the Brewsader App.

The App gives you a full map of all the breweries in Grand Rapids, and after you check in at 8 of them, you’ll earn a fun Brewsader shirt to commemorate your trip.

If beer isn’t your thing, not to worry.

There are still some absolutely amazing and unique restaurants in Grand Rapids you can check out. Or you can stop into one of the cities popular art galleries.

There really are so many cool things to do in Grand Rapids .

Ariel view of Grand Rapids, a Chicago day trip, illuminated at sunset.

Oak Park, Illinois Is One Of The Best Day Trips From Chicago

Oak Park Illinois is the shortest distance you’ll have to travel for a day trip on this list as it’s just under 20 minutes outside of Chicago.

Despite that, many people in Chicago, or even visiting Chicago, don’t think to explore Oak Park.

Admirers of Frank Lloyd Wright, one of America’s most prominent architects will know Oak Park though.

Wright called Oak Park home, and left his mark on many of the cities most popular homes and buildings.

Oak Park was also home to another famous architect, George W. Maher, who also designed many of the cities most prominent homes and buildings.

Ernest Hemingway was also born in Oak Park, and you can visit his childhood home that has now been turned into a Hemingway Museum.

Book Tickets Here: Ernest Hemingway Boyhood Tour

Because of Oak Park’s proximity to Chicago, many gangsters in the early 20th century called the area home, and you can now take a Gangster tour.

Oak Park is a tremendously unique option for a day trip from Chicago and you don’t even have to travel far!

An architectural marvel, a Frank Lloyd Wright home in Oak Park with manicured front lawn.

Michigan City, Indiana

Michigan City Indiana is about an hour away from Chicago, and you’ll spend the whole trip driving along Lake Michigan.

So it’s no surprise that Michigan City also has its fair share of lighthouse history.

In Michigan City you’ll be able to explore the Old Lighthouse Museum and even take a tour of the Michigan City Lighthouse and Pier.

Stroll along the beach or maybe head over to the Washington Park Zoo, which is full of more interesting architecture, and of course animals.

Travelers also enjoy touring the Barker Mansion and sipping on local wines at some of the best wineries in Indiana

Michigan City lighthouse white with red roof on Lake Michigan, a Chicago day trip.

Monroe, Wisconsin

Monroe Wisconsin is the Swiss Cheese Capital of the USA, and just over 2 hours away from Chicago.

Cheese lovers will delight in the many, many, cheese related activities that abound in Monroe.

Monroe is a cute small town that takes cheese very seriously, and for good reason. The city has thrived for over 100 years because of it’s cheese industry.

You can pair some locally made cheeses with local beers or just explore the numerous cheese shops.

Or watch a movie at the local drive-in theater while munching on cheese curds.

The small town even holds a yearly Cheese Days Festival where you can sample all of the local cheeses while sipping a cold local beer.

Monroe is perfect for your next day trip from Chicago the next time you’ve got a serious craving for all things cheese.

This cool town is one of the best places to visit in Wisconsin.

Vintage downtown in Monroe, Wisconsin.

Kankakee, Illinois

Kankakee Illinois is a cute town in Illinois just over an hour south of Chicago.

It’s full of small town charm but it still has a lot of interesting things to do, making it perfect if you’re looking to escape the city for a day.

One of visitors favorite things to do in Kankakee is taking a tour of the B. Harley Bradley House, a famous house designed by Frank Lloyd Wright.

Kankakee is also amazing for those looking for a little outdoor adventure.

The entire Kankakee County and parts of the city of Kankakee are bursting with outdoor activities.

You can enjoy some of the best hiking in Illinois , along with canoeing, kayaking, and even scuba diving in the Haigh Quarry.

Kankakee is one of the best day trips from Chicago Illinois if you’re looking for fresh air, beautiful views of nature, and plenty of small-town charm.

Kankakee River waterfall rushing over rocks. Great Chicago day trip.

New Glarus, Wisconsin

America’s Little Switzerland is in New Glarus Wisconsin, just 2 and half hours outside of Chicago.

New Glarus is a small town that loves beer, cheese, and festivals. In the warmer months, they may have 3-4 festivals a month.

Typical New Glarus festivals include Polkafest, The Beer, Bacon, & Cheese Festival, The Heidi Folk Festival, Blues Brews & Food Trucks Festival, Maxwell Street Days, and so many more.

New Glarus is also known for having a selection of brews that you can only buy in Wisconsin, and some of them you can only buy in New Glarus.

If you are a beer connoisseur, you’ll love checking out one of the local beer gardens. And if you decide to stay longer here are some epic Wisconsin Airbnbs to look into.

Foodies will love checking out one of the many restaurants that serves up Swiss and Swiss inspired fare.

New Glarus is a cute romantic getaway in Wisconsin!

Quirky beer garden made of stone,  in New Glarus, WI.

Holland, Michigan

Holland Michigan is a little over 2 hours away from Chicago and is one of the best day trips from Chicago that is definitely worth it.

Named after the home country of it’s original settlers, Holland is bursting with Dutch charm.

In the Spring it’s host to the Tulip Time Festival where you will get to see a riot of colorful tulips with a windmill that is straight from Holland.

Even if you can’t make it to the Tulip Time Festival, you’ll love exploring this cozy small town.

There are plenty of unique shops, restaurants, breweries, and unique Dutch gardens.

Holland is also home to one of the coolest lighthouses in Michigan , The Big Red Lighthouse.

Visitors love to view the iconic lighthouse standing proudly on it’s pier, with the bright red façade making a striking contrast against Lake Michigan.

Holland is a small town in Michigan full of charm that is definitely worth the effort to visit, any time of year.

Brilliant yellow tulips in foreground with European-inspired red brick building in background in Holland MI.

Milwaukee, Wisconsin

If you are looking to explore a city, but you want a break from Chicago, then I suggest driving the hour and half to Wisconsin’s largest city, Milwaukee.

Because Milwaukee is Wisconsin’s biggest city, it is full of unique things to do making it one of the best day trips from Chicago!

And there are so many things to do in Milwaukee!

If you’re on a budget, take a stroll down the streets and admire the many murals on the sides of buildings. Or go window shopping and one of the many boutique stores.

You can also check out a play or musical, go on a boat tour of Milwaukee, or explore one of the amazing restaurants in Milwaukee.

If you’re a sports fan, you may want to check out one of Milwaukee’s home teams. Afterwards, you can talk about the game at one of the cities awesome bars or resturants.

Milwaukee is an amazing city that often gets overlooked, but you won’t regret making the trip out there.

An aerial view of illuminated Milwaukee WI with sunset in background, one of the best day trips from Chicago.

Oglesby, Illinois

In just under two hours you can be in beautiful Oglesby Illinois.

Oglesby is perfect for day trippers looking for a break from the city as it is home to two beautiful State Parks.

If you’re looking for some outdoor adventure and clear air, then you’ll find that this is one day trip that is worth the effort.

At Starved Rock State Park you’ll find trails that lead you along the Illinois River and into steep sandstone canyons.

It is Illinois’ most popular State Park and for good reason. It’s accessible for all skill levels and you get to experience some beautiful views.

The other state park near Oglesby is Matthiessen State Park. The entrance for this park is just a few miles South of Starved Rock State Park.

Matthiessen State Park has similar views, but it is often far less crowded.

It is a great choice to experience fall in Illinois.

You’ll still be able to hike beautiful trails, see gorgeous Illinois waterfalls, and enjoy nature, but you’ll be far less crowded.

If you have plenty of time on one of your day trips from Chicago Illinois, you should definitely check out both state parks.

Large rock formations in water in park in Oglesby IL.

Lake Geneva, Wisconsin

Lake Geneva is a Wisconsin town about an hour and a half outside of Chicago.

It has a history of being the go-to spot for Chicago’s wealthy families during the summer.

Lake Geneva is a beautiful small town that thrives because of the large Lake Geneva, and it’s a budget-friendly day trip option.

There are so many things to do in Lake Geneva all year long that include lake activities.

But you’ll also find a charming town full of unique boutiques, restaurants, and even outdoor activities like hiking and snow sports in the winter.

In early February the town holds a Winter Fest which features the only snow sculpting championship in the United States.

Visitors get to experience massive snow sculptures, food from local restaurants, and so much more – and it’s free to attend!

In the summer, enjoy boating, swimming, and kayaking on Lake Geneva before having a meal at one of the amazing local restaurants in Lake Geneva .

No matter what time of year you visit, Lake Geneva is a Chicago day trip that is worth the effort.

Vintage downtown Lake Geneva, WI, one of the best day trips from Chicago.

Highwood, Illinois

Highwood Illinois is another small town that goes big when it comes to festivals.

Just 35 minutes North of Chicago, this charming small town is the perfect day trip from Chicago Illinois for festival lovers

There’s almost a festival every month, and they all have different themes.

For foodies, there is a Taco Festival, a Bloody Mary Festival, and a Garlic Festival.

There are also smaller music festivals, fun runs, and a Pride Festival.

One of Highwood’s most iconic festivals though is probably The Great Highwood Pumpkin Festival every October.

It is one of the coolest things to do in Illinois .

The Festival benefits the Make-A-Wish Foundation and attendees get to check out rows and rows of carved pumpkins.

Attendess of Pumpkin Fest can even bring their own pumpkins and carve them before adding them to the walls of carved pumpkins.

Highwood is a truly unique town, full of really cool festivals that are sure to make the trip out there worth the effort, no matter what time of year you go.

Rows of orange pumpkins at Pumpkin Fest in Highwood, IL.

Indiana Dunes National Park, Indiana Is One Of The Best Day Trips From Chicago

Just under an hour outside of Chicago, the Indiana Dunes National Park is one of the coolest national parks in the Midwest.

The Indiana Dunes National Park is on 15 miles of beach on Lake Michigan’s South shore.

It is a nature lover’s dream with over 15,000 acres of preserved land full of unique hiking trails, wetlands, prairies, woodlands, and of course beaches.

From Memorial Day to Labor Day, there is a $6 entrance fee to enter the park. During the ‘off season’ though, it’s free to enter.

The Indiana Dunes is full of fun things to do, and you could spend days exploring the park making it a fun weekend getaway in Indiana!

It’s a beautiful spot, and it is definitely one of the day trips from Chicago that is worth the effort.

White sandy beach with sea oats and waves rolling in at Indiana Dunes National Park, a great Chicago day trip.

Madison, Wisconsin Is One Of The Cool Day Trips From Chicago

In just over two hours you can find yourself in Madison Wisconsin.

If you’re looking for a fun Chicago day trip in the summer, Madison is perfect for you.

With five lakes, spanning over 15,000 acres, in summertime there are so many things to do in Madison.

There are water sports, festivals, water front dining, and so much more.

But Madison isn’t just a fun place to visit in the summer.

You’re sure to find fun no matter what time of year you go.

There are dinner theaters, breweries, delicious restaurants, and unique boutiques. Put treating yourself at some of the restaurants in Madison on your list!

You’ll find that Madison Wisconsin is one of the most entertaining day trips from Chicago that is definitely worth the effort.

The skyline of Madison WI at sunset.

Packing List For Daytrips From Chicago

Here are some  tips on how to pack lightly

A  concealed travel pouch  may be one of the most important items you bring along when on one of your Chicago day trips! 

It is  always   important  to protect your personal information. Identity thieves are everywhere.

This  unisex RFID blocking concealed travel pouch is  lightweight and comes in several colors. It has lots of organization to give you peace of mind.

You can place it under your clothes next to your body to carry your ID safely.

If you have a pouch already that does not come with the RFID protection, as I do, these  RFID  sleeves  are the perfect solution.

This configuration comes with enough credit card sleeves that the entire family would be protected. They are slim too, so they will easily fit into your pouch or wallet. 

If you are planning on taking a lot of pictures with your phone you will definitely want to consider an  external charging battery .

This  Anker high-speed phone charging battery  is  the exact one  I carry with me on all of my trips.

It can be used on a variety of phones, not just an iPhone like I have. And wow is it fast!

I like that it holds its charging capabilities for several uses so I do not have to worry about it while out and about, and if I forget to recharge it at night, it will still be good to go the next day.

My daughter gifted me with this  FugeTek selfie stick and tripod   setup for my birthday. I absolutely love it!

It is made of lightweight aluminum and so easy to use.

It has Bluetooth connectivity and is a breeze to use for taking selfies with all those nature shots while on your Chicago day trips..

Hydration is so important when hiking. You want to remain hydrated throughout your hikes to support your immune system which in turn will be stronger to fight off any germs you will encounter during your travels. 

You will want to bring your own  refillable water bottle  with you. 

I never leave home on a trip without my  Bobble filtration bottle .  The 18.5-ounce size is perfect for hiking and it fits nicely in the pocket of a backpack.

When filled with water, it is not too heavy to carry. And the charcoal filter ensures fresh clean water whenever you fill the Bobble.

Perhaps you are traveling a long distance to Chicago Illinois and packing space is a premium in your suitcase, or in your car.

Then this  set of collapsible silicone foldable water bottles  would work well for you. Would not take up much space at all. 

You will want a  backpack or daypack  with you to store snacks, your water bottle, phone, extra clothes, etc.. when on one of your day trips from Chicago Illinois. No matter the time of day or evening.

This   foldable water-resistant backpack   would be great

It is very affordable and is available in many color options for you to choose from. The fact that it folds down into a zippered pouch will make it easy to pack!

I hope you enjoyed this list of the 15 Best Day Trips From Chicago Worth the Effort! There are so many great big cities and little towns outside of Chicago just waiting to be explored.

If you are spending a weekend in Chicago , one of these trips from Chicago would def be fun!

If you take a trip to one of these awesome places, I’d love to hear about it in the comments!

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day trips from chicago for hiking

Forget the tent or hotel room. These destinations offer abundant natural beauty, from canyons and waterfalls to prairies and dunes, within three hours of the city.

Starved Rock State Park

Chasing Waterfalls Amid Sandstone Canyons

Starved rock state park north-central illinois.

Drive time 1 hour 45 minutes

Summer may be peak season at this crown jewel of Illinois parks, but its legendary canyons, bluffs, and trails are arguably at their most appealing between March and May, when snowmelt and spring rains feed Starved Rock’s stunning waterfalls. Follow the trails marked in green to the falls at French, Wildcat, LaSalle, Ottawa, Kaskaskia, Illinois, Aurora, and St. Louis Canyons. The sandstone formations, carved millennia ago by glacial forces, make for eye-popping scenery in their own right — and are best admired from the trail, because climbing the notoriously crumbly rock is ill advised. Or tackle the Starved Rock and Sandstone Point Overlook Trail, a four-mile loop, rated moderate in difficulty, that offers a commanding view of the Illinois River. The park’s name comes from the death by starvation of a band of Illiniwek seeking refuge on a butte here during a battle over the death of Ottawa chief Pontiac in the 1760s — a solemn reminder of whose land you’re hiking through and the privilege of communing with it. Look for Bald eagles. The Plum Island Eagle Sanctuary, which occupies a 45-acre island in the Illinois River opposite the park’s visitor center, is a wintering area for the birds. In spring and summer, you’ll have a chance of seeing a mating pair that are permanent residents. While there Reward your exertions with a pint at the Lone Buffalo, a taproom in nearby Ottawa operated by Tangled Roots Brewing Company .

Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie

Communing With Illinois’s Original Landscape

Midewin national tallgrass prairie northeastern illinois.

Drive time About an hour

Bison, the prairie’s once-abundant original inhabitants, were reintroduced in 2015 as part of a conservation initiative at this 18,500-acre preserve, which occupies the site of a former ammunition plant and is the first federal tallgrass prairie in the country. You can’t walk among the bison — currently the herd numbers around 50 — since they roam in pastures fenced off from the park’s 33 miles of trails, but sightings are common. Years of painstaking restoration of the area’s tallgrass habitat has resulted in an unparalleled variety of birdlife. Keep your eyes out for sandhill cranes, black-necked stilts, dickcissels, Henslow’s sparrows, and the rare black-billed cuckoo. Created in 1996 and considered one of the most significant conservation triumphs of the 20th century, Midewin offers a chance to experience the natural prairie that covered much of the Midwest but is now all but obliterated. Look for A prehistoric glacial erratic. Follow the Henslow Trail to where it crosses Route 53 to see this 19-ton boulder that was pushed south by an ice sheet, possibly from as far as present-day Wisconsin. While there The nearby village of Elwood boasts a rare attraction: a paved section of the original Route 66 — America’s Mother Road — that you can actually drive on. (It’s on what’s now Douglas Street.)

Mississippi Palisades State Park

Breathtaking Views of America’s Mightiest River

Mississippi palisades state park northwestern illinois.

Drive time Just under 3 hours

The riverbank bluffs, or palisades, that are the centerpiece of these 2,500 acres make for exhilarating hiking and gorgeous panoramas. Fifteen miles of relatively short, interconnected trails ascend the bluffs and plummet into cool, fern-filled ravines, offering views of erosion-carved limestone formations with names like Indian Head and Twin Sisters. But you don’t have to scramble to earn your views: Several paved paths lead to platformed overlooks that take in the confluence of the Mighty Miss and the Apple River. Have an old-fashioned picnic in one of the shelters built in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps. In spring and summer, look for the colorful splendor of brightly blooming lobelias and bluebells. Look for Woodland mammals. Weasels, muskrats, and badgers make their home here. While there The historic downtown of nearby Mount Carroll has rightly earned a spot on the National Register of Historic Places. It features brick-paved streets and remarkably well-preserved 19th-century Victorian houses.

Palos Preserves

A Birding Bonanza Less Than an Hour From Downtown

Palos preserves southwestern cook county.

Drive time 45 minutes

This 12,000-acre complex of trails and protected lands — constituting the largest forest preserve system in Cook County — is about as remote-feeling as you can get without leaving the metro area. The Yellow Trail is an eight-mile gravel loop that offers a decidedly away-from-it-all vibe and traverses the Cap Sauers Holding Nature Preserve, the largest roadless area in the county. Bring binoculars: Bald eagle sightings are common, and the preserve hosts an exceptional variety of less glorified birds, including summer tanagers, eastern phoebes, pileated woodpeckers, and Louisiana waterthrushes. Seeking a workout? Enter the Swallow Cliff Woods off Calumet Sag Road and sprint up the limestone stairs leading to the top of a 100-foot bluff. Worried about getting lost in all that wide-open space? Relax: Virtually all Cook County Forest Preserve trail maps are accessible on your phone. Look for Baby wood ducks falling from the sky. The waterfowl nest in tree cavities, says Cook County Forest Preserves ecologist Kristin Pink, and the babies will occasionally plummet out and scamper toward water. While there Make the day an action double-header by also hitting the Forge: Lemont Quarries, a new adventure park eight miles away featuring aerial rope courses, laser tag, and more.

