The 6 Top Day Trips from Chicago
With skyscrapers seemingly rising up from the shore of Lake Michigan, Chicago is a sophisticated and cosmopolitan city that anchors the Midwest. Throughout the city, you will find that there's something for everyone. Families love visiting the Shedd Aquarium or Navy Pier, while adult travelers appreciate the fact that the city has a thriving theater scene and plenty of eclectic local restaurants to enjoy.
While it may be difficult to tear yourself away from the Windy City, you would be remiss if you didn't explore some of the surrounding region as well. Below, we detail the 6 top day trips from Chicago to assist you with crafting a unique and authentic vacation experience.
1. New Buffalo, Michigan
- Distance: About an hour outside of Chicago
- Type of Destination:Beachfront town in Michigan known for its restaurants and wineries
Located in the southwest corner of Michigan, New Buffalo has emerged as a treasured tourist destination across the Midwest. Primarily considered to be a quiet cottage community, New Buffalo is home to plenty of vacation rentals that offer beachfront access to Lake Michigan. In addition, it has recently become a haven for foodies who are seeking delicious meals crafted from fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
New Buffalo is also the gateway to the southwest Michigan wine region, providing visitors with an opportunity to sip and savor new wines at vineyards throughout the area. If you are looking for an idyllic escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, New Buffalo makes for a great Chicago day trip location.
2. Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin
- Distance: About 3 hours from Chicago
- Type of Destination:Resort town in Wisconsin known as the "Water Park Capital of the World"
Combining outdoor adventure with family fun, Wisconsin Dells is a resort town with something for everyone, making it a worthwhile adventure for people of all ages. Known by most as the "Water Park Capital of the World," the water parks that are located throughout the city are easily the top attractions for tourists to enjoy. Some of the most popular water parks in the area include Noah's Ark Waterpark, Wild West Water Park and Mt. Olympus Water and Theme Park. In total, you will find that there are more than 20 different water and theme parks in Wisconsin Dells, allowing you to find the entertainment and thrills that are perfect for your travel party.
While you could easily spend all your time in this city at an indoor water park or theme park, you also should be sure to hike through the sandstone formations that define the local landscape. Blending outdoor adventure with plenty of theme park fun, this is a must-do day trip from Chicago.
3. Lake Geneva, Wisconsin
- Distance: About an hour and a half from Chicago
- Type of Destination:A historic lakefront town that is often referred to as the "Newport of the West"
As members of society from New York City and the East Coast built their larger-than-life mansions in Newport, Rhode Island during the 19th century, the wealthiest members of Chicago society carved out their space along the sparkling shores of Lake Geneva in Wisconsin. Today, visitors can see the glamorous Gilded Age mansions that line the Shore Path and they can also enjoy the picturesque beaches along the lake.
Combining the wholesome hospitality of the Midwest with the sophisticated and luxurious experiences of a well-established resort town, Lake Geneva provides visitors with a true respite from the rigors of daily life. From shopping and dining to golfing and enjoying refreshing visits to the spa, Lake Geneva is the kind of place where you can rest your body and restore your soul.
4. Starved Rock State Park, Ogilvy, Illinois
- Distance: About an hour and a half west of Chicago
- Type of Destination:A state park that is home to impressive waterfalls and breathtaking canyons
For those who are searching for an adventure after spending some time in the Windy City, Starved Rock State Park is an ideal day trip spot from Chicago. This state park is located just west of Chicago and is famously known for its picturesque canyons and seasonal waterfalls.
If you want to spend your time hiking and exploring the waterfalls, the best time to visit Starved Rock State Park is during the spring, when the winter thaw is taking place. This is when the waterfalls are most active throughout the park. During the summer, the waterfalls have a tendency to dry up, unless there has recently been heavy rain. However, if you are visiting in the summer, you will find that it's the perfect time for kayaking and boating in the park.
5. Six Flags Great America, Gurnee, Illinois
- Distance: About an hour north of Chicago
- Type of Destination:A theme park destination that is perfect for families traveling to Chicago
Families who have spent a few days visiting the Field Museum, the Shedd Aquarium and Navy Pier may want to consider traveling about an hour north to one of the best theme parks in the Midwest. Six Flags Great America is a seasonal attraction that opens up in the late spring and closes in the fall, making it a favorite among travelers who are taking a summer vacation to Chicago.
Thrill-seekers will appreciate the fact that this amusement park is home to plenty of rollercoasters that twist and twirl around the park. Some of the most popular coasters in the park include Demon, Raging Bull and Sky Striker. For those searching for fewer thrills and more laughs, there also are family-friendly rides, such as the Aquaman Splashdown flume ride and the Fiddler's Fling ride.
6. Cave of the Mounds, Blue Mounds, Wisconsin
- Distance: About two and a half hours from Chicago
- Type of Destination:A natural limestone cave that is open for tours
While there's plenty to do above ground in Chicago, you may find yourself craving an underground adventure after some time spent in the city. In that case, head a few hours outside of Chicago to Cave of the Mounds in Blue Mounds, Wisconsin.
Cave of the Mounds is a National Natural Landmark that offers daily guided tours, giving visitors the chance to explore the wonders of the cave throughout the entire year. There are two options for guided tours — a traditional guided tour as well as a museum-style guided tour. With a traditional guided tour, an experienced guide will lead you and your tour group throughout the cave, helping you safely navigate the cave itself and providing you with information about the formations. A museum-style tour is ideal for those who want to explore at their own pace. During this tour, you will move from one area of the cave to the next on your own and in each new space, there will be a guide waiting to provide you with additional information as needed.
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