best places to visit within 8 hours of chicago

Places to visit about 8 hours from Chicago

Niagara Falls

Charleston (West Virginia)

Pigeon Forge

Oklahoma Joe's BBQ & Catering

Kansas City (Missouri)

Kansas City (Kansas)

Cities 8 hours from Chicago

8 hours :   Markham, Canada

7 hr 57 min :   Lincoln, NE

7 hr 54 min :   Lenexa, KS

7 hr 53 min :   Niagara Falls, Canada

7 hr 53 min :   Overland Park, KS

7 hr 51 min :   Sioux City, IA

7 hr 47 min :   Independence, MO

7 hr 44 min :   Fremont, NE

7 hr 44 min :   Memphis, TN

7 hr 44 min :   Copper Harbor, MI

7 hr 43 min :   Kansas City, KS

7 hr 43 min :   Blue Springs, MO

7 hr 41 min :   Springfield, MO

7 hr 39 min :   Kansas City, MO

7 hr 38 min :   Murfreesboro, TN

These are approximate driving times in a radius from Chicago, Illinois. Search for vacation spots within driving distance for a day trip or weekend getaway. There are many towns within the total area, so if you're looking for closer places, try a smaller radius like 7½ hours . If you're willing to drive farther, try 8½ hours .

Not sure where to go? Take a day trip from Chicago , or if you have more time you can explore weekend trips from Chicago , but make sure you also check road conditions around Chicago . Looking for small towns or communities around Chicago, Illinois? Get a full list of up to 500 cities nearby Chicago .

Change your settings:

RV campgrounds 8 hours from Chicago

White Pine Rustic Lake Campground

Kimball Lake Campground

Penn Highlands Campgrounds

Kalyumet Campground

Piney Meadows Campground

Penn Wood Airstream Park

Country Inn and RV Park

West - Norris Dam State Park

Rock Island State Park

Campers RV Park

White Ranch Conservation Area South

White Ranch Conservation Area SW

Schell Osage

Schell-Osage Conservation Area North

Holdingford Veterans Park

State parks 8 hours from Chicago

Grand Portage State Forest

Valley Falls State Park

Gauley River National Recreation Area

Hawks Nest State Park

Panther State Forest

Norris Dam State Park

Chickasaw National Wildlife Refuge

Big Lake Wildlife Management Area

Big Lake National Wildlife Refuge

Crowley's Ridge State Park Visitors Center

Rippee Conservation Area

Wilson Island

Desoto National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center

Round Lake State Wildlife Management Area

More cities around 8 hours away by plane

Here are more cities based on a flight circle radius of 8 hours. These cities are much further than the ones above since now we're looking at a 8 hour flight.

8 hr 33 min :   Santa Helena, Brazil

8 hours :   La Oroya, Peru

8 hr 5 min :   Senador Guiomard, Brazil

8 hr 33 min :   Cururupu, Brazil

7 hr 59 min :   Tarma, Peru

8 hours :   Satipo, Peru

7 hr 58 min :   Chancay, Peru

7 hr 58 min :   Huaral, Peru

8 hr 4 min :   Rio Branco, Brazil

8 hr 28 min :   Paragominas, Brazil

7 hr 58 min :   San Ramon, Peru

8 hr 29 min :   Maracacume, Brazil

8 hr 30 min :   Turiacu, Brazil

6 hr 25 min :   Gardabaer, Iceland

6 hr 25 min :   Reykjavik, Iceland

Cities at a radius of

Travel time from Chicago, IL

cities within 1 hour of Chicago 1½ hours from Chicago places within 2 hours of me in Chicago explore 2½ hours from Chicago 3 hr radius map from Chicago 3½ hr drive from Chicago places within 4 hours of me in Chicago within 4½ hours of me in Chicago 5 hour drive from me in Chicago 5½ hour drive from Chicago within 6 hours of Chicago 7 hour drive from Chicago driving 8 hours from Chicago 9 hours from Chicago

Distance from Chicago, IL

cities within 10 miles of me in Chicago within 20 miles of me in Chicago 30 mile radius of Chicago 40 mile drive from Chicago located 50 miles from Chicago 100 mile radius from Chicago within 150 miles of Chicago 200 mile road trip from Chicago distance of 250 miles from Chicago driving 300 miles from Chicago 350 mile trip starting from Chicago 400 mile drive from Chicago drive for 450 miles from Chicago 500 miles from Chicago day trips from Chicago

Chicago, Illinois is located at latitude/longitude coordinates 41° 52' 41" N  /  87° 37' 45" W

Join my monthly email! Sign up

19 Awesome Road Trips from Chicago (with Timings)

Keeping your introduction to road trips from Chicago short and simple, let’s take a look at the summer, winter and weekend favourites!

The city of Chicago is awesome and all, but it’s also a great starting point for some great Chicago road trips. The city’s prime location acts as a portal to the Midwest – from historical cities to sprawling state parks and urban-stress-relieving beer. 

Best Chicago Road Trips in Summer

If you’re looking for one of the longest Chicago road trips, how about driving from Chicago to New Orleans ? If you’re thinking a little shorter, then read on…

Distance: as far as you can go

No American road trip is complete without covering some part of classic Road 66 – of which, lucky for us, kicks off in Chicago!

Snap a selfie at the official sign between East Adams and South Michigan Avenue then check-off stops such as the Gemini Giant, the Pontiac murals, Lincoln Presidential Library and more. If you can spare a month, make it all the way down to the Pacific Ocean.

2. Illinois’ Great River Road

Distance: 3.5-hour drive

In a seemingly never-ending chain of historical sites and activities, the drive along Mississippi River to East Dubuque is one of the best road trips from Chicago.

Moline and Rock Island are two cool detours but you can head straight for East Dubuque for its Chicago Great Western Railway Depot Museum. John Deere Pavilion lets you hop from car to farm machines, while the city Nauvoo shows off many historic homes. 

3. Lake Michigan to South Haven

Distance: 2.5-hour drive

Escape the heat by packing your car with beach gear and setting off for a nice drive around Lake Michigan and towards South Haven.

There are plenty of berry farms along the way so you can stain your hands with blueberries; or maybe you prefer to climb up a lighthouse?

To take your road trip even further, bring a bike! Cruise along the water front; take a dip or two. 

Do you have a favourite road trip quote? Click for the best long drive quotes to inspir e your next adventure!

4. Shawnee National Forest

Distance: 6-hour drive

One of the longest Chicago road trips on the list, it’s more than worth it to visit Shawnee National Forest. In fact, plan to camp amidst the spectacular range of landscapes for one of the best driving trips from Chicago!

Local favourites include the Garden of the Gods – you’ll find super special rock formations like Anvil Rock. Little Grand Canyon and Bell Smith Springs feature moderate hikes; Inspiration Point offers panoramic views over the prairie, Mississippi River and the forest.

Not convinced? Shawnee Hills Wine Trail is a brilliant drive that links up vineyards and wineries in the area – a great stop on a road trip from Chicago.

How about driving from Chicago to Atlanta? Here’s my guide to the best stops on a Chicago to Atlanta road trip , just for you.

Best Chicago road trips in Winter

If you want the best road trips from Chicago when it’s colder and darker, then these are the best ones for you.

5. Grand Rapids

Distance: 3-hour drive

After just long enough of a drive, pull into Grand Rapids for a nice sweep of activities. The Beer City Ale Trail will keep you road-tripping on foot (or car, if you have a Designated Driver); or wander through Downtown Market for food adventures instead.

Warmed by booze, drop by the 158-acre Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park where their installations are bright pops of colour against an all-white backdrop. 

6. Muskegon

Speaking of unusual winter activities, I’ve heard so much about Muskegon Winter Sports Complex. Just an hour from Grand Rapids, it’s a great next stop on your Chicago road trip.

Their Olympian-designed ice-luge course is perfect for beginners, spanning 850 feet of forested speed racing. Muskegon is also home to USS Silversides Submarine Museum if you’re into marine vehicles, and there’s a great pier and lighthouse too.

7. Indianapolis

When temperatures are cold, cold, cold – you might opt for staying indoors. The city of Indianapolis is one of the best road trips from Chicago during winter because of its incredible indoor entertainment: museums.

From the Indianapolis Museum of Art to the Indianapolis Children’s Museum to quirky Indiana Medical History Museum, you can escape the cold all day!

Of course, drop by famous City Market for great eats and then maybe go on a catacombs tour underground too. This makes for one of the best road trips from Chicago.

8. Boyne Mountain Resort

Distance: 5-hour drive

Michigan winters are best captured with the ski resort of Boyne. Drive past snowy landscapes to reach 850 acres of skiing, snowmobiling, dogsledding and photography escapades.

While the forested grounds offer romantic snow-covered views, don’t miss out on the epic zip lines that take you through the trees and slopes. 

If you like your road trips from Chicago with a bit of snow and ski thrown in, then this is a great option for you.

Your ESTA for the USA

Before you go to the USA make sure you have your ESTA organised. You can find help with this on this link: https://www.application-esta.co.uk/ESTA-guide . It doesn’t take long and organising it beforehand will make things go that bit smoother at the airport.

9. Apostle Islands

Distance: 7-hour drive

Does driving over ice count as going off-road?

It’s an unforgettable journey to Apostle Islands National Lakeshore as winter ice freezes thickly to transform water into road, ending with stunning ice caves!

Make sure to visit the only inhabited Madeline Island as well for a cool wind sled experience and hot tub stay. 

Day Road Trips from Chicago

10. lake geneva.

Distance: 1.5-hour drive

Chicago’s number one when it comes to day trips, Lake Geneva is one of the best lake town’s in the US.

Downtown boasts all the food and drinks you need for the inevitable food baby; you might even land a booze cruise.

Hot air balloon rides, Lake Shore Path, ziplines and even ski slopes make it a year-round place to visit. It’s a multi-visit destination for sure!

11. Harbor Country

Distance: 1-hour drive

Wind between the towns of Michiana, Grand Beach, Three Oaks, New Buffalo, Lakeside, Union Pier, Harbert and Sawyer. This Chicago road trip will have you hopping between wineries and breweries, not to mention the beach.

It’s so close to the city, but the sand dunes and soft grasses make it a wholly different world. 

12. Starved Rock State Park

Distance: 2-hour drive

Families and romantics will love Starved Rock State Park for reasons that include: 13 miles of hiking, 18 canyons, free entry and nature-surround lodge.

It’s a great location to unplug for a day as you hunt down natural rock pools, waterfalls and incredible moss-strewn glades. You can even visit in the winter for cross-country skiing and cuddles in front of expansive mountain views. 

13. Saugatuck 

Making up Lake Michigan’s “art coast of Michigan”, Saugatuck and its neighbours (Fennville and Douglas) are house dozens of art galleries!

Unique and LGBTQ+-friendly shops feature alongside artsy hubs to make it a super welcoming town. Of course, famous Oval Beach appeals with soft dunes and paddleboat rides too. From craft booze tours to fruit picking and corn mazes, it’s one of Chicago’s best road trips.

14. Elkhart Lake

I won’t spoil it for you but this 292-acre lake and nearby Kettle Moraine State Forest is truly a place to unwind from the crowds.

You can hike the epic Ice Age National Scenic Trail or bike down Old Plank Road Trail. Pumpkin patches, race-tracking and fishing are all inclusive!

Want a charming hideaway? This is it.

Road Trips 4 hours from Chicago

Want your road trips from Chicago for a special weekend? Then these Chicago road trips are only 4 hours away.

15. Ann Arbor

If you’re looking for an all-season destination, Ann Arbor is the perfect road trip from Chicago.

Huron River entertains with kayaking, paddle-boarding, tubing and swimming; Matthaei Botanical Gardens and Nichols Arboretum displaying beautiful foliage. Definitely spare some time for Kerrytown Market and Shops for all their indie offerings! 

16. Door Country

Also called ‘Cape Cod of the Midwest’, Door Country is a 70-miles-long basket of fun!

You’ll never get tired of exploring its orchards, coves, lighthouses and wineries. Away from the light pollution, Newport State Park offers stunning starlit skies while Ephraim is all the small-town charm you need. Just imagine – 300 miles of coastline.

You can reach Galena under 4 hours but I recommend taking your time. Pull up through scenic rolling hills to go back in time because the Galena Historic District is made up of cobblestone streets and over 1,000 buildings from the 19 th century.

For those non-history buffs, Chestnut Mountain opens as a ski resort in the winter; Stagecoach Trail and Apple River Canyon State Park are open year-round. 

18. Richland County

To really escape from people, Richland County is a rural road trip destination where you can bunk for the night. But away from the isolated and lush property of Candlewood Cabins are fields and hills that keep you outdoors all day.

The Ridge Road and Pine River Recreation Trail fulfils all your adventurous needs – where else would you find wildlife while biking over abandoned railroads?

You also have three rivers and five state parks within an hour’s distance, and the lovely 100-mile Lower Wisconsin River Scenic Byway for more driving way. 

19. Huron-Manistee National Forest

Michigan really surprises us again and again!

Along the peninsula is the expansive Huron-Manistee National Forest, one of the best road trips from Chicago if you are a nature enthusiast. A single paved road takes you through dense forest (beautiful in the fall) to parking areas so you can hike your way through the serene space or canoe on the rivers. 

Road trips from Chicago

Of course there are loads of great things to do in Chicago but visiting Chicago really opens up a world of opportunities when it comes to road trips.

Whether you’re taking the car out for an hour-long spin or you’re willing to buckle down for a few hours, you won’t be disappointed by the scenery along your journey or the fantastic destinations ahead. 

Related Posts:

• 7 Ways to Make the Most of Your Road Trip Budget
• Planning a Road Trip in the USA: 13 Best Routes!
• 57 Coolest Things to Do in Chicago for 2023
• Christmas Things to Do in Chicago in Winter: 21+…
• 14 Awesome Stops on a Chicago to New Orleans Road Trip
• 11 Unique Stops on the Drive from Chicago to Atlanta

Hi, I'm Vicky! I wrote this. You can find me on all the social media @VickyFlipFlop. I love a bit of adventure, will try anything once, and have a strong passion for the local food and drink, whatever it may be. I'm here to help inspire you to travel to places a little out of your comfort zone, or at least to explore the usual destinations in a different way. Stay, have a look around, and if you have any questions – let me know below.

One Comment

That’s no picture of Elkhart Lake

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Sign me up for the newsletter!

• About Melissa
• _Charity & Small Biz Interviews
• -Chicago Suburbs Hiking

SOCIAL MEDIA

12 Super Road Trip Destinations from Chicago for Spring Break

Sunday, january 23, 2022.

12 Super Road Trip Destinations from Chicago Perfect for Your Next Adventure

With warmer days hopefully upon us soon, time is here to think about road trips! I am sharing a few of my favorites within a range of distances.  Happy trekking!

Within 3 Hours

Galena, Illinois: Downtown Galena enchants with one of the most beautiful historic districts in the USA. The bustling downtown full of shops, wineries, eateries and history beckons wanderers. Nearby hiking experiences are plentiful and treat to fantastic views of the Mississippi including from one of our favorites, Mississippi Palisades State Park . The Ulysses S. Grant is home is one of our favorites to tour and includes so many authentic family artifacts. While in Galena, wander over to nearby Dubuque, Iowa for a trip up the Fenelon Place Elevator. 

Madison, Wisconsin: Wisconsin's state capitol, Madison , unfolds an amazing opportunity for a family getaway. The Wisconsin State Capitol Building is striking and quite an interesting place to tour. Don't forget to step out on one of the balconies for a view. A plethora of hiking opportunities exist in and around the city including Lakeshore Nature Preserve, Blue Mound State Park, Devil's Staircase and Pheasant Branch Conservancy. Olbrich Botanical Gardens enchants in all seasons. Chazen Museum of Art, Madison Children's Museum and Wisconsin History Museum all add to any itinerary. We also love nibbling at the bakeries in Madison including Madison Sourdough and Batch Bakehouse. 

Quad Cities, Illinois and Iowa: The Quad Cities incorporates a number of Illinois and Iowa communities saddling the striking Mississippi River. A wealth of nature activities can be enjoyed including hiking and bird watching on Sylvan Island, at Black Hawk Historic Site, at Illiniwek Forest Preserve and more. Putnam Museum and Science Center, Figge Art Museum and Quad Cities Botanical Center offer more avenues of discovery. Don't forget to pick up ice cream at Whitey's or Lagomarcino's. For the over 21 crowd, hit the Quad Cities Ale Trail. We love the wealth of activities available and return to the Quad Cities again and again!

Within 6 Hours

Columbus, Ohio: Columbus has been one of our favorite cities to wander. We love German Village full of historic buildings and small businesses. Visiting Schmidt's Restaurant rewards with fabulous and authentic German fare. (My favorite is the German chocolate pie.) Museums include the Center of Science and Industry with a dinosaur gallery, Columbus Museum of Art and Central Ohio Fire Museum. We also enjoy visiting the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium which has one of the best African savanna experiences I have viewed.

Grand Rapids, Michigan:   Grand Rapids is home to one of my favorite botanical gardens and sculpture parks, Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. the grand scale sculptures are breathtaking and the gardens awe especially the Japanese garden. We also find the Grand Rapids Public Museum and Grand Rapids Art Museum fascinating. We usually pair a trip to Grand Rapids with a trip to Lake Michigan's shore often at Grand Haven. I am totally a beach lover in all seasons and often prefer spring for visits because there are fewer visitors. Rosy Mound Natural Trail in Grand Haven is one of our cherished nature highlights.

Hocking Hills, Ohio: Hocking Hills State Park in Ohio fascinates with a cache of unique hikes exploring canyons, caves, cliffs, waterfalls and much more. We love renting a cabin in the region for a little nature respite away from it all.

Louisville, Kentucky:   Louisville offers a great launching point for a Kentucky vacation. Museums including the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory and Frazier History Museum present venues entertaining a range of interests. Churchill Downs is iconic. Louisville Mega Cavern bestows a venue for weaving through ropes courses and sliding along ziplines underground. The food scene includes so many of our favorites including Mark's Feed Store and Homemade Ice Cream and Pie Kitchen. The Camberly Brown and Seelbach hotels sweep you back to old hospitality. Of course, bourbon is a must for the 21+ crowd.

Shawnee National Forest: Shawnee National Forest in Southern Illinois welcomes travelers to unique hikes with unparalleled views. The forest includes a remarkable 289,000 acres of nature adventures to experience. Hiking, camping, horseback riding, biking, fishing, climbing, boating and more forge incredible nature experiences in some of the most unique settings of the Midwest.

St. Louis, Missouri:   St. Louis is an ideal location for a little getaway right along the mighty Mississippi River. The City Museum, St. Louis Science Center, St. Louis Zoo and St. Louis Art Museum among others inspire discovery. Of course, visitors must check out the Gateway Arch! Eating on 'The Hill' will treat you to fantastic Italian fare. You will also be near Cahokia Mounds where you can learn about the Mississippian Mound Builders. Additionally, you can head to St. Charles or Ste. Genevieve for a little French colonial history. When in St. Louis, one must also take an Anheuser-Busch Brewery Tour.  So many avenues of exploration make St. Louis a fabulous destination.

Within 8 Hours

Minneapolis and Saint Paul, Minnesota:   Minneapolis and Saint Paul have always been a favorite locale to visit. I love that there are spaces to admire nature right in Minneapolis and St. Paul including Minnehaha Falls, Chain of Lakes and Shadow Falls. Plus, there are tons of hiking opportunities nearby in Minnesota and Wisconsin. Mill City Museum and the Museum of Russian Art are two of my favorite museums in the Midwest. A walk along the Stone Arch Bridge and a peek at flour mill ruins provide an interesting look at Minneapolis. Como Zoo Conservatory in nearby Roseville treats to magnificent floral displays in all seasons. The region is populated with local microbrews adding tasting experiences.

Omaha, Nebraska: Perched along the Missouri River, Omaha offered us a wonderful starting point for a few nature adventures including Platte River State Park, Lewis and Clark Monument Park, Heron Haven and more. We loved walking around the Old Market, peeking into the Passageway and more. The city includes a wealth of museums such as the Durham Museum, Joslyn Art Museum, Omaha Children's Museum present a wealth of adventures.  For a truly unique scene, visit Hollywood Candy which not only delights with tons and tons of candy but includes a vintage pinball arcade, movie memorabilia, a '50s diner, vinyls and so much more!

