Diving into the extensive list of things to do in Chicago, from marveling at the skyline from Willis Tower to exploring the vibrant art at the Art Institute, can be just the beginning of your adventure. Day trips from Chicago offer a fantastic opportunity to discover the diverse landscapes and attractions that lie just beyond the city’s bustling streets.
Venturing out from Chicago, the broader Midwest opens up with its own unique set of things to do, from the sandy dunes of Indiana Dunes National Park to the charming towns along Lake Michigan’s shores. These excursions provide a refreshing contrast to the city’s urban energy, offering serene nature, historical sites, and quaint small-town experiences.
Choosing where to stay in Chicago is crucial for travelers looking to easily explore the city’s iconic attractions and embark on these surrounding adventures. The right accommodation combines convenience with comfort, situating you perfectly to enjoy the best of Chicago’s vibrant city life and the peaceful escapes that await nearby, ensuring a well-rounded visit to the Windy City.
Discover Best Day Trips from Chicago, United States
1. Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Milwaukee, known for its brewing traditions, offers a vibrant cultural scene, with attractions like the Milwaukee Art Museum and Harley-Davidson Museum. This city on Lake Michigan’s western shore is also great for food lovers, with a variety of dining options.
Distance: Approximately 93 miles (150 km)
Travel Time: About 1.5 to 2 hours by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Milwaukee Art Museum, Harley-Davidson Museum, Historic Third Ward
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Milwaukee Art Museum: $19
- Harley-Davidson Museum: $22
Budget: Approximately $50-$100 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Lakefront Brewery, Bradford Beach, Milwaukee Riverwalk
Travel Tip: Don’t miss the historic Third Ward district, known for its shopping, dining, and entertainment options.
2. Starved Rock State Park, Illinois
Starved Rock State Park, famous for its beautiful canyons and waterfalls, is a nature lover’s paradise. It offers hiking, boating, and bird watching opportunities in a scenic river landscape.
Distance: Approximately 93 miles (150 km)
Travel Time: Approximately 1.5 hours by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Canyons, waterfalls, hiking trails
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees: Free
Budget: Approximately $20-$50 (including transportation and food)
Scenic Spots: St. Louis Canyon, Lover’s Leap Overlook, Eagle Cliff Overlook
Travel Tip: Visit in different seasons to see the park’s beauty transform, with frozen waterfalls in winter and vibrant foliage in autumn.
3. Lake Geneva, Wisconsin
Lake Geneva is a resort city on the shores of Geneva Lake, known for its grand Victorian homes and the lakeside Geneva Lake Shore Path. It’s a popular spot for boating, shopping, and relaxation.
Distance: Approximately 83 miles (134 km)
Travel Time: About 1.5 hours by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Geneva Lake Shore Path, boat cruises, Victorian homes
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Lake Geneva Cruise: $25-$40
Budget: Approximately $50-$100 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Geneva Lake, Big Foot Beach State Park, Black Point Estate
Travel Tip: Consider a lake cruise for a unique view of the historic estates and natural beauty of the area.
4. Indiana Dunes National Park, Indiana
Indiana Dunes National Park offers 15 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline, with sandy beaches, hiking trails, and dune formations. It’s a great spot for swimming, hiking, and bird watching.
Distance: Approximately 50 miles (80 km)
Travel Time: About 1 hour by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Sandy beaches, hiking trails, dune formations
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Park Entrance: $25 per vehicle
Budget: Approximately $30-$70 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: West Beach, Mount Baldy, Cowles Bog
Travel Tip: Try the 3 Dune Challenge, a hike covering the three tallest dunes in the park, for a fun and rewarding experience.
5. Saugatuck, Michigan
Saugatuck is a charming art community on Michigan’s western coast, known for its picturesque landscapes, art galleries, and beautiful Oval Beach. Enjoy the town’s relaxed atmosphere, unique shops, and local dining.
Distance: Approximately 140 miles (225 km)
Travel Time: About 2.5 hours by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Art galleries, Oval Beach, Saugatuck Dunes State Park
Best Time to Visit: Summer and fall
Entrance Fees:
- Oval Beach: $10 per vehicle
Budget: Approximately $50-$100 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Kalamazoo River, Saugatuck Dunes, Chain Ferry
Travel Tip: Take a ride on the Saugatuck Chain Ferry and explore the town’s artistic side by visiting local galleries and studios.
