Travel Discovery

Best Day Trips from Chicago

Destination: Chicago

    1. Great Lakeside Escape: Lake Geneva, Wisconsin
    2. Overview: Nestled just over the border into Wisconsin, Lake Geneva offers a serene escape with its pristine lakefront, Victorian-era estates, and lush parks. Stroll along the 21-mile Geneva Lake Shore Path for breathtaking views, enjoy a leisurely cruise on the lake, or explore the quaint downtown area filled with boutique shops and cafes.
    3. Duration: Full Day (Approx. 8 hours)
    4. Departure Time: 8:00 AM
    5. Return Time: 6:00 PM

    6. Must Try: Local cheese and a hearty brunch at a lakeside café.

    7. Historic Charm: Galena, Illinois

    8. Overview: Step back in time in Galena, a town that retains its 19th-century charm with beautifully preserved buildings and a rich history. Once home to Ulysses S. Grant, Galena invites visitors to wander its hilly streets lined with antique shops, galleries, and restaurants. Take a tour of the Grant Home or hike in the scenic hills of the surrounding countryside.
    9. Duration: Full Day (Approx. 8 hours)
    10. Departure Time: 9:00 AM
    11. Return Time: 5:00 PM

    12. Must Try: Galena Cellars Winery for a tasting session.

    13. Nature's Playground: Indiana Dunes National Park

    14. Overview: Indiana Dunes, about 150 miles southeast of Chicago, is a natural wonderland created by glaciers and shaped by wind and water. The park boasts towering sand dunes, diverse wildlife, and miles of hiking trails. Spend your day exploring the dunes, relaxing on the beach, or taking a dip in Lake Michigan.
    15. Duration: Full Day (Approx. 10 hours due to travel distance)
    16. Departure Time: 6:00 AM
    17. Return Time: 4:00 PM

    18. Must Try: Hike the 1.5-mile Dune Succession Trail.

    19. Artistic Getaway: Milwaukee Art Museum

    20. Overview: For art enthusiasts, Milwaukee's Art Museum is a short drive away and houses a collection of over 30,000 works, including pieces by Warhol and Monet. The museum itself is a work of art, with its iconic Quadracci Pavilion designed by Santiago Calatrava. Afterward, explore Milwaukee's Riverwalk for a taste of the city's vibrant food scene.
    21. Duration: Half Day (Approx. 5 hours)
    22. Departure Time: 10:00 AM
    23. Return Time: 3:00 PM
    24. Must Try: Bratwurst and craft beer at a local brewery.