The big city is great most of the time. Chicago has coffee shops, movie theaters, more stores than you can count and gas stations on every corner. Sometimes, however, Illinois residents need a break from the lights and the noise. The solution? A fun-filled weekend vacation to eliminate stress and get away from it all.
There are numerous places where you can take weekend trips in Illinois. Some allow revelers to get back to nature in rustic accommodations, while others boast all the comforts of home. Depending on your vacation style, one of these three locations might be perfect for you and your family.
About two hours outside Chicago, Starved Rock State Park is one of the most peaceful weekend trips available in Illinois. Numerous nature trails offer unlimited possibilities for hiking, or you might want to experience the great outdoors from the back of a horse.
They also have campgrounds (closed during hunting season) for those who prefer tents to hotels, and 18 beautiful canyons will tempt anyone who loves to explore. If you enjoy mountain climbing, this weekend trip in Illinois can include scaling the sandstone rock formations.
There are plenty of lakes, streams, waterfalls and ponds if you enjoy water-filled scenery, and make sure you don’t forget your fishing pole. Temporary licenses are available for your weekend trip. You’ll also find that Starved Rock State Park is home to numerous species of plants and animals, so you’ll never experience a boring moment.
Peoria, Illinois
If you prefer weekend trips in Illinois that don’t take you too far away from the comforts of home, Peoria is the perfect weekend getaway. Snuggled between Chicago and St. Louis, with a population of just over 100,000 people, Peoria is a perfect combination of cultural entertainment and laid-back lifestyle.
The Peoria Zoo, for example, is a great way to connect with nature without having to sleep on the ground. Explore the different animals, delight in the exhibits, then head home to your hotel for a cocktail and a lavish dinner.
History buffs will also enjoy their weekend trip to Peoria, as it is home to more than 15 registered landmarks. These include the Grand Army of the Republic Memorial Hall, the Peoria Mineral Springs and the West Bluff Historic District.
Alton, Illinois
Peoria might be too big for your tastes, and weekend trips to Alton, Illinois are a little bit more laid-back. This region is known for agritourism, quaint villages, stunning scenery and plenty of fishing in the rivers that run through it. In fact, many visitors to Alton enjoy ferry rides in late spring and summer afternoons.
In Alton, visitors enjoy a mixture of small-town friendliness combined with plenty of attractions to keep them busy. Bowling alleys, sports facilities, swimming pools and golf courses are all found in the picturesque community of Alton, but you’ll also find plenty of opportunities to enjoy the serenity of nature.
Hunting, fishing, hiking and horseback riding are just a few of the activities you’ll find during weekend trips to Alton, Illinois. You can pick fresh fruit for breakfast or to take home in the numerous orchards scattered across the countryside or go cycling down one of dozens of nature trails.
Weekend trips in Illinois don’t have to be boring or typical. If you venture outside Chicago and other major cities, you’ll find opportunities to forget your troubles at home and experience something new.
Sources:
Illinois Department of Natural Resources, Starved Rock State Park
Peoria Area Convention and Visitors Bureau, Peoria, Illinois
VisitAlton.com, All Around Alton