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania: Pittsburgh is a fantastic vacation choice for any season. The city's range of museums inspires any wanderer. The National Aviary is a wonder that should not be missed. Several rooms are free-fly, so you will have all sorts of interesting birds freely flying and roaming. Andy Warhol Museum, Heinz History Center, Carnegie Museum of Natural History and more will invite exploration. Don't forget to take the Duquesne Incline up to the top of Mount Washington for a view. We have to take in this view EVERY time we are in the city. Wander the Strip District for all sorts of foodie treats and shops. Hiking, river views and more will entice nature lovers. Every trip to Pittsburgh welcomes us to new experiences.

Post a Comment

Your Family Will Love These 30 Road Trips Near Chicago

• Updated: 04/03/2024

Chicago and US Midwest families, we feel you. Airplane tickets are pricier than ever. Though, your need for a getaway has never been greater. 

You want to get out of town with minimal effort and do not want to spend a small fortune to do it. 

To help, I share my favorite short to medium-distance driving destinations and those recommended by regional experts—other travel bloggers and planners passionate about places in the Midwest. 

Together, we came up with this list of the 30 best road trip destinations for the summer and the fall, from big cities to small charming towns to blow-you-away natural wonders, all within a five-hour drive of Chicago.

Table Of Contents

Check out our destination recommendations by state below. 

• Michigan & Ontario

Or view all 30+ places we recommend going in the map below.

How to use this map:  In the map header, click the square tab to the left of my logo or click the enlarge frame to the right to view detail. You can save the map to “Your Places” on Google Maps by clicking the star next to the map name. Or you can share it by clicking the share icon.

Wisconsin: Top Road Trips Within 5 Hours of Chicago

Welcome to Wisconsin, or the “Dairyland State,” loved by visitors for its rich dairy heritage, delicious cheeses, and beautiful landscapes, including miles upon miles of lakeshore coastline.

Check out these six Wisconsin destinations shared in more detail below.

• Madison, WI
• Milwaukee, WI
• Sheboygan, WI
• Door County, WI
• Wisconsin Dells, WI
• Lake Geneva, WI

Also, consider adding Green Bay (a 4-hour drive) and the lake-perfect Northwoods towns of Manitowish Waters and Boulder Junction (a 5.5-hour drive) to your driving trip wishlists.

Madison, Wisconsin

Approximate drive time from Chicago: 2.5 to 3 hours

Recommended by: Rebecca Gade Sawicki of VeggiesAbroad.com

At just two and a half hours from Chicago, Madison is the perfect destination for a quick day trip or a weekend away . This sustainability-focused college town offers families tons of outdoor activities, diverse dining, and art and culture.

If you’re a family that loves the outdoors, visiting Madison during the summer is best. This is the prime time to enjoy the city’s prized lake life (five lakes surround it) and over 200 miles of paved bike trails. Madisonians love to bike (even in the winter), which is one of the best ways to see the city.

Another great activity to see Madison’s unique and eco-friendly side is to explore the independent boutiques that line Willy Street. You’ll find plenty of vintage shops, locally created art, zero-waste products, and clothing that’s been ethically produced and sourced.

While you’re in the area, don’t miss an iconic Madison treat, Nutkrack — this sweet and salty snack was actually created by accident! And, around the corner from Nutkrack is Madison’s oldest vegetarian restaurant , Green Owl Café — don’t miss their loaded vegan cheese fries.

When deciding where to stay in the city, the best place is downtown. This will put you within easy walking distance of many shops, restaurants, and events.

The Hyatt Madison/Downtown offers spacious rooms and suites, perfect for families, along with continental breakfast, and has multiple sustainability initiatives to reduce its and its guest’s carbon footprint. Or search for more Madison lodging options here .

Sign up for my monthly Discovery Newsletter & get a free Trip Budget Calculator !

Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Approximate drive time from Chicago: 1.5 hours

Recommended by: Lisa of WavesandCobblestones.com

Milwaukee, Wisconsin , is the perfect city to visit on a family road trip from Chicago. Milwaukee is an easy 1.5-hour drive from Chicago, located to the north along the banks of Lake Michigan.

There are plenty of great things to do in Milwaukee to keep your family entertained! Rent kayaks and paddle along the Milwaukee Riverfront for some fresh air and exercise. Or show some team spirit and take the family to a ball game and watch the Brewers play baseball at the American Family Field or the Bucks on the basketball court at the Fiserv Forum.

There are many fun museums to visit in Milwaukee with your family, such as the Milwaukee Art Museum , a top-notch fine arts museum, where admission is free for children 12 years and younger. Or Discovery World , Milwaukee’s science museum, and Reiman Aquarium. Or the National Bobblehead Hall of Fame and Museum—a one-of-a-kind museum with over 10,000 bobbleheads from across the globe!

Stay at the Plaza Hotel , centrally located in Milwaukee’s historic Lower East Side, with suites that include a pull-out sofa and accommodate up to four people. The Plaza rooms have full kitchens, and with a large grocery store just a block away, you can save money on meals and snacks during your stay.

Or search for more Milwaukee lodging options here .

Sheboygan, Wisconsin

Approximate drive time from Chicago: 2.5 hours

Recommended by: Theresa Goodrich of TheLocalTourist.com

Sheboygan, Wisconsin, is a surprising destination only two and a half hours away from Chicago and a great road trip for families because of the variety of things to do. Begin your visit at the Visit Sheboygan Visitors Center and see Science on a Sphere , a suspended globe that acts as a projector screen displaying programs provided by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. You can also get tips for places to visit and pick up brochures and souvenirs.

One of the best things to do in Sheboygan for families is Bookworm Gardens. This whimsical garden is a haven for book lovers and children alike, where literature comes to life through vibrant displays and interactive exhibits. Another must-stop for families is the Above and Beyond Children’s Museum . You can’t miss it—there is a ship’s hull sticking out of the building! While downtown, stroll 8th Street for delicious pizza at Il Ritrovo , and don’t miss the Victorian Chocolate Shoppe . Since Sheboygan is on the shores of Lake Michigan, it is also a great summer vacation spot, with sandy beaches and lakefront parks .

Make Blue Harbor Resort your base camp. With its own waterpark, an arcade, mini-golf, a beach, and outdoor games—the kids will love staying at this resort. Or search for more Sheboygan lodging options here . 

Door County, Wisconsin

Approximate drive time from Chicago: 4 to 5 hours

Recommended by: Janice Moskoff of GatherandGoTravel.com

This Wisconsin peninsula just north of Green Bay, surrounded by Lake Michigan, boasts beautiful beaches, scenic hiking trails, and family-friendly activities that will keep everyone pleased for days. 

We visited Door County in the fall , and it was gorgeous. The leaves had not quite fully changed, though we took full advantage of the pretty outdoors to bike and hike at several of the peninsula’s five state parks . 

We even visited Cave Point County Park , one of the Door’s nearly 20 county parks, and were treated to an easy-to-access spectacular scene of Lake Michigan waves crashing against a stunning rocky coastline on a windy day. The beauty of this experience blew us away. Expect the Door to do the same to you.

In the summer, the Door truly shines. Families flock here for the beaches, events, and the abundance of outdoor activities. 

With over 300 miles of shoreline , you can swim, kayak, and fish in the crystal-clear waters of Lake Michigan, especially gorgeous on a sunny day.  Plus, the towns dotting the peninsula are charming, full of shops, galleries, and many restaurants.

Visit or stay on the west or bayside of the peninsula, where you can catch sunsets in towns like Fish Creek or Sister Bay . Or opt for the eastside—where we stayed—and catch the sunrises in or around Bailey’s Harbor . Top family-friendly resorts include Newport Resort , Ephraim Shores Resort , and Scandinavian Lodge . Though, know that the Door books early. So, if you plan your trip last minute, grab the best lodging you can get from Sturgeon Bay or further north and use it as a base to drive around and explore the Door. 

Search all family-friendly Door County lodging options on VRBO or Booking.com .

Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin

Approx drive time from Chicago: 3 hours

Recommended by: Hannah & Adam Lukaszewicz of GettingStamped.com

The Wisconsin Dells is the ideal road trip destination from Chicago as it is known as the Waterpark Capital of the World . The driving distance from Chicago to Wisconsin Dells is just under three hours, making it the perfect length for a weekend getaway . Kids love to splash and play in the water, so why not visit multiple waterparks in one road trip?

The Wisconsin Dells is home to the first-ever indoor waterpark and currently has the largest concentration of waterparks in the world. No matter if you are visiting in the summer or the winter, you will find an amazing waterpark for your family to visit and enjoy, as the area is home to 12 different indoor water parks and over 20 water parks in total.

The best place to stay in Wisconsin Dells is one of the Waterpark Hotels . Our favorite waterpark hotel is Great Wolf Lodge as not only does it have a fantastic waterpark with a 6000 ft outdoor pool, 1000 gallon tipping bucket, a wave pool with three-foot-tall waves, a toddler pool, and a variety of slides for kids of all ages.

The Great Wolf Lodge has unique themed rooms and fun activities, including magi-quest, live shows, and an arcade, making it a kid paradise!

Lake Geneva, Wisconsin

Approximate drive time from Chicago: 2 hours

Recommended by: Diana of TravelsinPoland.com

With an approximate driving time of 2 hours, Lake Geneva is a short drive from Chicago and one of the best cities to visit in Wisconsin. The small-town atmosphere combined with a variety of activities make it a perfect choice for families with children of all ages.

Families can enjoy a day on the water, renting boats, kayaks, or paddle boards, or opt for a scenic boat tour around the lake. Or walk along a portion of the Lake Geneva Shore Path , a 21-mile trail that offers stunning views of grand estates and natural beauty. Spending time on the lake is the best way to experience the area, particularly during warmer months. Shopping in downtown Lake Geneva can keep families occupied for hours. The shops along the main roads have unique items such as art and handcrafted goods. There are also mom-and-pop cafes, ice cream, and candy shops in town.

For accommodation, The Abbey Resort , located in the heart of town, offers a great choice. It is a full-service family-friendly resort offering spacious rooms, indoor and outdoor pools, a game room for the kids, and a full-service spa for the adults. Or search for more Lake Geneva lodging options here .

Michigan & Ontario: Top Road Trips Within 5 Hours of Chicago

Experience the best of the Mitten State , a northern gem and a truly ideal destination for vacationing families. The Michigan coastlines—particularly to the west, with sandy beaches, spectacular sunsets, and towering dunes —will wow you with their beauty. Plus, the vibrant cities and small towns in Michigan will offer enough activities and culinary delights to keep you busy and satisfied for days.

Check out these four Michigan & Ontario destinations shared in more detail below.

• Saugatuck, MI
• Ann Arbor, MI
• Detroit, MI, into Ontario, Canada (a loop driving trip)
• Traverse City, MI (with a day trip to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore)

To expand your options—consider adding these Michigan Southwest coastal towns to your road-trip-and-relax lists, like New Buffalo, St. Joseph/Benton Harbor, South Haven, Holland, and Grand Haven. Or spend time exploring more urban centers like Detroit or Grand Rapids .

Saugatuck, Michigan

Approximate drive time from Chicago: 3 hours

We love Saugatuck. We have visited for weekend trips several times in the fall and keep returning for more.  What draws us? The unbelievably beautiful beaches and dunes, the quaint downtown area filled with art galleries and boutiques, and the concentration of seriously elevated cuisine.

Our favorite beaches are Oval Beach , which consistently ranks as one of the top beaches in the country, and offers soft sand, clear water, and stunning views of Lake Michigan.  Additionally, we love the nearby and dog-friendly Saugatuck Dunes State Park , which is perfect for hiking and exploring, with over 1,000 acres of dunes, forests, and beaches.

When not visiting the beaches or getting ice cream, or shopping the galleries on Butler Street, Saugatuck’s main thoroughfare, we spend our time apple picking (in the fall), boating on the Kalamazoo River, or dining at one of the truly fantastic eateries in and around town. I share more things we love to do in Fall Trip: 10 Wonderful Family Things to Do in Saugatuck, MI “

Visiting families also love going on Saugatuck Dune Rides . This thrilling ride takes you on a tour of the dunes, with steep climbs and drops, which the kids will love. And bonus! The knowledgeable guides will share the history and ecology of the area, making it both fun and educational. 

For meals, you cannot go wrong nearly anywhere you choose to eat, but our favorites include The Southerner , where the biscuits alone are worth repeat visits, Pennyroyal Cafe & Provisions , and a short 15-minute drive to enjoy drinks and snacks at Virtue Cider .

Booking a stay in Saugatuck can be surprisingly pricey, so I share helpful information on where you can stay in the surrounding areas for less in “ Saugatuck, MI: 8 Amazing Areas to Search for Lodging .” Then, and especially because many local inns do not allow children as guests, I detail my top choices for family lodging in “ Roundup of the Best Family-Friendly Places to Stay in Saugatuck .”

Ann Arbor, Michigan

Approximate drive time from Chicago: 4 hours

Whether you’re a University of Michigan sports enthusiast or just looking for a hip town surrounded by gorgeous natural beauty, Ann Arbor is the ideal Michigan town to visit!  From Chicago, the trip via car or train (Amtrak offers service from Chicago’s Union Station to Ann Arbor) is just under four hours , making it a perfect road trip for a few days away!

Ann Arbor is well known for its thriving arts and culture scene . Year-round, it hosts a variety of art, music, and film festivals, including one of the largest outdoor art fairs in the nation, The Ann Arbor Art Fair . The Art Fair takes over Ann Arbor every July and spans 30 city blocks with over 1,000 artists! You’ll also find food and music throughout the fair.

For families who enjoy outdoor activities, you’re in luck! Ann Arbor is surrounded by natural beauty, with parks, nature reserves, and the Huron River flowing through it. Head to the Argo Livery during the summer and rent a canoe, kayak, or stand-up paddle board. You can go out on your own, or Argo offers multiple group river trips that range in time and distance from just under 4 miles and 1.5 hours to almost 6 miles and 2.5 hours.

When it comes to dining, you’re in for a treat — the city is well-known for its eclectic mix of cafes and restaurants. From the famous and funky sandwiches at Zingerman’s Delicatessen to the veggie eats at Ann Arbor’s best vegan restaurant, Detroit Street Filling Station.

When choosing a place to stay, it’s best to stay right in the heart of the city (especially if it’s your first visit). Two terrific family options include the Residence Inn by Marriott Ann Arbor Downtown and The Graduate Ann Arbor . Or search for more Ann Arbor lodging options here .

Detroit to Southwestern Ontario Loop Trip (a 5 Day, 4 Night Itinerary)

Approximate drive time from Chicago to Detroit: 4.5 hours

Recommended by: Erie Conners of EverywhereOntario.com

For a unique road trip that takes you into another country, consider making the trip from Chicago to Southwestern Ontario , Canada.  This southernmost region of Canada is filled with quaint small towns, sandy beaches , an abundance of fruit farms and wineries , and incredible historic sites that tell important stories from the Underground Railroad that delivered many slaves to freedom in the 1800s. 

From Chicago, you’ll drive 4 hours to the Detroit-Windsor border. In Detroit, you’ll cross the Ambassador Bridge or take the Detroit-Windsor Tunnel to get into Canada. 

Depending on how long you’ll be staying in Canada, here are the sites I recommend according to a path that takes you from the Detroit-Windsor border to the Sarnia-Port Huron border , where you’ll loop back to Chicago:

• Optional overnight at Caesar’s Windsor Hotel , or search for other Windsor lodging .
• Or, Pelee Island : Take the ferry to Canada’s southernmost landmass, Pelee Island. Visit Pelee Island Winery and bike around the island before taking the ferry home. Overnight in Leamington at a beautiful B&B , or other lodging . 
• Grand Bend Beach : Visit one of Ontario’s top beaches in the summer months. Lounge on the beach, participate in water sports, or walk along the Grand Bend Strip for boutique shopping.
• Sarnia: Walk along the waterfront to see Port Huron from the Canadian side. Overnight at The Insignia Hotel , in Sarnia . Or stay search for other nearby lodging .
• Cross the Bluewater Bridge back to Port Huron and drive 5 hours back to Chicago.

Traverse City, Michigan

Approximate drive time from Chicago: 5 to 5.5 hours

We visited vibrant Traverse City, MI , picturesquely nestled at the southern u-shaped end of Grand Traverse Bay , for five days in the heart of summer with our family dog and loved every minute of our trip. 

In addition to enjoying the lakeshore views that front the length of the town and strolling the shops and restaurants of bustling Front Street, our favorite activities were biking along the wooded TART trails—especially the Leelanau Trail, and hiking. 

We walked the paths in Grand Traverse Commons Natural Area , located behind the outdoor shopping plaza, making our way to the Hippie Tree, a massive old willow tree at the center of the trail network. Painted in bright colors by locals representing living artwork, the tree is rumored to have a haunted history that we only learned about after our visit. 

On another day, we drove out to the Old Mission Point Peninsula to spend the day enjoying the sweeping lake views from the lighthouse, hiking the trails in the adjacent Old Mision Point Park , stopping to buy fresh farmstand cherries, picking blueberries with the kids, and to enjoy a late al fresco lakeside lunch at the Jolly Pumpkin Restaurant & Brewery .

Another highlight was taking a day to visit the Sleeping Dunes National Lakeshore (a 40-minute drive), where we climbed dunes, hiked the Empire Bluff Trail , one of many in the area , and relaxed and picnicked on dog-friendly Esch beach. 

In addition to the outdoor activities, which could also include boat trips on Lake Michigan or kayaking on local lakes or rivers, your family will love the varied collection of breweries and wineries with outdoor dining areas ideal for families. When visiting, you can stay at a centrally located and family-friendly hotel, like the Bayshore Resort . Or search for a rental in the area. Find more available Traverse City hotels and lodging here . 

Indiana: Top Road Trips Within 5-Hours of Chicago

Hang out in the Hoosier State in one of these two top destinations:

• Indiana Dunes National Park, IN
• Indianapolis, IN

Additionally, consider staying in French Lick, IN, at the French Lick Resort  (a 5-hour drive), located in the hills of Indiana’s Hoosier National Forest. It is a classic family-friendly Americana resort offering loads of activities including, golf, biking, hiking, spa treatments, and supervised drop-off kid activities.

Indiana Dunes National Park, Indiana

Approximate drive time from Chicago: 45 minutes

Recommended by: Caitlin Dismore of TwinFamilyTravels.com

If you are in the Chicago area and looking for a family-friendly trip nearby, definitely consider visiting Indiana Dunes National Park and the surrounding area. Just 45 minutes outside of the city, the park offers a beautiful setting with plenty of beach access points and hiking trails.

In addition to the fabulous activities within the park, the surrounding towns offer a variety of attractions, shopping, and dining to keep the whole family entertained. West Beach is the perfect place for a family outing. It’s the largest beach in Indiana Dunes National Park and is great for swimming, sunbathing, or just relaxing. The Lake Michigan water is clean and clear, and there’s plenty of sand for kids to play with.

Hiking is another popular activity while in the park. Explore Indiana Dune’s biodiversity by hiking along the boardwalks, past historic homes, and even through marsh areas. If you are up for it, complete the 3 Dune Challenge at the nearby Indiana Dunes State Park .

If you are traveling with young children, consider staying at the Country Inn & Suites By Carlson Portage . The hotel has both a standard indoor pool and a shallow pool specifically designed for children, complete with a frog slide. Or search for other lodging options in the nearby Portage, Indiana area.

Indianapolis, Indiana

Approximate drive time from Chicago: 3 to 3.5 hours

This lively Midwestern city offers a wide range of activities and attractions ideal for families. From world-class museums to racetracks , expect a visit to Indy will be a memory-making trip your kids will love.

Top spots include the Indianapolis Children’s Museum , which has 472,900 square feet and five halls of exhibit space, making it the largest children’s museum in the world!  While there, kids can explore science, history, and art exhibits. Or they can ride a carousel, board a train, or climb a giant treehouse.

Prefer outdoor activities?  Be sure to visit the Indianapolis Zoo and White River Gardens , where the kids can roam, see amazing things, and do fun activities. In addition to seeing tigers, dolphins, and orangutans, the kids can visit the petting zoo, ride trains, join for animal feedings, or watch cheetah racing. 

For families who love cars and racing, include a visit to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway . Known as the “Racing Capital of the World,” the speedway is home to the famous Indianapolis 500 race and offers tours of the track and museum. When in the area, stop for burgers and root beers at the Mug ‘n Bun, a nearby vintage drive-in.

On where to stay, consider booking a room at the five-star Conrad Indianapolis tops the list with its spacious rooms and prime downtown location. Prefer something less splurgy? The more budget-friendly Homewood Suites by Hilton Downtown Indianapolis , with a complimentary breakfast, makes for an excellent alternative. Or search for other lodging options in the Indy area here .

