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. The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum is situated in . To see a full list of the best breweries in Illinois, see here. 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 beach has space for swimming, kayaking, and canoeing and is a popular spot on weekends. Goldmoore Inn & Resort doubles as the most romantic resorts in Galena as well as romantic couples resort Illinois has to offer. The name "Garden of the Gods" stirs images of a forbidden utopia but you and your special someone can easily access this celestial hike in the Shawnee National Forest, partially located in Herod, Illinois. Sip some wine and take in the view of Galena Cellar's Vineyard (Galena). 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. Daniel Lee Rice, 76, of Galesburg, Illinois died at 1:40 p.m. Tuesday, February 14, 2023 at Allure of Knox County, Galesburg. With its many parks and gardens, it is great for wandering through natural landscapes and enjoying the scenery. I enjoy helping adult individuals of all ages and couples that still want to work things out, providing a safe place for you to find clarity, seek healing . Lincoln Park Zoo is located inside the beautiful Lincoln Park and is a great addition to a day at the park. The Pullman National Monument is another unique part of history as the original site for the first planned industrial community in the US. To find out more about the Lincoln Home National Historic Site, click through to see our more detailed post. Admire The Chicago Skyline From The Oak Street Beach. Bring your partner to Belleville whose name means "beautiful city" in French for a romantic trip. For more information about this beach, click here. For more information on Six Flags Great America, see here. 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. Here is an overview of the best fall festivals in Illinois. Perhaps the most well-known is the now world-famous Lollapalooza 4-day music festival, held in Grant Park. Friendly winemakers, innkeepers and shop owners are all eager to elevate your romantic getaway. Find the best travel insurance for you with these U.S. News ratings, which factor in expert and consumer recommendations. Watch the birds with a cup of coffee in hand or rent a canoe for a different view of the river. Illinois' lakeshore offers couples the chance to unwind on the waterfront. Find out how to get to Illinois by plane, train, bus and driving. Water parks are another great option for entertaining the family, especially during the heat of summer. 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. Starved Rock State Park is known for its sandstone canyons several of which have waterfalls. There are many amazing towns and counties which might be easy to overlook as they dont have the same name recognition as Chicago. (Note: Some of the following activities, attractions and locations may be affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. The village of Antioch, where the resort is located, also offers enough diversions to pass a few days. With the use of zip lines, aerial bridges, rappelling, and more, canopy tours explore the forest in a new way. With Illinois location, it is no surprise that there are a range of places you can try out snow tubing. Trip Ideas Explore Things To Do PLACES TO EAT BREWERIES & DISTILLERIES WINERIES & VINEYARDS HISTORY Places to Stay Inn at Irish Hollow in A visit to this wonderful museum is one of the best fun things to do in Bloomington, Illinois, for history enthusiasts. 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 Situated on Lake Michigan, Chicago is ideally located for enjoying the beautiful surrounding nature as well as the highlights of city life. (photo credits: The Shawnee Bluffs Canopy Tour) There are also a number of food and drink festivals held in Chicago, such as Ravenswood on Tap, a festival celebrating various craft beers, and the Lincoln Park Wine Festival, which is ideal for sampling a variety of wines from around the world. Often belonging to important figures in the states history, these mansions are interesting from both architectural and historical standpoints. If you're visiting the Prairie State during the winter, you can't miss Belleville's Christkindlmarkt, a traditional German-style holiday market celebrating the season of Advent leading up to Christmas. Many of these intersect with places you can enjoy various other winter activities, making them even more convenient. 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. Then head to Arts and Antique Row, which as the name suggests is the downtown antique shopping district. 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. Established in 1969 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1975, Naper Settlement, located at 523 South Webster Street, is situated on land bequeathed to the City of Naperville in 1936 by Caroline Martin . Welcome to your guide to Chicago attractions, outdoor adventures, arts, history, road trips, tours, sports and shopping. 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.. It is a unique experience and a great way to take in the amazing views of 4 different states. Top Attractions in Illinois 2022 1. Explore the top ways to celebrate St. Patrick's Day with events and things to do in Chicago. 5.2 Miles 60% 151 votes 8 Henson Robinson Zoo Zoos 1100 East Lake Drive, Springfield, IL 62707 Over 90 species of animals can be found at the Henson Robinson Zoo. Many of the wineries have a cozy, rustic yet gourmet feel and offer a wide selection of wines. The small Illinois town of Galena boasts stunning 19th-century architecture preserved in time and historic accommodations. 