Of course, these places can be visited year-round, but are especially atmospheric around fall. Luckily Illinois has many free things to enjoy, such as outdoor activities like hiking or biking, viewing scenery, and window shopping. There are hundreds of different animals at the zoo, including many endangered species. There are a number of biking trails available in Illinois, with the Tunnel Hill State Trail as one of the most popular. Activities. Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library And Museum. Find out what's on in Illinois and Chicago with your guide to events, festivals, markets, music, theater, sports and more. The zoo also expands beyond just animals with over 1200 different plant species and a dedicated arboretum. The center also offers visitors the chance to operate machinery simulators and learn about how real engineers work at the company. Types of Attractions Nature & Parks Fun & Games Sights & Landmarks Nightlife Boat Tours & Water Sports Museums Spas & Wellness Classes & Workshops Zoos & Aquariums Water & Amusement Parks Casinos & Gambling Traveler rating & up & up Neighborhoods Belmont Cragin Canaryville Lower West Side Near West Side Show all Good for Good for Couples He attended St. Joseph's Academy and graduated from the last class at Corpus Christi High . With a long history as the Peoples Pier, Navy Pier has always featured as a space for the public to gather and relax. 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. You and your partner may find yourselves hiking to the heavens at the Garden of the Gods, swimming the shores of Lake Michigan or barreling down the Great River Road scenic byway. A full breakfast comes complimentary, and you dont want to miss an array of Belgian waffles, French toast, eggs, farm-fresh meats, and much more. 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. See and be seen at these stunning natural wonders. For golfing enthusiasts, it can be an interesting experience as there is a range of types of courses available throughout the state. Head to Zion, on the border with Wisconsin, where Illinois Beach State Park extends for 6.5 miles along Lake Michigan. Another must-visit Geneva establishment is the Little Traveler, a Victorian house that is part cafe and part sprawling store. From exhilarating roller coasters to costumed characters, these parks offer fun for everyone. 30 Things Seoul is Famous For, Driving in Sweden in Winter: All You Need To Know, Globetrotters in heart and soul. Experience the best of main street shopping and more. 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. Perhaps the most well-known is the now world-famous Lollapalooza 4-day music festival, held in Grant Park. Upgrade your tour to include three pours of local . in Offering a little bit of everything, Peoria is an Illinois city you might have heard of even if you're not sure why. For photography enthusiasts, there is also a photography cruise that follows the same route as the normal CAFC tour, but takes place in the early morning and pauses at key points to allow photographers to get perfect shots in the morning light. This 45-mile trail follows a former rail line and passes through beautiful forests, and abandoned towns, and crosses stunning ravines. From Wildcat Canyon, the deepest canyon in Starved Rock Park at 90 feet to LaSalle Canyon, where you can stand behind the waterfall, there are many canyons to explore in Illinois. If you prefer something a bit more local and community-based, Makanda Boardwalk may be a better option. With Chicagos great location on the edge of Lake Michigan, it is ideal for going to the beach and soaking up some sun. Article Discover Local Meet the makers, the creators, and the artisans of Illinois. A sparkling, wine-colored gem of southern Illinois is the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail near Pomona. Eat & Drink Regional Getaways Illinois Made Chicago Activities Family Fun Architecture Arts & Culture & History Outdoors & Regional Offbeat Illinois 4-5 Days 5+ Days From Local Experts 1-3 Days Top 10 Winter Events & Festivals in Illinois Skiing? One of the best ways to truly connect with your partner is to book a stay in a romantic hotel or cabin where you can escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and focus on each other and the relaxing environment youre in. Recent visitors rave about the inn's polite, friendly service and elegant ambiance. This is also one of the best places to see fall colors in Chicago. Experience Illinois with your significant other by exploring Chicago, driving the Great River Road, hiking in Ottawa and more. (Note: Some of the following activities, attractions and locations may be affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. This Asian-fusion restaurant brings a modern twist to fusion cuisine with craft cocktails, nigiri, four different types of mac 'n' cheese, Thai doughnuts and burgers. 