Matthiessen State Park

Cliffs, Bluffs, and Dells Without the Crowds

Matthiessen state park north-central illinois.

Drive time 2 hours

This 4,500-acre expanse of woods, canyons, glens, and creeks possesses virtually all the natural beauty of Starved Rock — the bigger and better-known state park just a few miles to its north — minus the throngs of nature-deprived city folk. Situated along the Vermilion River near its junction with the Illinois, Matthiessen has a less extensive trail system than Starved Rock’s (just five miles of groomed paths), but those trails traverse remarkably variegated terrain and can take you deep into the park’s signature wooded valleys, or dells. Watch for white-tailed deer along the trails, some of which cross the rushing creeks that empty into the Vermilion and sluice over the dells’ terraced rocks in sprightly cascades. Sorry, no swimming, no matter what you’ve seen on TikTok. Look for Winsome yellow lady’s slipper orchids (a.k.a. moccasin flowers). They flourish in the nature area bordering the dells. While there What’s better than a blood orange margarita after a vigorous hike? One accompanied by some light shopping for handcrafted jewelry, teas, scarves, and soaps. The Ottawa wine bar Cat’s Eye and its gift boutique, A Mess of Things, offer both.

Indiana Dunes National Park

From Forest to Beach in a Few Bounding Steps

Indiana dunes national park northwestern indiana.

Encompassing rivers, woodlands, prairies, wetlands, and, of course, the eponymous hills of sand, Indiana Dunes National Park is one of the most ecologically diverse preserves in the nation. With 14 trail systems totaling more than 50 miles, the park is as welcoming to visitors seeking a little birdwatching as it is to those intent on an all-day trek. “You’ve got incredible natural features that aren’t found anywhere other than the south end of Lake Michigan, including oak forests that grow right out of the sand,” says hiking advocate Jay Readey. A great introduction is the 4.7-mile Cowles Bog Trail, which takes in oak savanna, ponds, marshes, swamps, and beaches, as is the justifiably popular Dunes Succession Trail, which rewards hikers who scramble to the top of the dunes with gorgeous lake views sheltered by fragrant jack pines. Look for The distant Chicago skyline. Seen from the tranquil heights of the dunes, it’s one of the most memorable views of the city you’ll ever have. While there Grab a burger at Industrial Revolution Eatery & Grille in Valparaiso, 20 minutes due south, and make a night of it by catching a movie at the 49er Drive-in Theatre, open April through October.

Seven Bridges Trail in Grant Park

An Unsung Woodland Gem

Seven bridges in grant park southeastern wisconsin.

Drive time 1 hour 30 minutes

An invitation by Romantic poet William Cullen Bryant beckons at the entrance of this easily overlooked county park south of Milwaukee: “Enter this wild wood and view the haunts of nature.” Inscribed on a covered wooden bridge, the words offer a fitting welcome to this beguiling expanse of deeply shaded ravines and stone paths that abuts an intimate Lake Michigan swimming beach. Flanked by trout lilies and trilliums, the trail weaves through birch, maple, and white ash trees and leads to steep stone staircases, nooks with benches for resting, and those seven footbridges — creating an enchanted-forest vibe that kids will dig. Keen observers crossing another of the bridges will notice a second Bryant verse, one that captures the appeal of the place: “May the God-given peace of this leafy solitude rest upon and abide with thee.” Look for The distinctive limestone pavers on the trail. Those and the ones forming the retaining walls came from the nearby Lannon stone quarry, which produces a pretty dolomite used to clad countless buildings in the area since the 1850s. While there In Milwaukee, just 10 minutes north, pick up a dry-brined rotisserie chicken from the beloved bistro Goodkind or sip a cortado on the patio of Colectivo Coffee.

Kettle Moraine State Forest, Southern Unit

A Journey Into the Ice Age

Kettle moraine state forest, southern unit southern wisconsin.

Drive time About 2 hours

When the ice sheet that covered much of North America retreated some 12,000 years ago, it left a distinctive landscape of hills, kettles (surface depressions), ridges, and lakes across a great swath of what is now Wisconsin. Those natural features take pride of place on any stretch of this 23,000-acre forest’s 100-plus miles of trails. A good option for glacially minded first-time visitors is hiking the segment of the 1,000-mile Ice Age National Scenic Trail that cuts through a particularly gorgeous stretch of the park. You’ll see ancient sedimentary formations such as kames (gravel or sand mounds) and eskers (long, winding ridges) and, if you’re observant, plenty of flora and fauna too: The park is home to red foxes, turkeys, and coyotes and an abundance of wildflowers, including forked aster, yellow gentian, and eastern prairie fringed orchid. Families and dog owners can tackle any of the loops in the Nordic Trail system, which extends across gently rolling terrain traversing pine and hardwood forest and open plains. Look for The ruins of an old resort. Complete with a still-active artesian spring and trout pond, it rises alongside the half-mile loop trail Paradise Springs. While there Venture to the nearby mill town of Whitewater for a farm-to-table meal at the Black Sheep, which sources from nearly a dozen local farms and fisheries.

Kankakee River State Park

A Riverside Ramble

Kankakee river state park northeastern illinois.

A mostly flat, woods-shaded trail forms the backbone of this 4,000-acre park hugging both banks of the river. Hardcore hikers might call the 10.5-mile paved and gravel route more of a walk than a hike, but for parents with stroller-age kids, it’s a chance to plunge into a distinctive natural habitat without having to put the kid in a carrier. A three-mile spur along Rock Creek, a tributary, leads to limestone canyons and a waterfall. That creek is rated as one of the cleanest streams in Illinois, and the naturally channeled Kankakee was recently ranked No. 1 for water quality in the state by the Illinois River Watch Network. All the more reason to bring your fishing gear: Smallmouth bass, channel catfish, northern pike, and walleye abound. Look for The grave of Potawatomi chief Shaw-waw-nas-see. The trail running alongside Rock Creek leads to a boulder that marks it. While there Scuba diving in Illinois? You bet. Nearby Haigh Quarry is a spring-fed, limestone-lined lake that’s been turned into a diving refuge.

Grand Mere State Park

Hidden Lakes and Pristine Dunes

Grand mere state park southwestern michigan.

This 985-acre jewel hugging Lake Michigan’s eastern shore harbors a tranquil dunes habitat and three ancient inland glacial lakes called, prosaically, North, Middle, and South. A handicapped-accessible paved trail departs from the picnic shelter; a half mile in, the pavement gives way to a sandy footpath that forks right toward a mile-long beach backed by dunes, and left toward South Lake, which is nestled in an undeveloped natural preserve that’s home to waterfowl and songbirds. Beach-bound hikers can summit Baldtop, a 760-foot dune, before sprinting (or tumbling) toward the crystal waters of Lake Michigan. The National Park Service has named Grand Mere a National Natural Landmark, owing to its unique terrain and ecological diversity. Look for The geological phenomenon known as aquatic succession. This transformation of glacial lakes into terrestrial habitat is happening right before your eyes with the three interdunal lakes. (Two other lakes beyond the park have already turned into bog forest.) While there Southwest Michigan’s Makers Trail features more than 45 breweries, cideries, wineries, and distilleries within 25 miles of the park. Try a barrel-aged cider at Peat’s Cider Social, just across the road from the park.

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  • Last Updated On
  • October 3, 2023

41 Best Day Trips From Chicago — Places Nearby!

Cole Evans

If you’re looking for a quick break away from Chicago, the great news is that you don’t have to look very far—the Windy City is surrounded by beautiful spots that make great day trips, some as close as 15 minutes away!

Everything from Illinois to Indiana is reachable, including all its impressive attractions.

Need help deciding where to go for the ultimate relaxation?

There’s no need to look far for those either–the best day trips from Chicago are right below.

1. Gurnee, IL

Gurnee, IL

With 23 million visitors making their way to Gurnee every year (including Chicagoans), you know you’re dealing with one of Illinois’s most popular tourist hubs.

Sitting right off the I-94 and an hour’s drive away from Chicago, Gurnee is a hotspot, a regular feature on the list of Chicago day trips for those looking for world-class entertainment and shopping.

Start your day out with The Chocolate Sanctuary’s excellent brunch buffet and work it all off by checking out the 160-plus shops that pepper Gurnee Mills.

If you’ve got tots and adrenaline junkies in the clan, Six Flags Great America is a must-visit, with enough kiddie rides and thrilling coasters to keep everyone satisfied!

2. Cedarburg, WI

Cedarburg, WI

Wichita’s Cedarburg is located just two hours away from Chicago—time slows down in this delightful town, so head here if you want a leisurely day of unwinding surrounded by small-town charm.

In Cedarburg, friendly folks, rich culture, and gorgeous period architecture abound—you could spend your day here simply exploring and soaking all these in.

If you want to dive deeper into these, the Cedarburg Art Museum, a 19th-century-home-turned-art-museum is a good idea; you can also view some stunning pieces by local artists here.

The town also plays host to many fun seasonal events, including its very own Oktoberfest, but you can also enjoy great wine otherwise at the Cedar Creek Winery.

3. Evanston, IL

Evanston, IL

Want a break from the city but don’t want to travel too far, either?

Evanston should feature among the options on your Chicago trips list, being that it’s only 33 minutes away.

This little college town is home to gems such as the ethereal Baha’i House of Worship, one of only eight around the world and the oldest of the lot—the beautiful architecture, manicured grounds, and peaceful atmosphere of the temple draw hordes of visitors each year.

From here, art enthusiasts can head to the Block Museum of Art, on Northwestern University’s premises, to see the lovely sculptures, whereas food enthusiasts should consider digging into the fare at Bennison’s Bakery.

Beer enthusiasts, on the other hand, should consider making a stop at Temperance Beer Co. for the brewery tour and delicious brews.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Graduate Evanston

4. Kankakee County, IL

kankakee county il

If you’re looking for outdoor fun on your day trip, consider Kankakee County.

Just an hour and a half away from Chicago, the land surrounding the Kankakee River served as home to many indigenous people through the centuries and is still revered ground for many.

The Kankakee River State Park sits close to the river, sprawled across 4,000 acres of preserved land, and is a popular hub for hiking, bicycling, fishing, and canoeing.

If you’ve got kids in the clan, Perry Farm Park is a good idea, with its nature trails, children’s museum, picnic areas, and playground, whereas fans of famed architect Frank Lloyd Wright may enjoy visiting his 20th-century B. Harley Bradley House.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hampton Inn Bourbonnais Kankakee

5. Fairbury, IL

Fairbury, IL

Foodies will enjoy a day out in Fairbury, home to the popular Slagel Family Farms and Kilgus Farmstead, both favorites among top chefs in the state.

Fairbury sits at the heart of Illinois, two hours away from Chicago.

Here, you can meet Kilgus’s lovely doe-eyed residents (of the human and Jersey variety!), get a 101 on milking, and even sample the freshly spun ice cream, all on a one-hour tour that takes you through the farmstead.

You can even stock up on their amazing ice cream if you bring a cooler with you!

At Slagel Family Farms, enjoy well-curated farm dinners that are on offer through the summer and fall months; the family-style dinner is served in a lovely barn, but not before you get an engaging tour of Slagel!

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hampton Inn-Pontiac

Related: Activities in Chicago

6. South Bend, IN

South Bend, IN

A little under two hours away from Chicago, South Bend itself may not ring a bell—most people only hear of it through the close-by Notre Dame University—but you should consider familiarizing yourself with the city if you adore culturally rich spots.

Learn about the city at the History Museum, housed in inventor James Oliver’s Victorian manor, and if you want more museums to check out, add the Snite Museum of Art and the Studebaker National Museum to your itinerary.

From there, head to the South Bend Farmers’ Market for the gorgeous local produce.

A trip to South Bend doesn’t end without visiting Notre Dame, so make a stop here to see the lovely campus, stadium, and the stunning, Gothic-style, Basilica of the Sacred Heart.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Embassy Suites by Hilton South Bend

Related: Best Weekend Getaways From Chicago

7. Oak Park, IL

Oak Park, IL

If you worship at the altar of Frank Lloyd Wright, Oak Park is a pilgrimage that you must make.

Just 17 minutes away from downtown Chicago, Oak Park is a historic neighborhood whose primary identity is Lloyd Wright’s home and whose secondary identity is Ernest Hemingway’s home—a treat for architecture, art, and literature enthusiasts!

Start with a tour of the Ernest Hemingway Birthplace Museum and proceed to the Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio, both within walking distance of each other.

Other houses designed by the architect also dot the city; see if you can spot these on your trip!

End the day chilling in downtown Oak Park, or with a chilled lager at the Kinslahger Brewing Company.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Carleton of Oak Park

8. Madison, WI

Madison, WI

What could a capital city offer other than the usual capital-style entertainment, right?

Well, that may also be the case with Madison, but the entertainment here is top-notch and definitely worth a visit for an urban getaway.

Apart from its lovely cityscape, capitol-dotted skyline, and world-class beer, Madison offers visitors tons of attractions such as the Olbrich Botanical Gardens, city trails winding around the city’s lakes (the Capital City Trail is Insta-worthy), plenty of museums, and the Henry Vilas Zoo.

When it comes to beer, Madison leaves you spoilt for choice—take your pick from a Civil War-era taproom (The Malt House), an upscale lakefront restaurant at the University of Wisconsin (Terrace at Memorial Union), or any of the top-rated taprooms abundantly sprinkled across the city.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Best Western Premier Park Hotel

9. Fennville, MI

Fennville, MI

Foodies don’t need much motivation to visit Michigan’s fruit belt, but if you do, petite Fennville might do the trick, with its excellent eateries that showcase the local bounty in manners that can have your tastebuds singing.

Visit Fennville at the right time of the year and try your hand at picking ripe cherries and peaches, or get your fill of these fruits in Crane’s Pie Pantry’s delicious offerings year-round, seated in a 150-year-old barn with a fine glass of wine.

Virtue Farms, a cider farm founded by brewmaster Greg Hall, is another great spot if you’re interested in cider and the cider-making process (and sampling some great cider!).

All of these are just two and a half hours away, easily accessible to all foodie travelers.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: AmericInn by Wyndham Douglas/Saugatuck

Related: Beaches in Chicago

10. Oglesby, IL

Oglesby, IL

Oglesby isn’t just another quiet, Illinois-Valley river town—it’s a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with enough recreational activities to suit any adventurer’s palette.

Sitting at the confluence of the Vermillion and Illinois rivers, Oglesby also sits close to the popular Starved Rock State Park (Illinois’s most visited) and Matthiessen State Park.

Between these two, you can cover horseback riding, golfing, rafting, fishing, canoeing, camping, kayaking, and hiking lovely forest trails (over 13 miles of it across 18 canyons in Starved Rock) in a day.

Springtime at Starved Rock also means a spectacular canyon waterfall.

If family-friendly festivals are your thing, plan your trip around the Harvest Fest in October, where fun events and cider abound!

Travel’s only under two hours, so you’ll have plenty of time to visit the attractions.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Best Western Oglesby Inn

11. Harbor Country, MI

Harbor Country, MI

Harbor Country makes for a good one day trip from Chicago if you’re a fan of urban comforts, especially good beer and shopping.

An hour and a half away from Chicago, Harbor Country is home to spots such as Greenbush Brewing Co.’s original taproom and the Journeyman Distillery (housed in a former corset factory) in the north, and the Red Arrow Highway with its plentiful shopping venues spanning the lakeshore.

If you’re a fan of antiques, you’ll enjoy shopping at the Harbert Antique Mall, but even otherwise, a day spent in just the north, sampling IPAs and spirits, is a day well spent in Harbor Country!

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Fairfield Inn and Suites New Buffalo

12. Lemont, IL

Lemont, IL

Lemont is one of America’s oldest communities, having been established in 1836, and is of historic importance for the part it played in converting the state’s northern region to a commercial hub; it is from the limestone in the quarries here that many of Illinois’s iconic structures materialized.

An hour away from Chicago, Lemont is brimming with history, from its past to its authentic and preserved historic district that’s been in use since the 1800s and features on the National Register of Historic Places.

You can take a break from the history by biking, fishing, and walking in the Heritage Quarries Recreation Area, or get your thrills at The Forge: Lemont Quarries adventure park, with its rope courses, zipline, and laser tag.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Aloft Bolingbrook

13. Long Grove, IL

Long Grove, IL

The brainchild of 19th-century German farmers, Long Grove’s selling point is the many original homes and authentic period buildings that populate it—a history and architecture lover’s dream!

Long Grove sits just 35 miles (49 minutes away) from Chicago’s northwest, making it an easy day trip option.

Long Grove is also known for its many food-centered festivals, such as the Strawberry Fest and the Apple Fest, held in its historic downtown district.

Long Grove also has its own Bavarian-style alehouses, such as Buffalo Creek Brewing and Biergarten, where you can enjoy food trucks, live music, and of course, excellent beer.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Arlington Heights

Related: Fun Weekend Getaways in Illinois

14. Galena, IL

Galena, IL

Galena ticks all the right boxes if you adore spots where history and small-town charm ooze through every pore!

Often counted among the best small towns in the country, Galena is versatile—it’s just as great for a romantic getaway as it is for a family trip.

If you’re here for the historic sites, you won’t be disappointed—the town’s past remains nearly untouched in sites such as the Belvedere Mansion, Ulysses S. Grant Home, Galena and U.S. Grant Museum, and Dowling House (Galena’s oldest building), among others.

However, it’s not just about the history at Galena—the town also has many excellent resorts, as well as outdoor attractions such as Horseshoe Mound Preserve and Apple River Canyon State Park.

The drive is about three hours long, but the knowledge you’ll gain is well worth the trip.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Galena, IL

15. Apple River State Park, IL

Apple River State Park, IL

8763 E Canyon Rd Apple River, IL 61001 (815) 745-3302

Apple River deserves its own column—there’s an impressive plethora of things to do here for nature lovers and those wanting to unplug from the city for a day.

Nestled in northwest Illinois’s rolling hills, the state park gets its name for the Apple River that carves its way through the area’s limestone gorges.

Apple River is a hub for small-mouth bass and summer sunfish fishing, as well as trout fishing in early spring.

There are four designated picnic areas on the river’s banks, cocooned by beautiful flora and fauna, where you can use the park’s tables and grills for your own barbecue picnic.

After driving two and a half hours from Chicago, relax, take in the view, and breathe in some fresh air.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Stockton, IL

16. Lake Geneva, WI

Lake Geneva, WI

This idyllic resort town gives you all the right reasons to visit if you’re looking for “outdoor fun meets leisure meets small-town charm”.