Illinois: Top Road Trips Within 5-Hours of Chicago

Check out these top locations in the Land of Lincoln: 

• Starved Rock State Park, IL
• Shawnee National Forest, IL

Also, consider a visit to Galena (a 2.5 to 3-hour drive) with a historic downtown full of shops and restaurants, nearby outdoor activities like walking and biking along the Galena River, and lots of family-friendly lodging , some with pools.

Starved Rock State Park, Illinois

Recommended by: Alyssa of AnAppleaPlane.com

Only 1.5 hours by car outside the bustling city of Chicago, Starved Rock State Park transports visitors into another world. Dramatic canyons and cascading waterfalls are not the first things you picture when you think of the Midwest!  

If you do not plan to drive your own car, renting one will be most effective for your time and budget. Or, you can get to the area by taking a train from Chicago’s Union Station to Mendota Amtrak Station and hailing a 30-minute cab to the park. A huge draw to Starved Rock is its easy-to-access features . Many of Starved Rock’s most famous waterfalls provide drive-up parking lots, so the walk to the waterfall is only a couple of minutes.

Alternatively, consider parking at the main visitor center lot and hiking to your waterfalls of choice. Waterfalls at Starved Rock flow after rainfall or snow melt, so be mindful that these will not be here year-round. The longest-lasting waterfalls are at St. Louis Canyon and La Salle Canyon.

Other top features of the park include hiking, boat tours, and camping . And perhaps the park’s biggest draw—the entrance is free !

Consider staying in the highly-rated Starved Rock Lodge for either cabin or hotel room options. Or search for other nearby family-friendly lodging options here .

Shawnee National Forest, Illinois

Approximate drive time from Chicago: 5 hours

Recommended by: Melissa of HelloWanderlustFamily.com

Located in southern Illinois, Shawnee National Forest is about a 5-hour drive from Chicago, making it an easy and accessible destination for families. 

One of the best things about Shawnee National Forest is its variety of activities , such as hiking, fishing, ziplining, or just relaxing in nature—it offers something for everyone.  Two must-see attractions are Cave in Rock and Little Grand Canyon Trail. Cave in Rock is a 55-foot-wide cave formed over thousands of years by the forces of the Ohio River and the wind, and a highlight of Little Grand Canyon Trail is you get to hike in and around a series of waterfalls that cascade down the rocky cliffs. 

When looking for a place to stay, consider the location of your planned activities . Shawnee National Forest is huge, with some attractions only 15 minutes away, while others may take an hour to reach. Because of this, choose accommodation closer to the area where most of your activities will be. One excellent lodging option for families is Home2 Suites in Carbondale , which not only provides larger room sizes and access to a pool but is in a city that offers plenty of amenities. Or search for more Carbondale lodging options here . Alternatively, for a more unique and memorable experience, consider staying at the Timber Ridge Outpost & Cabins , which offers cozy treehouses perfect for families seeking a one-of-a-kind stay.

Gurnee, Illinois

Approximate drive time from Chicago: 45 minutes to 1 hour

Recommended by: Lisa of PlanningAway.com

If you are looking for a fun short road trip from Chicago, Gurnee Illinois is just the place! There are lots of fun things to do in Gurnee, Illinois !  Gurnee is about 45 minutes north of the city. Home to Six Flags Great America and Great Wolf Lodge , it is the perfect place to spend a fun weekend.   

Six Flags Great America is the highlight of a trip to Gurnee. There are over 30 roller coasters and rides to explore. There is also a water park inside Six Flags called Hurricane Harbor. Six Flags has great shows and entertainment options for all ages.  

To relax after a fun day at Six Flags, stay nearby at Great Wolf Lodge , where you can enjoy many activities, including an indoor water park, Magiquest game, rock climbing, ropes course, arcade, bowling, and mini golf.  Kids will also love character meet and greets, dance parties, and many other fun activities by Great Wolf Lodge, and included in your stay. The lodge is perfect for kids under the age of 12 . 

There are some places to eat inside Great Wolf Lodge, but if you want to really experience Gurnee, you will want to venture out and try some local favorites. Kaiser Pizza is delicious, and Oberweis Ice Cream is a must. Gurnee Mills shopping and outlet mall is a good stop for families too. Shop at the Bass Pro, eat at the Rainforest Cafe, and enjoy many more fun shopping options. If you do not want to stay overnight—Gurnee also makes for a great day trip from Chicago.

Missouri: Top Road Trips Within 5-Hours of Chicago

Saint louis, missouri.

Approximate drive time from Chicago: 4 hours 30 minutes

Recommended by: Lynli Roman of Wanderbig.com

With less than five hours between cities, Saint Louis is a family getaway that feels far away but is easy to drive from Chicago in a half-day! Book a room at the railroad depot turned hotel , Union Station , and spend your time exploring the many family-focused activities that Saint Louis offers.  First, take your family to explore the City Museum . Described as “weirdly wonderful,” the City Museum is the crown jewel of family-friendly fun in St Louis. Housed in an old shoe factory, the City Museum boasts a huge network of slides, tunnels, and caves for all ages. All ages love the rooftop, where you can ride the Ferris wheel or climb a giant praying mantis for perfect views of the St Louis skyline. 

Next, wander through Soulard Farmers Market and taste your way through the city. The Soulard Farmers Market is one of the oldest markets in the United States, with roots dating back to 1779! Most alive during the weekends, you’ll find 147 stalls filled with unique vendors selling everything from local Missouri produce to handmade gifts. Nearby grounds include a playground and plenty of space for an impromptu picnic with your market spoils. 

No family road trip to St Louis is complete without a trip to Forest Park— one of the nation’s largest and most-visited urban parks. The park is home to the Saint Louis Art Museum , the Saint Louis Science Center , the Missouri History Museum , an outdoor theater, and the Saint Louis Zoo . Entrance fees vary, but many amenities, including general admission to the zoo, are free!

Want to see more St. Louis lodging options ? Search for other family-friendly accommodation options here .

Ohio: Top Road Trips Within 5-Hours of Chicago

From city trips to world-class amusement parks to under-the-radar natural gems, Ohio regularly delights visitors , and especially families, with all it offers as a vacation destination.

Four Buckeye State destinations to consider for your next road trip include:

• Cincinnati, OH
• Cleveland, OH
• Cuyahoga Valley National Park, OH
• Cedar Point Amusement Park, OH

Cincinnati, Ohio

Approximate drive time from Chicago: 4.5 to 4.75 hours

Recommended by: Linda of MidwestExplored.com

If you’re looking for one of the best family road trips near Chicago—you can’t beat Cincinnati, Ohio.  After all, this underrated city is located just four and a half hours, or 297 miles, away from Chicago and is a well-priced, family-friendly destination brimming over with fun Cincinnati things to do that everyone will love.

So, start your visit with a trip to The Cincinnati Art Museum , founded in 1881, and in the Eden Park area.  Not only is the museum free to visit, but there are over 67,000 works that cover 6,000 years, ensuring there is something for everyone at this incredible institution. 

Next, grab a picnic lunch and explore Ault Park , which spans an impressive 220 acres of land and is the city’s fourth-largest park, and features a wealth of picnic areas, playgrounds, and walking trails that will help keep energetic kids busy. Finally, learn more about the Underground Railroad at the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center before taking in the electric hue of the cool signs on display at the American Sign Museum.

Then, when you’re ready to call it a day, return to your room at the Hyatt Regency Cincinnati , where you can take advantage of their family-friendly suites, indoor pool and catch up on laundry at their on-site facility. Or search for more Cincinnati lodging options here .

Cleveland, Ohio

A visit to Cleveland truly offers the best of all worlds—thrills at nearby Cedar Point Amusement Park (1-hour drive), cultural chills, and hills made for hiking at Cuyahoga Valley National Park (30-minute drive).  Stay in town at a place like centrally located and highly-rated Roost Cleveland , which offers fully furnished apartments with hotel-like perks,  and use it as a base to explore the area. 

The city, on the shores of Lake Erie, is home to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, the Cleveland Museum of Art, and the Cleveland Orchestra—great destinations and cultural institutions for families to experience and explore.  And when your crew gets hungry, head to the historic West Side Market to grab a bite from local food vendors and souvenir shop for artisanal products.

For families with outdoor enthusiasts, pair a visit to Cleveland with a day trip to Cuyahoga Valley National Park , a 30-minute drive away, where you can hike one of many highly rated wooded or waterfall trails.

Want to see more Cleveland lodging options ? Search for other family-friendly accommodation options here .

Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio

Another must-see destination for families visiting Ohio is Cuyahoga Valley National Park .  Located just outside Cleveland (a 30-minute drive), this park offers over 33,000 acres of natural beauty and outdoor activities. 

Families can explore the park’s hiking trails , go fishing or kayaking on the Cuyahoga River, or even take a scenic train ride.  With its pretty waterfalls, wooded paths, and diverse wildlife, Cuyahoga Valley National Park is a perfect destination for families looking to get outside, get moving, and enjoy the best of what nature and national parks offer.  

If you do not plan on staying in Cleveland, consider booking rental lodging in tiny and historic Peninsula Village , a private island of town surrounded by Cuyahoga Valley National Park.  Top rental picks in Peninsula, OH, for families include a few three and four-bedroom homes that can sleep up to ten. Search “Peninsula, OH” on VRBO  to find them.

Cedar Point Amusement Park, Ohio

Approximate drive time from Chicago: 4.5 hours

Cedar Point Amusement Park , located on a peninsula extending into Lake Erie near Sandusky, Ohio, is surrounded by water and overflowing with family-style fun. 

Known as the “ Roller Coaster Capital of the World ” with over 70 rides, including 18 roller coasters—thrill-seeking families will love it. The park also features a water park, live entertainment, and plenty of family-friendly dining.  Take at least two days to enjoy all it has to offer.

Stay on-site at one of the Cedar Point resorts like the beachfront Hotel Breakers , Lighthouse Point offering cottages and campgrounds, Castaway Bay with an indoor water park, or the budget-friendly Cedar Points Express Hotel .

Kentucky: Top Road Trips Within 5-Hours of Chicago

Louisville, ky.

Need a reason to visit Louisville, KY? How about six? Your family will love visiting the Louisville Zoo or strolling along Waterfront Park facing the Ohio River and adjacent to downtown Louisville, stopping to play in playgrounds or cool down in hot summers at the splash park. 

While in the area, catch a ride on a riverboat like the Belle of Louisville , which offers several different types of cruises, including historic narrated ones to picnic lunch cruises . Or your whole crew might love the Hometown Music Kids Cruise , designed especially for families.

Kids and parents who love baseball—or love to see how things how are made—will enjoy a visit to the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory , conveniently located downtown. Your tickets give you access to the museum and a tour of the factory—kids even get a free mini-bat at the end of the tour.

Need an indoor day activity? Explore the Mega Cavern , a former limestone quarry, now an underground adventure park offering ziplining, ropes courses, and a bike park, just a 15-minute drive from downtown and near the Zoo.  Or visit the downtown Kentucky Science Center , where your kids can engage with exhibits about the human body and outer space.

For places to stay, The Grady Hotel and Homewood Suites by Hilton Louisville Downtown are great choices. Both hotels are centrally located downtown and highly rated. Or search for more Louisville lodging options here . 

Related Reading

For traveling families, check out my related articles below for more trip ideas and tips that will help smooth your travels and get out the door with less hassle.

• Need An Itinerary For A Spring Trip To Europe? Here Are 25 Amazing Ideas
• 31 Warm Winter Break Vacation Ideas Your Family Will Love
• Enjoy the Ride: 12 Tips for Better Family Road Trips
• 15 Tips on How to Raise the Bar on Rental Cars
• Pack Faster & Better With This Universal Printable Packing List
• 25 Expert Packing Tips to Help You Travel Better
• Pre-Trip: A Practical Checklist to Close the House & Pack

Additional Trip Planning Resources

To further help you with travel planning, I share my go-to resources for every trip below. 

Google Flights. My first research stop for affordable flights for every trip. Learn why here . 

Google Hotels . Use its “ Where to stay ” button to discover the best neighborhoods to base your visit.

Booking.com. For hotel and rental bookings, I appreciate its flexible cancellation, candid user reviews, discounts, loyalty program, and easy-to-use interface.

Viator , Get Your Guide , & Airbnb Experiences . Quickly find and book highly-rated tours and activities on these sites.

Google Travel Things to Do & Google Maps . Find more things to do in your destination on Google Travel, then record where you want to visit on a custom Google Maps list. 

AllTrails . Love to hike? Me too. I religiously use AllTrails to discover hiking and biking trails and download its offline maps to manage my hikes.

Guide Along . 5-star self-guided audio tours that are GPS-compatible for US road trips and national parks. We loved the Glacier National Park tour .

Insure My Trip. I never travel internationally without trip insurance. Learn why here . My preferred place to shop and compare policies is InsureMyTrip.com . 

Plus, check out the 15 travel apps I use on trips, my preferred guidebooks , and my free customizable travel itinerary template , downloadable in four file formats.

About the author:  Janice Moskoff is a travel writer and blogger who loves hiking, exploring the world, and reading. She writes to inspire travel-loving families, adult friends, and couples on her blog,  Gather and Go Travel . Check out  her bio , learn how she became  a blogger , and discover how to  work with her . Sign up for her monthly  Discovery Newsletter  to get her latest travel recommendations and  how-to’s .

Love to travel? Sign up for m y monthly Gather & Go Travel Discovery Newsletter and get a free trip budget calculator .

Affiliate Disclosure: Some of the links on this page may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I only recommend products and companies I use. And the income goes to keeping the site community-supported and ads minimal.

Why You Will Love Enchantment Resort: A Review

From An Expert: InsureMyTrip.com is My #1 Pick for Trip Insurance

35 Places You Will Love for Your Next Ladies’ Trip

How to Make the Most of Missoula in 3 Days

39 Amazing Ideas for Things to See & Do in Missoula

The Best Places to Eat Around Glacier National Park

Leave a reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Welcome to Gather and Go Travel , a blog inspiring families, adult friends, and couples to explore US and international destinations and to get outdoors. I am Janice, an experienced traveler to over 50 countries and a travel writer, book lover, and blogger. Learn more about me , read our story , and how to work with me .

Need an Itinerary for a Spring Trip to Europe? Here are 25 Amazing Ideas

49 Things You Need to Do to Plan Your Best Trip (Free Travel Research & Planning Checklist)

Rental Car Insurance: When You Need It & When You Don’t

Pack Faster & Better With This Universal Printable Packing List

How to Spend 10 Days In Rome, the Amalfi Coast & Sorrento

Instagram....

gatherandgotravel

📍US & 🌎 travel for families, friends + couples 📝 Itineraries, destination guides and ideas + tips ❤️ hiking🥾, mountains + 📚books 🏡 Chicago

love this info?

And receive our F REE Budget Trip Calculator .

© 2023 All Rights Reserved

Travel planning.

Amazeballs Better Travel Guide

Travel Planning Tips

Destinations

Travel Learning

Conversations With Travel Pros

Blogs I Love To Follow

Work With Me / Contact Me

Journey From 100 To 10K

Terms of Use

Privacy Policy

Get A Free Trip Budget Calculator

Sign up for my monthly gather & go travel discovery newsletter packed with tips and vacation ideas and get my trip budget calculator for free..

10 Easy Weekend Getaways from Chicago—No Flights Required

Escape chicago for a few days with one of these 10, drivable weekend getaways and short road trips starting in chicago..

• Copy Link copied

Door County, Wisconsin, is one of the many easy-to-reach day trip destinations from Chicago.

Photo by Bailey Berg

Despite cries about that winter weather, Chicago is inarguably blessed with a little something we like to call location, location, location : With prime real estate on Lake Michigan, the Midwest city is about as far by car from Minneapolis (six hours) as it is Toronto (eight hours) and Nashville (seven hours). In this sense, it’s an ideal jumping-off point for a drivable trip. There are several weekend getaways from Chicago, whether you want to put some serious miles on your car or be somewhere new by the time your kids are done watching Cars. Read on for ten easy weekend getaway ideas from Chicago.

What cities are under three hours from Chicago by car?

• Milwaukee, Wisconsin (1 hour, 30 minutes)
• Madison, Wisconsin (2 hours, 25 minutes)
• Grand Rapids, Michigan (2 hours, 47 minutes)
• Peoria, Illinois (2 hours, 41 minutes)
• South Bend, Indiana (1 hour, 39 minutes)
• Indianapolis, Indiana (2 hours, 56 minutes)

The Dane County Farmers’ Market in Madison is one of the largest in the U.S.

Photo by MarynaG/Shutterstock

Geneva, Illinois

• Distance: An hour by car
• Best for: Singular art and great shopping

OK, OK. Geneva is technically a suburb of Chicago, but it feels worlds away, thanks to its small-town charm. Drop your bags at the boutique Herrington Inn & Spa , located on the Fox River, and set out to explore the city’s walkable downtown on foot. Public art abounds here, as do independent shops and restaurants (all told, there are more than 150 of them in the historic district).

Michigan City is a breath of fresh air not far away.

Photo by Andy Konieczny / Shutterstock

Michigan City, Indiana

• Distance: An hour and a quarter by car
• Best for: Hiking (and swimming for the brave)

On a clear day from Michigan City, you can see Chicago’s skyline across the water. Enjoy towering sand dunes, the cool waters of Lake Michigan, and nearly 50 miles of trails at Indiana Dunes National Park ; in Michigan City proper, attractions include the 19th-century Barker Mansion —listed on the National Register of Historic Places—and family-friendly Washington Park Zoo .

A lighthouse in New Buffalo, Michigan

Photo by Suzanne Tucker/Shutterstock

Harbor Country, Michigan

• Best for: A beach and wine combo trip

Comprising the eight towns of Michiana, Grand Beach, New Buffalo, Three Oaks, Union Pier, Lakeside, Harbert, and Sawyer, Harbor Country is a favored weekend escape from the Windy City, thanks to its beach and country offerings. There are also a number of world-class wineries and breweries in the area, including the popular Lehman’s Farmhouse and Dablon Vineyards and Winery , in nearby Baroda.

Milwaukee is home to one of the largest German populations in the U.S.

Photo by Jayne Lipkovich / Shutterstock

Milwaukee, Wisconsin

• Distance: An hour and a half by car
• Best for: Brats and brews

Milwaukee has a rich German heritage, which means the city is full of places to get a good beer and brat (and more beer, if that’s your thing). Both Pabst Blue Ribbon and Miller are based here, but don’t sleep on the smaller guys, including Milwaukee Brewing and Lakefront .

Mary stands atop the Golden Dome of the University of Notre Dame Main Administration Building.

Photo by Jonathan Weiss/Shutterstock

South Bend, Indiana

• Distance: An hour and forty minutes by car
• Best for: Whitewater rafting

There’s more to South Bend than Fighting Irish football, though we absolutely cosign the idea of a walk around Notre Dame’s scenic campus. Hit the rapids on East Race Waterway , North America’s first artificial white-water course, which cuts through the city, or visit the historic Robinson’s department store to throw your own pottery at the Pigeon and the Hen . Play arcade games—for free!—at the Garage Arcade and Bar , which has all the classics, Galaga and Ms. Pac-Man included.

The Fredrick Meijer Gardens spans 158 acres and features a host of outdoor art exhibits.

Photo by SNEHIT PHOTO / Shutterstock

Grand Rapids, Michigan

• Distance: Around three hours by car
• Best for: Beer, of course, but also outdoor sculptures

Voted “Beer City USA” in several national polls, Grand Rapids is known for its suds: Check out the Beer City Ale Trail , a map showcasing all of the options in the city. For food, we’re partial to strolling Downtown Market , which counts more than 20 vendors in the hall south of Heartside Park (a perfect picnic location, if you ask us). For an outdoor experience that requires a bit more activity, head to the 158-acre Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park : here, you’ll find art by Auguste Rodin as well as a hall dedicated solely to carnivorous plants.

A dinosaur breaks out of the Children’s Museum in Indianapolis.

Photo by James Kirkikis/Shutterstock

Indianapolis, Indiana

• Distance: Three hours by car
• Best for: Museums, both traditional and quirky

Indianapolis is an incredible museum city. Although two of its most popular attractions are the Children’s Museum and the sprawling indoor-outdoor Indianapolis Museum of Art , don’t miss some of the city’s quirkier options: the Indiana Medical History Museum (not for the faint of heart) and the Kurt Vonnegut Museum and Library . Visit Indy’s famed City Market to sample more than 25 locally owned eateries; when you’ve had your fill, descend underground on a public catacombs tour, which takes place on the select Saturdays, May through October, between 10 a.m. and 3.15 p.m. (Private tours can be booked with Indiana Landmarks .)

Ann Arbor is known for its university, but a host of delights awaits all visitors.

