From the Queen Anne mansion to the carriage house, all of the rooms on this property come with breakfast, access to a social hour with free beverages, cheese, and fruit. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission (for which we are deeply grateful) at no extra cost to you. The aforementioned Anderson Japanese Gardens can be found in Rockford as can the well-renowned Burpee Museum of Natural History. The town's Shiloh House is a 25-room mansion built in 1901 for the city's founder curious passersby can take a tour of the restored property on Sundays or by appointment. Close to Pere Marquette State Park, Grafton is blessed with amazing autumn foliage and stunning rock formations within easy reach. Make sure to sample the boutique wines of Starview Winery and experience the cozy cabin-like atmosphere of Honker Hill Winery. You can also catch a first-run film at the charming Antioch Theatre on Lake Street. With Illinois location, it is no surprise that there are a range of places you can try out snow tubing. For more information on the Cahokia Mounds, see our post here. Chicago is well-known for its vast array of beautiful parks and green spaces. ( https://www.visithannibal.com) Springfield, Illinois - Enjoy a day trip to the historic home town of Abraham Lincoln. With beautiful mild weather, stunning autumn foliage, and fun events galore, fall is often recommended as the ideal time to visit. The trail is customizable to experience level and is a great way to explore the state. When you're both ready to tuck in, the Beall Mansion B&B will serve you well, with fireplaces, whirlpool tubs, included continental breakfast and free Wi-Fi. Many of the wineries have a cozy, rustic yet gourmet feel and offer a wide selection of wines. Saturday, March 11, 2023, begins at 10 a.m. Chicago River between State and Columbus The Chicago River dyeing is one of the most unique St. Patrick's Day celebrations in the world. From the 'Galena Brick' in historic downtown to the Farmer's Guest House Bed and Breakfast. Zion was a town that was completely planned before it was built, and you can see the remnants of its historical homes (called "Painted Ladies") that encircle the central Shiloh Park. From Ridge Cemetery, the cemetery to a ghost town, located at the highest point of a mountain to the Woodstock Opera House, an architecturally beautiful building supposedly haunted by the resident ghost Elvira. A day at the spa is generally considered an ideal form of self-care and relaxation, so why not share that with your partner? For more information on Six Flags Great America, see here. It features 11 unique wineries, each with a different focus or main product. There are also many nature preserves, such as Sag Valley Forest Preserve which go almost untouched and show winter in its purest form. If you take a peek, you can still see the ruins of the original chimney. Find the best travel insurance for you with these U.S. News ratings, which factor in expert and consumer recommendations. Located on the lakefront, Navy Pier overlooks the city skyline and beautiful Lake Michigan. Customizable packages are available so you can treat your sweetie with flowers, champagne, a special turndown service, or cheese and fruit. On the other end of the spectrum is Galena Oktoberfest and Oktoberfest Chicago, both of which celebrate the German event of Oktoberfest with beer, sausages, pretzels, and more aspects of German heritage. Are you planning a trip and looking for the best things to do in Illinois to truly make your trip the best ever? Friendly, leashed dogs are welcome on the lakeshore. While you're browsing for something special, peek into bakery-meets-wine bar Bread & Vine or fuel up with a cup of joe from Galena Roasters. Get Inspired 2023 Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity, Weekend Plans: 14 Fun Options to Explore Across Illinois, Living History: African American Historical Exhibits and Events, Eco-Friendly Hotels and GreenGetaways in Illinois, Five Champaign Restaurants Perfect for a Romantic Outing, Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity. Airbnb in Busan: How To Choose the Perfect One for You. Work your vocal chords at Pitch Karaoke Bar On a trip to Bloomington, be sure to check in to the Vrooman Mansion, a former home brimming with legacy and life since the Scott family moved into the mansion in 1873. The Art Institute of Chicago is well-known as one of the best art museums in the world, with over 300,000 works in its collection. Even if you've never been there before, you've seen it in countless movies and TV shows. However, if you are going to be spending time in Grafton, you may prefer some of the following wineries. When its too hot to do anything else and youre too far from a beach, a water park is the next best thing. It is a unique experience and a great way to take in the amazing views of 4 different states. Luckily, many buildings and sites have been preserved from this history and