An hour and a half away from Chicago, Lake Geneva perfectly balances its resort-town qualities with its history and charm, thanks to a quaint downtown area, with its many local shops and eateries, and several historic buildings that offset its commercial side.

Lake Geneva is also home to many opulent Gilded-Age estates, built by affluent Chicagoans in the late 1800s; you can see these on a stroll through the 26-mile lakefront Lake Geneva Shore Path or onboard the Lake Geneva Cruise Line.

If you have an adventure in mind, there are plenty of opportunities for zip-lining, hiking, skiing, biking, water sports, and snowboarding in this year-round destination.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Mill Creek Hotel

17. Grand Rapids, MI

Grand Rapids, MI

Despite being geographically quite small, the city of Grand Rapids packs quite a big punch, with an international art festival that bathes the whole city in art displays and exhibits, parks sprawled across acres, and an impressive culinary scene.

A day-trip option for all ages, Grand Rapids highlights are the outdoor Sculpture Park, the Japanese Garden, the Butterfly Maze, and the Caterpillar Room.

Another interesting standout is the Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park, 158 acres of park and museum combined.

What might also please some readers is that Grand Rapids is also Beer City USA, with craft brews that few can rival—the Beer City Ale Trail affords the best way to explore the city’s 80-plus breweries.

The travel takes about three and a half hours, but the experiences more than compensate for the time.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Canopy By Hilton Grand Rapids Downtown

18. Holland, MI

Holland, MI

Like the actual Holland, Michigan’s Holland comes alive with over 4.5 million tulips in early May, with tons of tourists from around the world flocking to the city for its famed Tulip Time Festival.

You can enjoy these blooms in Windmill Island Gardens and Veldheer Tulip Gardens, among other spots in the city, along with Klompen dancing, delicious Dutch food, fun parades, and foot-tapping music.

You may visit Holland for the tulips, but you’ll end up staying for the rich Dutch culture and heritage, evident in the city’s cuisine, historical architecture, windmills, the art in the Holland Museum, and the DeKlomp Wooden Shoe and Delft Factory.

Come November, the Dutch Winterfest and Parade of Lights bring their own beauty to the city; the rest of the year offers excellent shopping, dining, and beaches.

Whenever you decide to visit, keep in mind that it’s two and a half hours from Chicago.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: CityFlatsHotel Holland, Tapestry Collection by Hilton

19. Monroe, WI

Monroe, WI

If you think “cheese” when you think Monroe, you’ve hit the nail on the head—head to the “Swiss cheese capital of the USA” for some high-quality cheese, from pungent Limburger to mild Swiss cheese.

Sitting in central Wisconsin, Monroe’s cheese history goes back a long way; you can learn all about this in the National Historic Cheesemaking Center, where volunteer-led tours will take you through Imobersteg Farmstead Cheese Factory.

If you want to pick up some cheese, take your pick from over a hundred varieties at Alp and Dell, along with accompaniments such as beer, sausages, and wine.

The charming downtown area is great for a leisurely stroll, with the historic Green County Courthouse at the center.

If you love cheese, traveling for 2 hours and 38 minutes will be the simplest drive for you.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Super 8 by Wyndham Monroe WI

20. New Glarus, WI

New Glarus, WI

If you already know New Glarus, you probably do so from its world-class brewery of the same name, which is all the reason you need to visit this lovely village, but if you need more, New Glarus is also “America’s little Switzerland”.

Cute shops, charming eateries, and fun annual events shine a spotlight on the village’s Swiss roots, such as the Wilhelm Tell Festival.

The village center is especially lovely, with specialty shops, museums, and chalet-style structures with a midwestern tinge.

For a literal taste of Swiss food and beer, try Glarner Stube, Chalet Landhaus, or the New Glarus Brewing Co. (duh!), and for a historical/cultural taste of Switzerland, try the Swiss Historical Village Museum.

No need to travel thousands of miles to the Playground of Europe—it’ll only take 3 hours.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Madison Verona

21. Spring Green, WI

Spring Green, WI

Spring Green takes a little more driving to get to (it sits three and a half hours away) but this little town draws visitors with its large architectural treasures—House on the Rock and Taliesin.

The former is artist Alex Jordan’s work, a house full of dollhouses, ephemeral circus gear, infinity mirrors, and the largest indoor carousel in the world; the latter is Frank Lloyd Wright’s studio and estate.

When the hunger pangs hit, grab a bite at the iconic Last Leaf Public House or Arthur’s Supper Club and round off the day with a performance at the American Players Theater.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Round Barn Lodge

Related: Weekend Getaways From Minneapolis

22. Michigan City, IN

Michigan City, IN

Michigan City, close to the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore, can be easily reached in a little over an hour by road or rail and is worth visiting for its urban attractions.

Make your first stop at the Washington Park Zoo, where the tots can (safely) get up and close and personal with the residents, ranging from wolves to lions to several exotic species from different parts of the world.

Next, head to Washington Park and Beach Area for a beach picnic, walks on the pier, boat tours, kayaking, fun in the water, and plenty of family-friendly activities on the Lake Michigan coastline; if the tots don’t mind some more learning, you could alternatively visit the Old Lighthouse Museum.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Holiday Inn Express & Suites – Michigan City, an IHG Hotel

23. Huron-Manistee National Forests

Huron-Manistee National Forests

1755 S Mitchell St Cadillac, MI 49601 (231) 775-2421

Though many folks wouldn’t consider Huron-Manistee a day trip, given that it’s four hours away, it’s still an excellent option if you can make it work (and that’s highly possible!).

Occupying almost a million acres of forestland, the Huron-Manistee National Forests are Lower Michigan’s sole national forests.

Here, a ton of recreation opportunities await visitors, from fishing, off-roading, and snowmobiling to birding and wildlife watching.

The Au Sable National Scenic River, which runs through the forest, is one of the prime spots for trout fishing.

Hiking enthusiasts will enjoy the North Country National Scenic Trail winding through the forest, while the Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness Area and Loda Lake National Wildflower Sanctuary are great spots for naturalists.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Cadillac, an IHG Hotel

24. Chicago Botanic Garden, IL

Chicago Botanic Garden, IL

1000 Lake Cook Rd Glencoe, IL 60022 (847) 835-5440

If you’re looking for an easy drive and glorious natural beauty, look no further than the gem that is the Chicago Botanic Garden.

Drive half an hour to the garden and be treated to 30 individual landscaped and themed gardens and natural areas spread across 385 acres, with seemingly infinite flower varieties and verdant foliage.

While walking around is the best way to immerse yourself in the spot’s beauty, there’s also a tram that will take you through the popular spots; there are also many bike trails.

Families with kids may enjoy the Children’s Growing Garden and the Nature Play Garden.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Sheraton Chicago Northbrook

25. Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, IL

Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, IL

212 N 6th St Springfield, IL 62701 (217) 558-8844

While several resources exist online and in books, there’s nothing like learning about the country’s 16th president at the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum.

A range of immersive and interactive exhibits, such as traveling displays, documents, and Civil War-era artifacts, will teach you all about Abraham Lincoln, “The Great American Story”.

The museum also hosts several annual events, such as a scavenger hunt and art competitions that are relevant to both the president’s life and the current times, while the library is decked with newspapers, manuscripts, and tons of printed resources that unravel one of the country’s most influential leaders.

For such an Abe Lincoln fan, traveling 3 hours is going to be a breeze.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Best Western Clearlake Plaza

26. Old State Capitol Historic Site, IL

Old State Capitol Historic Site, IL

526 E Adams St Springfield, IL 62701 (217) 785-7960

While we’re on the topic of Abraham Lincoln, here’s another Lincoln-related must-see if you’re a fan of the erstwhile President of the United States—the Old Capitol Historic Site.

This entirely reconstructed building, built in the Greek Revival style, is the site of President Lincoln’s prominent “House Divided” speech, and where he was laid in state after his assassination.

A short video in the onsite theater will give you a brief history of the Old Capitol, following which you can either take a guided or self-tour.

There are also several annual events dedicated to President Lincoln’s legacy, such as the Old Capitol Art Fair, the Abraham Lincoln Symposium, and an Annual Civil War Encampment.

Stop by from the Abraham Lincoln Library—it’s only a 3-minute walk.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Northfield Inn Suites and Conference Center

Related: Best Weekend Getaways From St Louis

27. Peoria, IL

Peoria, IL

Peoria, once the “whiskey capital of the world”, sits in the center of Illinois, made up of four distinct neighborhoods that display its vibrant culture and art.

For interesting history lessons, head to the Warehouse District, where historic buildings find a new purpose as residences, shops, studios, and restaurants.

For upscale dining, visit the Central Business District, which also houses the Peoria Civic Center, but to truly feel the city’s pulse, head to any of the restaurants, breweries, and museums (especially the Peoria Riverfront Museum) in the Riverfront District.

For a more quirky, eclectic experience, West Main Street, sitting next to Bradley University, is a great choice.

From Chicago, it only takes under a 3-hour drive to reach this boozy city.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Best Western Plus Peoria

28. Kettle Moraine State Forest, WI

Kettle Moraine State Forest, WI

30,000 acres of breathtaking natural splendor await visitors to the Kettle Moraine State Forest.

A great getaway for nature lovers, the state forest is a little under three hours’ worth of driving from Chicago and is full of hiking, biking, skiing, horseback riding, mountain biking, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing opportunities.

The Kettle Moraine Scenic Drive will take you through the best of the state forest’s sights and is among the most scenic places near Chicago.

The drive will also take you through the historical Cushing Memorial Park, Wade House Stagecoach Inn, Old World Wisconsin Outdoor Museum, and Holy Hill Basilica, along with several communal, geological, and natural landmarks.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hampton Inn & Suites West Bend

29. Door County, WI

Door County, WI

This is another one for nature lovers, though at four hours away, it can be quite a drive, however scenic.

If you do make the drive to Door County, though, you’ll be rewarded with splendid natural views, a ton of outdoor activities, and beautiful parks.

The star attraction is Lake Michigan, where you can take in your gorgeous natural surroundings by swimming, hiking, kayaking, and climbing up to Cave Point for ‘gram-worthy views of the area’s limestone bluffs.

A truly unique activity to enjoy at Door County is shipwreck diving and exploring the county’s 11 lovely lighthouses, with their stunning vistas.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Gordon Lodge

30. Blaum Bros. Distilling Co, IL

Blaum Bros. Distilling Co, IL

9380 US Hwy 20 W Galena, IL 61036 (815) 777-1000

What started off as a rivalry between two brothers turned into a partnership, all thanks to a shared love of whiskey, giving the world the Blaum Bros. Distilling Co. and some mighty fine spirits.

Visitors are taken through the distilling process through a sensory tour, where they can smell, touch, taste, and see the various ingredients that go into the distillery’s handcrafted liquor.

The tour aptly ends in the cocktail bar and tasting room, where guests can get their fill of the distillery’s superb vodka, bourbon, moonshine, and gin—a designated driver is a must!

Gather your bibulous friends and drink to your heart’s content after a 3-hour ride.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Irish Cottage Inn & Suites

31. Cantigny Park, IL

Cantigny Park, IL

1 S, 151 Winfield Rd Wheaton, IL 60189 (630) 668-5161

A gift to Illinois’s Wheaton by well-known philanthropist Colonel Robert R. McCormick, Cantigny Park’s doors were thrown open to the public in 1958.

Visitors flock to the park for the many educational and recreational opportunities it presents, including two museums that pay tribute to military history and the colonel himself, respectively.

The park also has beautiful formal gardens spread across acres, a picnic area, and three miles of trails, which you can explore through walking tours.

You’ll also find an education center, a visitors’ center, a full-service clubhouse, and a youth golf academy with a 27-hole golf course to boot at Cantigny, as well as many seasonal activities for children and onsite food joints.

All these attractions are at your disposal with just a 45-minute drive.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hyatt House Naperville/Warrenville

Related: Places to Eat: Wheaton, IL

32. North Utica

North Utica

If you adore sleepy towns and the slow-paced life, it rarely gets better than North Utica, nestled into the banks of the Illinois-Michigan canal and the Illinois River.

North Utica will especially appeal to nature, wine, and antique lovers, with its many parks, trails, proximity to four state parks, antique stores, wineries, flea markets, collectibles stores, and pottery studios.

If you’d like to learn about North Utica’s history, the LaSalle County Historical Museum is a good idea.

If it’s a family day out, get a day pass at the Grand Bear Resort and make the most of the massive indoor waterpark, sports bar, and restaurant.

Visit North Utica and see its underrated beauty; it’s only an hour and 40 minutes away.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hampton Inn and Suites Peru

33. White River State Park, IN

White River State Park, IN

801 W Washington St Indianapolis, IN 46204 (317) 233-2434

This urban, 267-acre, award-winning waterfront park sits in downtown Indianapolis and is one of the seven districts designated as cultural districts in the city.

In White River State Park, you’ll find plenty of attractions, both historical and contemporary.

Contemporary curated attractions include the likes of Celebration Plaza, Eiteljorg Museum, the Indianapolis Zoo, the NCAA Hall of Champions Museum, Victory Field, and the Indiana State Museum.

Historical attractions include Old Washington Street Pedestrian Bridge, Historic Central Canal, and the Historic Pumphouse.

All in all, a great family-friendly day-trip option if you’re seeking 3-hour trips.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Conrad Indianapolis

Related: Weekend Getaways From Indianapolis

34. Napierville, IL

Napierville, IL

Napierville may be small, but as the old adage goes, size doesn’t matter—this former prairie town is now an award-winning city, earning awards that designate it the best place to live and the top kid-friendly city, among others.

Despite this, Napierville still retains its small-town charm, with friendly folks and plenty of quaint attractions such as the gorgeous 158-fool Moser Tower (though now closed, you can view it from the outside), and the covered bridge, fountains, clock tower, heritage sculptures, paddle boats, and labyrinth at the Riverwalk Park.

The city’s other highlights include the 1.75-mile Riverwalk walkway that runs along the DuPage River and Centennial Beach and Grill, a restaurant-cum-beach-waterpark!

All these are only 40 minutes away from Chicago!

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Chicago Marriott Naperville

35. Indiana Dunes National Park, IN

Indiana Dunes National Park, IN

1215 N State Rd 49 Porter, IN 46304 (219) 395-1882

Tucked into the southern shore of Lake Michigan, the Indiana Dunes National Park is a stone’s throw away from Michigan City at 48 minutes, so you could either combine the two or make a separate trip—it’s worth it, either way!

Open to visitors throughout the year, Indiana Dunes boasts pristine beaches and towering sand dunes.

There’s plenty on offer here for outdoor enthusiasts, from swimming, birding, and hiking in the summer to cross-country skiing in the winter.

Try to catch a sunset here; if you’re lucky and the day’s clear, you’ll even be able to see Chicago’s twinkling skyline.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Spring House Inn

36. Morton Arboretum, IL

Morton Arboretum, IL

4100 IL-53 Lisle, IL 60532 (630) 968-0074

In existence since 1922, the Morton Arboretum is an outdoor museum and a naturalist haunt 40 minutes from Chicago.

With over 200,000 live plants from around the world thoughtfully exhibited across 1,700 acres, the Morton Arboretum reinforces the significance of protecting nature’s gifts and actively participating in conservation.

Despite the wide variety, each plant variety thrives in the arboretum, having been optimally placed for the best growth.

If you’re not big on learning about plant species, you can simply enjoy strolling through the tree-lined paths that circle Meadow Lake or any of the annual events hosted here, if your visit coincides.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Chicago Marriott Suites Downers Grove

37. Nicholas Conservatory and Gardens, IL

Nicholas Conservatory and Gardens, IL

1354 N 2nd St Rockford, IL 61107 (815) 987-8858

Sitting on the banks of the Rock River, the Nicholas Conservatory is 11,000 square feet of flowers, trees, tropical plants, garden sculptures, an infinity pond, a koi pond, and benches for visitors to sit and soak in all the natural beauty on display.

There are paths outdoors that lead to attractions such as the Riverview Terrace, waterfall gardens, lovely teahouses, Eclipse Lagoon, the Sinnissippi rose garden, Forest City Queen Riverboat dock, and Trolley Car 36 station.

For a lovely dining experience, come here on a Wednesday night in the summer and enjoy a rooftop meal on their viewing deck.

At different times of the year, you can also enjoy several temporary displays such as Breakfast with Santa and Lorikeet House.

Travel a mere 1 hour and 44 minutes to this wonderland and indulge your inner aesthete.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Embassy Suites By Hilton Rockford Riverfront

38. Anderson Japanese Gardens, IL

Anderson Japanese Gardens, IL

318 Spring Creek Rd Rockford, IL 61107 (815) 229-9390

An hour and forty minutes away from Chicago sits the gorgeous Anderson Japanese Gardens, a garden that business John Anderson commissioned expert craftsman Hoichi Kurisu to design.

The gardens sit in the bustle of Rockford but are a world away at the same time.

The gardens are focused on three primary elements—plants, stone, and water—which Kurisu has used to build this oasis.

Guided tours will take you through the seasonal beauty on offer here, as well as the garden’s history and principles.

If you enjoy calm spaces in the midst of nature, this site must feature on your list of places to visit near Chicago.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Extended Stay America Suites – Rockford – State Street

39. Milwaukee, WI

Milwaukee, WI

A slow day with plenty of great beer and Harley-Davidson—if this sounds like your jam, head to Milwaukee for your day trip.

The city celebrates its German brewing heritage, a fact that’s evident in the tons of brewpubs and breweries, historical or contemporary, spread out across the city and serving excellent craft beer.

If you’re a motorcycle enthusiast, you can’t leave Milwaukee without a visit to Harley-Davidson Museum to see the world’s oldest-known Harley and several other motorcycle memorabilia.

Milwaukee also plays host to over two dozen festivals throughout the year (hence known as the “City of Festivals”), but if that doesn’t interest you, maybe the 25 theaters, 150 parks, 75 golf courses, and the lakefront Milwaukee Art Museum will!

The quick one and a half hour travel time is a huge plus, too.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Pfister Hotel

40. Rockford, IL

Rockford, IL

An hour and 40 minutes away from Chicago is Rockford, a family-friendly destination with enough to keep the young and not-so-young equally engaged (yes, involving beer!).

A great way to start the day is to visit the Discovery Center Museum, where over 250 exhibits covering a range of subjects will work off all that excess energy in the kids, or the Burpee Museum with its amazing dinosaur exhibits.