Photo by Dark Vader / Shutterstock

Ann Arbor, Michigan

• Distance: Around three hours and 45 minutes by car
• Best for: Adventures on the river

Activities for all seasons abound in Ann Arbor, best known as the home of the University of Michigan. Tube, kayak, SUP, or canoe down the peaceful stretch of the Huron River—accessed from the 69-acre Gallup Park—or stroll U of M’s famed Matthaei Botanical Gardens and Nichols Arboretum . Be sure to make time for the city’s Kerrytown Market and Shops , a picturesque neighborhood full of independent boutiques and restaurants. ( Zingerman’s Deli , one of the best spots in Ann Arbor for a sandwich, is here.)

An aerial view of Door County, Wisconsin

Photo by Matt Sampson Photography/Shutterstock

Door County, Wisconsin

• Distance: Four and a half hours by car
• Best for: Exploring rugged coastline

A 70-mile-long peninsula, Door County is often called the “ Cape Cod of the Midwest” —and rightfully so. Just 50 miles northeast of Green Bay, Door County has stunning coves, cherry orchards, harbors, lighthouses, wineries, and some 300 miles of coastline. Newport State Park is an International Dark Sky Reserve , and the 900-acre Rock Island State Park has no cars; for a dose of small-town charm, stop by Ephraim, a Scandinavian-style village .

Traverse City might be a bit further away, but it’s worth the drive—especially in the fall.

Photo by Gary R Ennis Photos / Shutterstock

Traverse City, Michigan

• Distance: Five hours by car
• Best for: Exploring shops and galleries in a justifiably popular small town

No wonder Traverse City was named one of the sweetest small towns to visit in summer : a lakeshore beauty with art deco architecture, the city is beloved by many Chicagoans (including Oprah herself). One of Traverse City proper’s most popular attractions is the Village at Grand Traverse Commons: a hospital complex from the 19th century, the historic venue has since been reborn into a mixed-use space, with shops, restaurants, footpaths, and art galleries. Northwest of Traverse City is Leelanau Peninsula, which is home to the striking Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore .

Where can I go by train from Chicago?

No car? No problem. You can get virtually anywhere from Chicago by train: Memphis is 10 hours by rail; Seattle is 46. But for a weekend getaway, we’re partial to these picks:

• Indiana Dunes National Park (the South Shore Line from Chicago’s Millennium Station stops at four stations in the park )
• Milwaukee, Wisconsin (about 90 minutes by Amtrak from Chicago’s Union Station)
• Kalamazoo, Michigan (about two hours by Amtrak from Chicago’s Union Station)
• Grand Rapids, Michigan (about four hours by Amtrak from Chicago’s Union Station)

Of course, there’s plenty to do in Chicago itself before you head off; it was ranked number 2 in the best cities in the U.S. for 2023 , after all, thanks to its top restaurants , world-class museums, and abundant hotel options. On the other hand, if you’re feeling really adventurous, you could always take the ultimate epic road trip: 2,448 miles all the way to Santa Monica , California.

Happy weekending.

This article originally appeared online in 2020; it was most recently updated on August 31, 2023, to include current information.

30 Delightful Road Trips from Chicago

If you’re looking to get away from the city, here are the best destinations for day trips and weekend road trips from Chicago.

Chicago’s location makes it an ideal place to get in the car and go, whether you live in the city or you make it your home base for some Midwestern exploration.

I’ve lived in Chicago and its suburbs for twenty years, and in the Midwest my entire life (except for a brief four years in my early twenties).

Let’s just say I’ve been to a LOT of towns, villages, cities, parks, etc., that are within easy driving distance from the Windy City.

And while I love Chicago (I even wrote a book about it ) and The Local Tourist began as a guide to the city’s River North neighborhood, sometimes even I just need to get away.

I’ve hand-picked some of my favorite Midwest road trips from Chicago. If you’re looking for delightful towns with delicious food and drink, boutiques and artisan shops, intriguing history, outdoor adventures, natural beauty, and so much more, you’re sure to find your perfect road trip from Chicago.

Road trips are the equivalent of human wings. Ask me to go on one, anywhere. We’ll stop in every small town and learn the history and stories, feel the ground and capture the spirit. Then we’ll turn it into our own story that will live inside our history. Victoria Erickson

Love travel quotes? Here you go!

There may be affiliate links in this post, which means we may get a small commission if you make a purchase. It’s at no extra cost to you and helps keep TLT free. Everybody wins!

Road Trips from Chicago

How to choose the best road trips from chicago.

How far will you drive for a weekend trip?

I asked that question of members of The Local Tourist Facebook group and their answers surprised me. The winning time was five hours, and second place was four hours.

Several of these road trippers would even drive eight hours for a weekend vacation!

Based on their input, and my own obsession with road trips, I’ve included some destinations that require a few hours behind the wheel.

I’ve also included places that are much closer. In fact, there are a few towns and cities that are technically suburbs of Chicago. Depending on your starting point, these destinations may provide more of a staycation than a vacation.

But hey – that’s what being a Local Tourist is all about, right?

I’m only including destinations that I’ve personally visited and enjoyed. Clearly, I need to spend more time in Ohio and Michigan.

For each road trip destination, I’ve included driving time. This assumes you’ll be driving interstates and won’t be avoiding toll roads. It also assumes no traffic.

Depending on when you leave for your weekend road trips from Chicago, traffic could increase times by at least an hour, so check Google maps or Waze before you go.

I’ve also included suggestions for places to stay, as well as links to each destination’s official Convention and Visitors Bureau, or CVB. These local resources are my travel planning not-so-secret weapon .

Ready to plan your road trips from Chicago? Let’s go!

Related: before you go, check out all my tips for planning a road trip .

10 Day Trips from Chicago

If you’re looking for a quick getaway or even a day trip, these locations are short road trips from Chicago and all within two hours of the Windy City.

Elgin, Illinois

Driving time: 1 hour

Known as the City in the Suburbs, Elgin, Illinois, is a relatively quick drive or an easy train ride from downtown Chicago. Its proximity makes it perfect for a day trip, but there’s enough to do that you’ll want to make a weekend of it.

A good place to start is downtown Elgin. Located right on the Fox River, it’s filled with public art and historic buildings.

Get the history of the area at the Elgin History Museum (pictured above).

You can also take a free self-guided walking tour of the Elgin Historic District.

Since that walking will make you hungry, grab a sandwich at Blue Box Café or head up to West Dundee for a burger and a pint at Emmett’s Brewing Co., an award-winning brewery.

Another one of the great things to do in Elgin is visit Lords Park and Zoo. On its grounds is the Elgin Public Museum, the only natural history museum in the Fox Valley.

Where to stay in Elgin, Illinois: Most of the hotels in Elgin are along the I-90 corridor. The Holiday Inn & Suites is one of the most highly rated accommodations near Elgin.

CVB: Explore Elgin Area, exploreelginarea.com

Indiana Dunes National Park, Indiana

One of our newest national parks is a short drive or train ride from Chicago. Established in 2019 , Indiana Dunes National Park is 15,000 acres along the southern shores of Lake Michigan.

There are over fifty miles of trails, making hiking Indiana Dunes National Park one of its top attractions. Hikers can traverse dunes, wetlands, prairies, rivers, and forests, all in one park.

There’s a fee to access the park: $15 per person (up to $25 per family group) and $25 per carload.

You could spend the entire weekend at the park. However, if you want a break, drive a little further east to Michigan City.

While the town is known for Lighthouse Place Premium Outlets, it’s also home to several museums, including the Old Lighthouse Museum.

Where to stay near Indiana Dunes State Park: Camping is available within the park itself, and there are several hotel chains in Michigan City .

CVA: South Shore Indiana, southshorecva.com

Harbor Country, Michigan

Driving time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Just across the border from Michigan City, Indiana, is Harbor Country.

The Red Arrow Highway takes you through eight small towns, each unique, each charming in its own away. Think boutique instead of big box, locally owned versus chain.

Outdoor enthusiasts will find everything from kayaking and paddle boating to fishing, surfing, and golf. Of course, you can also spend the day at the beach.

One of the biggest attractions is the number of Southwest Michigan wineries and breweries. The climate is very similar to Napa Valley, and the area’s known for its award-winning wines.

Where to stay in Harbor Country: You can find inexpensive hotels as well as private homes in New Buffalo, Michigan .

CVB: Harbor Country Chamber of Commerce, harborcountry.org

Kenosha, Wisconsin

Driving time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Kenosha is the fourth largest metro area in Wisconsin, as well as the fourth-largest city on the shores of Lake Michigan, and there are TONS of things to do.

It’s the home of the oldest operating velodrome in the country, a free dinosaur museum, historic restaurants, not one but two lighthouses, and you can still ride an electric trolley.

Start your visit at the Kenosha History Center for an overview of the area’s past. Then don’t miss the Dinosaur Discovery Museum or Kenosha Public Museum, both of which are free.

The Civil War Museum is an impressive look at Wisconsin’s role in the war.

A must-visit restaurant is House of Gerhard, featuring traditional German specialties. Another favorite is Franks Diner. Guy Fieri featured it on  Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives and it serves up tasty American cuisine with a side of sass.

Check out more reasons you should visit Kenosha, Wisconsin .

Where to stay in Kenosha: you can stay in Kenosha hotels that are conveniently located off I-94, or you can choose an historic inn like The Stella Hotel and Ballroom. For a great view, check out Wyndham Garden Kenosha, right on the harbor.

CVB: Visit Kenosha Wisconsin, visitkenosha.com

McHenry County, Illinois

Driving time: 1 hour 30 minutes

I lived in McHenry County, whose northern border is shared with Wisconsin, for five years and still found new things to do.

One of the most surprising aspects of the area is the sheer number of parks. The McHenry County Conservation District manages more than thirty conservation areas, and most of them have hiking trails.

There are also city and village parks, as well as two state parks within the county.

Another great thing about the area is the food. Oh, the food! There’s farm-to-table at 1776 Restaurant and Duke’s Alehouse and Kitchen, incredible Italian at 750° Cucina Rustica, rich encased meats at Richmond Brathaus, and the best custard anywhere at Julie Ann’s Frozen Custard.

All are local; all are family-owned; all are delicious.

McHenry County’s county seat is Woodstock, which you might recognize. It’s where Groundhog Day was filmed, and the town celebrates with their very own groundhog, Woodstock Willie.

You can even stay in the same bed and breakfast where Bill Murray’s character woke up again, and again, and again.

With the mouthwatering breakfasts served each morning at Cherry Tree Inn Bed and Breakfast, though, you won’t mind if the same thing happens to you.

Read more about why I love being a Local Tourist in McHenry County , and you will, too!

Where to stay in McHenry County: Cherry Tree Inn Bed and Breakfast , of course! Since there are only four rooms, if they’re full, you can find hotels in Crystal Lake , the largest town in the county.

CVB: Visit McHenry County, visitmchenrycounty.com

Starved Rock State Park

Head to Starved Rock State Park for a day of fresh air, physical fun, and outdoor adventure.

Located just 94 miles southwest of Chicago, the landscape is an unexpected tableau of bluffs, steep trails, and waterfalls. Since it’s on the Illinois River, there’s also fishing and boating.

You can bring a lunch to enjoy at the waterfront picnic area, or grab a bite to eat at the historic lodge.

Nearby Ottawa is a charming town with lots of creative chefs, so you can have the best of both worlds.

Where to stay in Starved Rock State Park: There’s a lodge at the park itself, but I personally prefer camping. Starved Rock has one of the best campgrounds in the Midwest .

Janesville, Wisconsin

Driving time: 1 hour 45 minutes

Located right off I-90, Janesville is an ideal weekend road trip from Chicago, especially if you like the great outdoors, art, and history.

The town’s tagline is “Wisconsin’s Great Outside,” and there are thirty miles of trails in Janesville, including a portion of Wisconsin’s Ice Age Trail. One of the most scenic treks is the mile and a half hike to Devil’s Staircase.

The Rotary Botanical Gardens is a non-profit garden covering twenty acres. You won’t want to miss their Holiday Light Show.

From Thanksgiving weekend through December, the gardens become a magical winter wonderland strewn with hundreds of thousands of lights.

History buffs will get a kick out of exploring Janesville’s thirteen historic districts. One of the highlights of any visit to Janesville would be the Lincoln-Tallman House.

Built in 1857, it’s been a museum since 1951. Eighty-five percent of the furnishings in the house are original, including the bed that Lincoln slept in when he was a guest.

Janesville’s dining scene is relatively new, but with restaurants like Genisa Wine Bar and the Sandwich Bar, it’s gaining steam and there are enough unique spots to keep your palate happy.

I definitely recommend bellying up to the 1933 Art Deco bar at O’Riley and Conway’s Irish Pub for some Scotch eggs.

Combine history and beer at Gray Brewing Co. They’ve been brewing beer since 1856, except during that pesky Prohibition when they turned to sodas. It’s one of the oldest family-owned breweries, not just in Wisconsin, but in the United States.

When you visit Janesville, make sure you’ve got your walking shoes and plenty of room on your SD card, because the town is filled with vibrant and colorful murals.

Where to stay in Janesville, Wisconsin: Renovated in 2019, the Hampton Inn provides comfortable rooms with modern décor. Breakfast is included, and it’s one of the better spreads I’ve seen.

When I stayed, the hot items were frequently replenished and there were several options including both waffles and mini-waffles.

CVB: Janesville Area Convention and Visitors Bureau, janesvillecvb.com

Lake Geneva, Wisconsin

Located just 75 miles northwest of Chicago on the other side of the Wisconsin border, Lake Geneva provides a year-round escape from hectic city life and is a short day trip from Chicago or great weekend destination.

One attraction with a direct tie to Chicago is the Yerkes Observatory (pictured above).

Yerkes is considered the birthplace of modern astrophysics and was funded by Charles Yerkes, who had a huge role in developing Chicago’s public transportation.

Lake Geneva has long been a playground for Chicagoans. In the late 1800s and early 1900s, it seemed that every wealthy Chicagoan built a mansion on the shores of the lake. Today, many of those mansions still stand.

The best way to see them is to take a boat tour, especially if you can ride along when they’re delivering the mail. Lake Geneva is one of the few places left in the country where mail is delivered by boat.

Another way to see the mansions is to walk the path that surrounds the lake. Like Chicago’s lakefront with its public beaches, Geneva Lake is surrounded by a trail that’s open to everyone.

The lakefront path is one of the most popular things to do in Lake Geneva .

One place you can only visit from a boat, unless you have physical limitations and can’t climb the many stairs from the dock, is Black Point Estate. This historic mansion has many ties to Chicago, including Jane Addams .

For something completely different, feed an ostrich. Safari Lake Geneva is a drive-through experience that allows you to feed giraffes, alpacas, elands, and emus.

An experience that’s both fun and tasty is taking a class at Lake Geneva Cooking School. Chef John teaches you how to make dishes you might never attempt on your own, and he pairs them with stellar wines.

Like many, during lockdowns he pivoted and fulfilled his dream of publishing a cookbook . I’ve made several recipes from it, and highly recommend it.

Golf is one of Lake Geneva’s biggest draws. During the winter months, you can ski, snowboard, snowshoe, and ice fish.

Where to stay in Lake Geneva: Technically located in Fontana on the west side of Geneva Lake, The Abbey Resort is a sprawling complex with beautiful rooms overlooking a marina.

They also have multiple pools and there’s often live music, either in the bar or outside during the summer.

CVB: Visit Lake Geneva, visitlakegeneva.com

Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Milwaukee, Wisconsin, is an urban getaway filled with culture and outdoor fun.

The instantly recognizable Milwaukee Art Museum is definitely worth visiting, and after you’ve browsed its collections you can take a walk along the lakefront.

For more art, book a room at Saint Kate The Arts Hotel . This astounding hotel is like staying in a work of art – because you are. It’s right downtown, providing easy access to the river walk.

Beer lovers will have a blast exploring Milwaukee’s breweries. Lakefront Brewery is known for its fun tours. Milwaukee Brewing Company and Mobcraft are also great places to visit.

There’s no beer at the Pabst Mansion, but you’ll still want to see Captain Frederick Pabst’s house, built in 1892. It’s a gorgeous Flemish Renaissance Revival mansion that’s on the National Register of Historic Places.

Fun fact: Captain Pabst earned his stripes with the Goodrich Line of steamships, which was based out of Chicago.

Another nautical stop is North Point Lighthouse. Built in 1888 high on a bluff, Frederick Law Olmsted himself designed the grounds. Chicagoans will recognize the famous landscaper’s name from the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition and the University of Chicago, among others.

Olmsted also landscaped Lake Geneva’s Yerkes Observatory, which was part of the University until recently.

The Harley-Davidson Museum is another must-stop and be sure to dine at Motor, the on-site restaurant.

During the summer there are festivals just about every weekend, so check Visit Milwaukee’s events calendar to find out what’s happening.

And of course, make sure you have some cheese curds, brats, and beer.

Where to stay in Milwaukee: Saint Kate The Arts Hotel for a modern art experience, The Pfister Hotel for a dose of history, and Iron Horse for more industrial décor and easy access to the Harley-Davidson Museum.

CVB: Visit Milwaukee, visitmilwaukee.org

Lafayette, Indiana

Driving time: 2 hours

My grandparents lived in West Lafayette, Indiana, so I grew up visiting. However, it wasn’t until a few years ago that I actually explored the town. Boy, had I been missing out on a lot.

Known as the home of Purdue University, West Lafayette, and its sister city Lafayette, have history, art, culture, delicious food and drink, and a vital sense of community.

There are several places that make this a great place for a road trip from Chicago. One is the Haan Mansion Museum of American Art.

The mansion was originally built for the 1904 World’s Fair in Saint Louis. Now it’s in West Lafayette and is filled with impressionist paintings and historic furniture.

Another is SAMARA. Designed inside and out by Frank Lloyd Wright for Dr. John and Catherine Christian, it’s a nearly perfectly preserved example of Wright’s Usonian architecture.

Another fascinating spot is Prophetstown State Park, combining a landscape that’s distinctly Indiana with the history of the Native Americans who fought the settlers’ encroachment, and the farmers who eventually tilled the land. While there, visit the nearby Tippecanoe Battlefield.

I’ve got even more places to visit in Lafayette. These include not only places I’ve been, but also spots recommended by students at Purdue University. I’ve partnered with a 400-level travel-writing class since 2018, and many of their submissions are local to the college town.

See why you should visit Lafayette and West Lafayette Indiana

Where to stay in Lafayette, Indiana: Mr. TLT and I loved the cozy intimacy of Black Blanket Farms Bed and Breakfast . If they’re booked, Lafayette has a gazillion hotel options since it’s a college town.

CVB: Visit Lafayette-West Lafayette, homeofpurdue.com

9 Weekend Road Trips from Chicago between 2 and 3 hours

Shipshewana, indiana.

Driving time: 2 hours 15 minutes

If you’re looking for a slower pace, yet still want plenty to do, add Shipshewana to your weekend adventures.

Shipshewana is in LaGrange County, also known as Indiana Amish Country. You’ll know when you get close because you’ll start seeing horse-drawn buggies and bicyclists everywhere.

With the third largest Amish population in the world, this area is a definite departure from the hustle and bustle of city life. Instead, it’s antiques and hand-crafted furniture, delicious food, and fun entertainment.

One of Shipshewana’s most well-known attractions is the Shipshewana Flea Market . Begun in 1922 with a livestock auction, this family-owned business is the largest flea market in the Midwest.

Learn what it’s like to attend the Shipshewana Misc & Antique Auction .

You also don’t want to miss the Davis Mercantile . Another family affair, it’s a destination for dining, shopping, and riding the carousel.

If you plan your trip in advance, you might be able to dine in an Amish home, which is a real treat (and the best mashed potatoes ever). If it’s a last-minute getaway, The Blue Gate Restaurant is always a favorite. After dinner, head upstairs for a show at the theater.

Other fun things to do in Shipshewana include touring Cook’s Bison Ranch, exploring one of the many county parks, having dinner in an Amish home , canoeing or kayaking on the Pigeon River, and taking a driving tour on a hunt for barn quilts.

Where to stay in Shipshewana: The Blue Gate Garden Inn is a comfortable hotel that’s filled with amenities, including outdoor fire pits and an ice cream shop.

CVB: Visit Shipshewana, visitshipshewana.com

Sheboygan, Wisconsin

Driving time: 2 hours 30 minutes

When people ask me the destination that surprised me the most, Sheboygan, Wisconsin, tops the list.

I visited in August 2021, and it was my first press trip post-cancer. It was exactly the experience I needed: waves, beaches, amazing food, brilliant art, and a community that preserves its past.

Your first stop should be the Sheboygan Visitor Center. It is absolutely the coolest visitor center I’ve ever seen – and I’ve been to a lot.