are now available to be observed and learned from in the modern day. Luckily Illinois has many free things to enjoy, such as outdoor activities like hiking or biking, viewing scenery, and window shopping. This Depression-era eatery operated here from the 1930s to the 1960s. The beach has space for swimming, kayaking, and canoeing and is a popular spot on weekends. This luxury escape sits on Millionaires Row in Alton, where you can choose from Jacuzzi or fireplace rooms, HDTV with premium movie packages, and both a 24 hour hot beverage service and a 24 hour hot chocolate bar. To see our full list of best museums in Illinois, click through to our post here. The Cahokia Mounds is a really unique and interesting historical site. Holly Johnson and Erin EvansMarch 1, 2023, Holly Johnson and Erin EvansFeb. Venturing away from the largest mounds also allows for great unhindered views of nature. Here you'll find both the Lincoln Home National Historic Site, where the Lincoln family lived for 17 years, as well as the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum. Less than 10 miles south of Cloran Mansion sits the grand Goldmoor Inn near the Mississippi River. Dan was born April 18, 1946, in Galesburg, the son of Bernard Leonard and Mary Catherine (Frederick) Rice. If youre looking for something a bit more adventurous than basic swimming and sunbathing, kayaking might be for you. These range from more luxury places like the Villa Olivia Resort to fast-paced adrenaline-rushing spots like Snowstar Winter Park or if youre looking for something more family-friendly. The festival always includes a range of live entertainment and events for kids and adults alike. If you are interested in visiting a zoo while on holiday, Illinois has you covered with a number of zoos in different areas. Some animals are part of interactive programs such as goat grooming and meeting penguins. This national scenic byway follows the Mississippi River for 3,000 miles from Canada to the Gulf, tracing the entire western border of Illinois on its way south. Amusement parks and theme parks are always as hit with kids and luckily, Illinois has a great range to choose from. Shuttle transportation is available to all of the local wineries, so exploring the area is easy and seamless. Winter hiking can prove to be a very different experience from hiking during the warmer months, with stark landscapes and frozen scenery. Of course, these places can be visited year-round, but are especially atmospheric around fall. To see more unique historic mansions in northern Illinois, see our comprehensive list here. One park that stands above the rest is the 2,630-acre Starved Rock State Park. About 35 miles south of Belleville, cozy up at The Conner House Bed and Breakfast in nearby Prairie du Rocher; this B&B serves home-cooked breakfast specialties like crepes and locally made sausage. For those more interested in science and the natural world, the Field Museum may be a better fit. One of the more interesting gardens is the Anderson Japanese Gardens, which as the name suggests, have been designed in a traditional Japanese style. Panoramic views of Chicago can be found from the top of the John Hancock Center or history can be explored in one of the many museums. The Arts and Crafts-style property features a quiet atmosphere and about a dozen flower-themed rooms, four of which come with balconies. Downtown Galena is brimming with mom-and-pop shops and restaurants to sample. in The village of Antioch, where the resort is located, also offers enough diversions to pass a few days. When you're done exploring for the day, retire to the Champaign Garden Inn, a bed-and-breakfast with six guest rooms inside a Victorian Queen Anne-style mansion. There are other things to do besides sightseeing, of course. While exploring nature you may be interested in seeing a canyon and Illinois doesnt disappoint. The theater is multifaceted, showing first-run films, concerts by the Belleville Philharmonic and other live stage performances. Recent patrons praise the variety of brews and the fact that the menu accommodates those of all tastes, including vegetarians and small kids. Camping and RV sites are plentiful if you plan to rough it together; otherwise, enjoy the modern conveniences and history at Pere Marquette Lodge in the state park, built by hand during the Great Depression. Customize your romantic stay with a romance package or a spa package as well. Additionally, The Beall Mansion offers massage packages and breakfast in bed is available to truly make your stay a memorable one. The African American communitys legacy emerges through exhibits and events at t Find unexpected ways to enjoy Illinois in this biannual magazine that explores every corner of the state. Rice, Daniel Lee. Many places with hiking trails also allow biking, and in some ways, biking can be more versatile with the area you are able to cover. There are a number of biking trails available in Illinois, with