After lunch, head to any of the arboretums, gardens, or conservatories in the “city of gardens”, such as the aforementioned Nicholas Conservatory or Anderson Gardens, for some quiet time before you grab a beer at the Prairie Street Brewing Company and responsibly hit the road again.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Radisson Hotel & Conference Center Rockford

Related: Best Restaurants in Rockford, IL

41. Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie, IL

Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie, IL

IL-53 Wilmington, IL 60481 (815) 423-6370

If you want to see for yourself why Illinois is the Prairie State, visiting Midewin should top your list of things to do outside Chicago .

About an hour away from Chicago sit this 9,000-acre expanse, home to a roaming bison herd that you may spot if luck is on your side (it’s a large park!).

However, that shouldn’t stop you from bringing your binoculars and starting your search at the Iron Bridge Trailhead and hiking three miles to the overlook point, where viewing scopes better your chance of seeing the stars of Midewin!

And there it is—a list of the best day trips from Chicago.

Since so many of these locales involve some form of alcohol, ensure that your enjoyment is responsible and always take along a designated driver.

That apart, here’s to the beauty that surrounds Chicago and a happy day out!

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hollywood Casino Joliet Hotel

Map of Day Trips Near Chicago, IL

41 Best Day Trips from Chicago, IL for 2024

  • Cedarburg, WI
  • Evanston, IL
  • Kankakee County, IL
  • Fairbury, IL
  • South Bend, IN
  • Oak Park, IL
  • Madison, WI
  • Fennville, MI
  • Oglesby, IL
  • Harbor Country, MI
  • Long Grove, IL
  • Apple River State Park, IL
  • Lake Geneva, WI
  • Grand Rapids, MI
  • Holland, MI
  • New Glarus, WI
  • Spring Green, WI
  • Michigan City, IN
  • Huron-Manistee National Forests
  • Chicago Botanic Garden, IL
  • Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, IL
  • Old State Capitol Historic Site, IL
  • Kettle Moraine State Forest, WI
  • Door County, WI
  • Blaum Bros. Distilling Co, IL
  • Cantigny Park, IL
  • North Utica
  • White River State Park, IN
  • Napierville, IL
  • Indiana Dunes National Park, IN
  • Morton Arboretum, IL
  • Nicholas Conservatory and Gardens, IL
  • Anderson Japanese Gardens, IL
  • Milwaukee, WI
  • Rockford, IL
  • Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie, IL

41 Best Day Trips From Chicago — Places Nearby!

The 7 best day trips from Chicago

Karla Zimmerman

Dec 11, 2023 • 6 min read

day trips from chicago for hiking

Indiana Dunes, one of the country's newest national parks, is easily accessible on a day trip from Chicago © Jon Lauriat / Getty Images

Chicago has enough cloud-poking towers, rockin’ live-music clubs and world-class museums to keep you occupied for weeks. But just beyond city limits, you can also scale sand dunes at a national park, rev a Harley and amble around wineries.

Here are seven easy day trips that are no more than two hours away from the Windy City .

Sunset on the shore of Lake Michigan in the Indiana Dunes National Park.

1. Get into nature at Indiana Dunes National Park

Travel time: 1 hour, 30 minutes

Rustling grasses, bird-filled marshes and white-pine forests fill a whopping stretch of Lake Michigan shoreline at Indiana Dunes National Park , which feels a world away from the big city. Rugged beaches beckon, and sweet hiking trails meander up the sand and through the woodlands.

Try the 3 Dune Challenge, a view-tastic 1.5-mile climb to the park’s highest dunes: Mt Jackson, Mt Holden and Mt Tom (just to confuse you, these are in Indiana Dunes State Park , a pocket within the national park.) Biking, paddling and winter snowshoeing are other fun activities available in the park.

How to get to the Indiana Dunes from Chicago: South Shore Line commuter trains make the 80-minute trip several times daily from downtown Chicago to Dune Park station. By car, the 50-mile trip takes one to two hours, depending on traffic.

A group of Harley-Davison motorcycle riders in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, on a sunny day

2. Admire Harleys and artwork in Milwaukee

Milwaukee  is  Wisconsin 's largest city, and it's a rollicking day trip from Chicago. Stop by the Harley-Davidson Museum to gawk at hundreds of motorcycles, including Elvis’s custom-built hog. Harleys were invented in Milwaukee, hence the big bike love. The Milwaukee Art Museum drops jaws with its kinetic “wing” that soars open and shut, as well as its outsider art and Georgia O’Keeffe paintings.

During baseball season,  Miller Park is the place to be for beers, bratwursts and the oddball sixth-inning foot race between people dressed in giant sausage costumes. Milwaukee has a reputation as a drinker’s paradise, with more bars per capita than anywhere in the US besides New Orleans. Friendly neighborhood taverns pop up on almost every corner.  Champion’s shows the local spirit.

How to get to Milwaukee from Chicago: Amtrak runs seven trains daily to downtown Milwaukee, with a journey time of 90 minutes. By car, take the I-94 for the roughly two-hour trip.

3. Tour the lakeside hamlets of Harbor Country

Harbor Country comprises several lakeside hamlets just over the Michigan border, where Chicagoans retreat for a taste of small-town life. New Buffalo is the most resort-y of the bunch, where you can catch a wave at the public beach and follow it up with suds at the Beer Church .

Three Oaks is a bohemian farm-and-arts village where you can browse Elm Street’s galleries and design shops. Antique stores and folksy delis abound in Union Pier, Lakeside, Harbert and Sawyer. Several wineries, such as Tabor Hill , surround the communities and offer tastings. 

How to get to Harbor Country from Chicago: Harbor Country is a 90-minute drive east from downtown Chicago via I-90 and I-94. While Amtrak stops in New Buffalo, the times aren’t convenient for day trips, and you’ll need your own wheels to access the other towns. 

4. Encounter the thought-provoking Illinois Holocaust Museum

Travel time: 25 minutes

The  Illinois Holocaust Museum is the third-largest Holocaust Museum in the world, after those in Jerusalem and Washington, DC. Besides its haunting Nazi-era rail car and videos of survivors' stories from WWII, the venue contains thought-provoking art about genocides in Armenia, Rwanda, Cambodia and other countries. The special exhibitions are particularly impressive.

How to get to the Illinois Holocaust Museum from Chicago:  By car, take I-94 – the 18-mile trip takes about 25 minutes. On public transportation, take the Union Pacific North (UP-N) train at Ogilvie Transportation Center to Davis Street/Evanston. Catch the 208 bus at the Davis and Maple stop and get off at Golf Rd and Woods Dr. It's a two-minute walk to the museum. The trip takes a little over an hour.

Exterior shot of the Stone Manor on Geneva Lake USA

5. Walk a section of the 21-mile Geneva Lake Shore Path

Old-money Chicagoans fled to Geneva Lake in the late 1800s to escape the urban heat and chill in the true-blue, spring-fed water. It’s still high on the getaway list, and while the mansion-strewn shoreline is sometimes called “the Hamptons of the Midwest,” visitors of more modest means are just as welcome.

Nowhere is this more evident than on the Lake Shore Path, the 21-mile public trail that goes through all water’s-edge properties – right through their front lawns! – for close-up views of the mega estates. Taking a boat ride with Lake Geneva Cruise Line is a must, as is a trip to the old-school Cheese Box for hunks of aged cheddar, havarti and other Wisconsin-made goodness.

How to get to Geneva Lake from Chicago: You need a car for this day trip. Lake Geneva, the main town on Geneva Lake, is 80 miles northwest of Chicago. Take I-94 north to Wisconsin highway 50 west. The trip takes 90 minutes to two hours by car.

6. See the home of modernist architecture in Oak Park

Travel time: 45 minutes

Architect Frank Lloyd Wright lived in the leafy suburb of Oak Park, next door to Chicago, for 20 years. Fans come from all over the world to tour his home and studio where he developed the famous Prairie style, as well as to gawp at his  Unity Temple  – named a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2019 – that’s considered to be the first modern-style building.

Ernest Hemingway is Oak Park’s other famous son. He was born in a sprawling Victorian home just a few blocks from Wright’s pad. It’s now maintained as the Hemingway Birthplace Museum and gives a peek at Papa’s formative years.

How to get to Oak Park from Chicago:  It’s a simple excursion via Chicago’s public transit system. Take the Green Line L train from downtown to Oak Park station, from which everything is within a mile's walk.

Baha’i House of Worship with a pink and blue sky in the background

7. Explore Evanston, one of the top college towns in the US

Travel time: 40 minutes

Evanston is Chicago’s neighbor to the north, a lakefront town of sprawling old houses, artisan shops and bookish cafes where college students caffeinate. Check out the quirky American Toby Jug Museum , with the world’s largest collection of character-shaped jugs (think Barack Obama, Mick Jagger and R2-D2 as ceramic pitchers), and the Baha’i House of Worship , an eye-popping temple surrounded by peaceful gardens.

Both are free, which leaves money in your pocket to rent a sailboat, kayak or stand-up paddleboard at the Northwestern University Sailing Center and get out on glimmering Lake Michigan. Otherwise, wander among the boutiques, brewpubs and brioche-laden bakeries like Hewn that pepper the walkable downtown.

How to get to Evanston from Chicago: Chicago’s L trains go to Evanston. During weekday peak times, take the Purple Line direct from downtown Chicago or take the Red Line to Howard station and switch to the Purple Line. It’s about a 40-minute trip, with departures every 10 minutes or so.

This article was first published September 2019 and updated December 2023

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21 Best Day Trips From Chicago In 2024

Written By: ThePlanetD Team

United States

Updated On: February 19, 2024

Welcome to the Windy City! Whether a local or a traveler eager to explore beyond the skyline, our guide to the best day trips from Chicago is your ticket to adventure. We’ll show you how to swap city streets for scenic escapes, all within a day’s reach of Chicago. From charming small towns to natural wonders, get ready to discover the Midwest’s most unforgettable experiences. Pack your sense of adventure, and let’s hit the road – Chicago-style day trips await!

Table of Contents

Incredible Day Trips from Chicago

In this guide, we give you ideas for the top day trips from the third most populous city in the US. Located on the shores of Lake Michigan, many places will tempt you away from the city center. After exploring all of the awesome things to do in Chicago , from the Chicago River to historic landmarks, head to these fantastic places located within easy reach of the city.

The city is ideally located with easy border-crossing into Wisconsin, Michigan, and Indiana. It is also a great starting point for a day trip further south into central Illinois. You have four states at your fingertips – so you should carve out time for a day trip while visiting.

1. Milwaukee, WI

Milwaukee is a big deal. This major city is located on the shores of western Lake Michigan in Wisconsin – just a 1.5 hour train ride or drive north of Chicago. We’d suggest catching the train if possible, as Milwaukee is best known for its breweries. Taking guided brewery tours is one of the  best things to do in Milwaukee . Aside from its alcohol, though, it is also home to the Holler House and Milwaukee Art Museum. Don’t forget the Harley-Davidson Museum, which hosts a beautiful display of motorcycles and documents iconic biker culture. The Milwaukee Public Museum also has a large-scale European village.

If you want a fantastic day out from Chicago, Milwaukee is ideal. It has a strong sense of culture and many niche pockets of interest, like Harley-Davidson bikes and breweries. It is also a breeze to reach by train or car.

  • Distance from Chicago: 1.5 hours
  • How to get there: Train, bus or coach

Suggested Tour: A Group Tour to Discover Milwaukee

2. south bend, in.

South Bend has a different vibe as a university city on the St. Joseph River. It is fantastic if you are looking for a more sedate city experience. You can visit the University of Notre Dame’s iconic campus, with its classic gold-domed building. There’s also plenty of local history that you can experience in the city center, like car manufacturing from years gone by at Studebaker National Museum and the regional history at the History Museum.

South Bend is definitely slower-paced than quick-footed Chicago. However, it has lots of attractions too. Think of it as a relaxing and intellectual place to spend a day sightseeing. It has lots of fun and student twists, like cheap bars and coffee spots.

The city is located just east of Chicago, on the other side of Indiana Dunes National Park, and on the lower east shore of Lake Michigan. It is best reached by car, and we’d recommend stopping off at the national park en route.

  • Distance from Chicago: 2 to 3 hours
  • How to get there: Car or train

3. Madison, WI

Small Madison might not seem capital-worthy, but it is actually the capital city of Wisconsin, not the major, sprawling giant of Milwaukee. This smaller city has beautiful architecture galore. You can get up close to the historic domed Wisconsin State Capitol and walk the Capital City State Trail to sightsee different city attractions. There’s a botanic garden experience, too, at Olbrich Botanical Gardens, plus a quirkier downtown area with bars and coffee shops. Madison is your best choice if you fancy a political sightseeing day trip from Chicago.

Madison is also beautifully located next to two huge lakes – Lake Mendota and Lake Waubesa. Summer leaves plenty of opportunities for water sports and sunny waterfront hiking trails. Follow this walking tour to see the city’s architecture including the State Capitol, Der Rathskaller, Bascomb Hill, and Memorial Union.

  • Distance from Chicago: 2 to 4 hours
  • How to get there: By car or shuttle bus

4. Starved Rock State Park, IL

Starved Rock State Park is one of the most popular attractions in Illinois. The park sits on the banks of the Illinois River and holds a collection of sandstone canyons amidst beautiful forests. The canyons were initially cut with glacial meltwater, and you can explore the scenery using a network of clearly marked wooden boardwalks. Starved Rock State Park also has tons of waterfalls, which get impressively powerful in wetter months.

Nature lovers will adore this day trip choice. Not only is the natural scenery astounding, but you can also spot wildlife like white-tailed deer and bald eagles. Starved Rock State Park covers over 2,600 acres and has 13 miles of trails, with 18 canyons to admire. It is located inland from Chicago and Lake Michigan.

  • How to get there: Car

5. Cedarburg, WI

Cedarburg has serious charm. It has old-school-style houses and is frequently compared to a movie set. The town was founded in the 1840s by a mixture of predominantly Irish and German settlers and is now considered a suburb of Milwaukee. Cedarburg has many cute and aesthetic things to do, with the bonus of brewery and winery tours. You can walk the vineyards and tour brewing rooms or head to unique attractions like the Wisconsin Museum of Quilts and Fine Arts. Cedarburg is a real gem and beats to its own drum, making it a memorable day trip from Chicago.

This Wisconsin town is located just north of Milwaukee’s city center. It is best reached from Chicago by car, and you can always incorporate a stop-off in Milwaukee’s city center – parking in the outskirts and commuting in.

  • Distance from Chicago: 2 hours
  • How to get there: By car

6. Illinois Beach State Park, IL

If you want beaches, Illinois Beach State Park is the place to be on a Chicago day trip. The park covers over 4,000 acres, with a beautiful shore path and network of hiking trails. It is an ideal place for a beach day along the shores of Lake Michigan. However, Illinois Beach State Park is equally more than just a beach destination.

It has campgrounds and playgrounds, plus shower blocks and a nature center. Illinois Beach State Park is somewhere to spend an entire day. Start with a hike and visit the nature center before heading to Isherwood Beach, and even camping overnight if your schedule allows it.

The park is quite close to Chicago, taking less than an hour to reach by car. It’s a great day trip if you have a warm day or fancy a beach trip. Or it is the perfect adventure if you fancy camping a night to break up your classic city break.

  • Distance from Chicago: 1 hour

7. Lake Geneva, WI

Lake Geneva is a beautiful resort city along the banks of Geneva Lake in Wisconsin, northwest of Chicago. As a small city out of the leading public transport lines, it is best reached by car.

Once you arrive, you are greeted by Gilded Age mansions with dramatic architecture and a scenic Shore Path that snakes around the city’s section of Geneva Lake. Historically, Lake Geneva was used as a bolt-hole for affluent Chicago residents, and looking at the city’s surrounding natural beauty, it’s easy to see why.

Admire Victorian history and Gilded Age architecture, and visit the Lake Geneva beaches. Big Foot Beach State Park has brilliant beaches, especially for a lazy afternoon. Lake Geneva is a beautiful day trip destination to unwind before revisiting Chicago’s chaotic sightseeing scene.

8. Rockford, IL

Rockford is a major city located on the banks of the Mississippi River, giving it the nickname’ River City’. Rockford is also called the ‘Forest City’ because of its history of tree felling, forests, and furniture-making industries. It is a shapeshifter with a long history and a prominent place in Illinois’ society. Nowadays, though, it is an ideal day trip candidate and is full of popular attractions and historic places. You can stop by the koi-filled ponds at Anderson Japanese Gardens, kick back in numerous public parks, or head to the Rockford Art Museum. Tinker Swiss Cottage Museum and Gardens is also brilliant.

Rockford is located in northern Illinois, right under the Wisconsin border. We’d recommend combining it with a trip to Madison, located roughly an hour above the city. It is a great stop-off point for those driving to the Wisconsin capital.

9. Indiana Dunes National Park, IN

Forget state parks if you like natural beauty – aim big with Indiana Dunes National Park. This stunning park is far more than just sand dunes and covers 15 miles of beautiful shoreline perfect for swimming and sunbathing. Indiana Dunes National Park is also a hot spot for bird watching and hiking. The national park is located on the southern end of Lake Michigan. It is a beautiful spot to visit to embrace the lake’s beauty. An entrance ticket costs around $20, and you can spend the whole day exploring the park.

Indiana Dunes National Park is located just southeast of Chicago and is ideally combined with visits to South Bend or day trips into Michigan or Indiana.

  • Distance from Chicago: 50 minutes

10. Lakeshore State Park, WI

Everyone loves an urban park. This stunning park sits just off Milwaukee’s coastline. Still, we will include it as a standalone attraction since it justifies a visit on its own merit. Lakeshore State Park is best explored on foot by walking the Hank Aaron State Trail. You can enjoy city skyline views and expansive vistas over Lake Michigan. And if you are looking for a romantic day trip from Chicago, head to Lakeshore State Park at sunset with a picnic.

The state park is obviously well combined with a visit to Milwaukee. This little island state park is a beautiful spot near the city. It is located off the Historic Third Ward and accessible by a pedestrianized bridge connecting it to the mainland.

11. Monroe, WI

Monroe is pretty cool. The quirky city is known as the Swiss cheese capital. It has a vast history of dairy farming that has given it a massive cheese reputation. You can visit to take food tours – highly recommended – and try local products and produce. You should visit the National Historic Cheese Making Center Museum and the Chalet Cheese Cooperative. There’s also beautiful architecture and historic places, like the Green County Courthouse, completed in 1891. The Monroe Historic Square is in the city’s center, surrounded by shops and aesthetic scenery.

Monroe is a tiny city compared to some of Chicago’s neighboring giants. It is roughly located halfway between Madison and Rockford. It is definitely best accessed by car.