Sheboygan’s known as the Malibu of the Midwest, so of course I had to get out on the water. One of my favorite things to do was take a first sailing lesson in Lake Michigan. That’s right – you can learn how to sail on a weekend trip to Sheboygan.

The Kohler name is prominent in the area. In addition to the manufacturing company and a nearby resort, there’s also the Kohler Arts Center and the Kohler Art Preserve, which opened in 2021.

Kohler also manages the James Tellen Woodland Sculpture Garden, one of several artist-built environments throughout the state.

History geeks will want to stop at Sheboygan Indian Mound Park and the Sheboygan County Historical Society and Museum.

For dining, don’t miss Black Pig, Il Ritrovo, and BoMallies. Breakfast should absolutely begin at Paradigm Coffee and Music. Best. bagel. sandwich. ever.

Check out my piece about this surprising place, and I’ve even included the perfect 3-day Sheboygan itinerary .

Where to stay in Sheboygan: Blue Harbor Resort offers gorgeous rooms and an even better view. They’ve also got a whole water park, on-site dining, and easy access to the beach.

CVB: Visit Sheboygan, visitsheboygan.com

Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin

About twenty minutes from Sheboygan is another delightful road trip from Chicago.

Elkhart Lake has all the feelings of a resort town. There are historic accommodations, unique boutiques, and delicious dining.

The eponymous lake is gorgeous, with crystal clear water. You can take a pontoon boat ride, or go kayaking or paddle boarding.

The village is also right by the Ice Age Scenic Trail and Kettle Moraine State Forest – Northern Unit, providing lots of opportunity for outdoor activities.

Racing fans won’t want to miss Road America. This four-mile road course is considered the best in the United States and one of the top in the world.

Not only can you watch racing, you can also take a spin around the track yourself. They offer both motorcycle and automobile driving schools.

Where to stay in Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin: Osthoff Resort is an historic inn that offers a variety of room options, including suites and villas, and features amenities such as an indoor and outdoor pool, spa, and fitness center.

The resort also has several dining options on-site, including a fine-dining restaurant and a casual bistro.

CVB: Elkhart Lake, visit website

Galena, Illinois

Driving time: 3 hours

Galena, Illinois, is located near the Mississippi River on the opposite side of the state from Chicago. Surrounded by the rolling hills and bluffs of the Driftless Region, it’s an area dotted with wineries and golf courses.

There are many reasons nearly a million people visit the former mining mecca each year. From shopping along its historic main street to the many wineries in the area, it’s a great spot for a romantic weekend or a girls getaway.

A stroll down Main Street feels like a step back in time. Be sure to stop into Galena Canning Company for a taste of salsas and jams, and Galena Brewing Company offers a lineup of tasty beers.

Thrill-seekers will love a visit to Long Hollow Canopy Tours , a zipline adventure through the woods.

Nature lovers can explore trails along the nearby Mississippi River, and golfers will love a few rounds at Eagle Ridge Resort & Spa.

There are also several historic buildings, and the Ulysses S. Grant Home is one of the most popular places to visit for a look into the past.

Where to stay in Galena, Illinois: While there are hotels that are closer to Galena’s historic Main Street, two of my favorites are a short drive from downtown. Goldmoor Inn Bed and Breakfast is an elegant getaway overlooking the Mississippi River.

Eagle Ridge Resort and Spa is my home away from home when I’m in Galena. I’ve stayed there at least five times. I love the variety of accommodations, activities, and the delicious food.

CVB: Visit Galena, visitgalena.org

Hendricks County, Indiana

My first visit to Hendricks County, Indiana, was in 2017, and since then I’ve returned four? five? times. You might say I like it. I even taught the first writing workshop for Midwest Travel Network (I’ve now taught three) at Natural Valley Ranch, a cabin with that private pond out its back door.

There are also horses, that you can ride. Squeee!

It’s a large county comprised of several towns. Some are large, like Plainfield and Avon, and others are small, like the tiny Lizton, which is home to the best barbecue – and pecan pie – in Indiana (and possibly the Midwest).

Race fans not only have easy access to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, they can also see the NHRA Finals at the Lucas Oil Raceway within Hendricks County.

The only Doctor Who Museum and Store is in Hendricks County, as is the Tie-Dye Lab, where you can make your own tie-dye apparel. Beasley’s Orchard has the best apple cider. Oasis Diner is the only diner on the National Road and it’s got one of the best pork tenderloin sandwiches anywhere.

Basically, go to Hendricks County . There’s so much to do I bet you’ll want to go back again and again, just like I do.

Where to stay in Hendricks County: Natural Valley Ranch is great if there’s a big group of you exploring the area. If not, then I’m a fan of Staybridge Suites . Each room includes a kitchenette, plus they offer free breakfast and weekday happy hours.

CVB: Visit Hendricks County, visithendrickscounty.com

More Road Trips from Chicago between 2 and 3 hours

• Madison, Wisconsin; 2 hours 45 minutes
• New Glarus, Wisconsin; 2 hours 45 minutes
• Indianapolis, Indiana; 3 hours
• Quad Cities, Illinois/Iowa; 3 hours

11 Weekend Road Trips from Chicago between 3 and 5 hours

Fort wayne, indiana.

Driving time: 3 hours 10 minutes

When you go to Fort Wayne, go hungry. And thirsty. This northeastern Indiana town has a thriving food and beer scene that will have you coming back for more.

This All-American City is located at the confluence of three rivers, and that riparian location has fed its personality since it was founded when General “Mad” Anthony Wayne built a fort there in 1794. That fort didn’t last long, and by 1815 the town was on its third fort, built by Major John Whistler.

Chicagoans might recognize that name: he built Fort Dearborn when he was a Captain. You can visit a replica of Whistler’s fort, and they often have events.

One of the best things to do in Fort Wayne is visit the YLNI Farmers Market. This bustling marketplace features everything from handmade chocolates to hot sauces that’ll blow your top off to candles that smell like Fort Wayne (and Montana, Chicago, and everywhere else Simple Nature‘s creative creator has been). 

But what about that food, you ask? A few favorites include Club Soda, for white tablecloth dining with a side of live music, Birdie’s for shared plates in an airy rooftop, and Hall’s Prime Rib for down-home diner cooking.

Beer fans will want to belly up at Junk Ditch, The Hoppy Gnome, and Hop River Brewing Company.

Where to stay in Fort Wayne, Indiana: Courtyard Fort Wayne Downtown at Grand Wayne Convention Center is in a great location; across from the convention center and in between Parkview Field and Embassy Theatre.

CVB: Visit Fort Wayne, visitfortwayne.com

Green Bay, Wisconsin

Driving time: 3 hours 15 minutes

While it may seem blasphemous to some to suggest driving to the home of the Packers from the home of the Bears, I guarantee there’s a lot more going on than gridiron battles.

Auto enthusiasts will love The Automobile Gallery. Opened in 2016, this collection of pristine vehicles span over a century of automotive history.

From the iconic 1908 Cadillac Model T to the sleek 1960 Chevrolet Corvette, every car enthusiast will find something to admire.

The museum also features a rotating selection of vehicles, ensuring that there is always something new and exciting to discover.

For transportation of another kind, visit the National Railroad Museum. The museum began in 1956 and now covers a sprawling 33-acre campus.

Not only can you see locomotives like the iconic “Big Boy” No. 4017, you can step inside a Pullman sleeper car and learn about the porters who worked America’s rail lines.

Ready for a drink? From Captain’s Walk Winery to Zambaldi Beer, you’ll find something to whet your whistle.

And if you’re hungry, Green Bay will keep you fat and happy. (Speaking from experience here.) Don’t miss the authentic kringles at Uncle Mike’s Bake Shoppe or a cup of Booyah, a hearty Belgium chicken stew.

Where to stay in Green Bay, Wisconsin: Stay in the heart of Green Bay at the historic Hotel Northland . The hotel’s especially great for a romantic getaway.

CVB: Discover Green Bay, website

Dubuque, Iowa

Driving time: 3 hours 20 minutes

You’ll be glad Dubuque Iowa is one of these easy road trips from Chicago, because there’s so much to do you’ll want to return again and again.

Dubuque’s location on the Mississippi means it’s filled with river lore. Begin your visit at the Mines of Spain, a National Historic Landmark and Iowa State Recreation Area. It’s named for the mines that Julien Dubuque, the town’s founder, worked with permission from first the Mesquakie and then the Spanish. The Julien Dubuque Monument resembles a rook and overlooks the Mississippi; Dubuque is buried on the site.

Get an in-depth introduction to the river and the region at the National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium, then go on the river itself. You can take a steamboat tour or an American Lady River Cruise aboard a yacht.

Like Janesville, Dubuque’s downtown is also covered with murals, and it’s a fun afternoon to walk the streets and find your favorite.

Dubuque’s most unusual attraction is the Fenelon Place Elevator. It’s the shortest, steepest railroad and a ride to the top provides some of the best views in the city.

Another spot for great views is Eagle Point Park. You’ll get a birds eye view of Lock and Dam #11 and can see into both Wisconsin and Illinois.

One of the most famous attractions is in nearby Dyer. The Field of Dreams Movie Site is surprisingly moving, especially now that you can tour the house. Inside you’ll discover stories behind the filming of this beloved classic.

I think the food scene in Dubuque will surprise you. It certainly surprised me to discover several innovative chefs serving quality cuisine. Make reservations for both Brazen Open Kitchen and Pepper Sprout and you’ll be one happy diner.

Where to stay in Dubuque, Iowa: since it’s right downtown, you can’t get much more convenient than Hotel Julien Dubuque . Plus, it’s a gorgeous hotel with oodles of history, including stories about Mr. and Mrs. Lincoln and a certain gangster from Chicago.

CVB: Travel Dubuque, traveldubuque.com

Brown County, Indiana

Driving time: 4 hours

Brown County, Indiana, is known for its beauty when the leaves change colors, but that doesn’t mean you can only visit in the fall. The rolling hills are beautiful year round.

While the area is easy to get to now, that wasn’t always the case. Its relative isolation fostered a vibrant artists community, which thrives to this day.

Visit Brown County and you can see the home and studio of one of the founding artists T.C. Steele. He was one of the five members of the acclaimed Hoosier Group. In the late 1800s, that group put Indiana’s art scene on the map, and Brown County in particular.

Browse the galleries of Nashville, Indiana, and you’ll see works of art from those early painters as well as artists of today.

Get a two-for-one cultural experience at Country Heritage Winery. Not only can you taste wines, when you take a weekend road trip from Chicago, you can do so while listening to live music.

Another favorite is Hard Truth Hills. Inspired by Sierra Nevada’s set-up in Asheville, North Carolina, this is a multi-purpose destination with a brewery, a distillery, a restaurant, and an outdoor stage. Pro tip: get the to-die-for pulled pork nachos.

Brown County is one of those places where you can choose to go-go-go, or you can kick back and relax. Either way, it’s definitely worth the drive.

Learn more about Brown County and how it became the tourist destination it is today.

Where to stay in Brown County: Abe Martin Lodge is located within Brown County State Park. Bring the kids and your swimsuits; they’ve got an indoors water park. Want something more secluded? There are cabins, too.

CVB: Brown County, browncounty.com

Sandusky, Ohio

Driving time: 4 hours 45 minutes

Sandusky is most famous for being the home of Cedar Point amusement park, but this city on the shores of Lake Erie is much more than roller coasters and funnel cakes.

A fun way to get an overview is to take a Segway tour. Sandusky Segwave offers guided tours through the historic downtown. Perched atop your personal transporter, you’ll glide past historic sites, through city parks, along the lakefront, and past the Merry-Go-Round Museum. You’ll learn about the town’s very beginnings, as well as its role in the Underground Railroad.

Another reason to visit Sandusky is Kelleys Island. Take a high-speed ferry to the largest American island in Lake Erie for a day of art, shopping, and wine.

While you’re on the island, don’t miss Glacial Grooves State Memorial. This National Natural Landmark protects the largest easily accessible grooves in the world. To see them is to witness the power of the glaciers that shaped North America.

Before you go back to Sandusky, get a scoop of Lake Erie Cookie Island Monster. It’s the official ice cream of Ohio’s Lake Erie Shores and Islands , Sandusky’s visitors bureau.

Warning: it will turn your tongue blue!

Check out my guide to see many more things to do on Kelleys Island .

Where to stay in Sandusky, Ohio: Hotel Kilbourne . This place puts the boutique in boutique hotel. In addition to being the only Sandusky hotel that’s on the water, it’s also got a rooftop bar and an on-site restaurant.

CVB: Ohio’s Lake Erie Shores and Islands, shoresandislands.com

Driving time: 5 hours, or as long as you’d like!

Route 66 epitomizes the freedom of the open road, and it begins in Chicago. The route became official in 1926, providing many small towns access to significant national roadways for the first time. Although it was decertified in 1985, the Mother Road lives on.

This scenic byway changed course over the years, and these alignments are well marked in Illinois. If you’re short on time, I-55 will take you from one attraction to the next, but the fun of driving one of the country’s most historic byways is in following its original path.

Some of the most popular roadside attractions include Buckingham Fountain (not technically on Route 66, but you’re so close!), the Gemini Giant, Bunyon’s Statue, and Carlinville’s Million Dollar Courthouse.

Route 66 in Illinois is only 301 miles, but it’s nearly a century of Illinois history, so take your time.

More road trips from Chicago between 3 and 5 hours:

• Iowa City, Iowa; 3 hours 45 minutes
• Door County, Wisconsin ; 3 hours 50 minutes
• Bloomington, Indiana ; 4 hours
• Spencer, Indiana : 4 hours
• Collinsville, Illinois and Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site : 4 hours 45 minutes
• Traverse City, Michigan; 4 hours 55 minutes

Want an epic trip from Chicago but don’t feel like driving? Consider a train to Seattle – here’s what it’s really like to ride the Amtrak Empire Builder !

Map of Road Trips from Chicago

I hope these delightful road trips from Chicago will help you find someplace wonderful to visit for your weekend getaways. Each place is special and offers unique experiences. When you go, I’d love it if you’d share your photos in our Facebook group .

Oh, and be sure to bookmark this page, because I’ve got more destinations to add!

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes
• Destinations

6 Best Road Trips From Chicago

Waterfalls, storybook towns, incredible food, and more await just a short drive from Chicago.

Cities can sometimes feel like endless stretches of concrete — especially in the hot summer months — and Chicago is no exception.

Fortunately, there's a whole world out there beyond the city limits. While it doesn't always feel like it, there are so, so, so many worthy escapes within a few hours' drive of Chi-town: storybook towns studded with ice cream parlors, lakeside cities with entirely different cultures, and even places where you can connect with nature among waterfalls and lush trees. Waterfalls! Outside Chicago!

The Windy City's location, in this case, is your ally. Pack your car with some picnic accoutrements, and maybe some hiking gear just in case, and head off. You're within driving distance of some truly great, out-of-the-ordinary places that make for wonderful road trips. Here are six of them.

Madison, Wisconsin

Imagine a state already known for its beer and cheese having to cater to over 30,000 college students, and you've got some idea of the earthly delights that await in Madison, Wisconsin. This state capital could have been a destination in its own right for its unique geography — located on a narrow isthmus surrounded by two large lakes, it's beautiful even during cold Wisconsin winters — or its remarkable breadth of shopping, cultural events, and festivals, and architecture, but its food scene is virtually unrivaled for a city of its size.

The streets are filled with an eclectic mix of professors, politicians, businesspeople, street performers, and health nuts, and if you ask any of them for their favorite spot, you'll likely get a range of answers as large as the city's 250,000-plus population: American small bites at the new and renowned Mint Mark, tacos and margaritas at Canteen, Lao-Thai noodles from Vientiane Palace, and the list goes on and on.

Most students, however, will drive you toward craft-beer watering holes like The Malt House or Dotty Dumpling's Dowry, which purportedly serves one of the best burgers anywhere. Wash it down with some Wisconsin beer from New Glarus as well as some fried cheese curds, and you'll have yourself a real Madison, Wisconsin, night.

Madison is about two and a half hours from Chicago.

Starved Rock State Park, Illinois

Yes, Illinois isn't known for its natural beauty like some other states. Yes, its highest natural point is Charles Mound, a diminutive 1,235-foot hill. But that doesn't mean that hidden gems don't exist here. For a true escape from Chicago's steel-and-stone skyscrapers that is still within the state limits, drive to the area around Starved Rock State Park.

Visitors expecting more flat Illinois farmland will be surprised to find an incredible valley around the Illinois River, with lush trees, striking bluffs, and 14 gorgeous waterfalls feeding into the roaring waters. Starved Rock is a choice destination for camping, hiking, kayaking, and white-water rafting, and after you're exhausted from a day of physical exertion, it's also got a place to hang your hat: the Starved Rock Lodge .

However, if you feel like experiencing a bit more of the local flavor, the towns around the river valley provide it in buckets. Tiny, charming Utica is home to the August Hill Winery and some wonderful antique stores, while the historic towns of Oglesby and Ottawa are chock-full of Americana: small museums, galleries, and great food, particularly at the Red Dog Grill in Ottawa and The Rootbeer Stand in Oglesby.

Starved Rock State Park is about an hour and a half from Chicago.

Allegan County, Michigan

Lake Michigan is huge. And in the summertime, when the heat gets a little unbearable, you could easily just jump into the lake in Chicago. But there's something to be said for taking a jaunt out to Michigan to visit a string of lakeside towns that bring some truly unique qualities to the mix.

Douglas, Saugatuck, and Holland — and Fennville, though it's not right on the water — epitomize small-town charm, while still offering some truly city-sized amenities for city-sized appetites. Fennville is known as the fruit basket of Michigan, with apple orchards, vineyards, and berry farms alongside delightful creameries and even corn mazes, while Saugatuck and Douglas consistently take the cake as two of the best lakeside towns in the Midwest, with incredibly charming downtown areas, gorgeous undulating sand dunes, pristine blue water, and more art galleries than you can shake a stick at. In fact, it's here that two School of the Art Institute of Chicago instructors founded their own art school and residence, Ox-Bow, establishing an artists' colony right on the shores of Lake Michigan. Their legacy endures to this day.

Further up the road, you'll find a truly unique destination in Holland, where Dutch colonists established a foothold in the 1800s, bringing with them their culture, architecture, pastries (check out DeBoer Bakkerij), and even fields' worth of tulips, which you can find at Veldheer Tulip Gardens.

Fennville is about two hours from Chicago.

Indianapolis, Indiana

Among the many types of travelers out there — people who crave solitude, people who don't want to leave the 100-foot radius of their resort's pool — there are those who are fascinated by city life, jumping from one urban area to another. If you count yourself among them, a road trip from Chicago to Indianapolis is certainly warranted.

First off, it's the 15th-largest city in America, with a vast population and penchant for festivals, parties, and overall pageantry (it is the Racing Capital of the World, after all, and its famous month of May includes tons of smaller celebrations leading up to the Indy 500). No matter the time of year, though, you'll find Indianapolis in full swing, whether you're in the midst of its rollicking IndyFringe Festival in August and September or its Wine & Food Festival in June. It's also a museum hub, with the world's largest children's museum, several art museums with broad and granular focuses, and small museums focusing on its favorite children, from Vonnegut to President Benjamin Harrison.

But one of the main reasons visitors flock to Indianapolis is its incredible food scene, which has, in recent years, exploded into national prominence. Hot new restaurants like Bluebeard, Milktooth, Crispy Bird, Oca, and more have all contributed to its reputation as a gastronomical powerhouse, while iconic institutions like Workingman's Friend have been, well, working behind the scenes to keep Hoosiers well-fed for decades. It's about time their city gets noticed.

Indianapolis is about three hours from Chicago.

Traverse City, Michigan

If you're craving a real getaway, you can't do much better than northern Michigan — it's still within driving distance of Chicago and not as remote as the state's Upper Peninsula, while still providing a wilderness-tinged escape for city dwellers. The de-facto capital of the region, Traverse City, is a city in name, but its population of around 15,000 means it's got small-town charm and accessibility, making it a perfect gateway to the region's breathtaking sights. Stop in for a glass of beer or wine at one of the many famous wineries and brewpubs, like Mari Vineyards or Mackinaw Brewing Company, before heading into the wilderness.

From Traverse City's quaint streets, you can head north and explore the Leelanau Peninsula, or veer west to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Better yet, take scenic M-22 to tick off both boxes. Sleeping Bear Dunes is one of the country's best stretches of shoreline, with incredible dunes and westerly views that mean it's got some of the best sunsets east of the Mississippi.