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. With Illinois location, it is no surprise that there are a range of places you can try out snow tubing. The Prairie St Brewing Co. started and has been thriving in Rockford for many years now, making it a great stop on any visit to Rockford. Explore all the great things to do in galena il. Deidre Peverill/Flickr 2. Winter is often seen as a less desirable time to travel its cold and everyone wants to stay inside in the warmth. Elgin History Museum 27 History Museums By STCIL Interesting local history. Eleven of the state's best wineries, including some of the oldest vineyards in Illinois, are dotted along a 40-mile trail for you to discover at your own pace. The best part? Water parks are another great option for entertaining the family, especially during the heat of summer. The London House boasts a tri-level rooftop bar, as well as a inhouse restaurant, with a terrace overlooking the river serving a fresh take on regional cuisine.. All food tastings are included, and the tour covers an easy 1.5 miles (2.4 km) suitable for most fitness levels. The Peoria Riverfront Museum spans art, history and science exhibits in addition to a planetarium for a comprehensive look at culture and humanity. It is actually a part of ancient history, putting it in a separate category from most other historic sites listed. 25 places sorted by traveler favorites 1. Whether its lunch before relaxing on the greens or a nice dinner while watching the sunset, the Navy Pier restaurants simply add to the overall experience. For some more options on the different bike trails to try out, check out our post on biking in Illinois. If you are planning a romantic couples trip, Illinois is an ideal place with a variety of things to do. More information on the Science Center as well as many other museums which are great for children can be found here, in our guide to museums in Illinois. For more detail on Springfield, see our post here. A spa treatment is also ideal for feeling refreshed and reinvigorated for approaching life together. To see a full list of the best castles in Illinois, see our guide here. There are other things to do besides sightseeing, of course. Bring your lover to Lover's Leap on a wooded trail with views of the river and the Starved Rock Dam. Less than 10 miles south of Cloran Mansion sits the grand Goldmoor Inn near the Mississippi River. Whether it is through interactive exhibits or finding museums relevant to their interests, museums can be an ideal way to spend a day as a family. If you prefer to stick to the tried and true, Six Flags Great America is another great option among the amusement parks of Illinois. There are many unique fossils, bones, and more featured in the museum along with exhibits on geology, ancient human civilizations, and more. Here we have some of the best water parks in Illinois. It can also be a fun activity for adults, making it a great bonding experience. Open every day of the week, McLean County Museum of History offers free admission to its visitors every Tuesday. Visitors to the museum appreciate that it's compact, modern and free. For more on Galena, see our previous post here. Table games, more than 800 slot machines and dining options make this a potentially late night out. Travelers can always walk off an indulgent meal at one of Champaign-Urbana's many art galleries; the Wandell Sculpture Garden; or the contemporary Spurlock Museum, which focuses on world cultures. 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. Explore Illinois Architectural Oddities 27 Statues 25 Museums And Collections 25 Shops 25 History 23 Art 23 Sculptures 21 Monuments 20 Collections 20 Abandoned 17 Cemeteries 14 Illinois Obscura. Whether youre looking for a lavish spa, great food and wine, or a beautiful suite, Illinois has plenty of places to relax and revitalize during a romantic couples' retreat. The Oak Street Beach is one of the most unique and fun things to do in Illinois. Galena is a beautiful historic city in northern Illinois with a wide range of things to see and do. For more details about the Pullman National Monument, see our previous post here. Get inspired by top travel stories, and discover even more reasons to #EnjoyIllinois. 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. The property hosts weekly events such as a barbecue and wine pairing dinner in the summer. Many of the state parks feature amazing waterfalls, such as Cascade Falls in Matthiessen State Park and St Louis Canyon in Starved Rock State Park. The gardens have been officially recognized by the Japanese government as an effort toward international friendship. The cruise takes about 90 minutes and is now offered in the evening as well as during the day to provide a different view of the city. 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. Order a copy of Enjoy Illinois and also receive the Illinois State Park Guide and an Official Highway Map. 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 more detail on the Krannert Art Museum, see our post here. 1. Explore the top-rated styles for every type of trip to the beach. Experience Illinois with your significant other by exploring Chicago, driving the Great River Road, hiking in Ottawa and more. A trip to one of these Illinois destinations will uncover plenty of opportunities for romance and a zest for living well. With beautiful mild weather, stunning autumn foliage, and fun events galore, fall is often recommended as the ideal time to visit. If youre in Illinois on a budget, taking advantage of free things to do is a great way to still get some great experiences without breaking the bank. In this travel magazine we share our best tips and adventures. [See more of Chicago:Things to Do | Tours | Hotels | When to Visit | Photos]. Not only is the beach a beautiful sandy lake shore, it also has some amazing views of the Chicago skyline. Outdoor Activities Concerts & Shows Food & Drink Events Shopping Transportation Traveler Resources Types of Attractions Nightlife Sights & Landmarks Fun & Games Nature & Parks Spas & Wellness Museums Classes & Workshops Boat Tours & Water Sports Casinos & Gambling Water & Amusement Parks Zoos & Aquariums Traveler rating & up & up & up Neighborhoods Rice, Daniel Lee. Autumn is an ideal time to visit when the leaves are at their peak fall colors. The McCormick Tribune Ice Rink in Chicago is one of the most popular with over 100,000 skaters each year. Additionally, The Beall Mansion offers massage packages and breakfast in bed is available to truly make your stay a memorable one. However, hiking isnt limited to just the state parks. To see our guide to the best kayaking spots, check our post here. Taylorville is home to delicious restaurants, great shopping, and even some Illinois history - Abraham Lincoln practiced law in one of the most historic buildings in the town. Even if you've never been there before, you've seen it in countless movies and TV shows. 