6. Springfield, Illinois
Springfield, the capital of Illinois and the home of Abraham Lincoln for many years, offers historical sites like the Lincoln Home National Historic Site and the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum.
Distance: Approximately 200 miles (322 km)
Travel Time: Approximately 3 hours by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Lincoln Home National Historic Site, Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, Old State Capitol
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum: $15
- Lincoln Home National Historic Site: Free
Budget: Approximately $50-$100 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Washington Park, Dana-Thomas House, Lake Springfield
Travel Tip: Be sure to visit the Old State Capitol where Lincoln served as a legislator and delivered his famous “House Divided” speech.
7. Galena, Illinois
Galena is a small town in northwest Illinois known for its well-preserved 19th-century buildings like the Ulysses S. Grant Home. It offers a charming Main Street, historic sites, and wineries.
Distance: Approximately 165 miles (266 km)
Travel Time: Approximately 3 hours by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: 19th-century buildings, Ulysses S. Grant Home, wineries
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Ulysses S. Grant Home: $5
Budget: Approximately $50-$100 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Main Street, Galena River Trail, Horseshoe Mound
Travel Tip: Take a leisurely walk down Main Street to explore its unique shops, galleries, and restaurants.
8. Holland, Michigan
Holland, Michigan, famous for its Dutch heritage, is highlighted by the annual Tulip Time Festival in May, Dutch architecture, and the Windmill Island Gardens. It’s a great place to experience unique cultural heritage and beautiful landscapes.
Distance: Approximately 150 miles (241 km)
Travel Time: About 2.5 to 3 hours by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Tulip Time Festival, Windmill Island Gardens, Dutch architecture
Best Time to Visit: Spring (during Tulip Time Festival) and summer
Entrance Fees:
- Windmill Island Gardens: $12
Budget: Approximately $50-$100 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Holland State Park, Tunnel Park, Nelis’ Dutch Village
Travel Tip: Visit the DeZwaan Windmill, the only authentic working Dutch windmill in the United States, and try some traditional Dutch treats.
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FAQ About Best Day Trips from Chicago, United States
What are the best day trips from Chicago?
Some of the best day trips from Chicago include exploring the charming towns of Galena and Geneva, experiencing the dunes at Indiana Dunes National Park, and discovering the beauty of Starved Rock State Park.
Is a trip to Milwaukee worth it from Chicago?
Absolutely! Milwaukee offers a rich cultural scene, with highlights including the Milwaukee Art Museum, the historic Third Ward, and numerous breweries. It’s an easy and worthwhile day trip from Chicago.
Can I visit the Illinois Wine Country from Chicago?
Yes, Illinois Wine Country, particularly the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail in Southern Illinois, is accessible for a longer day trip or weekend getaway, offering scenic views and delightful local wines.
Are there guided tours to Starved Rock State Park?
Yes, there are guided tours available to Starved Rock State Park, which provide insights into the park’s unique geological features, waterfalls, and rich history. Hiking there is a must-do for nature lovers.
What activities can I do in Indiana Dunes National Park?
Indiana Dunes National Park offers a variety of activities, including hiking through diverse landscapes, bird watching, enjoying the beaches along Lake Michigan, and exploring historical sites within the park.
Is a day trip to the Anderson Japanese Gardens in Rockford recommended?
Definitely! The Anderson Japanese Gardens in Rockford are considered one of the most authentic Japanese gardens in North America, offering a peaceful and beautiful setting for relaxation and contemplation.
Can I explore Amish Country near Chicago?
Yes, a trip to the Amish Country in central Illinois, especially around Arthur and Arcola, provides a fascinating glimpse into the Amish way of life, with opportunities to purchase handmade crafts and furniture.
Are there any scenic drives near Chicago for a day trip?
The Great River Road along the Mississippi River is a scenic drive that offers stunning views, charming towns, and historic sites. It’s perfect for those looking to explore the natural beauty and history of Illinois.
Sources:
https://www.getyourguide.com/chicago-l225?activity_type=dayTrip
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