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. Three of the rooms in this once-school are set up as romantic luxury suites, and you can treat yourself to extras like wine, roses or candle lighting in your room. Winter is often seen as a less desirable time to travel its cold and everyone wants to stay inside in the warmth. Stroll through Chicago Botanic Garden. The Oak Street Beach is one of the most unique and fun things to do in Illinois. 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. Planning a trip around seeing the state parks of Illinois is not uncommon, and so staying in the areas closest to these state parks is quite popular. Lovebirds can also head to the country for a stay at a Victorian farmhouse operating as the Fox River Bed and Breakfast. 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. September is Illinois Wine Month if you're looking to take utmost advantage of the grape harvest and all its accompanying events. The Shoppes at Grand Prairie is an open-air shopping plaza with more than 20 specialty stores exclusive to the Peoria market. However, hiking isnt limited to just the state parks. For golf enthusiasts, or those simply looking for a different activity to try, exploring some of these golf courses is a great way to see the state at the same time. Located on the Chicago Loop, the lavish London House Chicago is perfectly situated for a couples weekend getaway. Less than 10 miles south of Cloran Mansion sits the grand Goldmoor Inn near the Mississippi River. This beach is very popular for playing beach volleyball and similar activities. Head to Zion, on the border with Wisconsin, where Illinois Beach State Park extends for 6.5 miles along Lake Michigan. 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. Modern comforts are combined with historic decor for a unique and romantic experience. Lovers of vintage will find the antique shops of Antioch an appealing way to pass some time. Millennium Park is home to the famous Cloud Gate sculpture, more commonly known as The Bean. Eat your way through a long weekend in the Champaign-Urbana area with Zambian food at Stango Cuisine, a stop at the Black Dog Smoke and Ale House for local barbecue, and an all-natural milk tea at Bearology. We take your privacy seriously and will never sell your data to anyone. For your overnight stay, check out the circa-1930s Starved Rock Lodge, which has an indoor pool and trails on the property. Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum. While the Lincoln Home is only one house, there are a number of other historic houses located on the site which show parts of history from the time of Lincoln. 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. There are many castles located throughout Illinois built in a range of styles from different periods of history. Take your date to Navy Pier (Chicago)--even more stunning at night. If you arent interested in hiking, biking is another option when looking for ways to explore nature. Activities. 22, 2023, Up to 60% Off + Exclusive 5% Guaranteed Priceline Coupon, Up to 50% Off Travel Plans with Top Expedia Promo Code, Discount Travel Plans with 50% Off on Hotels.com bookings, 50% Discount on Getaways with Barcel Resort & Hotels, Booking.com Promo Code Up to 50% Off + Extra 10% Off. Located right in front of huge skyscrapers, the landscape is very unique. Some highlights include the 16th Century style Ravenstone Castle, Bettendorf Castle which was modeled after the original Vianden Castle in Luxembourg, and Old Main Castle, built in a traditional Gothic style. For those more interested in science and the natural world, the Field Museum may be a better fit. For this reason, going to the beach is another good option for hot summer days in Illinois. These include competitions, pumpkin carving, face painting, pageants, and more. For a more unique theme park experience, you can check out Boo Castle Park, originally built as a memorial park for Jeremey Boo Rochman after a car accident but themed around a childhood love of dragons, wizards, and role-playing games. A number of elements are key to this style, such as water through waterfalls or ponds, stones either rock paths or sculptures, and of course plants. Chart a course for the Buffalo Rock, Matthiessen, Illini or namesake Starved Rock state parks. For a unique winter activity, you can try the popular Midwest activity of snow tubing. The architecture cruise winds along the Chicago river and teaches visitors about the buildings and figures who shaped Chicagos history. For those interested in politics, history, and architecture or who are just interested to learn more, Springfield is an ideal place to visit. Luckily Illinois has many free things to enjoy, such as outdoor activities like hiking or biking, viewing scenery, and window shopping. 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. If you are interested in visiting a zoo while on holiday, Illinois has you covered with a number of zoos in different areas. If summoning spirits isn't your thing, try to conjure some winnings at Argosy Casino Alton instead. Deidre Peverill/Flickr 2. Recommended for Romantic Things to Do because: The lush interior, vibrant artwork and 1950's inspired Copacabana Club show whisks lovers from chilly Chicago to the heat of Latin America. However, for a more extended relaxation and treatment, you can also stay at a spa resort. You can read our complete privacy policy here. 11 Starved Rock State Park. 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. Just outside Peoria, the 1,800-acre Wildlife Prairie Park is home to more than 150 animals spanning 50 species native to the state. Right in our state capital is a beautiful turn-of-the century inn that screams luxury. . 