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. See all Things to Do Chicago Outdoor Adventures Events Arts & Culture Eat & Drink Road Trips One of the best examples of juxtaposition between city and nature, skyscrapers and beach, is Ohio Street Beach. Friendly winemakers, innkeepers and shop owners are all eager to elevate your romantic getaway. Here are twelve great places in Illinois that are sure to set a romantic tone: 1. Lovebirds can also head to the country for a stay at a Victorian farmhouse operating as the Fox River Bed and Breakfast. Catch a seasonal floral show including a Spring Show, Orchid Show, Chrysanthemum Show, and Poinsettia Show. Illinois has a range of scenic drives, including roads following rushing rivers, historic drives, cultural drives, and forest drives. Located right in front of huge skyscrapers, the landscape is very unique. It was first designed in the 1880s and has gone on to influence American history. If you take a peek, you can still see the ruins of the original chimney. While shopping may seem like something you can do anywhere, there are often unique and interesting aspects to shopping in a new place and Illinois is no different. Another great activity to try while in Illinois is shopping. The experience doesnt stop at this, with The Ledge offering an even more exhilarating experience. Eagle watching? Whether youre hoping to visit multiple state parks or explore just one or two in more depth, finding out the top state parks and deciding which ones you wish to visit is a great way to help plan your visit to Illinois. Many of these intersect with places you can enjoy various other winter activities, making them even more convenient. The beautiful gardens on site make for a great backdrop to a romantic weekend, and the on-site library offers books, magazines, games, and DVDs as well as refreshments. There is a quarter-mile observation trail, or hikers can go all in on the 5.5-mile trek along interconnecting trails; each boasts views of the forest's unique rock formations. For those interested in politics, history, and architecture or who are just interested to learn more, Springfield is an ideal place to visit. Head out to quaint downtown Alton to shop the boutiques, dine at the family-owned restaurants, or sip cocktails at the local bars. 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 is a really good chance that this post contains affiliate links. Located on the Chicago Loop, the lavish London House Chicago is perfectly situated for a couples weekend getaway. If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. The Inn at 835, just a mile from the museum, was founded in the late 19th century by local businesswoman Bell Miller, a florist for Springfield's high society. Perhaps the most famous state park, Starved Rock State Park, is loved by many for its miles of trails, opportunities for hiking, boating, photography, and more. 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. Chicago, Illinois, is an amazing city to visit, offering a diverse selection of museums, tours, and Italian, and other restaurants.Enjoy a bird's eye view from 360 Chicago or the Skydeck, spend an afternoon at the Art Institute of Chicago, explore the famous Millennium Park, listen to an orchestra performance, and go for a romantic walk in one of the beautiful parks. If you are open to venturing out, consider the Davie School Inn, an eclectic B&B in Anna just 10 to 20 miles from most of the wineries on the route. The Krannert Art Museum is located on the campus of the University of Illinois in central Illinois and is the second-largest fine art museum in the state. There are a range of trails available to suit all levels of hiker, from casual beginners right through to experienced hiking enthusiasts. 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. There are also many boardwalks and similar paths that are great for a more relaxed bike. Situated on Lake Michigan, Chicago is ideally located for enjoying the beautiful surrounding nature as well as the highlights of city life. The aforementioned Anderson Japanese Gardens can be found in Rockford as can the well-renowned Burpee Museum of Natural History. With a virtual ride in a Caterpillar mining truck and the opportunity to design your own Caterpillar machine, this is a great museum for exciting imagination and curiosity. With the use of zip lines, aerial bridges, rappelling, and more, canopy tours explore the forest in a new way. What to Do in Illinois: Museum of Science and Industry Courtesy of Henryk Sadura - Fotolia.com The Shawnee Wine Trail is located along a 40-mile stretch through the beautiful Shawnee National Forest. The Caterpillar Visitors Center is a unique museum covering the beginnings and development of the machinery company, Caterpillar. 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