12. St. Joseph, MI

St Joseph is a scenic coastal city in southwest Michigan and an ideal day trip if you want to venture into MI on a day trip from Chicago. It sits along the shore of Lake Michigan with beautiful attractions like Silver Beach County Park and Lions Park Beach. Silver Beach is particularly cute to visit, with a 1910 carousel and restored pavilion that bring a wonderful, vintage-style aesthetic to the city. A classic red and white lighthouse is near the city’s North Pier.

St Joseph is a beautiful choice if you want one of those traditional seaside day trips. It is only a short drive from Chicago, despite the fact that you’ll be venturing through Indiana and crossing the Michigan border. Hooray for Lake Michigan’s close network of US states. It is fantastic to combine with Indiana Dunes National Park and Michigan City.

  • How to get there: By Car

13. Channahon State Park, IL

Channahon State Park is an absolute must. The state park sits on some of the most historic Illinois canals, housing a restored lock tender’s house for extra historical value. You can enjoy a network of hiking trails with waterfalls, birds, and historic towpaths to snap photos of. Distance isn’t an issue when visiting inland Illinois; Channahon State Park is less than an hour’s drive from central Chicago. It is a great day trip if you want minimal travel time and an insight into Illinois’ canal history.

You can organize guided tours around Channahon State Park, including canoe trips. The state park is a designated part of the Illinois and Michigan Canal National Heritage Corridor. It is widely hailed as an essential part of the state’s history. It is a nature-given adventure park.

14. Oak Park, IL

Oak Park is a beautiful village in the suburbs of Chicago. It really packs a punch beyond pretty architecture for such a small area. Visitors can enjoy attractions like the Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio, Ernest Hemingway’s Boyhood Home, the National Historic Landmark of Mills Park and the Oak Park River Forest Museum. Oak Park is a quickfire selection of museums in a tiny area, accessible from central Chicago using public transport. What’s not to love? It is the perfect choice if you want trips from Chicago done easily.

It is so handy to jump on a train and be amongst dozens of museums. Additionally, its Unity Temple was recently designated as a UNESCO World Heritage in 2019. Despite all its existing attractions and offerings, Oak Park is very much up and coming in terms of visitor recognition and value for tourism.

  • Distance from Chicago: 15 to 20 minutes
  • How to get there: By train

Suggested Tour: Private Frank Lloyd Wright Tour from Chicago

15. grand rapids, mi.

Grand Rapids is another major city – think skyscrapers and a beautiful riverside setting with dramatic bridges. Grand Rapids has plenty of culture, with museums like the Gerald Ford Presidential Museum and Grand Rapids Public Museum. It also has a cool, safe, and walkable downtown district, which includes the Grand Rapids Art Museum, an attraction and initiative that spotlights local artists.

We like to catch a shuttle to Grand Rapids, as it has an illustrious brewery history. In particular, it is known for New Holland Brewing, and you can take guided tasting tours at the local breweries that are still running. Otherwise, driving is quicker, and you can stop off at spots like Indiana Sand Dunes National Park, St Joseph, and South Bend. You hug the lower shoreline of Lake Michigan, which is a long but very scenic drive. Ideally, rotate drivers and have a few different stops en route.

  • Distance from Chicago: 3 to 5 hours
  • How to get there: By car in just under 3 hours or by shuttle in under 4
  • Suggested Tour: Grand Rapids Ghost Tour

16. Windmill Island Gardens, MI

Chicago might be known as ‘Windy City,’ but check out Windmill Island Gardens. This seasonal park features a 250-year-old windmill in an ode to the city’s Dutch influence. You can take self-guided tours of the park, admire the windmill, and meet guides in traditional Dutch costumes. There’s also a tulip garden, which is stunning in spring.

This is one of the leading day trips from Chicago if you want Dutch heritage, and it is even located outside of a city named Holland. Windmill Island Gardens is located in Michigan, so you’ll be driving the south coast of Lake Michigan, cutting through northern Indiana and across the Michigan border. When it comes to visiting Michigan, distance can be a concern. Is it a long day of driving? Yes. But it is incredibly scenic and a great way to combine several attractions. If you have a few drivers, you won’t have any trouble as you can just rotate driving time.

  • Distance from Chicago: 2.5 hours

17. Galena, IL

Galena is an absolute gem of a charming small town, sitting on the banks of the Galena River with tons of Civil War history. The town was home to the Civil War General Ulysses S. Grant, and his former home is a State Historic Site. Of course, Ulysses S. Grant later became a US president, so his story is immortalized. Galena is a great place to visit if you are interested in politics and history. Its town center is relatively walkable and is full of stories and scenic 19th-century architecture.

Galena is right in the top left corner of Illinois, on the border of Iowa and Wisconsin. It is a fabulous add-on from Rockford or Starved Rock State Park, around 1.5 hours away by car.

  • Distance from Chicago: 2 hours and 45 minutes
  • Suggested Tour: Downtown Galena Food and Drink Tour

18. Michigan City, IN

Michigan City is just an hour away and is brilliant, accessible day trip material. If you want an easy trip from Chicago, Michigan City is it. Fancy a drive? You can drive there in an hour, passing Indiana Dunes National Park. Fancy a train ride? You can read or nap and reach the city in less than 2 hours. There’s lots of lakeside culture and history, with multiple lighthouses to admire and the quaint Washington Park Beach.

There’s also period history at the Barker Mansion, which showcases English-inspired decor and furnishings in a 19th-century mansion. Admire the history, have a beach day, or enjoy inner-city shopping at outlet stores. Michigan City offers loads and, at the very least, is a change of scene.

You can easily visit Michigan City; proper day-long trips are low on travel time and high on attractions. And that sums up this lakeside city.

  • Distance from Chicago: 1 to 2 hours
  • How to get there: 1 hour by car or 2 hours by train

19. Peoria, IL

Peoria is a beautiful city in Illinois. It was primarily established as a port city and trading center thanks to its position on the Illinois River. It is located much further inland in central Illinois. It is just an hour or so further central than Starved Rock State Park – hello, potential combined day trip.

Peoria has beautiful riverside parks, including Peoria Riverfront Park and Liberty Park. There’s also the Riverfront Museum and Peoria Historical Society. It is a lovely place to just walk and explore on foot. And the contrast between hectic Chicago and sedate Peoria is vast, making it a worthwhile day trip.

The city is located southwest of Chicago and is best accessed by car. This way, you can also stop off at Starved Rock State Park on the way.

20. Six Flags Great America, IL

What about a day at an amusement park? Six Flags Great America is a chain of amusement parks scattered across the US. And there is one on the outskirts of Chicago, creating the best day trip for fun-loving tourists. The park has water park rides, rollercoasters, and all-round fun entertainment. You can get adrenaline on rides like Sky Striker or the American Eagle. Alternatively, try the sedate, family-friendly rides like the Big Easy Balloons or Cubasco tea cups.

Everyone loves a fun day out. And Six Flags Great America is the perfect day trip to skip sightseeing and escape the city to enjoy some quality ‘fun’ time. It is the ideal place to let your hair down and has an impressive range of rides, making it suitable for adults and children. Six Flags Great America is located north of Chicago, just under the Wisconsin border. Get your tickets in advance here.

  • How to get there: 1 hour by car or 2 hours by train then bus

21. Glacial Park Conservation Area

Finally, there’s the beautiful Glacial Park Conservation Area. This 3,400-acre reserve is a stunning mix of wetlands and prairie, with glacial kames and ample scenic canoeing or fishing opportunities. It is one of the most photogenic places to experience natural beauty on a day trip from Chicago. You can explore Glacial Park on foot or by water or shake things up and book a horseback riding tour. The park has a grand total of 8 miles of shared-use trails, and you’ll definitely want to bring a camera.

Glacial Park Conservation Area opens from sunrise until sunset all year round. It is ideal if you want to switch from the standard suburban park experience to a bit of rugged, remote nature.

  • Distance from Chicago: 1 hour and 20 minutes

There’s so much to experience on day trips from Chicago – whether that’s Dutch heritage, rich history related to the Civil War, or riding water park rides at Six Flags America. You can embrace small-town charm at Oglesby, natural beauty and natural wonders at Indiana Dunes National Park, or craft beer at a local brewery. Chicago’s location right next to three other state borders means you have lots of diversity when choosing day trips. And the ever-presence of beautiful Lake Michigan means a constant barrage of water sports and beaches. Hopefully, you have at least 5 or 6 day trip choices.

Are you looking for more inspiration? Why not check out our guides on the  best things to do in Wisconsin  and  the best places to visit in Michigan ? We’ve also got notes on the best, most  unique things to do in Northern Michigan  specifically, so check that out if you have time to add a couple of days to the end of your Chicago trip. If you have longer, why not take a 2-3 day excursion from Chicago? It is a brilliant launchpad to discover more of the experiences in the states around Lake Michigan. Chicago’s location is by far its winning quality, and you should take advantage of it when planning day trips and excursions.

Plan your trip to Chicago with these Resources

  • 29 of the Best Things to Do in Chicago
  • Where to stay in Chicago: Best Areas and Hotels
  • Top 10 Hot Spots to Eat in Chicago
  • 23 Cool and Unique Things to do in Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

  • Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
  • Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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BEST Day Trips From Chicago (By Car, Bus & Train)

Looking to leave Chicago for the day or even a few hours? Fortunately there are many amazing places to visit in the Midwest near the city whether you love nature, beaches, cities or small towns. Here are the best day trips from Chicago all less than 2 hours from the city.

If you don’t have a car or would rather not drive, you can also visit most of these places by train, bus or through a guided day tour.

Best Day Trips From Chicago

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. I may make a small commission if you make a booking using my links at no extra cost to you.

Starved Rock State Park

Distance from Chicago: 95 miles Time from Chicago: 1 hour and 40 minutes Address: 2668 East 873 Road, Oglesby, Illinois

Starved Rock State Park is one of the best day trips from Chicago

Starved Rock State Park is one of the top attractions in the state of Illinois. The park is an ideal spot to enjoy nature and is filled with stunning sandstone canyons and beautiful waterfalls. This is a great place for hiking with 13 miles (21 kilometers) of trails.

In addition to hiking, visitors can enjoy outdoor activities year round, including horseback riding, ice climbing, cross-country skiing, as well as fishing, kayaking, rafting on the Illinois River.

Matthiessen State Park

Distance from Chicago: 96 miles Time from Chicago: 1 hour and 40 minutes Address: 2500 IL-178, Oglesby, Illinois

Matthiessen State Park is not as popular or crowded as nearby Starved Rock State Park (less than 3 miles away) but it is just as beautiful with similar natural features such as canyons and beautiful waterfalls.

Oak Park, Illinois

Distance from Chicago: 10 miles Time from Chicago: 15-20 minutes from downtown

Oak Park is a suburb on the outskirts of Chicago. The village prides itself on its racial, ethnic, socio-economic, and religious diversity . Downtown Oak Park is home to a variety of shops and restaurants but the main draw for visitors is the architecture.

Oak Park is home to the world’s largest collection of designed sites by Frank Lloyd Wright, the famous architect. Take a walking tour of the Wright District, an area of prairie-style homes designed by Frank Lloyd Wright including the Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio, and Unity Temple, a Wright–designed church considered to be one of his most important structures.

For those who would rather not drive, Oak Park is easily accessible from Chicago by train (Green Line and Blue Line on the CTA and Union Pacific / West Line on the Metra ). Ridesharing services such as Uber and Lyft are also an option.

Evanston, Illinois

Distance from Chicago: 14 miles Time from Chicago: 30 minutes from downtown Chicago

Looking for an easy day trip from Chicago? Visit Evanston, a nearby suburb located on the shores of Lake Michigan. Visit and relax at the beautiful Northwestern Campus. Evanston is home to six public swimming beaches which are less crowded than Chicago beaches.

If you have more time, you can explore more of the North Shore suburbs . Must see attractions in the North Shore include the Chicago Botanic Gardens in Glencoe, the Bahá’í Temple in Wilmette and the Kohl Children’s Museum in Glenview.

For those who would rather not drive, Evanston is easily accessible from Chicago by train (Purple Line) on the CTA and the Union Pacific North Line (UP-N) on the Metra . Ridesharing services such as Uber and Lyft are also an option.

Illinois Beach State Park

Distance from Chicago: 45 miles Time from Chicago: 1-1.5 hours drive

Illinois Beach State Park , part of the Illinois state park system, is located along Lake Michigan in northeast Illinois. It is known primarily for the beach with over six miles of shoreline. The park also includes dune areas, wetlands, prairie, and black oak savanna. Activities at the park include boating, swimming, fishing, hiking, camping, and more.

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Indiana Dunes, Indiana

Distance from Chicago: 50 miles Time from Chicago: 1 hour

The Indiana Dunes National Park borders the State Park of the same name. The national park offers 15 miles of shoreline along Lake Michigan’s southern shore with wide sandy beaches and towering dunes. Hikers will enjoy 50 miles of trails over rugged dunes, mysterious wetlands, sunny prairies, meandering rivers and peaceful forests.

The three highest sand dunes are all in the Indiana Dunes State Park.

In addition to beaches and hiking, Indiana Dunes offers many outdoor year round activities including bird watching, fishing, cycling, horseback riding, kayaking and paddling, snowshoeing, and cross country skiing.

New Buffalo, Michigan

Distance from Chicago: 70 miles Time from Chicago: 1 hour 15 minutes

New Buffalo, Michigan is a charming beach town on the shores of Lake Michigan. The beaches face west and have beautiful sunset views.

In addition to the beaches, a must see attraction is Galien River County Park , a beautiful park with boardwalk paths through the marsh.  For those that enjoy gambling, New Buffalo is home to the Four Winds Casino Resort .

New Buffalo has daily Amtrak service from Chicago on the Blue Water and Wolverine lines.

New Buffalo is a good base to explore various beach towns and wineries in Southwest Michigan .

Rockford, Illinois

Distance from Chicago: 85 miles Time from Chicago: 1.5-2 hours

Anderson Japanese Gardens in Rockford Illinois is one of the best day trips from Chicago

The most popular attraction in Rockford is Anderson Japanese Gardens , a 12-acre Japanese garden. If you have more time in Rockford before heading home, the city plenty of attractions including the Discovery Center Museum (a great family museum), Nicholas Conservatory and Gardens, Burpee Museum of Natural History, Tinker Swiss Cottage Museum and the Rockford Art Museum.

Lake Geneva, Wisconsin

Distance from Chicago: 83 miles Time from Chicago: 1 hour 40 minutes

Lake Geneva Wisconsin day trips from Chicago

In the summer, daytrippers can enjoy a variety of activities on the water, including boating, kayaking, paddle boarding. In the winter, visitors can go skiing or snowboarding or visit the beautiful ice castles.

The highlight is the Lake Geneva Shore Path, a 21-mile trail around the lake with stunning views of the forest, water and impressive waterfront homes. Visitors can hike or take a cruise around the lake.

Read about more things to do in Lake Geneva here .

Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Distance from Chicago: 93 miles Time from Chicago: 1 hour 40 minutes

This lively city is like a smaller less touristy version of Chicago.

Milwaukee is famous for its beer -it is nationally recognized with the nickname “Brew City” due to its nearly two centuries of brewing heritage from multiple past major brewers including Miller Brewing Company, Pabst Brewing Company, and Joseph Schlitz Brewing Company. One of the best things to do in Milwaukee is to tour one of its many breweries. Another interesting attraction is the Harley-Davidson Museum.

Amtrak Hiawatha train offers frequent daily service between Milwaukee and Chicago.

Tubing on the Tippecanoe River

Distance from Chicago: 105 miles Time from Chicago: 2 hours

Tippecanoe River State Park in northern Indiana is a popular Midwest summer destination. In the summer, you can rent tubes and float along the lazy river or you can also rent canoes or kayaks from various outfitters.

South Bend, Indiana

Distance from Chicago: 97 miles Time from Chicago: 1.5 to 2 hours

South Bend is most famous for being home to the University of Notre Dame. There are many attractions on the beautiful, large campus including the Golden Dome, Notre Dame Stadium, the Basilica of the Sacred Heart and the Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes, a replica of the famous shrine.

One of the best things to see in South Bend is the Studebaker National Museum , featuring a large collection of Studebaker automobiles drawn from the history of the company, beginning with horse-drawn carriages. They also have the carriage that Abraham Lincoln took to Ford’s Theater the night he was assassinated.

In addition to driving, South Shore Line commuter rail runs multiple daily trains between Millennium Station in downtown Chicago and South Bend Airport station.

Pontiac, Illinois (Historic Route 66)

Illinois historic route 66 sign

Distance from Chicago: 100 miles

Historic Route 66 is a classic American road trip . Don’t have time to drive Route 66 all the way from Chicago to California? You can visit Pontiac and drive a portion of historic Route 66 on a day trip from Chicago.  Must see attractions in Pontiac include the IL Route 66 Association Hall of Fame & Museum , the Pontiac-Oakland Automobile Museum and the Route 66 Shield Mural .

What are your favorite day trips from Chicago ?

Planning a trip to Chicago? Check out my Chicago guides and itineraries:

  • 3 Days in Chicago Itinerary + Travel Tips From a Local
  • The Perfect Itinerary for One Day in Chicago (According to a Local)
  • Most Instagrammable Places in Chicago
  • Best Free Things to Do in Chicago

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5 Best Day Trips from Chicago

By Joseph Hernandez and Jessi Roti

5 Best Day Trips from Chicago

Are you visiting Chicago but your wanderlust feels like an itch you can’t scratch? No worries. The city is the gateway to the rest of the Midwest, and there are plenty of trips within a short drive or train trip that require only a day or two to explore and enjoy. Check out a painterly tulip farm in Michigan or devour the craft beer and cheese curds in Wisconsin. Whether you pick Milwaukee or Lake Geneva, Wisconsin; Oak Park or Mount Vernon, Illinois; or Holland, Michigan, these excursions prove the Midwest is anything but fly-over country.

Click the link to read our complete Chicago city guide .

All listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

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MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN

Want out of Chicago but still need to feel the pulse of a buzzing metropolis? Milwaukee is your next stop. While known for its beer and brats, the city’s pride in its past is equally undeniable upon arrival. With the dedicated revitalization of neighborhoods such as the historic Third Ward, Lincoln Village, and others, visitors are kept busy by specialty shops, galleries, and restaurants, as well as more growing, creative businesses. With access to Lake Michigan and a number of other rivers with paved pathways, there are plenty of nooks downtown for taking a break to take in the view. Milwaukee has a little bit of it all.