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. If you prefer to stick to the tried and true, Six Flags Great America is another great option among the amusement parks of Illinois. Canopy Tours are an exciting and unique way to experience the forest from a different point of view. On the other hand, escaping to a cabin in nature can be an amazing experience, a great way to clear ones head, connect with nature, enjoy the wildlife around you and make the best of your time with your partner. Experience Illinois with your significant other by exploring Chicago, driving the Great River Road, hiking in Ottawa and more. Find out what's on in Illinois and Chicago with your guide to events, festivals, markets, music, theater, sports and more. From harvest festivals to German-themed Oktoberfests, theres something for everyone. With the great amount of nature present in Illinois, playing golf can be a very scenic and enjoyable activity. Romantic touches here include a spa, a rose garden and a variety of intimate accommodations, including freestanding cottages with their own fireplaces and soaking tubs. The Most Romantic Weekend Getaways in the U.S. Article Discover Local Meet the makers, the creators, and the artisans of Illinois. Explore presidential history alongside wine country in this Midwestern state, and book well in advance if you are looking to dine at one of the world's best restaurants in Chicago or simply want some famous deep-dish pizza. Chicago River dyeing. The park itself is a one-stop outing, featuring an ice rink, a 120-foot-tall bandshell designed by Frank Gehry that attracts top-notch musical talent, the seasonal Lurie Garden, staggering public art installations and a roster of free events held on the Great Lawn. Living History: African American Historical Exhibits and Events From exhilarating roller coasters to costumed characters, these parks offer fun for everyone. Not only is the beach a beautiful sandy lake shore, it also has some amazing views of the Chicago skyline. You can also catch a first-run film at the charming Antioch Theatre on Lake Street. With its plentiful hiking trails, flowing . Arts & Culture, This tour is so popular and intriguing that it has been named the number 1 boat tour in Chicago. The latter contains presidential artifacts found nowhere else and a theater that shows educational films and living history performances to immerse you in the time of Lincoln. 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 couples looking for this experience, our post on romantic cabins with hot tubs is ideal for finding your ideal accommodation. The Wrigley Building, Tribune Tower, Chicago Water Tower, and more can all be found along this stretch of road. This boardwalk features a number of locally-owned artisanal shops run by members of the community. Explore all the great things to do in galena il. Today, couples can tour Peoria for its theaters but also for its shopping and natural attractions. Rich Harvest Farms is a more modern, but very unique course in that it has been designed purely to suit the whims of the billionaire owner, meaning it doesnt always fit regulation standards. Illinois is blessed with many beautiful State Parks featuring a variety of different ecological phenomena. It is home to a range of free events, programs, celebrations, and more, held all throughout the year. If you're looking for the best of quirky small-town America, spend some time in Alton, Illinois, especially if you're a pair of history buffs. Best Things to Do in Illinois for Couples. When its too hot to do anything else and youre too far from a beach, a water park is the next best thing. Dine on top of a skyscraper. 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. Despite the somewhat strange name, this festival regularly attracts 80,000 visitors to enjoy the country-style food trucks, antique tractor shows,s, and live entertainment. 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. 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. Friendly, leashed dogs are welcome on the lakeshore. The inn offers a package bundling museum tickets with a bottle of sparkling wine and dessert, among other romantic amenities you can add on to your stay. The Market Street Bed & Breakfast has a few beautiful buildings to customize your getaway. 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. Museums are a great way to sneak in some education and information while still keeping children entertained and engaged. The Lincoln Home can be viewed on a guided tour while other exhibits can be independently explored. Bunk with the bison and stay here in one of 13 unique lodging rooms or 20 tent campsites. Learn more about coverage options for frequent travelers and those with multiple upcoming trips. 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. Here we have you covered. The charms of Geneva don't end there spend your morning strolling the Fabyan Japanese Garden, installed in 1910 and featuring a restored, 19th-century Dutch windmill. Experience the best of main street shopping and more. 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. It was once part of the famous Route 66 but is now a walking and biking-only bridge. What is Seoul Known For? 