From there, mosey up M-22 to continue exploring the Leelanau Peninsula, where wilderness encroaches a bit further and small towns, each with a population under 1,000, dot the roads. Hike through the dense forests, pick apples and berries at the region's many farms, and be sure to grab a heaping sandwich from the Village Cheese Shanty in the county seat of Leland (population 377).

Traverse City is about five hours from Chicago.

Galena, Illinois

In rare cases, a road trip doesn't just mean traveling great distances — it can also mean traveling back in time. That's what's figuratively the case when you drive west from Chicago to Galena, consistently rated as one of the best small towns in America. For decades, Galena has been on a mission to preserve its rich history, meaning it has one of the most unspoiled historic town centers in the country.

The town's good fortune started back in the mid-1800s, when it was the beneficiary of government grants to begin mining precious minerals located under the town. Since then, the town has focused on maintaining the buildings from that boom time, and there are architectural landmarks around every corner. The Galena Historic District is a particular delight, comprising more than 1,000 buildings, including the home of Ulysses S. Grant, a prime example of the Italianate style and now a dedicated memorial to his legacy. The town even has trolley tours that take you to its major historical and architectural benchmarks, contributing to its overall throwback feel.

Galena's best eating institutions don't necessarily date all the way back to 1850, but that doesn't mean they aren't also great — Durty Gurt's Burger Joynt was founded in 2007 and serves gigantic, almost architecturally impressive stacks of meat and cheese. Looks like everyone's concerned with building a legacy here.

Galena is about three hours from Chicago.

Related Articles

North America Chevron

United States Chevron

Illinois Chevron

Chicago Chevron

Best Weekend Getaways From Chicago

By Nina Kokotas Hahn

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Chicagoans itching to travel right now should not underestimate the power of a great winter road trip, and not just because it may feel like the only safe option at the moment. In a break from the norm, we’ve found exciting places offering something fresh and surprising for the Midwest, making them well worth the drive. A fun, elegant cocktail experience, lakefront retreats that offer stunning views, snowy ski trips with plenty more to do off the slopes—it’s all available. Here are the best weekend getaways from Chicago .

(Editors note: Given the changing nature of the COVID-19 pandemic , the hours and accessibility of many venues are fluid and subject to change. Make sure to contact them before visiting.)

All listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

LAKE FOREST, ILLINOIS

Distance from Chicago 33 miles

The Deer Path Inn

In less than 60 minutes by Metra or just over 30 minutes by car, find yourself feeling far from the city in this pretty Northshore town off of Lake Michigan. No doubt Lake Forest is fancy with its sprawling estates, Market Square, and upscale shops (check out the all-women-run Lake Forest Bookstore and Valentina boutique), and coveted waterfront views. Being here also puts you 20 minutes closer to the 385-acre Chicago Botanic Gardens , where the Japanese and dwarf confider gardens are especially sublime in winter.

Where to Stay

The main reason to go to Lake Forest now is a weekend away at the 57-room Deer Path Inn ( from $329 per night ), a fabulous, little-known gem that puts you in arm's reach of the shops and lake, and offers many experiences available only to guests. Opened in 1929 with the style of an authentic manor house, the elegant inn feels as storied and local as it does far-flung and English. Spacious, modern, and sophisticated rooms offer upscale amenities (think Frette linens and bathtubs that fill from the ceiling); recently, the inn began in-room delivery of its popular Afternoon Tea service, complete with a tower of tea sandwiches, petit fours, and tartelettes. Patio dining in the English Garden at Deer Path is scenic and doable in winter with heaters. Guests at the hotel can also reserve the inn’s hidden cellar for a new, private, and totally custom cocktail or wine tasting paired with dinner that's led by Deer Path’s fun and expert chief spirits officer, Jorge Centeno.

INDIANA DUNES NATIONAL PARK, IN

Distance from Chicago 49 miles

The dunes overlooking Lake Michigan at Indiana Dunes National Park

Drive just 60 minutes and find yourself surrounded by beauty in the 15,000-acre Indiana Dunes National Park , which packs in an astounding amount of botanical diversity thanks to its variety of lowlands, highlands, prairies, wetlands, forests, and Lake Michigan shoreline. Time your visit with cool winter conditions, when snow cloaks the park in white, and there’s a chance to see spectacular shelf ice formations on the water, not to mention you’ll get a far more secluded experience. Venture out on cross-country skis or snowshoes—the latter of which can be borrowed for free at the park’s Paul H. Douglas Center for Environmental Education. All of the park’s 50 miles of trails are available for winter activities, but opt for a one-mile loop or three-mile route on the Paul H. Douglas Trail, which takes you to the beach through a rolling black savannah, one of the rarest habitats in the country. Often confused with the national park, the two-acre Indiana Dunes State Park , immediately next door, is also open and admission is waived on weekdays in winter.

Nearby Chesterton offers a good location central to both parks, and interesting B&B’s are the way to go. Within walking distance to restaurants and shopping, Riley's Railhouse Bed & Breakfast ( from $140 a night ) is housed in a former New York Central style freight station and has rooms in real rail cars. The family-friendly DunesWalk Inn at the Furness Mansion ( from $125 a night—you can also rent the entire place out on Airbnb ) is another historic option that balances digs in an 1881 mansion with modern comfort, just a few minutes from the beach.

HARBOR COUNTRY, MI

Distance from Chicago 75 miles

A view of Lake Michigan from the Water's Edge house

Didn’t score a Michigan beach house last summer? Winter isn’t hot, but it’s a gorgeous and secluded time to experience the dramatic Lake Michigan coast from the comfort of a luxury beach home, most of which can be had now at low season rates. Take your pick of towns on the state’s south coast like Union Pier, New Buffalo, and little-known Harbert. Sans summer crowds, this is the time to stop at the harborside Stray Dog Bar & Grill . Even better, book an igloo for outdoor dining at small-batch Beer Church Brewing , try alfresco wine tastings at Round Barn Estate , or get takeout from Red Arrow Roadhouse (try the buffalo cauliflower and nachos) and locally made whiskey from the Journeyman Distillery to bring back home. As everyone does, give into the pull of the lovely Lake Michigan coast, where dune walks and sledding at Warren Dunes State Park should be high on your list.

Bluefish Vacation Rentals (from $100 a night ) is your best option for a well-curated assortment of homes throughout Harbor Country, plus the bonus concierge-like guidance of the local husband-and-wife team who run it, Jason and Erika Milovich. In winter, most of their homes can be had at low season rates and don’t require summer’s usual full week stay. The scenery can’t be beat in Harbert at three-bedroom Water’s Edge , a splurge-worthy find tucked into a forested bluff overlooking a private stretch of Lake Michigan shoreline; spend $750 a night in winter verses the nearly double rate of $1,429 a night in summer. Walk the beach and watch glacier-like ice form with the waves, warm up in the hot tub, and light a bonfire under starry winter skies framed by trees. Other notable options include the three-bedroom Harbor Time , new five-bedroom Darby Cottage with its massive showroom-worthy open kitchen, and new four-bedroom Lake Life that puts spectacular lake views right in your lap.

KOHLER, WISCONSIN

Distance from Chicago 149 miles

Jessica Puckett

Scott Laird

Lucy Bruton

Jahnavi Bhatt

One of the Kohler luxury Cabins

On a drive of just over two hours, cruise past Mars Cheese Castle in Kenosha (hit the brakes to load up on Wisconsin gold), and lakefront Milwaukee, on your way to Kohler. Popular in temperate months for its jaw-dropping golf courses, which regularly feature on the PGA Tour, Destination Kohler is a find in winter with fewer visitors, killer spa treatments at its Kohler Waters Spa, and invigorating outdoor adventures at its lesser-known River Wildlife preserve. Like Kohler’s golf courses, the 500-acre wilderness playground showcases the natural beauty of the landscape here. Try hikes and horseback rides through rolling trails, ice skating and curling at Winter Wonderland, guided trap shooting in a forest canyon, and brunch or hot toddies at River Wildlife Lodge, the preserve’s atmospheric log cabin outpost.

Options at the resort include classic hotel rooms at the 241-room American Club ( from $189 ), but four chic and splurge-worthy cabins (f rom $842 a night ) are the way to go, especially if you want privacy and space wrapped in some gorgeous nature. The two-bedroom Lake Cabin ( from $1009 a night )—one of two opened just last summer—positions you on a staggering bluff just above Lake Michigan. The beach is inaccessible from this rugged perch, but you won’t care with endless, ocean-like views from the back porch and firepit, and the sprawling evergreen forest at the front of the house that doubles as a wildlife crossing (watch for deer and wild turkeys). It’s all the more magical with a dusting of snow on the beach grass, a warm fire, and dinners inside your own beautiful kitchen—everything from tenderloin and ricotta gnocchi takeout from the new Taverne on Woodlake to whiskey pairings, curated Wisconsin cheese boards, and gourmet groceries delivered from Woodlake Market .

Distance from Chicago 164 miles

Downtown Galena

With rolling forested landscapes, an historic downtown on the Mississippi River, and the best (one of the only!) ski mountain in Illinois, Galena is as charming as ever in winter. Even the two-hour-and-45-minute drive sets the mood as flat highways turn to one-lane roads that climb gentle hills and weave through farmlands and woods, eventually dropping you into this once-thriving river port town. Stroll the downtown’s Main Street for a superb array of local shops and studios; new options include Galena Book & Paper , the Galena Spoon Company for handcrafted spoons and carving classes, and Scent Workshop , where you can learn French perfuming techniques. There are loads of restaurants and boozy options here, too; go for especially good take-home dining and cocktail kits from French-meets-German Fritz and Frites , Miss Kitty’s Grape Escape , and the drive-thru Galena Brewing Co . Downhill skiers won’t want to miss Chestnut Mountain Resort, just 15 minutes from the downtown, with 19 runs that race to a halt at the bank of the Mississippi River.

It’s a-okay to vape in the new guest-only “potting shed” outside the pretty five-bedroom Aldrich House , Illinois’ only cannabis-friendly bed and breakfast ( from $145 a night ). For something upscale and romantic, it’s hard to do better than the luxury six-suite Jail Hill Inn , set in a former jailhouse at the end of Main Street and serving a three-course breakfast ( from $345 a night ). Families settle in nicely at the stylish, condo-like Ulysses Suites ( from $214 a night ), while south of downtown on 6,800 acres of Galena Territory, Eagle Ridge Resort & Spa offers a robust nordic activities program and everything from simple hotel rooms to full homes ( from $99 a night ).

INDIANAPOLIS, IN

Distance from Chicago 185 miles

The Bottleworks Hotel in Indianapolis' Bottleworks District

Every worthwhile weekend getaway from Chicago isn’t a charming small town or lakeside retreat. For those who want some city culture that isn’t their own, Indy’s Bottlework’s District is calling. Stop in Merrillville for proper road trip junk food—fresh Indiana-made gummy bears—at Alabanese Confectionery Group on the three-hour drive south to Indy. Once there, head to the new 12-acre, mixed-use neighborhood that spans the north side of Mass Ave in downtown Indianapolis and brims with local indie shops in historic industrial buildings. Explore the mix of offerings at Circle City Industrial Complex , a 500,000 square-foot warehouse opened in the old Schwitzer car manufacturing facility, where you should check out newly opened SoChatti dairy-free chocolate tasting room and a class at Indy Fused Glass. Other new places worth a visit are Good Neighbor for fresh duds and the Living Room movie theater. For dinner, head out of the district for romantic outdoor dining in the new fireside greenhouse huts at Public Greens , a modern, community-driven restaurant that shares its profits to feed nearly 2,000 of Indy’s less fortunate youth every week.

Opened in December in what was formerly the world’s largest Coca Cola bottling plant, the 139-room Bottleworks Hotel ( from $249 a night ) is the stylish new anchor for the Bottleworks District. The industrial, art-deco-inspired hotel occupies the top two floors of the historic building, showing off a white terra-cotta exterior and brass-patterned doors. High-style rooms have velvet couches, loft ceilings, and terrazzo-tiled floors. Adjacent to the hotel, find more dining options at Garage Food Hall , Indy’s first food hall opened this month in the factory’s former garages, with nearly two dozen vendors serving everything from lobster rolls and poke to Pakistani-Indian fare and Brazilian steak.

BOYNE, MICHIGAN

Distance from Chicago 346 miles

A look down Boyne Mountain

Make your winter ski trip happen at Boyne Mountain Resort , one of the most exciting ski mountains within a reasonable drive of Chicago—five and a half hours, plus a one-hour time change. Rising up from the northern part of Michigan’s lower peninsula, the mountain offers 500 feet of vertical with 60 downhill trails for a range of skiers and riders, though the biggest perk of a visit here is the abundance of high-quality outdoor adventures that go beyond skiing. Rent a new sno-go ski bike and shred downhill runs, fat-tire bike on forest trails, zipline 50 feet in the air across the mountain, cross country ski or snowshoe on dedicated trails, ice skate or snow tube, and even dine outdoors in one of five igloos serving at Forty Acres Tavern. If you have a little extra time you can also tack on the 40-minute drive north to Boyne Highlands , the mountain’s sister resort, for even more challenging ski terrain plus the new “Enchanted Trail,” an illuminated two-mile trail for nighttime winter walks and snowshoeing. NOTE: Like other ski resorts around the country, both mountains are limiting capacity during the pandemic and booking lift tickets and gear rental in advance is recommended.

Spread out in one of the fully-equipped three- and four-bedroom Mountain Cabins that are part of the resort (f rom $607 per night ). Each is set in the woods with a hot tub on the deck, fully equipped for cooking your own meals, and offers ski-in/ski-out access. Some of the cozy one- and two-bedroom condos at the Village at Disciples Ridge also offer ski-in/ski-out access ( from $488 per night ). Pro tip: the best way to guarantee access to the slopes this season along with your accommodations is to book a “ Ski & Stay Package ,” which bundles lodging and lift together and lets you ski both resorts.

Recommended

By signing up you agree to our User Agreement (including the class action waiver and arbitration provisions ), our Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement and to receive marketing and account-related emails from Traveller. You can unsubscribe at any time. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

15 Best Winter Road Trips from Chicago

Chicago is a fantastic city, known for its stunning lakeside location, the Magnificent Mile, and its world-class museums and galleries. However, it's also famous for its harsh winters, so there might be times you want to head out of the city during the coldest months of the year.

Whether you want to enjoy the winter weather or escape from it, a winter road trip from Chicago can mean hitting the slopes at a ski resort, viewing iconic landmarks, taking a festive shopping trip or relaxing in the winter sun in the Southern states.

Whatever kind of winter road trip you're interested in, we've put together some of the key facts for a whole host of fabulous destinations. Keep reading to find out where you could go, how to get there, and our pick of what's waiting for you when you arrive.

Best winter road trips from Chicago: a quick overview

Single-day trips (under 3 hours each way).

Snow in the city often isn't much fun, so head out to one of the mountains or lakes for a one-day road trip that lets you enjoy the winter weather at its best.

If you're thinking of setting off on a road trip from Chicago in another season, check out our ultimate guide for Best Road Trips from Chicago for ideas and inspiration.

1. Lake Geneva, Wisconsin

1 hour 50 mins from Chicago (80 miles)

Why you should visit: The shortest trip on the list, Lake Geneva makes a great weekend getaway due to the short driving time, plus the area is perfectly set up for visitors to enjoy the winter weather.

There's a real variety of activities to enjoy here – take to the snow for an active day outside, then relax at a beautiful spa. This popular vacation town is also less crowded in winter compared to the summer months.

How to get there: Head north on I-90 out of Chicago then join I-94. After around an hour, exit at Kenosha and pick up WI-50 west which will take you to Geneva.

Our highlights: Roll back 100 years and one of the biggest draws of Lake Geneva, WI, wasn't its snow, but the ice! Lake ice was harvested and taken to nearby towns and cities - it was big business here as late as the 1940s.

Through the rest of the season, winter sports fans will love to ski at Wilmot Mountain, a popular ski resort with over 20 ski runs suitable for a wide range of abilities. Or explore the wintery wilderness of Kishwauketoe Nature Conservancy - you can rent snowshoes if you don't have your own.

Back in town, the Ice Castles at Geneva National Resort & Club are a must-see. Ice sculptors spend nearly 2 months creating spectacular icy towers and turrets which are especially beautiful when they're illuminated at night.

Bonus: Early in February Lake Geneva's Winterfest bursts into action, with an ice sculpting competition and snow races!

Our travel tips: Book in advance if you're visiting Winterfest, as the town gets really busy.

2. Madison, Wisconsin

2 hours 40 minutes from Chicago (150 miles)

Why you should visit: Wisconsin's state capital has all the cultural and foodie delights that you'd expect in a big city, with added snow that opens up a whole range of other activities to enjoy.

Within a short distance of the city you can ski, skate, snow tube and sled, sometimes with beautiful views across Lake Mendota.

How to get there: This is a really simple trip – just follow I-90 all the way from Chicago.

Our highlights: Just outside the city at Cascade Mountain and Devils Head Resort you'll find some exhilarating downhill skiing as well as snowtubing and sledding. It's the perfect way to enjoy the snowy conditions, and there are ski runs here to suit many different abilities.

When it's time to warm up, head back into town to Old Sugar Distillery, a small local spirits producer, for a warming taster.

While you're in town you can take a magical snowy hike through the trees at Madison Arboretum, then round off your day with outdoor dining - several Madison restaurants have heated outdoor domes so you can enjoy snowy views while dining al fresco.

Bonus: After Christmas, a free maze is built on the lake shore out of the branches of discarded Christmas trees, a custom that has become firmly cemented in Madison's holiday traditions now.

Our travel tips: Check ahead for dates of candle-lit snowshoe trails across the city. They don't run every day, but when they do they're really magical.

3. Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin

2 hours 50 minutes from Chicago (150 miles)

Why you should visit: This beautiful little lakeside town hosts a magical Christmas market every year. It's also a great place to enjoy fabulous snow-based activities - the temperature usually sits around freezing and the area experiences heavy snowfall, so conditions are perfect.

How to get there: Follow I-90/I-94 north out of Chicago, then continue north on I-94 when the interstate divides. In Milwaukee, switch onto I-43 and continue north, before leaving the interstate just after Saukville. Then, follow WI-57 towards Plymouth, from where you'll pick up WI-67 to Elkhart Lake.

Our highlights: For many visitors, the main draw is the Olde World Christmas Market, a 10-day festive spectacular bringing together Czech, German and Russian Christmas traditions. It's a great way to spend time with friends, get into the festive mood, as well as to find some unique Christmas gifts.

If you're visiting at other times during the winter, there's still plenty to do in Elkhart Lake. The lake freezes over right through the winter, so you can head out with a guide for a unique ice-fishing experience.

Also, although this isn't a ski destination like some of the other trips, you can still enjoy some winter sports in Elkhart Lake. Go snowshoeing at Quit Qui Oc golf course or ice skate at June Vollrath Park.

Alternatively, if you'd prefer to just relax and unwind, maybe after a tour round the Christmas market or some time on the ice rink, head to the luxurious Aspira Spa to round off your trip.

If you're wondering how the town got its name, it's as simple as it sounds – it's because the lake is shaped like an Elk's heart.

Our travel tips: The town will be extremely busy while the Christmas market is running, so book accommodation and any special activities well in advance.

4. Grand Rapids, Michigan

2 hours 50 minutes from Chicago (180 miles)

Why you should visit: From January to March the town hosts the World of Winter Festival, which sees dozens of huge ice sculptures on display and special events held across the town.

The World of Winter Festival is the perfect post-holiday pick-me-up - the ideal way to brighten up the dark, cold months after Christmas. Or if you're here a little earlier in winter, you can get yourself into the holiday spirit with a snowy visit to the Sculpture Gardens or enjoy some exhilarating winter sports.

How to get there: Head east out of Chicago on I-90, keeping Lake Michigan on your left, then continue on I-94 as far as Lake Joseph. From here, follow I-196 further around the lake shore. It eventually turns inland to take you right to Grand Rapids.

Our highlights: The World of Winter Festival usually starts in the first week of January, and as well as ice sculptures you can see interactive installations from artists all over the world, with walking tours taking you through some of the outdoor art highlights.

The festival also hosts many fun events. These change year on year, but in the past have included things like silent disco, outdoor musical performances, and storytelling to mark Native American traditions or Chinese New Year.

If you're in Grand Rapids earlier in the season, you can enjoy some great skiing at Cannonsburg Ski Area. It will satisfy a wide range of abilities, and you can also try out snow tubing and snowshoeing here.

If your time is limited, take your sled and enjoy a free downhill ride at one of the several hilly public parks in the city.

For a more magical festive feel, head to Frederick Meijer Sculpture Gardens. This park is illuminated with amazing twinkling lights all through the holiday period and is a really popular local attraction. Then, for a unique and romantic end to your trip, you can even take a horse-drawn sleigh ride through the city.