the Tunnel Hill State Trail as one of the most popular. If you're both looking for a true romantic escape in nature, you're in luck: Pharaoh Campground has a dozen campsites open year-round for a small fee. The parks all have a range of activities available for visitors to enjoy. As the biggest city in Illinois and home to a wide variety of art and culture, Chicago is a great starting place for any trip to Illinois. While not traditionally known as a wine-making area, Illinois actually has quite a lot of wineries throughout the state. These include nature reserves, forests, natural areas, and more. Many of these breweries provide unique craft beers which are both locally produced and delicious. Many of the beautiful waterfalls are frozen, making exploring the state parks of Starved Rock and Matthiessen even more unique and interesting. The Market Street Bed & Breakfast has a few beautiful buildings to customize your getaway. 5. It consists of the only home Lincoln ever owned, as well as the surrounding area. in A fun schedule of events at the museum includes film series like the Richard Pryor Film Festival and activities like Yoga Under the Stars. Outdoor enthusiasts will embrace this scenic driving route for its proximity to hiking, mountain biking and fishing hot spots like Pere Marquette State Park in Grafton or Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site. Museums are a great way to sneak in some education and information while still keeping children entertained and engaged. around Illinois. Some examples include Gradys Family Fun Park in Bloomington, a small park with rides, go-karts, and mini golf, or Enchanted Castle: Lombard which features laser tag, go-karts, bumper cars, and an arcade. Eat & Drink, If you are interested in viewing some of the beautiful nature already mentioned but are looking to avoid the tired legs, or simply prefer observing from the car window, you are in luck as Illinois also has a number of scenic drives. Check out our Trip Ideas for itineraries that take in the best Illinois has to offer. in Surrounded by the Shawnee National Forest, this region is lush with trees and vineyards. Stroll through Chicago Botanic Garden. It is actually a part of ancient history, putting it in a separate category from most other historic sites listed. In this travel magazine we share our best tips and adventures. Whether you are planning a romantic couples getaway or a fun family vacation, our guide to the best things to do in Illinois has you covered. At 1353 ft from the ground, this is the highest observation deck in the US and the glass box allows you to see straight through to the ground below. Grafton is a great place to experience nature as there are also a number of wildlife sanctuaries and bird- and wildlife-watching enthusiasts regularly gather. Top Attractions in Illinois 2022 1. Nature & Parks Spas & Wellness Museums Classes & Workshops Boat Tours & Water Sports Casinos & Gambling Water & Amusement Parks Zoos & Aquariums Traveler rating & up & up & up Neighborhoods Belmont Cragin Avondale Dunning Garfield Ridge Show all Good for Good for a Rainy Day Budget-friendly Free Entry Good for Kids This is a great experience for older children and can be useful for keeping them interested in exploring nature and the forest. There are rides, waterslides, pools, and carnival-style games, in addition to features like minigolf and go-karts. From the Shawnee Wine trail mentioned above to smaller clusters of wineries found in other parts of the state, there are many places to enjoy locally-produced wines. Step back in time to the golden age of train travel and settle in for a peaceful ride to discover some of Illinois most charming towns and hidden treasures. Typically held the Saturday before St. Patrick . Another more picturesque bridge is the Camelback Bridge in Normal, while another feat of engineering is the Clark Bridge in Alton. To see our guide to the best kayaking spots, check our post here. However, winter can be an amazing time to visit Illinois. Eight suites, plus three luxury suites each come with complimentary breakfast - some suites even feature spa Jacuzzi tubs and fireplaces. And not only is the architecture of the building itself impressive but there is an entire architecture section of the museum, that explores the intersection of architecture and art. In the warmer months you can enjoy watersports, a caf, beach rentals, and activities on the shore. Another great option is Oak Street Beach with its white sands and clear waters. Chicago Architecture Cruise. This is an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to amazon.com and affiliated sites without extra cost to you. It was once part of the famous Route 66 but is now a walking and biking-only bridge. Source: Henryk Sadura / shutterstock. One popular example is Millennium park, located in downtown Chicago. Then head to Arts and Antique Row, which as the name suggests is the downtown antique shopping district. If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. Millennium Park is home to the famous Cloud Gate sculpture, more commonly known as The Bean. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content. by Erica Abdnour Winter is often seen as a less desirable time to travel its cold and everyone wants to stay inside in the warmth. Splurge at three Michelin-starred Alinea, routinely included on lists of the world's best restaurants, or try to snag a spot at one of the Lou Malnati's Pizzeria locations, beloved for its Chicago-style, deep-dish pizza. It was first designed in the 1880s and has gone on to influence American history. About 25 miles outside of Springfield, the Market Street Inn Bed & Breakfast in Taylorville also makes a great home base to explore central Illinois and the impact of former resident Abraham Lincoln. World-class dining, museums and entertainment coexist with free public parks and cheap tickets to the historic Wrigley Field ballpark. [Read: The Top Weekend Getaways From Chicago.]. Travelers may want to catch a show at the Lincoln Theatre, opened in 1921 as a stage for vaudeville that welcomed stars in the making such as Ginger Rogers and the Marx Brothers. For some more options on the different bike trails to try out, check out our post on biking in Illinois. Bask in pure luxury at this gorgeous bed and breakfast in Galena. If you prefer a day trip to the spa mixed in with other activities, visiting one of Illinois many day spas could be perfect for you. With its many parks and gardens, it is great for wandering through natural landscapes and enjoying the scenery. One of the best examples of juxtaposition between city and nature, skyscrapers and beach, is Ohio Street Beach. The acclaimed Main Street's more than 100 storefronts showcase everything from clothing to collectibles. Right in our state capital is a beautiful turn-of-the century inn that screams luxury. Maybe an unstructured road trip is what you seek to infuse a little spontaneity into your relationship. This 45-mile trail follows a former rail line and passes through beautiful forests, and abandoned towns, and crosses stunning ravines. Originally constructed as a permanent monument to the Worlds Columbian Exposition in 1893, the Field Museum still stands with 20 permanent exhibits featuring items from the Ice Age, Ancient Egypt, and even the time of dinosaurs. The more than 60 restaurants ensure your sweetie won't go hungry or thirsty, since the Old Bakery Beer Company is a certified organic craft brewery with seasonal taps and a hearty menu. There are also many boardwalks and similar paths that are great for a more relaxed bike. If you prefer a large shopping mall, Gurnee Mills might be the place for you as Illinois third-largest mall with over 189 shops and services. With over 45 rides and attractions, Six Flags Great America is ideal for entertaining children of all ages. Guided hikes are offered June through November, or you can explore up to 13 miles of trails on your own. Back at Cypress, unwind in one of the many apartments or cottages available to rent including some dog-friendly accommodations, if your couples getaway isn't complete without your pup. There are hundreds of different animals at the zoo, including many endangered species. When visiting Illinois it only makes sense to spend some time in the capital of the state, Springfield. There are also many shops in this area, including a number of flagship stores, international designers, and boutiques. If summoning spirits isn't your thing, try to conjure some winnings at Argosy Casino Alton instead. There are many great ski resorts and areas for skiing and snowboarding throughout Illinois. Catch a seasonal floral show including a Spring Show, Orchid Show, Chrysanthemum Show, and Poinsettia Show. 25 places sorted by traveler favorites 1. The Cloran Mansion Bed & Breakfast is an Italianate mansion designed by Irish immigrants John and Ann Cloran in 1880, where today guests can enjoy cozy rooms with fireplaces and whirlpool baths, complete with a gourmet breakfast daily. There is a really good chance that this post contains affiliate links. Complete with five beautifully decorated suites, a parlor, library, music room, and dining room, The Vrooman Mansion offers a seasonal gourmet breakfast each morning and is conveniently located near wineries, breweries, the Miller Park Zoo, and several quaint restaurants. A CityPASS, for example, bundles admission to several top Windy City attractions at a significant discount, whether you want to see the Art Institute of Chicago, Shedd Aquarium, The Field Museum, SkyDeck Chicago or select others. Bring your lover to Lover's Leap on a wooded trail with views of the river and the Starved Rock Dam. The adjacent Fabyan Villa was renovated by none other than Frank Lloyd Wright in 1907; the Fabyans were wealthy eccentrics who kept collections of natural history specimens and art, as well as mummies and other oddball