It is always so refreshing and fun and an excellent way to discover new grounds if one is planning a weekend getaway trip from Chicago City. Because of this strategic location, it can reach many destinations with varying attractions, from natural beauty to historical or tranquil retirement spots.
Whether you are a fan of a calm and tranquil small town to escape the bustle of city life, adventure in outdoor activities, or travel to Midwest states, you can. Below are some of the great weekend vacations for travelers from Chicago, alongside top tips to make the most out of your weekend vacation:
Why choose weekend travel from Chicago?
Chicago is, in essence, a rat race; it is nice to live there, but to be able to recharge on a weekend is usually very helpful. At least, it is convenient and impressively beneficial to try to turn away from the city for some time. There are lots of great and easy places to go, just a few hours in a car or train ride away, so weekend travel from Chicago is a wonderful way to escape some stress without having to spend days planning it.
Chicago’s Number One Weekend Destination
Lake Geneva, Wisconsin
Estimated to be about 1 hour and 30 minutes away from Chicago by road, Lake Geneva is a perfect holiday destination for the adventure enthusiast. It is a gorgeous resort community showcasing stunning beaches and a lake, water-based recreation, and offbeat shopping. Good luck with your weekend being ‘spent on’ boating, walking, or, in other words, dining at different restaurants in Geneva located close to the shores of Geneva Lake.
Galena, Illinois
Galena is a town in northwest Illinois, historically about a 3-hour car drive from Chicago, and boasts historically restored houses and buildings leading back to the first half of the nineteenth century. It is ideal if you are two people, when in love or simply going on a hike, or else if you are a large family, as some of them can offer the full amenities of a hotel. As a day tour, then you can visit some classy shops on Main Street have some wine tasting in the local wine-producing facilities, or take a balloon tour.
Starved Rock State Park in Illinois
Oh, there is yet another place that lovers of beautiful nature should not miss visiting; it is called Starved Rock State Park. Just two hours away from Chicago, and it proudly boasts of its canyons and waterfalls and the privilege of hiking. This park is ideal if you live in Chicago and are looking for a quick weekend trip; there is fishing, watching birds, and even kayaking through the Wilkinson Trolley or taking a guided kayak tour of the Illinois River nearby.
Milwaukee, Wisconsin
If you are interested in trying out another city, I suggest Milwaukee. This city combines culture, history, and fun within a reach of just 90 minutes away from Chicago. Visit art galleries like the Milwaukee Art Museum and take a tour of the Harley-Davidson Museum, or try authentic beer in several breweries in Milwaukee.
Michigan’s Harbor Country
New Buffalo and Union Pier are some of the historic villages that make up Harbor Country, located on the shores of Lake Michigan. This is approximately 90 minutes’ drive from Chicago, and it is fairly suitable for the kind of weekend traveling. You may sunbathe on Maldivian sand in Sugar Beach, buy antiques at Collectors Paradise Burma, or taste the food prepared by those individuals who grow all the products by themselves at the North Gate Market of the country.
Public areas are often permanently staffed, and during the peak travel period, they are greatly crowded. Decide which hotel to book in advance and which show not to feel like you need to plan to choose when to go.
Travel Light
Optimize Transportation
Embrace Local Experiences
The Best Time for weekend travel from Chicago
⦁ Winter: Best suited for the provision of homebody comforts, yuletide revelry, and skiing vacations.
Conclusion
FAQs
How do I make weekend travel from Chicago affordable?
For example, use Quest instead of hotels and look for Airbnb or motels that cost less than hotels do. Choosing to travel during a less busy period, packing some food and drinks, not eating in expensive places, and planning to see places that do not charge a fare are among the best ways to cut down on travel costs.