Bonus: As well as being known for its winter sports, Grand Rapids is famous for its many craft breweries - in fact, it's been given the title of Beer City USA! So if time allows on your trip, you might like to tour a brewery or two or try some of the locally produced beers.

Our travel tips: You don't have to have your own equipment to enjoy skating, snowshoeing or skiing – it's available to rent at many of the attractions.

If you're coming for the World of Winter Festival, remember to wrap up warm. Many of the events and installations are outdoors, so, this being Michigan, chances are you'll be enjoying them in the snow.

Click here to skip back to the top.

Weekend trips (3-6 hours each way)

As you'd expect, with much of the Midwest sitting under snow through the winter, the weekend trips you can take from Chicago all have a winter sports element to them.

So, pack up your skis and look out for your skates - but don't worry if you're not the biggest fan of the slopes, since you'll also find great restaurants, beautiful views and stunning spas at these weekend destinations.

5. Muskegon, Michigan

3 hours 20 minutes from Chicago (190 miles)

Why you should visit: As you'd expect in a town that sees significant snowfall from December to February, you can enjoy a range of winter sports. A particular highlight in Muskegon is its Luge track, which is open to the public.

There are only 3 other Luge tracks in the whole of the United States, so if you've always fancied trying out this exhilarating sport, this is probably your best chance.

How to get there: Similar to the Grand Rapids trip, follow I-90 then I-94 east out of Chicago as far as St Joseph. Then join I-196 and follow it north along the lake shore until you reach Holland. From here, turn onto Route 31 which takes you on to Muskegon.

Our highlights: As you'd expect, the main draw of Muskegon in winter is Muskegon Luge Adventure Sports Park. As well as sliding the high-speed downhill ice track, you can enjoy cross-country and downhill skiing, snowshoeing, and ice skating at the park.

Back in town you'll get beautiful winter views over icy Lake Michigan. Wrap up warm and walk out towards Muskegon South Breakwater Lighthouse – a really stunning sight – or take a walk on the lake's frozen beaches. If you're feeling active, there are places where you can sled on the frozen sand dunes.

Staying by the lake, seeing as the water freezes over, you can go ice fishing here with a guide, who can provide all the equipment you need if you don't have your own.

It's not all about the outdoors though. Muskegon Farmers Market operates indoors on Saturdays through the winter so you can warm up and stock up on some fabulous local produce.

Olympian Mark Grimmette trained on the Luge track here when he was young and went on to compete at five Winter Olympic Games, winning medals at two of them. The track is open to kids as young as 8 so bring the whole family and see if any of them catch the sliding bug.

Our travel tips: Visit the Luge in the evenings and you can warm up by a bonfire after your slide down the track. We'd recommend booking ahead to guarantee your entry, especially if you're visiting at busy times,.

You won't need any previous experience or equipment, as your entrance to the track includes a lesson and all the equipment you'll need to enjoy your visit safely.

6. Granite Peak Ski Area, Wisconsin

4 hours 30 minutes from Chicago (280 miles)

Why you should visit: As its name suggests, Granite Peak is a fabulous and long-established ski destination with some top-class runs and luxurious resort choices.

The biggest ski area in the state is perfectly set up for skiers, with fast lifts and dozens of trails to follow. You can easily fill a weekend here with fun and varied runs.

How to get there: Follow I-90 west out of Chicago, passing Rockford and Madison. Then, shortly after crossing the Wisconsin River, turn onto I-39 and follow it north to Granite Peak Ski Area.

Our highlights: Granite Mountain is one of the oldest ski resorts in the United States, and it's been at the forefront of innovation in the skiing industry. It was an early adopter of snowmaking technology in the 1950s.

Two different types of ski lifts were invented here - so when you ski here in modern times you'll be following the lead of some of the country's ski pioneers.

With fast lifts, extensive ski runs and stunning views, you'll probably want to spend most of your time here on the slopes. Rib Mountain, part of the ski area here, is Wisconsin's tallest mountain so you'll find plenty of downhill runs here to suit all abilities.

In Wasau, the nearest town to Granite Peak, there are some great food and drink options for the essential apres-ski part of the day! Visit in early February when the Winter Carnival comes to town and you can see firework displays or catch a fun ride on one of the resort's snow groomers.

When you're ready to head into the warm, make your way to Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum. This award-winning, community-focused gallery always has something new to see, and with sculptures and exhibits inspired by nature, it makes the perfect complement to a day enjoying the views out on the mountain.

Our travel tips: This is a really popular ski area, and lift passes can sell out during the busiest periods. It makes sense to book ahead if you're planning on visiting between Christmas day and New Year, or weekends during January and February.

7. Boyne Mountain Resort, Michigan

5 hours 40 minutes from Chicago (350 miles)

Why you should visit: This is a year-round resort, but with 140 inches of snow, it comes into its own during winter. The extensive and varied ski slopes here are great for a wide range of skiing abilities.

This is the place to come for a great resort experience, with lodges, bars and of course, slopes, all in one place.

How to get there: Follow the interstate east out of Chicago and then continue north, keeping Lake Michigan on your left. After Grand Rapids, turn onto Route 131 and continue north past Big Rapids and Cadillac, until you reach Boyne Mountain.

Our highlights: Boyne Mountain is primarily a ski resort, so take to the slopes and explore more than 415 acres of ski runs. You can also snowshoe, tube or skate if you want a break from the slopes.

If you want to strike out a little further and explore, you can go horseback riding or cross-country skiing through the woodlands or try out snow biking for something new.

For a really exhilarating ride, fly right above the snow on one of the 9 ziplines. These will carry you up to a quarter of a mile across the resort's valleys, giving you a bird's eye view of your stunning surroundings.

For the perfect post-ski wind down, visit the Spa at Boyne Mountain before you head home. Book a fantastic treatment or simply hang out in the sauna, steam room or heated outdoor pool to enjoy the mountain vibes from a different angle.

Our travel tips: Equipment can be rented at this resort but arrive early on weekends or holidays as it's first come, first served. It's a popular place to visit, so book lift passes in advance if you know when you're traveling. If you're able to visit mid-week, you'll probably find the slopes are quieter.

Longer trips (Over 6 hours each way)

Whether you're looking for a festive shopping experience to ease you into the holiday mood, or a snowbird heading south for the winter, there are plenty of fabulous longer road trips that start out from Chicago.

8. Niagara Falls and Niagara-on-the-Lake, New York

8 hours 20 minutes from Chicago (550 miles)

Why you should visit: Seeing the famous falls cascading through the snowy ground is a truly magical experience – and one that's different from any other trip you might take.

Head across the border on this road trip to see the falls from a different perspective, or visit the fabulous wineries of Niagara-on-the-Lake. Canada produces a significant proportion of the world's Icewine, a dessert wine created from grapes left on the vine to freeze before being harvested.

Seeing the falls in winter is a magical experience, with massive icicles and undulating snow drifts surrounding the famous vistas. As well as being beautiful, the crowds that flock to Niagara Falls are slightly less during winter.

How to get there: Head east out of Chicago and join Interstate 90, then just keep going! The same road takes you right across Indiana and Ohio then along the whole length of Lake Erie, before you finally turn onto NY-5 through Buffalo around 5 miles before you reach your destination.

If you want to head across the border to visit Niagara-on-the-Lake make sure to pack the required travel documentation, and allow extra time to make the border crossing, especially if you're heading across Rainbow International Bridge.

Our highlights: The highlight of most people's visit to Niagara Falls is to see the mighty waterfalls up close, but if you visit in winter you can also marvel at the massive icicles that form right by the viewing platform on the Journey Behind the Falls. For amazing views of the snow-covered landscape, head up the Skylon Tower.

At night, you can see the falls lit up in spectacular illuminations as part of the Winter Festival of Lights. Then head quickly back into the warmth of your hotel to warm up. Several of the hotels in town have excellent in-house spas, so you can treat yourself to some relaxation time during your trip.

If you're crossing over the Canadian border to visit Niagara-on-the-Lake, the Icewine vineyards and wineries are probably the first thing that will get your attention. The long rows of vines stand out proudly in the snow and make a beautiful backdrop while you're learning about Icewine production or, more importantly, tasting a glass or two.

NOTL is also a really charming little town, and while you're here you might like to take a horse-drawn carriage ride through its historic streets - a wonderfully atmospheric way to travel through the snow-covered streets.

Bonus: Right through January you can enjoy the Icewine Festival, which celebrates this delicious local tipple. There's a real art to making Icewine and the conditions have to be just right to freeze the grapes for long enough on the vine.

This means you probably won't see the grape harvest unless you're out in the vineyards at night - pickers tend to work by hand to make sure of the most perfect harvest possible. All things considered, it's easy to see why Niagara-on-the-Lake's Icewine is such a special product to try during your visit.

Our travel tips: Some of the outdoor activities that Niagara Falls is famous for, notably the Maid of the Mist boat cruise, do not operate in winter, but as we've identified, there are plenty of other ways to enjoy views out across the falls.

Note that to enjoy all the attractions Niagara Falls has to offer, you might need to factor in crossing the US/Canada border so make sure you have any paperwork you need (dependent on nationality).

READ MORE - Road Trip from Chicago to Niagara Falls

9. Toronto, Canada

8 hours 40 minutes from Chicago (530 miles)

Why you should visit: With festive lights, winter markets, a good chance of snow, and plenty of big city attractions, Toronto is a picture-perfect winter city trip . Located right by Lake Ontario, you can enjoy frosty views out across the water, then head back into the city to indulge yourself in some culture or plain old festive cheer.

It's the perfect place for a romantic getaway - wrap up warm and enjoy snowy views over the beautiful city and lake before warming up with a hot chocolate and a loop or two around an outdoor ice rink.

How to get there: Follow I-90 out of the city then pick up I-94 and head east towards Detroit.

After crossing the border into Canada, the road becomes ON-401. It runs parallel to Lake Erie, so if you have a little longer to make your trip then you might like to pause along the way to admire views across the lake.

Just after London, the road merges with ON-403, which will take you right into the center of Toronto.

Our highlights: Toronto is a vibrant cultural melting pot, so when you spend time in the city you'll be able to enjoy influences on food, art and recreation from all over the world.

Less than half of Toronto's residents were born in Canada, making for a varied and welcoming city that's the perfect place to head to on a road trip.

For added romantic charm, put your skates on and have laps on one of the city's many ice rinks - there are over 50 to choose from. The rinks are super-festive in the run up to the holidays, and you can relax with a hot chocolate or a local craft beer afterwards.

If you're not planning a trip until after Christmas, you'll be able to visit the Toronto Light Festival, when fabulous installations brighten up the city through the cold winter nights. Check ahead to find details of live performances and special events that are taking place.

If it's your first time in Toronto, you'll probably want to see some of the city's sights while you're in town too. Head up the CN Tower for great views of the city and Lake Ontario, which is particularly stunning when it starts to freeze over through the winter.

Then warm up in one of the city's fantastic museums, including the Royal Ontario Museum where you'll find a fascinating and diverse collection.

Bonus: If you're here before the holidays, get into the festive spirit at the Distillery District Christmas Market, which runs from mid-November until New Year. It's a great way to experience this historic part of the city, full of character.

Our travel tips: Although temperatures are at or below freezing through most of the winter, you're not always guaranteed snow in Toronto, so be prepared that you might miss out on the insta-perfect images of this particular winter road trip.

As you can see, there are still plenty of wintery attractions to enjoy in the city, just wrap up warm and see where your trip takes you.

READ MORE - Road Trip from Chicago to Toronto

10. Washington, DC

11 hours 10 minutes from Chicago (700 miles)

Why you should visit: You can see the Nation's Christmas Tree, a century-old tradition in the city - it's illuminated from early December in a popular ceremony that for many marks the start of the holiday season.

You can also enjoy a number of holiday markets, to really get you into the festive spirit. You have a few to choose from, including the outdoor Downtown DC Holiday Market, the Swedish Christmas Bazaar in Georgetown, and the Heurich House Museum Christkindlmarkt.

As well as all the holiday attractions and the chance to see some of the world-famous monuments beautifully surrounded by snow, the crowds at the city's museums are likely to be quieter during the winter.

How to get there: Follow I-90 out of Chicago and east towards Cleveland. Then, join I-80 and follow it around the south of Cleveland before switching onto I-76 and continuing southeast past Pittsburgh.

After passing New Baltimore and Everett, change onto I-70 and continue on through the Appalachians before joining I-270 at Frederick and following it right into the center of Washington DC.

Our highlights: The nation's capital is a fantastic place to visit during the holiday period. As well as the festive markets that take place across the city, where you can admire beautiful decorations and gifts or enjoy some fabulous food and drink, you can take in a carol concert at the National Cathedral.

Afterwards, take some time to admire the cathedral's architecture - and see if you can spot the Darth Vader gargoyle.

Back outdoors, visit DC's largest outdoor ice rink at Washington Harbor, for views out across the waterfront, or see the Holiday Boat Parade, which includes fireworks and live music as well as festively decorated boats parading down the Potomac River.

If you're visiting later in the season, check out Winter Restaurant Week. The event runs in late Jan or early Feb, and hundreds of the city's restaurants showcase their best meals at reasonable prices - the perfect way to brighten up a long, cold winter.

Don't forget to check out some of the Smithsonian museums too – they're free to enter so you can visit one or many, and enjoy some of the more popular sites without the crowds, especially if you're visiting after the holiday period.

Bonus: The capital hosts a fabulous Lunar New Year Parade in January or February depending on when the new year begins. The parade brings together dragons and lions dancing through DC's streets, as well as drummers, dance troupes and firecrackers - it's a real feast for the senses.

Our travel tips: Don't go to DC expecting reliable snowfall – daytime temperatures are milder than the more northern destinations (in the mid-40 degrees Fahrenheit and above), though it still gets pretty cold at night, and snow is likely but not guaranteed in January and February.

The key message is to wrap up warm and be prepared for whatever weather the city throws at you - pretty standard for DC!

READ MORE - Road Trip from Chicago to Washington DC

11. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

11 hours 50 minutes from Chicago (760 miles)

Why you should visit: Pennsylvania combines the kind of winter fun you might expect, like sledding and skating, with some unique winter traditions.

Visitors and locals alike flock to the Macy's Light Show, running for over half a century, and the charming Dickens Village, also found at the store.

Plus, you can fill yourself with festive cheer with a visit to the traditional market at Love Park's Christmas Village, or a stroll through streets filled with fabulous Christmas lights.

How to get there: Follow I-90 east towards Cleveland, switching onto I-80 just before you reach the city. This leads you south to join I-76, which you'll then follow past Pittsburgh, all the way across Pennsylvania. The same road takes you right into Philadelphia

Our highlights: You can see all the historic gems of Philly decked out with lights and trees for the holiday season, and the city's beautiful riverside setting just adds to the magic.

As you make your way from Chicago to Philadelphia , make sure to fit in a visit to Bethlehem, PA, too. The whole town gets decked out in style for the holidays. Take a magical horse-drawn carriage ride, check out entries for the Gingerbread House competition, and enjoy endless festive lights.

Once you've arrived in Philadelphia, you can ice skate beside the Delaware River at Winterfest, then warm up with a hot chocolate - or something stronger - with a view out across Benjamin Franklin Bridge.

Then, check out the Christmas Village or the Made in Philadelphia Holiday Market. If you're looking for unique and often hand-made gifts for family and friends, you'll find plenty of choice here.

The city's popular Longwood Gardens is transformed with amazing lights and live music, so it makes a great place to spend some time after the sun goes down (which happens early in winter!)

If you're in Philadelphia towards the end of the holiday season, you'll be able to watch the Mummers' Parade on New Year's Day. Thousands of people in absolutely dazzling costumes parade through the city in a historic tradition.

Bonus: Macy's Christmas Light Show – another of the city's festive traditions – is a record breaker! It features more than 100,000 lights and is the largest pipe organ in the world.

Our travel tips: Timed tickets are needed for some of Philadelphia's winter attractions, including Longwood Gardens and Dickens Village.

READ MORE - Road Trip from Chicago to Philadelphia

12. New York, NY

12 hours 40 minutes from Chicago (800 miles)

Why you should visit: New York City puts on an amazing holiday display – from festive lights to Christmas trees and fabulous window displays throughout the city, all with a thick covering of snow. This road trip from Chicago to New York is truly nothing short of magical!

Plus, if you're in the market for some Christmas shopping you can take your pick of fabulous department stores, designer brands and boutique sellers.

Get into the festive spirit and enjoy the iconic holiday views of the city - if it feels familiar, it's probably because they've featured in so many films and TV shows over the years. You should definitely visit New York in winter so you can say you've experienced them all first-hand.

How to get there: Follow I-90 east across Indiana. Just before Cleveland, merge onto I-80 and follow this all the way across Ohio, Pennsylvania and New Jersey before crossing into Manhattan via George Washington Bridge.

Our highlights: There are so many memorable festive moments to fit into a winter trip to New York City that it's hard to know where to begin. Skate beneath the massive Christmas tree at the famous Rockefeller Ice Rink, before heading up to the Top of the Rock to take in the view of New York in the snow.

Take a carriage ride through Central Park, which is even more magical when there's snow on the ground. Or if you're feeling more active, there are sledding slopes in the park, too.

Of course, NYC is famous for its shops, so leave some space in your case for whatever gifts and treats you might pick up while you're in town. Head to Macy's, Bloomingdale's or Saks Fifth Avenue for wall-to-wall shopping opportunities, or take a walk along Fifth Avenue to indulge in designer brands.

Further afield, the city is packed full of other shopping districts, including the West Village, Bleeker Street, Union Square and the Meatpacking District to name just a few. Or if you're in town with romantic intentions, a stroll through the Diamond District might go down well.

For a different experience of New York in winter, skip the crowds and visit in January to enjoy the NYC Winter Jazz Fest or NYC Restaurant Week, where restaurants put on their best fare at affordable prices.

If you're traveling at this time of the year, you can also stop off at New Hope, PA, as you make your way from Chicago to New York City. Here you can join in with the 9-day Winter Festival (late January).

Galleries, restaurants, and local businesses come together to bring some warmth and cheer to the new year, with a legendary chili cook-off, Soup-A-Thon, and ice sculptures dotted around town.

Bonus: These days, you usually need to take a ferry across from Manhattan to Staten Island, but back in 1780, the entire harbor froze so hard that it was possible to walk all the way across the river.

Our travel tips: Parts of the city get extremely crowded in December, and accommodation prices rise accordingly. The first week of December is particularly busy, but many travelers report that the crowds and prices calm down a little mid-month.

If you'd like to learn more about the best areas to stay in NYC before you plan your trip, you can find our detailed area-by-area guide here .

READ MORE - Road Trip from Chicago to New York City

13. New Orleans, Louisiana

13 hours 40 minutes from Chicago (925 miles)

Why you should visit: Mild weather and weeks of flamboyant parades makes New Orleans the perfect contrast to snowy Chicago. The city is famous for Mardi Gras, which takes place in late February, but warm-up events actually start in January, so you can enjoy week after week of enjoyment.

As well as Mardi Gras, New Orleans is also a vibrant city where you can enjoy live music, fabulous food and warm winter weather - perhaps the closest you can get to a trip overseas without needing a passport!

How to get there: On this road trip , join I-57 and follow it south all the way to Cairo, on the Illinois/Missouri border. Then, soon after crossing the Mississippi River, change onto I-55 and follow it south.

As far as Nashville, I-55 runs parallel to the Mississippi before passing through Jackson. Continue along the interstate then, after skirting the west side of Lake Pontchartrain, merge onto I-10, which takes you into the center of New Orleans.

Our highlights: From Thanksgiving onwards, enjoy a Reveillon Dinner – a local tradition that now sees restaurants across the city offering seasonal Creole-inspired food all through December.

Also running from Thanksgiving right up to New Year's Day is Celebration in the Oaks. This after-dark spectacle sees City Park lit up with more than a million lights. Given the city's mild winter climate, it's the perfect place to end the day with a romantic stroll.

If you're in the city for Christmas itself, head out along River Road on Christmas Eve, where you'll see bonfires lit on the night of the 24th so that Papa Noel can find his way from Baton Rouge to New Orleans.

Once Christmas and New Year are behind you, the party season in New Orleans really gets going. From mid-January, you can see parades and events starting up, then the main event, Mardi Gras, starts on Shrove Tuesday and carries on for two weeks. Expect fabulous parades, live music and all-night parties.

You'll have seen pictures of the beautiful and elaborate masks that are such a feature of the Mardi Gras parades. But did you know that every single participant has to wear one?