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. The zoo also expands beyond just animals with over 1200 different plant species and a dedicated arboretum. While exploring some of the state parks above, you may want to take part in some hiking. Sybaris Pool Suites are unusual themed rooms that all come with an en suite indoor pool. There are also many boardwalks and similar paths that are great for a more relaxed bike. A fun schedule of events at the museum includes film series like the Richard Pryor Film Festival and activities like Yoga Under the Stars. This is necessary as some zip lines can reach up to 40mph and can be very high off the ground. Foodies seeking an Illinois escape can head to Champaign, a great Midwestern food town that's home to a lively community from the University of Illinois campus. One of the most popular fall festivals in Illinois is the Apple n Pork Festival in Clifton. To see more about Boo Castle park, check our previous post here. Holly Johnson and Erin EvansMarch 1, 2023, Holly Johnson and Erin EvansFeb. Get to know us better on our about us page. There are also a number of nearby local wineries which also feature beautiful landscapes. Many different areas in Illinois feature a zoo, ranging from large interactive zoos to small animal exhibits. If youre looking for something a bit more adventurous than basic swimming and sunbathing, kayaking might be for you. Visitors to the grounds recommend a tour to see the beautiful garden and original furniture. In that case, check out our ranking of the best resorts to try out for a romantic couples trip in Illinois. Another more picturesque bridge is the Camelback Bridge in Normal, while another feat of engineering is the Clark Bridge in Alton. A National Historic Landmark District, Nauvoo showcases a Mormon heritage with dozens of restored homes and shops available to tour by horse-drawn wagon ride for free. Both options require a combination of patience and advance reservations, but they're well worth it, according to patrons. 28, 2023, Holly Johnson and Ann HensonFeb. To see our full list of best museums in Illinois, click through to our post here. Why You Should Go Looking for some place to spend the upcoming weekend? Offering a little bit of everything, Peoria is an Illinois city you might have heard of even if you're not sure why. Other top sights here to check out are the Air Combat Museum, Frank Lloyd Wright's Dana Thomas House, and the Camp Butler National Cemetery. Ice skating is very popular in Illinois and so there are many different places you can enjoy the activity. Couples can also opt for more luxurious lodging with a romantic cabin from Shawnee Forest Cabins, complete with a hot tub and fireplace. Illinois has a range of scenic drives, including roads following rushing rivers, historic drives, cultural drives, and forest drives. Autumn is an ideal time to visit when the leaves are at their peak fall colors. Chocolate lovers are in luck more than 20 varieties are available to nibble at all times of day for Beall Mansion guests at the complimentary chocolate buffet. For a more family-friendly experience, French Canyon in Starved Rock may be a better choice. The Cahokia Mounds were the original site of an ancient Native American city dating from 1050-1350CE. While it may not seem like the most interesting topic, the center has gone above and beyond to make the experience interactive and exciting. There are many amazing museums to be found throughout Illinois. Canoe rentals and canal boats are available for floating and bird watching down the Fox River. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content. Illinois is The M. Arts & Culture & History However, if you are going to be spending time in Grafton, you may prefer some of the following wineries. Have a look at the best things to do in Illinois: 1. There are also many shops in this area, including a number of flagship stores, international designers, and boutiques. Less than 10 miles south of Cloran Mansion sits the grand Goldmoor Inn near the Mississippi River. This owes to its great combination of neatly planned . Summer brings to mind heat, beaches, and fun in the water, but can be so much more. 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. There's no better place for romance than Chicago. Here we have some of the best water parks in Illinois. The best part? For some more options on the different bike trails to try out, check out our post on biking in Illinois. Millennium Park is one of the most iconic places to visit in Illinois. Or, about 15 miles south of Galena, you can honor the area's rich Native American heritage with a visit to the Wapello Land & Water Reserve. 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. 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. 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. Allowing the both of you to enjoy some pampering together is a great way to connect without any stresses of daily life interfering. With so many winter activities available, it is a great opportunity to experience many of the popular places without the crowds, as well as take part in winter-exclusive experiences. It can also be a fun activity for adults, making it a great bonding experience. If you take a peek, you can still see the ruins of the original chimney. Chicago is well-known for its vast array of beautiful parks and green spaces. Retire to one of Chicago's new hotels: Pendry Chicago is a luxe retreat set in an art deco masterpiece of a building, while The Neighborhood Hotel Lincoln Park keeps you centrally located in cheerfully comfortable rooms for couples on the go. He attended St. Joseph's Academy and graduated from the last class at Corpus Christi High . Get inspired by top travel stories, and discover even more reasons to #EnjoyIllinois. You can start in Galena in the state's northwest corner and discover enchanting towns along the way, some of which might share a border with Iowa or Missouri, such as Nauvoo. Find the best places to eat, drink and have fun. Its the most complex prehistoric site north of Mexico and shows a unique and sophisticated society. Davie School Inn is the perfect getaway for wine lovers as its right along the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail. Many of these beaches offer swimming, canoeing, and other water activities as well as simply relaxing on the sand. There are two great lodging options located within Geneva proper: The Herrington Inn & Spa and the Oscar Swan B&B. One example is the Hegeler Carus mansion, first designed in 1974 by renowned architect Boyington.

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