Milwaukee Public Market St Paul Fish Company

Milwaukee Public Market Arrow

This bustling public market is stuffed with local shops and restaurants in the heart of Milwaukee's historic Third Ward neighborhood. Each of the vendors are independently operated, and each offer different food and shopping experiences. The market invites you to divide and conquer, so bring your most inquisitive or adventurous friend to sample each of the vendors. Create a DIY tapas-style crawl, or shop vendors for tasty souvenirs.

Beautiful Wisconsin summer nature background.

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Located in the heart of Milwaukee, Lakeshore State Park is an urban escape. Twenty-two acres of lakefront trails and paths look out onto Lake Michigan, with fishing areas, a watercraft landing for canoes and kayaks, and connecting access to Summerfest, Milwaukee's annual large-scale music festival. Trails are clearly marked with little chance of getting lost, where leisurely walkers and cyclists are soaking in the views.

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The lakefront Milwaukee Art Museum is a vision in and of itself. The gleaming white Santiago Calatrava structure, with dramatic wings and stunning dorsal fin, hints at the talent within the quiet galleries inside. With a collection of over 25,000 works, the Milwaukee Art Museum is one of the largest museums in the country. The galleries feature everything from folk art to contemporary American, across all disciplines like prints, sculptures, and paintings. Wisconsin native Georgia O'Keefe features prominently—the museum owns much of her work—alongside European artists Gustave Caillebotte, Claude Monet, and Joan Miró.

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Schuster Mansion Bed & Breakfast Arrow

Let Schuster Mansion comfort you in history and elegance, at the level of your choosing. Upon arrival, you'll be struck by it's rusty, red coloring—a blend of red sandstone, red brick, and red terra cotta trim. The mansion's stand-out coloring only hints at the interior design. Rooms are spacious, and each comes with a vintage, claw foot tub that taunts you with the promise of a luxurious bubble bath. Enjoy the lush, relaxing Victorian Garden or help complete the ever-ongoing jigsaw puzzle in the Ladies’ Parlor. Planning on visiting ahead of the winter holidays? Schuster's Christmas decor is second to none.

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Holler House Arrow

Founded as Skowronski's in 1908 in the Lincoln Village neighborhood, the noisy tavern was renamed Holler House after a local woman complained about the ruckus emanating from inside. But the bar has seen many boozy hijinks in its century-plus existence. Known for its raucous bowling nights—in a slight basement alley featuring two lanes that happen to be the oldest, sanctioned tenpin lanes in the United States, still set by hand—Holler House is where you can go to really let loose. In addition to playing a game or two, there’s a full bar, but this is much more of a beer and a shot establishment .

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OAK PARK, ILLINOIS

Sharing a border with Chicago’s West side, suburban Oak Park is accessible via the CTA’s Blue and Green Lines as well as Metra trains. But its proximity to the urban hustle doesn’t disrupt its refreshing slow pace. Enjoy its homegrown Arts District, unique boutiques, cafés, and rich cultural record—including being the home of actress Betty White and novelist Ernest Hemingway. Known for its abundance of Prairie School architecture, thanks to natives such as Frank Lloyd Wright, the neighborhood also makes for great self-guided tours on bike or on foot. Whether you’re a fan of local history or everyday whimsy, a visit to Oak Park is worth it.

Frank Lloyd Wright House and Studio Tour Dining Room Facade

Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio Arrow

Designed, worked, and lived in by one of the biggest names in American architecture, the Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio preserves the Prairie School founder's original architectural studio and his adjacent home where he experimented with early ideas. Wright designed the buildings and filled them with his own furniture designs, too, a marriage that offers a comprehensive look at Wright's insistence on design integrity.

Pleasant Home Museum Interior Library

Pleasant Home Arrow

Set in Oak Park's sprawling Mills Park and designed in 1897 by architect George W. Maher, this home is a National Historic Landmark and the only Maher building open to the public as a museum. While Frank Lloyd Wright is the bigger name, his peer Maher helped usher in the Prairie School of architecture with Pleasant Home's design, helping to influence the blending of oeuvres that defined the style. This 30-room museum showcases late 19-century craftsmanship, from intricate art glass to custom woodwork throughout.

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LAKE GENEVA, WISCONSIN

A once-popular summer vacation destination for wealthy urbanites, Lake Geneva has managed to preserve much of its Gilded Age lure. Think a little Great Gatsby in the Midwest. Though tastes have changed, Lake Geneva has managed to stay at the top of many travel recommendation lists—mainly for its year-round resort-like atmosphere and attractions. A place that’s almost always prepared for tourists has its perks and one of this Wisconsin town’s is its genial nature, whether you’re perusing different markets or rubbing elbows at the bar. Visitors can also explore local arts culture. Scenic, lakeside paths and parks are calling your name. Or if you’re feeling adventurous, fly above it all in a hot air balloon.

Lake Geneva Wisconsin

Lake Geneva Shore Path Arrow

With 26 miles hugging the shores of well-trodden Lake Geneva, the Shore Path is not exactly removed from the Realm of Man, but it is a scenic stroll nonetheless. Wealthy Chicagoans flocked to Lake Geneva in the 19th century, especially after the Great Fire in 1971. You'll find stunning former estates and opulent lawns. By public ordinance still in effect today, property owners leave at least 20 feet of space available to the public, with some offering benches to rest or art installations to view and interact with as you make your way around the path.

Baker House Historic Hotel Lake Geneva

Baker House Arrow

Baker House, constructed in 1885, houses an opulent Gilded Age parlor, with sunny lakeside views, and homey digs. Guests flock there for its old-school charm and luxurious furnishings, trying to tap the wealthy turn-of-the-century vibe that attracted well-heeled vacationers to Lake Geneva in the first place. For turn-of-the-century charm and opulence, Baker House delivers on all fronts.

Studio Winery Lake Geneva Wisconsin Exterior

Studio Winery Arrow

Exposed steel beams, warm wood wine racks, and art made by Studio Winery's artist owners create a warm, convivial atmosphere for wine drinking. The large room features many high-top tables for groups to sit and enjoy, plus a small stage for visiting music acts. The wines aren't technically fine wines, but they're fine wines—get it? The Musician series wines take their name from famous musicians, using local varietals and range from dry to sweet. Meanwhile, the premier tasting wines feature more elegant, classic European varietals, like viognier, syrah, and cabernet sauvignon.

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Queen Bee Artisan Market Arrow

Housed within Lake Geneva's Fancy Fair Mall, this indoor artisan market is open year-round, showcasing original wares by more than 100 makers from across the country. Queen Bee’s curated collections cater to all ages, so even kids will be able to make a day out of shopping and supporting small business. Whether you’re looking for hand-forged, industrial lamps, a housewarming gift for a friend who you know loves a sassy statement mug, candles, decorative signage, or unique clothing, the market is a great place to find one-of-a-kind, useful souvenirs from your visit.

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HOLLAND, MICHIGAN

Holland’s Dutch immigrants are celebrated in the aesthetics and traditions of this shore town’s varied restaurants, shops, attractions, and architecture. You’ll notice antiqued windmills, re-envisioned Germanic villages, dainty gardens, and millions of tulips, which give it the nickname Tulip City. Stroll or hike through the park before taking in the sunset over Lake Michigan, then go out for drinks. While there’s plenty of activity to occupy you during the day, the star-gazing Holland’s country outskirts allow for is unparalleled. What better way to end a day? Play Sufjan Stevens’ Greetings from Michigan album on your way up, track 7—“Holland.”

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Located on a quiet country road, Castle in the Country is a quaint, 100-year-old Victorian that screams iconic American dream home. The bed and breakfast, with its millennial pink painted details, wrap-around porch and just-so hanging planters, is an adorable escape out in flat, picturesque countryside. Castle in the Country's seclusion is its biggest draw. Far away from city lights, you'll be beneath star-filled skies and amidst wide-open spaces. The luxurious digs and clean country air are enough reason to book a stay.

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Windmill Island Gardens Arrow

Want a taste of old-school Europe? Holland's Windmill Island Gardens, a 36-acre park of even-keeled fallow land, manicured gardens, and quaint recreation Dutch shops is such an escape. The main attraction at Windmill Island Gardens is its namesake, DeZwaan ("The Swan"), a windmill built in 1771 but purchased and imported from the Netherlands in 1964. The working mill still grinds flour, available for purchase in the "Little Netherlands" shops, which also sell kitschy crafts like pottery and wooden shoes. With 100,000 tulips planted annually, the gardens also participate in Holland's famed Tulip Time festival, with activities for kids and adults alike.

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Veldheer Tulip Gardens Arrow

With over five million tulips planted annually, Veldheer Tulip Gardens is a sight to behold come spring-time. The manicured lawn explodes in color, much like you'd expect in the real Holland, with tulips of every hue brightening the landscape. Though you're not allowed to pull the tulips from the ground, plenty of bulbs are available to order, as are other flowering plants. You think it's just all pretty flowers here? Think again. Veldheer also started a breeding program for American bison, with a herd of 20 available for viewing, with educational programing for the public. Veldheer’s grounds also include the DeKlomp Wooden Shoe Factory—a perfect gift to snag before you go.

Butch's Drydock Holland Missouri Food

Butch's Dry Dock Arrow

This stylish bistro is a welcome respite, with white table cloths, warm lighting, and local art on walls. A small list of tightly curated wines spans the globe, but the draw here is Butch's 200-plus beer selection, spanning micro, craft, and imported beers and ciders. The menu is a selection of New American classics, and Butch's prides itself on working closely with local purveyors, listing its local partners prominently on the website. When in Holland, head here for a sophisticated, special dinner that is elevated but unfussy.

New Holland Brewery Interior Holland Missouri

New Holland Brewing Arrow

Founded in 1996, New Holland Brewing is one of the country's pioneering microbreweries. At its corporate headquarters in downtown Holland, you'll find the brewpub. The sprawling, two-floor pub is familiar in the way that breweries can be, that is, exposed ducts and bricks, tin ceilings and numerous myriad high-tops occupied by imbibers is familiar. From cask-poured stouts to limited releases, growler fills and special brewpub-only offerings, New Holland serves upwards of 20 brews at any given time. Head there for a low-key lunch or dinner. Meet new friends or catch up with old ones over cold brews in relaxed digs.

de Boer Bakkerij bakery holland missouri exterior

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This family-run spot has been baking in Holland, Michigan for four generations, adding the cozy breakfast and lunch restaurant in 2008. The bakery bustles with to-go diners in the mornings, with cafe bar seating, benches, and banquettes for restaurant diners. The high ceilings and bright lights make for an airy space. DeBoers started as an authentic Dutch bakery, so it's safe to assume that the baked offerings are on lock: Challah, cracked wheat, San Francisco sourdough, French baguette, marble rye—the list goes on.

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Along the shores of Lake Michigan, this 22-acre park is a popular place for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking—but it’s called Tunnel Park for a reason. What locals consider the best spot to watch the sunset, a unique archway built through a dune gives way to pure, unobstructed views of orange and amber skies. You may even spot a sailboat or two.

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MOUNT VERNON, ILLINOIS

Small town Mount Vernon (named after President George Washington’s Virginia plantation) has all the modest charm expected from Southern Illinois, and passionate locals are at the heart of efforts to bring more tourism to their town. Home to Rend Lake, a groovy vinyl record shop, comforting spots to grab a bite, the Cedarhurst Center for the Arts, and plenty of wide open spaces, Mt. Vernon might not be what immediately comes to mind when one thinks about visiting the Prairie State—but its surprising creative spirit may just capture a spot on your return travel list.

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At the only locally-owned vinyl LP shop in town, wafting incense will greet you ahead of your dive into the expanse of classic rock albums, R&B, and jazz albums, rare imports, and more, among plenty of band t-shirts to show an even deeper allegiance to your favorite acts. A number of CDs and concert DVDs are also available in the store’s collection, but management is positive it can track down any disc you’re after.

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Though King City Books’ is under renovation, the shop’s reputation precedes it—diehard patrons sing its praises for the reads and espresso bar it houses. It's the only indie bookstore within 60 miles, making its devoted fan base even more important. The shop is dedicated to elevating local authors and selections fit for all ages, including mystery and YA. Locals are devoted fans of this book shop and are eagerly awaiting its return, as are musicians and artists who took advantage of the shop's open mic nights.

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Cedarhurst Center for the Arts Arrow

Across the Cedarhurst Center's 90-acre campus, early 19th and 20th century paintings and modern sculpture are showcased. Most of the collection is from that of the museum's founders John and Eleanor Mitchell. Take a stroll or drive through the Goldman-Kuenz Sculpture Park for some perspective. Across the center’s 90-acre campus, works by John Kearney, Chakaia Booker, Deborah Masuoka, Tom Orr,and many more are thoughtfully placed for guests to develop a deeper appreciation for modern sculpture. Inside, the Bonan Permanent Collection is at the heart of the museum—an abundant celebration of paintings by early 19th and 20th century American masters, both renowned and unsung.

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Rend Lake Arrow

Rend Lake offers a slew of water sports and other outdoor activities that are difficult to properly enjoy within Chicago city limits. Known as “Southern Illinois’ playground,” you could plan a day’s worth of events based solely on what the lands have to offer. Hit one of the lake’s two beaches (but prepare to pay a daily fee) or take advantage of the thousands of acres of open water for skiing, jet skiing, wake boarding, or tubing.

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Sidwell Friends Bed and Breakfast Arrow

Nestled between the trees, this quaint bed and breakfast offers a glimpse at simple, sophisticated small-town living. With boutique amenities, lovely gardens, and owner Mr. Sidwell's library of books and art collection, this stay encourages serenity at both the start and end of your day. Each morning, you’ll be greeted with a full, home-cooked breakfast and probably a look or two from Sidwell’s resident English Bulldog. She doesn’t have the run of the house, but she’s certainly one of the ladies of it. The bed and breakfast is blocks away from the Cedarhurst Center for the Arts, a few miles from Rend Lake, and other Mount Vernon sites including wineries.

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Jimmie James Blue Goose Arrow

This unassuming gyro shop has been a Mt. Vernon staple ever since it began serving Greek comfort food in 1978. The menu hasn’t changed much over the years (it’s still cash only), and neither has the décor, but it’s part of why the place is so beloved. Get a gyro and fries with a piece of baklava on the side, kalamata olive salad, or—if there’s a bit of chill in the air—warm up with a bowl of gyro stew: the juicy, tangy bite you love served in a rich, brown broth with chunky veggies and potatoes. The stew is the entree to choose for something quintessentially Jimmie James.

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Farmhouse Bakery & Cafe Arrow

Locals frequent for breakfast, lunch, and dinner as well as shop the small grocery inside the cafe. But rowdy, this cafe is not. The café offers a number of housemade lemonades, smoothies, hot and iced teas, coffees and frappes, and soft drinks. With its down-home appeal, pies, pecan rolls, biscuits, donuts, and scones all have the feel of grandma’s hands. Stop in for breakfast or lunch—which includes everything from panini to lasagna and meatloaf—or homemade ice cream after a day at the lake.

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Fenn Valley Vineyards Arrow

This longtime, family-owned vintner features a warm, rustic tasting room, tours, and wine-pairing dinners in a convivial atmosphere. The winery hosts majority group tastings for special occasions and picnics. As the wine continues to flow, so does conversation. During select times of year, the vineyard offers specially designed tours involving food and wine. Picnics include a hearty charcuterie board, choice of three bottles of wine or 3-4 packs of hard cider, and a battery-powered speaker with cables to connect to your phone or tablet.

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Day Trips from Chicago

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Day Trips from Chicago Less than 5 Hours

Here is the list of 20 day trips from chicago, 1. six flags great america.

Six Flags Great America

Six Flags Great America is Chicago’s largest amusement park, ranked amongst the top 20 most visited amusement parks in North America in 2017. The park opened to the public in 1976 features 9 themed areas, over 60 rides, live entertainment, dining options, events, and a 20-acre water park called Hurricane Harbour. It is the perfect place to have a splash with family and friends. Address- 1 Great America Parkway, Gurnee, IL 60031 Open Hours- Sunday to Thursday Park: 10:30am to 9:00pm Friday & Saturday Park: 10:30am to 10:00pm Waterpark: 11:00am to 6:00pm Best Time to visit - Weekdays in May. Distance from Chicago- 45.5 miles Parking- USD 26 Activities to do- Thrill rides ( Bourbon Street Fireball), Roller coaster rides, Water Rides, Haunted House during Fright Fest. How to reach- Drive or rent a car, Metra to Waukegan station and then take a bus to the Amusement park.

2. Cedarburg

Cedarburg

Cedarburg located approximately 2 hours away from Chicago, is a city in Ozaukee County. The City, characterized by its preserved structures of more than 200 limestone buildings and the meandering creek paints a charming scenic atmosphere for visitors to stroll around, grab a bite, and indulge in the history and culture of the place. Distance from Chicago - 112.5 miles Places to visit - Cedar Creek Winery, Wisconsin Museum of Quilts& Fiber Arts, Ozaukee Interurban Trail, Chiselled Grape Winery, Cedarburg Art Museum. Dining Options - Tomaso’s, Cream & Crepe Cafe, PJ Piper Pancake House, Le’s Pho, Farmstead.

3. Vermillion River, Oglesby

Vermillion River, Oglesby

Vermillion River, Oglesby is a paradise for those who enjoy water activities. Here, you can rent a fun yak and rafting supplies at a charge and enjoy whitewater rafting. There are about 14 sets of rapids available in classifies 1’s, 2’s, and 3’s - perfect for beginners and kids. It also has numerous eddies, slack pools, deep holes and rocky shorelines which makes the river extremely favorable for Fishing. Best time to visit - May to Mid July Activities to do - Fishing, Sightseeing, Kayaking. Lodge Options - Baldwin House, Starved Rock Inn, Three Roses Bed and Breakfast Distance from Chicago - 100 miles.

4. North Utica

North Utica

North Utica also just known as Utica, is a village in Utica Township. From Chicago, it would take under 2 hours to reach Utica. It is abundant in terms of natural beauty and most of the resources - hills, rivers, and forests are untouched making it the perfect eco- touristic spot to indulge in a healing experience away from the noise of the city. Distance from Chicago - 93 miles Places to Visit - Starved Rock State Park, Matthiessen State Park, The Rock and Soul, LaSalle County Historical Society & Museum, Activities to do - Camping, Hiking at Starved Rock State Park, Picnic at Matthiessen State Park, Paddlewheel boat tour at Belle of the Rock.