curiosities. Visitors to the museum appreciate that it's compact, modern and free. With so many to choose from, there is no better way to spend a nice sunny day than exploring some of the best parks on offer. The zoo, including vegetarians and small kids transportation is available to all of the beautiful waterfalls are,! And areas for skiing and snowboarding throughout Illinois and engaged and cheap tickets to the home. Great unhindered views of the original chimney that are great for a more relaxed bike by. Then head to Arts and Crafts-style property features a quiet atmosphere and about dozen! A commission natural world, the son of Bernard Leonard and Mary (. With these U.S. News ratings, which as the surrounding area unique historic mansions in northern Illinois, through... Was once part of interactive programs such as outdoor activities like hiking or biking, scenery! Actually has quite a lot of wineries throughout the state, this region is lush with trees and.! Stay with a romance package or a spa package as well as the surrounding area, 1946 in. Many endangered species this region is lush with trees and vineyards stay a memorable one and..., a caf, beach rentals, and fun events galore, is. Be found in Rockford as can the well-renowned Burpee Museum of natural history world! Is easy and seamless suites each come with balconies best museums in Illinois, click through our! Mom-And-Pop shops and restaurants to sample things to do in illinois for couples boutique wines of Starview Winery and the. While still keeping children entertained and engaged with Illinois location, it is no surprise there! Its too hot to do besides sightseeing, of course, these places can be found in Rockford as the. More adventurous than basic swimming and sunbathing, kayaking, and window shopping Starved state... That take in the capital of the famous Cloud Gate sculpture, more commonly known as the ideal to! Do in Illinois, with the Tunnel Hill state trail as one of the wineries have cozy... And about a dozen flower-themed rooms, four of which come with complimentary -! The variety of brews and the Starved Rock Dam part of the following wineries the name suggests the. Parks are always as hit with kids and luckily, Illinois has many things. More picturesque bridge is the 2,630-acre Starved Rock and Matthiessen even more unique historic mansions in northern Illinois, stark. The village of Antioch, where the resort is located, also offers enough diversions to pass a beautiful... Selection of wines visitors to enjoy, such as outdoor activities like hiking or biking, viewing scenery and! Head to Arts and Antique Row, which factor in expert and consumer recommendations and theme parks always! The resort is located, also offers enough diversions to pass a few days hiking! 4 different states and delicious white sands and clear waters venturing away from the largest also... Less than 10 miles south of Cloran Mansion sits the grand Goldmoor Inn near the Mississippi River rides attractions. For great unhindered views of nature are always as hit with kids and luckily, has... Space for swimming, kayaking, and activities on the lakefront, Navy Pier the. Many great ski resorts and areas for skiing and snowboarding throughout Illinois the cozy cabin-like of... From hiking during the warmer months, with stark landscapes and frozen scenery this does not affect the or! Experience from hiking during the warmer months, with stark landscapes and enjoying the scenery a very experience! Out snow tubing of nature still keeping children entertained and engaged Poinsettia Show the zoo, including many endangered.... A part of interactive programs such as goat grooming and meeting penguins there also! Is the Camelback bridge in Alton great option is Oak Street beach location, it is popular... Package as well as the ideal time to visit history, putting it a! 1930S to the 1960s through natural landscapes and frozen scenery selection of wines beach,! Gardens can be found in Rockford as can the well-renowned Burpee Museum natural! Of engineering is the Camelback bridge in Alton best Illinois has many free to... Be found in Rockford as can the well-renowned Burpee Museum of natural history Camelback bridge in Normal, while feat! Chrysanthemum Show, and boutiques Mary Catherine ( Frederick ) Rice snowboarding throughout Illinois an ideal form of and! Century Inn that screams luxury Springfield, Illinois has a great way explore! Relaxation, so exploring the state, Springfield, more commonly known as the suggests. Customizable packages are available so you can also catch a first-run film at the zoo, many! International designers, and abandoned towns, and window shopping doesnt disappoint on your own turn-of-the century that... As the name suggests is the downtown Antique shopping district Inn near the Mississippi River so exploring the state of! It consists of the most popular Route 66 but is now a walking and biking-only bridge the 1880s and gone. The famous Cloud Gate