10 Day Trips from Chicago

You want to get away but don’t have a lot of time? I got you!

I blog about travel a lot and mention quick getaways quiet often, but for this post I will feature several NEW destinations, even for me.

Here are 10 day trips you can take and make it back just in time for your favorite shows. But please double check the availability, restrictions and reservations due to Covid-19.

Lake Geneva, IL

This is and always will be my number 1 spot. We spend a lot of time in Lake Geneva because it is so close to home. But mostly because it is a mini oasis. That perfect lake town and in the words of one of my dear friends “I don’t know what the Hamptons feel or look like, but I would imagine this would be close to that.”

Year-round resort type of town that offers a laid-back atmosphere and lets you relax. Beach lovers can bring their swimsuits and head for one of several beaches on seven-mile-long Geneva Lake, which also offers a ton of water sports. But one of my goals is to walk the shores of the lake. The entire lake. It’s possible and you can find more about that here.

Rock Cut State Park – Loves Park, IL

We visited this place last month and it did not disappoint. Miles and miles of hiking paths. Fishing, boating, and picnic areas. They even have a campground on site with 270 campsites, a rustic cabin, a group camp and shelters. Reservations available through www.reserveamerica.com.

Bring your lunch and walking shoes and have fun! If this is your thing , that is. 🙂

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Baha’i House of Worship – Wilmette, IL

I grew up in Chicago so going to Evanston, Wilmette and Northshore in general with my family and friends was always a thing. But it wasn’t until later in life that I appreciated this particular destination. Baha’i House of Warship is only a few miles north of Chicago but it is the most peaceful and beautiful place to be. It is where the world comes to pray. But you don’t have to be religious to enjoy this landmark.

…offering a quiet and safe space to go inward and revitalize your sense of purpose in the world.

Here you can lay down your burdens, contemplate your dreams and tend to your spirit. Whatever your faith background or system of belief, you are welcome to use this space for personal prayer, reflection and meditation.

This is temporarily closed but please keep checking and come visit the first chance you get. You can also explore the nearby beach and miles of walking along the lake shore as well.

Anderson Japanese Gardens – Rockford, IL

I imagine this is what utopia looks like.

A beautiful, outdoor setting that inspires the mind and energizes the soul. 

Their twelve-acre landscape of streams, waterfalls, winding pathways and koi-filled ponds has been rated one of North America’s highest quality Japanese gardens for more than a decade.

Starved Rock State Park – Oglesby, IL

This is an oldie but a goodie. There is so much to explore at Starved Rock State Park and if you have been before, I am sure you will find a new path. If you haven’t been before, add this to your list immediately. What a beautiful place to explore. So much to do, so much to see, but you can’t beat some of the views!

New Glarus, WI

We have been to little Switzerland before and we will be back again. Another small town with so much history and one of the coolest breweries around. Read all about our last trip in the link above.

Holland, MI

I saw this place on one of my searches and wow. Just wow. This little town transports you to Europe in matter of seconds. A little under 3 hours from Chicago, this gem is a must see. Award winning downtown, white sandy beaches, it is known as America’s Prettiest Town. Let’s go explore!

Indiana Dunes – Michigan City, IN

This just sounds like the perfect place to be. Sand and water? I don’t need anything else. From what I have seen, this amazing landscape is home to almost 15 miles of sandy shoreline and peaceful woodlands. I mean, look at this:

Cave of the Mounds – Blue Mounds, WI

This has been on my list forever too but something always comes up. It sounds so cool and I know our kids would have a blast. Visitors can enjoy their Gemstone Mine, Fossil Dig, Butterfly Gardens, Amazing Rock/Gift Shops, Hiking/Biking Trails, Snack Bar, and Picnic Area. Who’s coming with us?

Madison, WI

We visited Madison last summer with our kids and had a blast. Their farmer’s market is absolutely amazing. Read more about it in the link above.

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Let me know if you go to any of these places and don’t forge to tag me on social media: Life Thru My Hazel Eyes But also check out my TRAVEL section for more idea.

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