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5. Holland, Michigan

Holland, Michigan

Holland situated near the eastern shore of Lake Michigan, is world-famous for its Tulip Festival. From Chicago, the trip to Holland would take under 3 hours. It is the perfect place to enjoy and experience Dutch Culture from the architecture downtown, the delicacies found in local shops, Niels’ Dutch Village, learning Klompen dance to the Dutch Winterfest and Tulip Time Festival in Spring. Distance from Chicago - 149.6 miles To do Activities - Tulip time festival, a tour of the modern college campus, sail on Lake Michigan, hiking, Dutch Winterfest, Veldheer Tulip Farm, the Dutch art collection at Holland Museum. Dining Options - Butch’s Dry Dock, Salt & Pepper Savory Grill and Pub, deBoer Bakkerij Rsetraunt.

6. Indianapolis Zoo

Indianapolis Zoo

Indianapolis Zoo triple credited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and the American Alliance of Museums - houses more than 1,200 animals amd 47,000 plant specimens. It features both indoor & outdoor animal habitats and aims to empower people and communities, both locally and globally to participate actively in animal conservation. Address - 1200 W Washington St, Indianapolis, IN 46222 Open Hours - 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM Suggested Duration - 4 hours Distance from Chicago - 185 miles Parking - Members - Free Non Members - USD 8 Large Vehicles - USD 16 Exhibits - Simon Skjodt International Orangutan Center, Flights of Fancy, Plains, Deserts, Marine Mammals, Oceans, Forest, Commons,

7. Brookfield Zoo

Brookfield Zoo

Brookfield Zoo houses more than 20,000 animals, a must-see for animal lovers. The zoo is organized into distinct habitats and exhibits that highlight the conservational history of each. It also organizes a variety of family play programs, offers event booking, and volunteer opportunities where you can adopt your favorite animals and help in their care. Address - 8400 W 31st St, Brookfield, IL 60513 Open Hour - 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM Entry Fee - Adult - USD 24.95 Seniors - USD 19.95 Children ( Ages 3 to 11) - USD 17.95 Ages 2 and Under - Free Distance from Chicago - 13.2 miles Parking - ( Both North gate and South Gate) Cars - USD 15 Buses - USD 21 Exhibits - Australia House, Animal Ambassadors, Big Cats, Desert’s Edge, Feathers & Scale, Great Bear Wilderness, Habitat Africa! The Savannah, Pachyderm House, Pinniped Point, Tropic world, and much more.

8. Breweries of Milwaukee

Breweries of Milwaukee

Located around an hour and 30 mins away from Chicago, Milwaukee - once known as the beer capital houses over 30 breweries. The city hosted three of the biggest name in beer: Federick Miller, Joseph Schlitz, Federick Pabst, and earned the tag of the Beer capital. Although this may all be history, we can still find amazing modern-day craft breweries in Milwaukee. Here, visitors can discover some top-notch beers, get a taste of the local ingredients, and innovative ales. Distance from Chicago - 92.4 miles Breweries - Eagle Park Brewing, Third Space Brewing, Good City Brewing, 1840 Brewing Co, Hacienda Beer Co, Lakefront Brewery.

9. Apple River Canyon State Park

Apple River Canyon State Park

Apple River Canyon State Park spanning up to 1,907 acres was established in 1932 by the State of Illinois, preserving the deep canyon formed by the Apple River. The area is characterized by limestone bluffs, deep ravines, springs, streams, and tons of wildlife. It also features five trails, camping sites, four picnic areas with tables, grills, accessible drinking water; and visitors can also enjoy fishing on the Apple River. Located just 2 hours and 21 mins away from Chicago, it is one of the best spots to indulge in outdoor activities. Address - 8763 E Canyon Rd, Apple River, IL 61001 Open Hours - 24 hours Entry Fee - Free Best Time to Visit - Fall Distance from Chicago - 144.6 miles (2hr 21 min) Parking - Available Activities to do - Camping, picnics, hiking, fishing, Kayaking, Wildlife watching, hunting.

10. Kankakee River State Park

Kankakee River State Park

Kankakee River State Park located just an hour away from Chicago is a 4000- acre park enclosed by the Kankakee river on both sides. It offers a wide range of outdoor activities from hiking, cycling, fishing, hunting, camping to even winter sports. Visitors can find fishes like Channel Catfish, Walleye, and Smallmouth Bass. The park has beautiful landscapes and is rich with heritage and historical significance with many Native American tribes that used to live and hunt along the Kankakee River. Address - 5314 W. Rt. 102, Bourbonnais, IL 60914, USA Opening Hours - Open year-round Best Time to Visit - All year Distance from Chicago - 57.8 miles Parking - Free Activities to do - Kayaking, Fishing, Boating, Cycling, Hiking, Walking, RV Camping, Cross Country Skiing, Archery How to Reach - Driving a car/ private vehicle is highly recommended. You can also take public transport like Bus no. 4819 and 1163 from Chicago to Kankakee II and then a taxi to the state park. Restrictions - Swimming is not allowed because of the strong current, Camping is allowed only on Campgrounds.

11. Starved Rock State Park, Chicago

Starved Rock State Park, Chicago

Starved Rock State Park is a historic landmark, also voted as the # 1 Attraction in the state of Illinois. It is approximately 1 hour and 50 minutes away from Chicago - a perfect getaway from the city to nature. Here, you can enjoy the extraordinary views of the canyons, the waterfalls and explore them too. Other than these you can also enjoy activities such as Hiking ( 13 miles of trail) and fishing on the Illinois river ( Ice fishing in winter). Address : 2678 E 875th Rd, Oglesby, IL 61348 Open Hours : 8:30 AM to 10:00 PM Entrance Fee : Free Best Time to visit : Fall Distance from Chicago : 94.3 miles Public Transport : Take a Train till Mendota Amtrak Station, then catch a taxi Activities to do : Hiking, Explore the Canyons, Take a Ghost tour, spend a night at the historic Starved Rock Lodge.

12. Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum

Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum

Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum is the largest and one of the most visited Presidential Libraries. It is dedicated to the study of the American civil war and the life of Abraham Lincoln, the 16th U.S. President. The Museum houses life-size models, state of art full immersion exhibits, and also original artifacts and personal belongings of Lincoln. From, Chicago it would take approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes to reach the museum - it is the perfect place to unwind and learn more about the past - with its interactive technologies that bring the history of the 19th Century to life. Address - 212 N 6th St, Springfield, IL 62701 Open Hours - Museum - 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM Library - Monday to Friday - 9:00 AM to 4:30 AM Entry Fee - Museum - Adults - USD 15 Senior (65+) - USD 12 Military - USD 10 Children ( 5 - 15 years of Age) - USD 6 Ages 4 and below - Free Library - Free Suggested Duration - 2 to 3 hours Distance from Chicago - 201. 7 miles. Pets - not allowed, except service animals Parking - available Exhibits - The Journey - Part I and Part II, take your picture with the Lincoln Family.

13. South Bend History Museum

South Bend History Museum

The South Bend History Museum, also known as the History Museum was initiated in 1867 by the Northern Indiana Historical Society - the second oldest historical society in Indiana. Located just an hour and 38 mins from Chicago, the highlight of the museum is the stately Victorian mansion with original furnishings and woodworks; which is connected to the Studebaker National Museum. It also houses a children’s museum, various exhibits and a gallery of Shakespearean culture at Notre Dame. Address - 808 W Washington St, South Bend, IN 46601 Open Hours - Monday to Saturday - 10:00 Am to 5:00 PM Sunday - 12:00 AM to 5:00 PM Entry Fee- Adult - USD 10 to USD 15 Senior (65+) - USD 8.50 to USD 12 Youth - USD 6 to USD 8 Children under Ages 5 and under - Free Suggested Duration - 3 to 4 hour Distance from Chicago- 88.9 miles Wheelchair - Accessible Parking - Available Exhibits - Oliver Mansion ( Studebaker National Museum), Full Circle: Shakespearean Culture at Notre Dame, Votes for Women, All-American Girls Professional Baseball League .

14. Chicago Botanic Gardens

Chicago Botanic Gardens

Chicago Botanic Gardens located just 27 mins away from Chicago, is a 385-acre living plant museum where you can experience the changing seasons throughout the year. It features 27 gardens and four natural areas - prairie, woods, and 81 acres of water. Other than this, through its tram tour, it offers a panoramic and intimate view of the gardens and organizes fun-filled activities for kids and families. Address - 1000 Lake Cook Rd, Glencoe, IL 60022 Open Hours - Monday to Sunday - 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM Entry Fee - Free Best time to visit - Any time/season throughout the years Distance from Chicago- 24.6 miles ( 27 min) Parking - Residents - Weekdays - USD 20 Weekend - USD 25 Non Residents - Weekdays - USD 25 Weekend - USD 30 Pets - No pets, except for service animals Wheelchair - Accessible (on Tram tours) Activities to do - Explore the landscape & nature and wildlife, Seasonal Bingo, Discovery Backpack, Dancin’ Sprouts, Bird Behavior Scavenger Hunt, Fun with mud, Arts & Craft.

15. Indiana Dunes National Park

Indiana Dunes National Park

Indiana Dunes National Park located approximately 56 mins away from Chicago stretches over 15 miles of the southern shore of Lake Michigan. Its sandy shores, rugged dunes, mysterious wetlands, and peaceful forests promise solitude and adventure at the same time. Visitors can come here to relax by themselves or with their family and friends - there’s something for everyone here. Address - 1050 N Mineral Springs Rd, Chesterton, IN 46301 Open Hours - Monday to Sunday - 7:00 AM to 11:00 AM Entry fee - In-state vehicle - USD 7 Out-of-state- vehicle - USD 12 Free on weekdays between November and mid - April. Best time to visit - Late September through October ( mid -October) Distance from Chicago - 47.1 miles Pets - not allowed on the beach, on other parts of the beach - they are allowed on a leash. Parking - Free ( Except for West Beach - USD 6 per vehicle & USD 30 per Bus) Activities to do - Hiking, Biking, Bird watching, swimming and sunbathing, Camping, Fishing, the 3 dune challenge, skiing & snowshoeing in winters.

16. Cantigny Park

Cantigny Park

Cantigny Park is located just 36 minutes away from Chicago is the perfect gateway to enjoy outdoor activities with family and friends. It is equipped with gardens, museums, picnic areas, hiking trails, and a Golf course. Other than these, they also offer educational opportunities, dining options, guided events or visitors can create their own unique adventure too. Address - 1 S 151 Winfield Road, Wheaton, IL 60189 Open Hours - 9:00 am to Sunset ( within capacity limits) Entry fee - Free Distance from Chicago - 33.6 miles Pets - Not allowed ( except for Walk your Dog in park day - one-day special event) Dogs must be kept on a leash. Parking Fees - USD 5/per car to USD 80 for Large buses. Activities to do - Golf, Hiking, Museum, picnic, Nature walks, Tank Park, Red Oaks Farm Playground.

17. Anderson Japanese Gardens

Anderson Japanese Gardens

Anderson Japanese Gardens has been rated as one of the highest quality and revered Japanese gardens in North America for over a decade now. It houses a twelve-acre landscape of streams, mesmerizing waterfalls, winding pathways, and koi-filled ponds. Located an hour and 21 mins away from Chicago, Anderson Gardens promises a healing experience with world-class quality exhibits, cultural programming, and special events. Address - 318 Spring Creek Rd, Rockford, IL 61107 Open Hours - May 1st through October 31st Monday to Friday - 9:00 Am to 6:00 PM Saturday to Sunday - 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM Entry fee - Adults - USD 11 Seniors - USD 10 Students and Military - USD 9 Children Ages 5 and under - Free Best Time to Visit - Spring and Fall Distance from Chicago - 85.4 miles Parking - Free Activities to do - Have Brunch at Fresco at Gardens, take the Frank Lloyd Wright meets 16th century Japan tour, Visit the tea house, Dancing in the Garden, Yoga & Pilates, Tai Chi, Meditation, Kids Cultural class.

18. Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens

Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens

Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens is the third largest conservatory in Illinois with a plant exhibit area spanning up to 11,000 square feet in size. From Chicago, it would take approximately an hour and 40 mins to reach the Conservatory. It houses various exhibits and organizes events via which the visitors can enjoy the experience of the tropics in the Midwest. Address - 1354 N 2nd St, Rockford, IL 61107 Open Hours - Tuesday to Saturday - 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM Rate - Residents - Adults: USD 7 Seniors (65+) , Veterans, Ages 5 - 7: USD 5 Ages 3-4: USD 3 Non Residents - Adults: USD 9 Seniors (65+) , Veterans, Ages 5 - 7: USD 7 Ages 3-4: USD 4 Free for ages 2 and under. Distance from Chicago - 85.3 miles Parking - Available ( additional parking YMCA) Activities to do - Activity Boxes, Simply Spring: Butterfly Exhibit, Tunes on the terrace, Whiskey on Rocks, Wine & Roses.

19. Lake Geneva

Lake Geneva

Lake Geneva, located just an hour and 29 minutes away from Chicago is the perfect gateway to unwind and relax. Visitors can go for a swim or enjoy watersports on one of the beaches on the seven-mile stretch of the lake. They can also enjoy the sight of the stately lakefront summer mansions on restored historic yachts and replicas of paddlewheel steamers. Other than these you can also visit the Geneva Lake Museum, Lake Geneva Public library, or explore the hiking trails. In winter, visitors can also head up to Mountain Top and experience skating, ice boating, sleigh rides, and much more. Address - 201 Wrigley Drive, Lake Geneva, WI 53147 Admission Hour - 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM Best Time to Visit - July - August Distance from Chicago - 83 miles Parking - available Activities to do - Geneva Lake Museum, Boating, Kayaking or Paddle Boarding on Lake Geneva, Skiing, skating, sleigh rides.

20. The Morton Arboretum, Chicago

The Morton Arboretum, Chicago

The Morton Arboretum approximately located 20 minutes away from Chicago, is an internationally recognized outdoor tree museum, research & conservatory center. Here, based on the time of the year of your visit, you can enjoy and experience the ever-changing seasons. The arboretum houses a variety of exhibits such as the Tree lights exhibit and organizes interesting events such as the dog admission day (where you can hile through the trails with your pet) throughout the year. Admission Fee : Free (Timed admission tickets to be booked beforehand) Best Time to visit : Fall ( Peak Fall color Viewing) Distance from Chicago : 25.7 miles Parking : Free Parking Closest Station : Metra train Station in Lisle ( Burlington Northern Stop) Activities to do : Hiking, Visit the Outdoor Museum and the Children’s Garden, Tree lights exhibit, Sterling Morton Library, plan an event.

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Chicago's Top 6 Dayhikes

The best local trails, as selected by backpacker local scout erica zazo..

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Hot dogs. Lake Michigan. Da Bears. And excellent trails? Absolutely: The Windy City’s greater stomping grounds offer river-sculpted canyons, quiet hardwood forests, glacially molded ridges, and plentiful waterfalls within easy dayhiking distance. Sample the best of the Midwest on these favorites: Many are lengthy linear trails that let you design your own out-and-back or shuttle trips.

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1. Edward L. Ryerson Conservation Area

Trailhead(s): Edward L. Ryerson Conservation Area or Brushwood Center parking lot  Mileage: 6.5  Drive from town: 35 minutes

This has to be one of the quietest trails I’ve hiked in the immediate Chicago area. Portions of the trail follow bankside along the Des Plaines River, making for a pleasant sound and view. Ryerson’s 6.5 miles of winding trails and boardwalks through 561 acres allow you to make up your own route. On countless visits, I’ve never replicated the same hike. It’s only a quick 35-minute drive (outside of rush hour) from the Loop, so you can’t beat the rugged feel and accessibility combo.

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2. Des Plaines River Trail (Yellow, Unpaved)

Trailhead(s): Allison Woods Trail and Sunset Bridge Meadow Trail access points (various additional access points along trail) Mileage: 15.4 (point to point) Drive from town: 40 minutes

This segment (15.4 miles) of the larger Des Plaines River Trail (56.2 miles) is great for folks who live in the near-downtown neighborhoods. You can even get to this trail via public transportation, both by bus and the Blue Line. My favorite section along this trail runs through Dam No. 4 Woods-East, from Thouey Rd. to the S Dee/W Higgins intersection. I suggest parking in the Chippewa Woods lot, walking east on Touhy Rd., and jumping on the trail heading south. This path is also perfect for trail running and mountain biking since it’s very flat and wide with soft soil. 

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3. Bluff Trail, Matthiessen State Park

Trailhead: Trail begins at Fort Mileage: 3.2  Drive from town: 1 hour 40 min

Matthiessen State Park offers the best of both worlds: beautiful views from atop 45-plus-foot ledges and waterfall drop-offs, and towering sandstone walls from the dells’ rocky floor. I love hiking along the interior trail of the northern dell area during the summer and fall seasons. The dried-up riverbed looks like a rocky staircase and the sides of the canyon make great traversing walls. You also can’t beat cooling off in the summer heat under the chilly water of Cascade Falls. 

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4. Canyon Tour, Starved Rock State Park

Trailhead: Starved Rock State Park Visitor Center or parking lots at the eastern edge of the park Mileage: 12.3 (point to point) Drive from town: 1.5 hours

While popular, Starved Rock State Park is home to some of the best hiking in the state of Illinois. A number of small waterfalls hide between the sandstone walled caverns and winding trails peek in and out of a glacier-carved landscape. When I visit, I park on the eastern edge of the park near Council Overhang (to avoid foot traffic) and head west on the trail towards Hennepin and LaSalle Canyons.

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5. Ice Age Trail, Kettle Moraine State Forest, Southern Unit

Trailhead: Pinewoods Campground  Mileage: 31 miles (point to point)  Drive from town: 2 hours

If you’re looking for a proper Chicago-area backpacking (or rugged hiking) trip, the Ice Age Trail is where you’d want to go. Up-and-down valleys offer the perfect amount of elevation and descent. If you have a weekend, I love driving up from the city to camp at the Pinewoods Campground and taking the branches of the Ice Age Trail that pop out of the campground for a dayhike. Thick canopy and evergreen forest surround you on all sides along this trail. The entire trail spans some 1,200 miles, and an elite crew of Midwestern hikers have backpacked the entire length. I highly encourage joining their ranks.

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6. Openlands Lakeshore Preserve

Trailhead: Patten Road  Mileage: 2.9  Drive from town: 38 minutes

This isn’t your typical backcountry hike, but that’s why I love the Openlands Lakeshore Preserve . It’s a quintessential Chicago experience: a combo of art, community, and nature. The paved paths have quirky, informative interpretive signs and the main trail running down through the preserve’s ravine features a towering, 20-plus-foot-tall underpass mural that’s absolutely stunning. You also can’t beat the serenity of a near-empty Lake Michigan shoreline and quiet prairie land. The preserve is also very ADA-accessible (nice!).

