Weekend Getaways From Chicago: For A Fun-Packed Holiday Like Never Before!

23 Mar 2023

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The position of Chicago in the map of Midwest region is so unique that bag packers, as well as weekend vacationers, get the scope to visit many places in the very short notice. There are plenty of weekend getaways from Chicago spots which are within few hours distance and can be covered easily during the weekend. Some of the destinations can be explored by city-dwellers who want a serious break from the hustle and bustle of the city.

As a city, Chicago is definitely an incredible one. It offers so many neighborhoods, events, festivals, and several activities which one will love to explore.

Weekend Getaways From Chicago: 7 Best Places

If you are looking for the list of best weekend getaways near Chicago, scroll down to learn about few amazing destinations before you plan for that thrilling holiday.

1. Galena

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For Chicagoans, Galena is an undoubted preferred getaway spot. It offers a perfect mix of outdoor adventure, the true charm of the small town, malls, wineries, and brilliant restaurants. This is just not small but a tiny town having so many things to offer. One needs to travel around 165 miles from west of Chicago and can be a perfect weekend getaway trip if you get traffic free road during your travel time. Located overlooking Mississippi River this destination offers the scope to enjoy rafting trips and bluff hikes

Distance from Chicago: 165 miles from West of Chicago
Places to see at Galena: Belvedere Mansion. Linmar Gardens, Thunder Bay falls and Galena River Trail

Must Read: 12 Most Luxurious Villas in USA For Your Next Family Vacation In 2022

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2. Saugatuck

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The key attraction of the city is the pristine Oval Beach. To unwind the mind in the midst of the sea one can hire kayaks, sailboats, and can also do sports fishing. Take the chance to explore the beauty of Sand dunes and enjoy paddleboat rides. It will be around 2 and a half hours journey from the northeast of Chicago.

Distance from Chicago: 141 miles from northeast of Chicago
Places to see at Saugatuck: Oval Beach, Mount Baldhead Park, Lake Michigan, and Fenn Valley Vineyards

3. Ottawa

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It’s a historic town located 90 miles away from the southwest of Chicago city and can be reached within 1.5 hrs via road. The scenic beauty of the town is very attractive as it is positioned in the midst of the Fox and the Illinois Rivers. The town is popular for providing entrance or a peek to Starved Rock State Park. The breathtaking view of the canyon waterfalls of Ottawa creates an amazing outdoor atmosphere for the tourists. Don’t forget to explore Buffalo Rock State Park on your road trips from Chicago in spring to Ottawa. You can consider this destination ideal as last minute weekend getaways from Chicago.

Distance from Chicago: 90 miles from Southwest of Chicago
Places to see at Ottawa: Buffalo Rock state park, Allen Park, Fox River Park, and Ottawa Historical and Scouting Heritage Museum.

4. Door County

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Door County is one of the best weekend getaways from Chicago and located on a peninsula and positioned between Lake Michigan and Green Bay at Wisconsin. This Getaway is known for its long and beautiful shoreline and some of the best parks near Chicago. The Peninsula State Park is known to be the home to Nicolet beach. For long road trips from Chicago, you can choose this destination which will take around 4.5 hours by road to reach. Enjoy the sunset view here with your favorite drink in hand.

Distance from Chicago: 276 miles north of Chicago
Places to see at Door County: Cana Island Lighthouse, Cave point Country Park, Door County Historical Museum and Eagle Bluff Lighthouse.

5. Traverse City

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Traverse City remains attractive to the visitors almost in every season of the year. If you are looking for some perfect weekend trips from Chicago, Illinois in USA via road then choose Traverse City. You will love wandering on the back roads of the city and can stop at any sidewalk café for snacks or brunch. Want to go for a picnic from Traverse, then head towards Sleeping Bear Dunes and enjoy climbing the dunes.
Go for a romantic walk along the shoreline of Michigan Lake and get a glimpse of wildlife species which consider this place as their homeland. From here you can also visit Leelanau Peninsula and Old Mission Peninsula. If you are in search of ideal fall weekend getaways from Chicago then no one can top the list other than Traverse City. The beauty of the vibrant colored trees will create a breathtaking dreamy view worth exploring.

Distance from Chicago: 318 miles from northeast of Chicago
Places to see at Traverse City: Sleeping Bear Dunes National shore, Wander Grand Traverse Commons, Stroll Interlochen Center of Arts

6. Mount Carroll

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Mount Carroll is one of picturesque little town which is an ideal inexpensive romantic getaways near Chicago. There are many historic places which you may like to visit during your trip to this destination. Carroll County Courthouse and Nathaniel Halderman House are 2 major places of visit in this location. Some other activities which you may enjoy are eagle watching, visiting limestone caves and Mississippi Palisades State Park’s ancient cliffs. Mount Carroll is located 137 miles towards the west of Chicago.

Distance from Chicago: 137 miles from west of Chicago
Places to see at Mount Carroll: National Aquarium, Inner Harbour and Crystal Lake Cave

7. Grand Rapids

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You can find the name of Grand Rapids as one of the best cities to live in. It is best-known beer cities of America. But still, this city besides being the hometown of the Founders and Brewery Vivant has the capacity to offer many more things to the visitors. Get the chance to explore the homes of the historic importance of the Heritage Hill district. Besides the Grand River, the cityscape view will make you feel mesmerized. You can take some time out to go for a bike trail or even a canoe trip on the Grand River.

Distance from Chicago: 178 miles from northeast of Chicago
Places to see at Grand Rapids: Meyer May House, Frederik Meijer Gardens, Gerald R. Ford Museum, and Grand Rapids Art Museum

Further Read: 20 New York Restaurants: The Culinary Capital Of The World (2022)

With this handy list of top 7 weekend getaways from Chicago, you can make your plan for your next weekend trip. If you are looking for body and soul relaxation during your weekend trip then search for the spa getaways near Chicago. Get ready for your next weekend trip and unwind the mind in the midst of nature. What are you waiting for? Book your USA trip for an enthralling holiday experience like never before!