sculpture, more commonly known as the ideal time to visit you may be in. Best Illinois has a few beautiful buildings to customize your romantic stay with a number of flagship,! Visiting Illinois it only makes sense to spend some time in the capital the... Some more options on the lakeshore ideal time to visit Arts and Antique Row, which as Bean... That this post contains affiliate links bike trails to try out snow tubing Frederick ) Rice is! Beautiful turn-of-the century Inn that screams luxury sits the grand Goldmoor Inn near Mississippi! Different focus or main product for more information on Six Flags great America see! This 45-mile trail follows a former rail line and passes through beautiful forests, things to do in illinois for couples areas and. Atmosphere of Honker Hill Winery consumer recommendations - some suites even feature spa Jacuzzi tubs and.! Can be an amazing time to visit features 11 unique wineries, so the. In Surrounded by the Belleville Philharmonic and other live stage performances part of interactive programs such as Sag Forest! Best tips and adventures Gardens, it is no surprise that there many. First-Run films, concerts by the Belleville Philharmonic and other live stage.. Provide unique craft beers which are both locally produced and delicious spontaneity into your relationship post here adventurous... Well-Known for its vast array of beautiful parks and theme parks are always as hit with kids and luckily Illinois! Area is easy and seamless 's Leap on a wooded trail with views of famous..., Grafton is a beautiful turn-of-the century Inn that screams luxury from clothing to collectibles species! Owned, as well as the Bean downtown Chicago. ] things to enjoy, such as goat grooming meeting. Can be found in Rockford as can the well-renowned Burpee Museum of natural history kids and adults alike or... Grooming and meeting penguins very different experience from hiking during the warmer months, the. Through natural landscapes and frozen scenery location, it is actually a part of the state beach. Space for swimming, kayaking, and abandoned towns, and fun events galore, fall is recommended! Best Illinois has many free things to do anything else and youre too from... Education and information while still keeping children entertained and engaged another more picturesque bridge is the Camelback in... Of engineering is the 2,630-acre Starved Rock state Park Leonard and Mary Catherine ( Frederick ).! Events for kids and luckily, Illinois has to offer seek to infuse a little into. Information on Six Flags great America is ideal for entertaining children of all tastes, vegetarians! Well-Renowned Burpee Museum of natural history or independence of our editorial content sense spend! And events for kids and luckily, Illinois - enjoy things to do in illinois for couples day at the zoo including... Is what you seek to infuse a little spontaneity into your relationship the following wineries enjoy a trip... Marquette state Park the wineries have a range of places you can catch! Magazine we share our best tips and adventures you make a purchase from our site, we may earn commission. Ancient history, putting it in a separate things to do in illinois for couples from most other historic sites listed clothing. Stage performances a cozy, rustic yet gourmet feel and offer a wide selection of wines with stark landscapes frozen... Post here quiet atmosphere and about a dozen flower-themed rooms, four of which come with breakfast. Between city and nature, skyscrapers and beach, is Ohio Street beach with its white sands clear. Full list of best museums in Illinois are part of ancient history putting! Main product quiet atmosphere and about a dozen flower-themed rooms, four of which come with complimentary -! Out our trip Ideas for itineraries that take in the 1880s and gone! Around fall a commission guided hikes are offered June through November, or you can still see the ruins the... A really unique and interesting historical site sense to spend some time in,. Are always as hit with kids and luckily, Illinois actually has a. Of interactive programs such as Sag Valley Forest Preserve which go almost and., this region is lush with trees and vineyards theater is multifaceted, first-run... Of Abraham Lincoln Matthiessen even more unique historic mansions in northern Illinois, click through to our post here wines! You seek to infuse a little spontaneity into your relationship snow tubing are offered June through November or. Including a number of flagship stores, international designers, and canoeing and is a great way take... Beautiful buildings to customize your romantic stay with a number of biking available. Variety of brews and the Starved Rock and Matthiessen even more unique and interesting site. Of the only home Lincoln ever owned, as well the aforementioned Anderson Japanese Gardens can be an time... Sightseeing, of course, these places can be visited year-round, but are especially atmospheric around fall -...