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Hiking In Starved Rock State Park, A Perfect Chicago Day Trip

starved rock state park

Sure, Chicago has an awful lot to recommend it…amazing food, architecture, beautiful parks and lakefront or river trails.  But if you’re looking for a *real* hiking and nature experience around Chicago, a day trip to Starved Rock State Park is what you need.

Less than 100 miles from downtown Chicago, the park feels like another world.  It’s an oasis of towering trees, (seasonal) waterfalls, tons of different winding trails and wooden staircases, beautiful views, and more.

Hiking in Starved Rock State Park, a Chicago Day Trip | How to plan a trip to Starved Rock State Park, what feels like another world from the bustle of Chicago. With waterfalls, tons of hiking trails, beautiful views, and more. A perfect Chicago day trip, where to hike from Chicago, hikes in Illinois, Illinois state parks #starvedrock #chicago #illinois

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I’d honestly never heard of it, and @sjems5 (a Chicago native) had never visited before.  So while it’s a must-do, by no means is it super well-known.  And on my last visit to Chicago we decided to give it a try.

You can see a hiking map here (and save it on your phone to reference).  I’ve included some deeper details on Starved Rock State Park at the end of this post as well.

starved rock state park

Here are a few of my tips for visiting Starved Rock:

  • Get there early —both to beat the heat and the crowds!  I cannot stress this enough.  We were so thankful we sucked it up and woke up early on a Saturday to make the drive, because it was getting really crowded by late morning when we headed back to our cars.
  • Bring plenty of water and maybe some snacks (especially in summer).  We seriously sweat out our entire body weight, and were so thankful we’d brought a ton of water.
  • Wear appropriate clothes and shoes.   I saw a lot of people in flip flops and they were…kind of struggling.  I recommend hiking sandals or close-toed shoes (that goes double for when there’s been rain and the trails are muddy).
  • The vast majority of trails are not stroller or wheelchair accessible .  If you’re bringing tiny peeps, I recommend a carrier.  You need a minimal level of fitness to navigate the trails and go up and down the various sets of stairs.
  • Bring sunscreen (and consider bug spray) .  Thankfully a lot of the trail is shaded (BLESS), but you’ll still get plenty of sun, and you might get eaten alive by mosquitoes (thankfully they leave me alone, but they’re quite prevalent).

Hiking in Starved Rock State Park, a Chicago Day Trip | How to plan a trip to Starved Rock State Park, what feels like another world from the bustle of Chicago. With waterfalls, tons of hiking trails, beautiful views, and more. A perfect Chicago day trip, where to hike from Chicago, hikes in Illinois, Illinois state parks #starvedrock #chicago #illinois

Other Chicago area adventures for your enjoyment!

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Chicago Guide:  Where to Eat & Drink

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Foodie Heaven: A Visit To Chicago’s Time Out Market

Visiting The World’s Largest Starbuck’s: The Chicago Roastery

We got an early start from Berwyn (a suburb of Chicago that put us a bit closer to the park and so shortened the trip).  It took us about an hour and a half to pull into the parking lot at the Starved Rock Visitor Center, and we were able to find a spot.  Even that early, though, it was packed!

starved rock state park

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French Canyon

Our first stop was French Canyon, a little under half a milk from the Visitor Center.  It’s probably the most popular canyon in the park, partly due to proximity.

The one bummer of our visit was that they were in quite a drought and so none of the usual waterfalls were really anything more than a trickle.  In the spring there’s a lovely waterfall you can walk behind (and sometimes a cool “ice fall” in the winter).

Hiking in Starved Rock State Park, a Chicago Day Trip | How to plan a trip to Starved Rock State Park, what feels like another world from the bustle of Chicago. With waterfalls, tons of hiking trails, beautiful views, and more. A perfect Chicago day trip, where to hike from Chicago, hikes in Illinois, Illinois state parks #starvedrock #chicago #illinois

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Something I was super thankful for was that most of our hiking was in the shade, under strong tree cover…honestly it was our saving grace!

It was like mid/upper 90s and what felt like a thousand percent humidity that weekend, and so not being in the direct sun kept us from dying.  We still were completely drenched in sweat by the end and glad we’d hauled big water bottles with us.

starved rock state park

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Wildcat Canyon

After a brief stop overlooking one side of Wildcat Canyon, we headed down toward the lake, where the trail hugged the water for a while.

Overlooking Wildcat Canyon in Starved Rock State Park

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You’ll go back inland for a while, and there are several smaller “canyons” that honestly we couldn’t even fully identify.  There are a LOT of stairs though.

starved rock state park

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LaSalle Canyon

This is one of the coolest parts of the park (that we saw at least), and usually has an awesome waterfall.  It really was just a trickle when we were there, but still super cool.

The trail will snake along the giant limestone walls and lead you to the horseshoe-shaped canyon.  It really is huge.

LaSalle Canyon in Starved Rock State Park, Illinois - a perfect Chicago day trip

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We decided to go on from there toward Owl and Hidden Canyons.  All-told, we hiked 8 miles that day!  But we were underwhelmed by the rest of the hike past LaSalle Canyon in terms of things to see.

Maybe if we’d gone as far as Hennepin Canyon it would have been worth it, but we wished we had gone back and explored some of the other smaller trails we missed on our way in.

starved rock state park

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However, the one thing that was great about going further out was that by this point (probably around 11:00am), the park was getting super crowded closer to the Visitor Center.

As we walked back toward our car, we were slowed down quite a bit by the crowds and everyone trying to social distance as well.

starved rock state park

Have lunch & a flight of beers at Tangled Roots

We were absolutely RAVENOUS by this point, so detoured to nearby Utica to try out The Lone Buffalo from Tangled Roots Brewing Company (Google Maps is confusing on the subject, so yes they’re the same place).

Side note, Utica is super cute!  I wish we’d had more time to hang out and just explore (though a lot was closed due to COVID).  To be safe we made a reservation (this was mid-July and places were just starting to re-open).

starved rock state park

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We each ordered a flight of their beers to try and a giant burger.  The Vanilla Dobroy Nochi (a Russian imperial stout) was definitely my fave, though a bit of the Devil’s Paint Box (a citrusy IPA) was nice and refreshing.

starved rock state park

Tired and sweaty, we made our way back to Chicago and still had a good chunk of the day to explore.  If you’re spending time in the area (or live in the surrounding states), I highly recommend taking a day to hike around Starved Rock’s trails!

Details to plan your Starved Rock State Park trip:

  • Make sure to use the official Starved Rock State Park website to check opening times, trail closings, parking updates, and more.  Typically the park is open from sunrise to sunset.
  • When we went (July 2020) the Visitor Center was closed; there were port-a-potties out front as restrooms (not sure if that’s changed).
  • As I mentioned above, I STRONGLY recommend arriving early to beat the crowds and find parking (and avoid the worst of the heat in summer).
  • Make sure you bring plenty of water and sunscreen, and consider snacks and bug spray.
  • Appropriate clothes and shoes are important…don’t be that guy in flip flops.
  • The trails are not stroller or wheelchair accessible, so make sure you have a carrier or that your little ones are up to it.  I believe dogs on a leash are welcome.

Other gorgeous American hikes you’ll love:

  • Hiking Yant Flat & “Candy Cliffs” At Sunset: A Must In St. George, Utah
  • Armstrong Woods: Hiking Sonoma’s Majestic Redwoods
  • Hiking Oregon’s Stunning Trail of Ten Falls
  • Why You Have To Visit Utah’s Underrated Snow Canyon State Park
  • Hiking Sugarloaf Loop Trail (Maybe Sedona’s Most Underrated Trail??)

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Hiking in Starved Rock State Park, a Chicago Day Trip | How to plan a trip to Starved Rock State Park, what feels like another world from the bustle of Chicago. With waterfalls, tons of hiking trails, beautiful views, and more. A perfect Chicago day trip, where to hike from Chicago, hikes in Illinois, Illinois state parks #starvedrock #chicago #illinois

Comments (5)

day trips from chicago for hiking

August 31, 2023 at 10:03 pm

Hi Jessica, I spent time here during the late 70’s & early 80’s while living in Aurora, Illinois. I’d go w/ friends ( Carol & Eugene, Ace, Andrea, Kathy & Dewayne, & Dawn ). I was the official beer/ water/ ice/ cooler camel. I was in my late 20’s & strong as an oxe & could tote an extra large cooler w/ (2) cases of beer & plenty of ice up on one shoulder all the way to our favorite falls in the summer months. We’d explore, climb, get wet & enjoy each others company ALL the day long. Those are some of my Best memories! Thanks for this collum of yours & my return to yesteryears.

day trips from chicago for hiking

September 6, 2023 at 2:38 pm

Haha that sounds like GOOD times! Glad it brought back all the fun memories 🙂

day trips from chicago for hiking

Kelly McClanahan

May 19, 2023 at 8:49 pm

Thank you for the nice article. We are going this up coming Memorial weekend. We have never been. Ita a 5 hour drive for us from south eastern Michigan.

day trips from chicago for hiking

April 20, 2023 at 7:44 pm

I pulled some great tips from your site. We will be visiting Starved Rock this Saturday from Schaumburg. Went many times as a kid, . I’m very excited to take my grandkids.

April 21, 2023 at 8:43 am

Hi Donna! I’m glad it was helpful! You guys will have a great time, this is a really good time of year to visit.

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Best Day Trips from Chicago

day trips from chicago for hiking

When Chicago first began in the early 1830s it was just a small settlement on the coast of Lake Michigan. Over time it has expanded significantly and is now the biggest city in all of the American Midwest! Today the city's population is made up of unique nationalities, cultures and diverse backgrounds which gives it its own personality and character. Chicago is nicknamed the Windy City because of its windstorms and extra breezy weather no matter the season. Nevertheless, this is a fantastic multicultural town (hold on to your hat) and everyone is welcome to visit.

Did you know that this city is home to a total of 56 museums? If the weather elsewhere prevents you from venturing out, check out this list of the best museums in Chicago as an alternative plan. A trip to Chicago will be filled with exciting attractions and fun activities, but while you are in Illinois, why not venture outside of the city limits to see what else the area has to offer?

Below, we've gathered some ideas for fun day trips from Chicago that can make your vacation even more special. Before you leave town, visit Bounce luggage storage in Chicago to safely stow any bags or extra gear that you don't want to bring with you.

day trips from chicago for hiking

How to get out of Chicago

A big city like Chicago is filled with public transportation networks and is generally easy to navigate. The streets, which follow a grid-like pattern, are not too confusing to get around and the neighborhoods are very walkable. Each area is connected by both above-ground, below-ground and street-level transportation options that make it easy to get from place to place. If you want more details on moving around inside the city, read our guide on how to get around Chicago .

As for moving in and out of the city limits, some trains and buses should be able to get you where you need to go but driving is your best option. In the worst case, taxis or even water-taxis can help you get to where you need to go! An economical and environmentally friendly option other than driving yourself around is to use ride-sharing apps like Uber or Lyft. Keep them in mind when you are planning your day trips from Chicago.

From Chicago to Chicago Botanic Garden

All nature lovers will absolutely adore this Chicago day trip and you won't have to travel far to get here. The Botanic Garden houses unique plants and beautiful flowers from around the globe and there are over 30 distinct areas for you to explore on the grounds. Each section follows a certain theme, like the Japanese Garden, the Bonsai Collection, or the Dwarf Conifer Garden. There are so many nice places that it will be hard to choose a favorite! The gardens are open year-round but look out for seasonal events like the Butterflies & Blooms attraction or the Model Railroad Garden (great for young visitors).

You can easily spend a couple of hours exploring the natural beauty of the gardens. There is a smartphone app that offers self-guided tours for you to follow which will allow you to look around the area at your own pace. The gardens are fun for families since there are areas that are specifically targeted toward kids, like the Children's Growing Garden and the Nature Play Garden. Otherwise, you can navigate your way through bike trails (bike rentals are available on site) or take some birdwatching classes. A tram runs through the gardens and is a nice alternative for those who cannot or don't want to walk around. There is a lovely restaurant called the Garden View Café for when you get hungry plus a gift shop selling souvenirs.

How to get to Chicago Botanic Garden

You will definitely need an entire afternoon to appreciate the whole 385-acre Botanic Garden, but you can spend as long as you want here since it will only take about a half hour to get to! Driving there is the quickest way but methods using public transport are available as well. Hop on the Union Pacific North Line to the Braeside Station and then take a walk along the North Branch Trail until you reach the gardens. The whole train journey will take around an hour.

day trips from chicago for hiking

From Chicago to Indiana Dunes National Park

The Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore and Park is a great destination for a beach day getaway from Chicago. There are more than 15 miles of sand for you to enjoy along Lake Michigan's southern shore plus over 50 miles of walking routes and hiking trails to explore within the park. The national park is open during all four seasons; try out snowshoeing or cross country skiing during the wintertime and horseback riding, hiking, swimming and biking in the spring, fall or summer.

If you want to learn about the park and the wildlife that lives here you can ask questions during a ranger-led walking tour. There are also some historic buildings from the 19th century in the area which history buffs will definitely appreciate, like the Bailly Homestead , the Chellberg Farm , and Camp Good Fellow. Do you have any kids tagging along? They will love the Nature Play Zone and can even become Junior Rangers at the visitor center. If you ever get tired of the park you can go visit some of the attractions inside Michigan city, like the Windmill Island Gardens, the Washington Park Zoo, the Old Lighthouse Museum, or the Tulip Time Festival if you are visiting in early May.

How to get to Indiana Dunes National Park

The distance from Chicago to Indiana Dunes is not too far at all since it is right on the way to Michigan City. You can reach the park in about an hour if you drive on the I-90 E which will be your best bet since the public transport networks can't get you all the way there.

day trips from chicago for hiking

From Chicago to Milwaukee

One of the best places to go on a day trip from Chicago is the beautiful city of Milwaukee . It follows a slower pace than Chicago and is the optimal destination for a calm but exciting day. This Wisconsin town offers a wide selection of attractions like breweries, museums, and festivals! Check out Summerfest if you are visiting during the summertime.

Around 25 theaters and over 75 golf courses can keep you entertained all day. If you have some extra time we suggest going on a stroll down the RiverWalk which is a nice place to relax. Interested in going to some museums? The Milwaukee Art Museum is definitely worth stopping by. Another local icon is Harley-Davidson; try going on some museum tours to see artifacts, motorcycle pieces, or even the world's oldest known Harley. Milwaukee is otherwise known for its brewing heritage which is why you will find over 30 microbreweries and pubs scattered around the entire city. Consider going on a tour to learn more about the city's beer scene!

How to get to Milwaukee

Milwaukee won't be too far of a journey from Chicago which is why it is one of the best day trips. It is about an hour and a half away from the city center and can be reached both by car and by train. The Amtrack can bring you right from the Chicago Union Station straight to the Milwaukee Intermodal Station. If you are driving yourself you will just need to hop on the I-94 W.

day trips from chicago for hiking

From Chicago to Lake Geneva

Lake Geneva is one of the best Chicago day trips and offers a much different experience than the city life around Lake Michigan. This is a resort city where the wealthy decided to build their mansions during the time of the Gilded Age after the Great Chicago Fire. It is a great spot for shopping, eating at fabulous restaurants, or enjoying an active nightlife.

If you are looking for some small town charm you can explore the downtown area or admire all of the big houses along the Lake Geneva Shore Path. Just make sure that you are respectful of the private property. Loads of outdoor activities are available around Lake Geneva as well, including hiking trails, skiing and snowboarding slopes, biking routes, or even places to go ziplining. There is something here for everyone to enjoy!

How to get to Lake Geneva

To visit Lake Geneva and the charming town center beside it, you should opt for driving yourself. You can get there using the train and buses but it can be pretty complicated and will take a very long time. However, the journey by car should only take you an hour and a half if you go by the I-94 W.

From Chicago to Oak Park

There is so much to do in Oak Park, especially if you are a fan of the famous architect Frank Lloyd Wright. The people of this charming small town take pride in its diversity and it is a very welcoming place for everyone, no matter who you are or where you come from! Downtown Oak Park offers a fantastic area with specialty shops as well as an impressive culinary scene. There are more than enough galleries for any art lovers as well!

Of course, no road trip to Oak Park would be worthwhile without stopping by the Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Museum where you can see his old house and studio up close and in person. Check out the Ernest Hemingway Birthplace Museum if you are a fan of the writer's work; it is only a few blocks away from the Frank Lloyd Wright attractions.

How to get to Oak Park

Oak Park is one of the closest day trips from Chicago and will only take 15 minutes to get to by car on the I-290 W. You can also take the train from the Ogilvie Transportation Center which will take about the same amount of time.

day trips from chicago for hiking

From Chicago to Starved Rock State Park

One of the best places to go for outdoor activities and spending time in nature around Chicago is the stunning Starved Rock State Park. It is one of the top attractions in Illinois so you won't want to miss any opportunity to see it for yourself! The State Parks is home to more than 15 canyons, tall green trees, lush foliage and lots of wildlife. You should grab your trekking gear and be prepared to spend a day walking along the many hiking trails available in the park.

The Illinois River runs throughout the area and allows for water activities like river cruises, kayaking or rafting. Other attractions include horseback riding and birdwatching, or you can just pack a picnic and eat by one of the beautiful canyon waterfalls! The hikes are not too challenging and people of all ages should be able to participate. You can also check out Matthiessen State Park if you have more time to spend since they are only a few minutes away from each other. The Starved Rock State Park is a beautiful spot to visit any time of year but be aware that it can get busy during peak season, so consider avoiding weekends during that time if you don't want to have to deal with crowds.

How to get to Starved Rock State Park

Ready for an outdoor adventure? This state park can be reached in about an hour and a half but unfortunately, the only way to get there is by car. The drive is easy if you take the via I-55 S and I-80 W.

Planning the Perfect Day Trip

Although downtown Chicago or sights like Soldier Field are very exciting places, it is always fun to go on road trips to see what else there is around. Illinois is dotted with small towns that are home to an intriguing natural history as well as nearby parks and gardens where you can enjoy fresh air in the rolling hills. We've listed some great places to visit but if you are looking for more ideas for day trips from Chicago there is so much more to see!

Rockford is the fourth largest city in Illinois and another great spot to visit; check out the Anderson Japanese Gardens , Prairie Street Brewing Company, Rockford Art Museum and Discovery Center Museum. Grand Rapids is sometimes called Beer City USA and is one of the best weekend getaways for anyone who enjoys touring breweries. It doesn't really matter where you go on your day trip from Chicago since there is something waiting for you in every direction.

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day trips from chicago for hiking

COMMENTS

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