That way, current and future visitors will be guaranteed the same fabulous experience of NOLA's longstanding and unique traditions.

Our travel tips: Although average temperatures sit around 60 degrees Fahrenheit in winter, they can drop much lower or rise as high as 80, so it's wise to pack for three seasons to be prepared for a winter trip here!

READ MORE - Road Trip from Chicago to New Orleans

14. Savannah, Georgia

15 hours 10 minutes from Chicago (960 miles)

Why you should visit: The weather stays mild all year round in Savannah, so it's a great place to come and escape the Midwest chill. You can enjoy spending time outside, take a walk along the river, or just relax in one of Savannah's beautiful squares - the polar opposite of a Chicago winter.

Don't worry about missing out on too much of that winter snow either - your drive will take you through the Appalachians so you can take in some stunning views as you make your way south to Georgia.

Savannah is a great place to visit all year round but come in winter to enjoy this fabulous city without the summer crowds or humidity.

How to get there: After heading east out of Chicago on I-90, turn south onto I-65 and continue through Indianapolis and Louisville.

At Louisville, change onto I-64 and follow it towards Lexington onto I-75 which takes you across into Tennessee. Then, take I-40 from Knoxville to Asheville then join I-26 south passing Spartanburg and Columbia.

This leads you eventually onto I-95, which you'll follow south to Savannah.

Our highlights: There might not be snow and ice on the ground, but Savannah manages to fill the holiday season with its very own brand of festive charm.

At Coastal Georgia Botanical Gardens, you can follow the beautiful light trail through the magical gardens, for example, or take a holiday trolley tour or boat trip to see the city decked out in festive finery while enjoying a wonderful warm cider.

Then, follow the Christmas Parade, which makes its way through the city's streets and squares in early December.

All through the winter, you can also enjoy the shops and restaurants on fabulous River Street, the perfect place to spend some time whether you're looking for gifts to take home or just something special for yourself.

The city was offered up to President Lincoln as a Christmas Gift during the Civil War. As Christmas gifts go, a whole city is one we wouldn't mind receiving!

Our travel tips: Winter weather in Savannah is changeable, but the year-round humidity can make even warm days feel chilly when you're outdoors for a while.

READ MORE - Road Trip from Chicago to Savannah

15. Orlando, Florida

17 hours 30 minutes from Chicago (1,130 miles)

Why you should visit: Orlando is known as a winter sun favorite – so pack your sun cream and enjoy some time outdoors.

The theme parks of Orlando are popular year-round, but during the winter you get to experience them all dressed up for the holiday season, and without the heat and humidity that can be a feature at other times of the year.

How to get there: Follow I-90 out of Chicago then merge onto US-41 at the southern tip of Lake Michigan and continue south past Terre Haute and Vincennes.

Just after crossing the Ohio River at Evansville, turn onto I-69, continuing south on I-169 where the interstates divide. After Hopkinsville, join I-24 and follow it through Nashville to Chattanooga, where you'll switch onto I-75 which runs all the way to Florida.

After Gainesville, join the Florida Turnpike which takes you the last stretch of the drive into Orlando.

Our highlights: Florida is the warmest part of the continental US through the winter - perfect for escaping the sub-zero temperatures of the Midwest on this road trip from Chicago to Orlando !

Visit the theme parks in their holiday finest – whether your first choice is Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, SeaWorld or Legoland Florida, each one will be suitably festive with parades and events to match.

You can see Cinderella's Castle made even more magical at Walt Disney World, or visit EPCOT's International Festival of the Holidays to take a whistle-stop tour around the world's traditions.

One that stands out for its festive themes is the Grinch-mas Who-liday Special at Universal Islands of Adventure. And of course, the Wizarding World of Harry Potter comes into its own during the winter.

If you have time to head out of town, make your way to Tampa to see Christmas Town at Busch Gardens. You'll find yourself in a warm weather wonderland with trees, lights, skating and fireworks.

Outside of the theme parks, you can enjoy the Winter Park Christmas Parade, a long-standing Florida tradition, with dozens of troupes followed by Santa.

And if you're missing that traditional winter vibe, visit Now Snowing in Celebration, where frosty views meet the Florida sun – including hourly snow flurries.

Our travel tips: Pack layers, as even Florida can experience cooler days, but rest assured that with heated pools and plenty of daytime sunshine, you can enjoy yourself outdoors right through the winter.

READ MORE - Road Trip from Chicago to Orlando

Join our email list!

By joining our email list, you give LazyTrips permission to use your email for sending you newsletters, emails and updates including for marketing purposes. Your email will not be provided to third parties.

Related posts

Nomadic Matt's Travel Site

Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

The 12 Best Things to Do in Chicago

Famously known as “the Second City” (meaning second in population to New York), I feel like Chicago is often overlooked by travelers. It sees a fraction of the visitors LA and NYC receive, which is a shame, as it’s one of my favorite cities in the world .

Chicago is chock-full of world-class institutions, Michelin-starred restaurants, awe-inducing architecture, and verdant parks. There is a lot to do here and the city has a really rich history. I think more people should visit.

Sure, the winters are brutal. But, come spring, Chicago blossoms into a dynamic urban landscape of street life, outdoor cafés, and sunny parks when locals take over the outdoors to enjoy the few months of nice weather. (I don’t think you can really beat Chicago in the summer.)

To help you plan your visit, here’s my list of the best things to do in Chicago:

Table of Contents

1. Take a Walking Tour

2. relax in grant and millennium parks, 3. take in some art at the art institute of chicago, 4. admire amazing architecture on a river cruise, 5. stroll down the magnificent mile, 6. visit the shedd aquarium, 7. take in some natural history at the field museum, 8. get a stunning view at 360 chicago observation deck, 9. feast on deep-dish pizza, 10. stroll the chicago riverwalk, 11. eat your way through the mexican eateries in pilsen, 12. watch an improv show, 13. have fun at navy pier, 14. catch a game at wrigley field, 15. feast in chinatown, 16. experience st. patrick’s day, 17. explore oz park.

One of the first things I do when I arrive in a city is take a walking tour. They’re a great way to see the main sights, get the lay of the land, and connect with an expert local guide who can answer all my questions. Free Chicago Walking Tours hosts regular free tours that can introduce you to the city. You’ll get to see many of the coolest buildings in the city while also learning about the history of Chicago. The tour lasts a few hours. Be sure to tip the guide at the end!

For a more unique tour, try the Gangsters and Ghosts Tour . You’ll learn all about Chicago’s dark side and creepy past as you explore the Chicago Loop. The tour lasts two hours and really talks about one of the pivotal times in Chicago’s history. Even if you’re not a history buff like me, you’ll get a lot out of it.  

Located downtown, these gigantic parks provide a great place to hang out, have a picnic, or go for a run. People play chess here when the weather is nice and, during the summer, there are a lot of free concerts and events here. The larger Grant Park stretches along Chicago’s waterfront, while Millennium Park is the subsection where the famous “Chicago Bean” sculpture is located. This iconic work of public art is a must-see. And, starting at noon on the first and third Saturdays from April through November, the Chicago Cultural Center hosts walking tours focusing on the art of Millennium Park. It’s really interesting. I love strolling through the park or just chilling here with a good book on a nice day.  

To beat the crowds, skip a weekend visit as the place gets packed. Instead, go on a Monday or Thursday evening (they’re open late on Thursdays). You’ll have the place virtually to yourself.

111 S Michigan Ave, (312) 443-3600, artic.edu. Open Thursday-Monday 11am-5pm (8pm on Thursdays). Admission is $32 USD ( $40 USD for advance skip-the-line entry ). Daily tours (included in the price of your ticket) are offered at 1pm and 3pm.  

Chicago is an architecture lover’s dream. The very best way to take in its famed buildings is via a river cruise . This way, you can sit back and cruise down the canals while an expert guide provides context for what you’re looking at. The guides will give you a detailed history of the architecture. Some of the buildings you’ll see on the boat ride include the Tribune Tower, 333 West Wacker, Navy Pier, the Willis Tower, the Wrigley Building, and Marina City, among others. All in all, there are about 50 structures to see on this fascinating tour, and I promise, it’s much more interesting than it sounds!  

Often nicknamed “Mag Mile,” this stretch along Michigan Avenue from the Chicago River to Oak Street is known for its upscale designer boutiques. In fact, rent here is the third highest in the US (after Fifth Avenue in New York City and Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills). Even if you don’t want to blow your budget shopping, it’s still an experience to stroll along the avenue and take in the sights and the people, and enjoy the view of the Chicago River. There are several landmarks and attractions along the way too, including the 360 Chicago Observation Deck for expansive views over the city (more on this below).  

If you’re visiting the city with kids (or you’re a kid at heart), head to the massive Shedd Aquarium. It’s the third-largest aquarium in the Western hemisphere and home to over 32,000 animals. They have turtles, penguins, sea otters, snakes, sharks, and more. They really emphasize education here so you’ll learn a ton while you roam the different exhibitions. You can even pay extra to do things like feed penguins and sharks, and they also host all kinds of fun evening events (such as live music after hours). I absolutely love coming here. Just make sure to book your ticket in advance as they do get busy and sell out!

To beat the crowds, skip the weekend and visit during the week instead. Also, try and visit right when it opens (especially Wednesday-Friday). It’s usually quieter then.

1200 S DuSable Lake Shore Dr, (312) 939-2438, sheddaquarium.org. Open 9am-5pm Monday-Friday (9pm on Tuesdays), 9am-6pm Saturday, and 11am-6pm on Sundays. Tickets start at $37 USD. Admission can also be included with the Chicago CityPASS .  

One of the biggest museums in the world, the Field houses extensive collections spanning anthropology, geology, botany, and zoology. Some important collections include the displays of taxidermied animals, a wing dedicated to astronomy, and fascinating artifacts from ancient Egypt. I recommend planning to spend at least 3-4 hours to really take it all in.

1400 S. Dusable Lake Shore Drive, (312) 922-9410, fieldmuseum.org. Open daily 9am-5pm (last admission is at 4pm). Basic admission is $30 USD . Special exhibitions are an additional charge (which varies), though you can get an all-access pass for $43 USD.  

Chicago is a skyscraper city, including a few rather iconic towers. Located atop what was formerly known as the John Hancock Building and now (uninspiringly) called 875 N. Michigan, the 360-degree viewing deck a thousand feet up and allows visitors to get the best view of the Windy City and Lake Michigan. You can even grab a pint at the Cloud Bar, which serves beer from Moody Tongue, a local brewery.

If you’re a thrill seeker and want more than just the view, sign up for Tilt. This part of the observation deck is where you can stand in front of a glass window, which then tilts forward, until it appears you’re looking directly down at the street, 94 floors below.

Just make sure to check the weather before you go so you will actually have a view to enjoy. Additionally, if you want to beat the crowds, come early (before 10am).

875 N Michigan Ave, (888) 875-8439, 360chicago.com. Open daily 9am-11pm (the last entry is at 10pm). Admission starts at $30 USD ( get your tickets in advance for skip-the-line access ).

If you really want to indulge, hop on a Chicago Pizza Tour , on which you’ll get to sample all the varieties on offer in town. Tours start at $49 USD.  

Stretching from Lake Michigan to Lake Street, the 1.25-mile Riverwalk along the Chicago River makes for a fun stroll. Along the way, you’ll not only get fantastic views of the river and city, but you’ll encounter a legion of waterfront restaurants, cafés, and bars. There’s a ton of public art and green space too (great for picnicking and people-watching). It’s the perfect place to slow down and enjoy the moment in this Midwestern metropolis, but if you prefer a more active experience, there are also lots of aquatic activities here too (such as kayaking or taking a river cruise).  

The neighborhood of Pilsen was founded in 1878 by Czech immigrants, who named the area after the fourth-largest city in the Czech Republic, where pilsner beer was born. The Czechs may be gone now, but today Pilsen is Chicago’s main Latino neighborhood, particularly Mexicans from the Michoacán region. Today you can wander the area, eating some of the best tacos while taking in the vibrant street art.  

The Second City is one of the most popular and well-known improv troupes in the country. It’s where greats like Bill Murray, John Candy, Catherine O’Hara, Steve Carell, Tina Fey, and Amy Poehler all cut their teeth. They put on regular performances and also host all kinds of special events. They even host workshops and classes if you want to give improv a try yourself. Just be sure to get your tickets in advance as the most popular shows sell out fast.

230 W North Ave, (312) 337-3992, secondcity.com. Performances are held daily so check the website for what’s on. Tickets start at $35 USD.  

600 E Grand Ave, (312) 595-7437, navypier.org. Open Sunday-Thursday 11am-8pm and Friday-Saturday 11am-9pm (individual attractions and restaurants may have separate hours). Admission to the pier is free, though attractions charge their own fees ( the Centennial wheel is $21.30 USD , for example).  

Home of the Cubs, Wrigley Field, on Chicago’s North Side, is smack in the middle of town. It also happens to be one of the oldest baseball stadiums in the United States (it opened in 1914). If you’re in Chicago during the baseball seasons (April to October) and the Cubs are in town, do yourself a favor and go to a game. It’s one of the most intimate and atmospheric baseball stadiums in the country. If the Cubs are not in town, you can also take a 90-minute behind-the-scenes tour of the stadium.

1060 W Addison St, (773) 404-2827, mlb.com/cubs/ballpark. Tour dates and times vary depending on the season (check the website for availability). Tour admission is $30 USD. Tickets to see a game vary greatly but start at just $10 USD (for better seats at a popular game, expect to spend closer to $80-125 USD).  

Bring your appetite to Chinatown, where you can feast on cheap dim dum, do karaoke, or relax at one of the many tea houses. One of the oldest Chinatown’s in the country, over a third of Chicago’s Chinese population lives in Chinatown, making it one of the largest concentrations of Chinese-Americans in the USA. Don’t miss Ping Tom Memorial Park, and keep an eye out for colorful murals around the neighborhood. Some of my favorite places here are Hing Kee, MCCB Chicago, and Phoenix. &nbsp

The tradition began in 1843, when Chicago’s first Irish parade was held, but it wasn’t until 1962 that the dyeing of the river started, at the suggestion of a plumber’s union, which is still responsible for the green river each year, though it won’t divulge its secrets about what’s used (it’s environmentally friendly, though). Take a river cruise on the emerald waters or snap a pic from the sidelines and enjoy. This is one of the biggest days of the year here!  

This whimsical little park, located in the Lincoln Park area, was created to honor L. Frank Baum, the author of The Wizard of Oz . He lived in the area at the end of the 19th century, and when the city wanted to renovate the park they decided to do so in a way that honored Baum’s popular book.

There’s a playground named after Dorothy, a green space called the “Emerald Gardens,” and numerous life-size statues of popular characters from the musical adaptation, including the Dorothy, Toto, the Tin Man, the Cowardly Lion, and the Scarecrow.

Open daily 6am-11pm. Admission to the park is free.

Chicago doesn’t get the attention it deserves. I think it’s fun and perfect for a weekend getaway. And you really can’t beat the summers here either. With lots of interesting museums, plenty of green space, and some great eats, Chicago should be on every traveler’s list!

Book Your Trip to Chicago: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight. They are my favorite search engine because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the biggest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• Safety Wing (best for everyone)
• Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use to save money when I’m on the road. They will save you money when you travel too.

Want More Information on Chicago? Be sure to visit our robust destination guide on Chicago for even more planning tips!

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

Related Posts

Get my best stuff sent straight to you!

Pin it on pinterest.

This Is America's Most Walkable City, Here's What To See In A Day

Step into America's most walkable city. From iconic landmarks to cultural treasures, discover what makes Chicago a pedestrian's paradise!

• Chicago's concentrated core makes iconic landmarks and key destinations accessible within just 28 minutes of walking.
• The city's green spaces and 77.2 Walk Score validate its pedestrian-friendly design, perfect for immersive cultural experiences.
• Explore vibrant neighborhoods and hidden gems in Chicago on foot, from lunch in iconic locations to evening strolls along the Chicago Riverwalk.

Ditch the car and lace up those walking shoes! Chicago, the Windy City, isn't just known for its deep-dish pizza and architectural wonders. Believe it or not, it's also earned the coveted title of America's Most Walkable City, the top slot on a long list of walkable U.S. cities . Forget sprawling suburbs and endless commutes. Chicago boasts vibrant neighborhoods, iconic landmarks, and essential amenities all conveniently accessible on foot.

According to Preply , unlike many US cities designed around car culture , Chicago offers a concentrated core where iconic landmarks and key destinations are conveniently close together. The key here is the time it takes to explore them: just 28 minutes.

Whether you're seeking an immersive experience or looking to embrace a car-free lifestyle, Chicago's walkable streets promise a treasure trove of discoveries around every corner. So, get ready to explore the energetic pulse of this dynamic city, one step at a time!

What Makes Chicago A Walkable City?

Chicago earns top marks for not only walk scores, but public park spaces, too.

Imagine this: in just 28 minutes and a mere 2,520 steps, one can embark on a self-guided walking tour, hitting all the top spots. Their itinerary? A cultural immersion !

Chicago's walkability goes hand-in-hand with its abundance of green spaces. Ranked 12th best city for park space in the ParkScore index, guests can check out Millennium Park, Grant Park, and Lincoln Park – all havens for relaxation and scenic strolls.

Walk Score Validates the Advantage

Chicago's walkability isn't just anecdotal. Walk Score , a trusted source for pedestrian friendliness analysis, awarded the city a score of 77.2 out of 100. This metric considers population density and road metrics like block length and intersection density, highlighting the ease and safety of navigating Chicago by foot.

What To See On A Morning Walk In Chicago

Waking up to a crisp Chicago morning and feeling the energy of the city? Why not explore it on foot? Guests should lace up their walking shoes and get ready to discover hidden gems, iconic landmarks, and maybe even grab a delicious breakfast from The Marq or Lockwood Restaurant & Bar , as they both open before 9:00 AM.

After breakfast, here are some fantastic sightseeing options for a refreshing morning walk in Chicago!

Start With the Art Institute Of Chicago

Fans of the classic film "Ferris Bueller's Day Off" will instantly recognize the Art Institute of Chicago ! As guests stroll down Michigan Avenue, watch for the museum's grand entrance, flanked by two imposing bronze lions. Inside, guests will find one of the biggest and oldest art collections in the US, with tons of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist paintings, like Monet and Van Gogh.

There's even more art to see in the Modern Wing, with famous works by Picasso, Warhol, and others.

Feeling hungry after all that art? Head to Terzo Piano on the top floor for fancy food with a view. In summer, eat outside on the terrace surrounded by cool art and Millennium Park!

Purchase tickets online beforehand. This allows guests to skip the ticket line and head straight inside, especially useful during peak hours and weekends.

Check out the Cloud Gate “The Bean”

Leaving the Art Institute's Modern Wing, guests can walk across the Nichols Bridgeway to Millennium Park. This park is famous for its mix of beautiful buildings, sculptures, and landscaping. One of the most popular attractions is " Cloud Gate ," a giant, shiny bean-shaped sculpture that reflects visitors' faces.

After exploring Millennium Park , walk across the long, winding BP Bridge to view the Chicago skyline, the green space of Grant Park, and even Lake Michigan. On the other side of the bridge, guests will find Maggie Daley Park . The park has a special ice skating path that winds around it in the winter. There's another ice rink in front of "The Bean" too.

10 Cheap Things To Do In Chicago That Are Perfectly Budget-Friendly

Head over to the chicago cultural center.

Right on the corner of Michigan Avenue and Randolph Street, guests find a beautiful historic building called the Chicago Cultural Center . It's famous for having the world's biggest stained-glass dome made by Tiffany, a famous company known for its beautiful glasswork. This building is like a free museum and theater all in one! They have concerts, dancing, plays, movies, talks, art shows, tours, and even special things for kids happening all year round.

The best part? It's all free !

Take a Break at the Buckingham Fountain

Head south and east through Grant Park. This massive park covers over 300 acres and is home to the famous Buckingham Fountain . This giant fountain is one of the biggest in the world! It was built in 1927 and inspired by another fancy fountain in France.

From May to October, the fountain puts on a water show every hour, with water shooting up to 150 feet in the air! The show even has lights and music starting in the evening.

The Buckingham Fountain comes alive with a dazzling water display every hour from May to mid-October, so guests should plan their trip accordingly.

Where to Have Lunch (and What to See Nearby!)

Want to grab a bite to eat after checking out Buckingham Fountain? Head over to Sofi Restaurant for delicious Italian cuisine or Burger Bar Chicago for fast food! With a full stomach after a delicious Chicago lunch, the afternoon stretches out with possibilities! Continue exploring the vibrant atmosphere of The Windy City!

Check out the Museum Campus

Visit the field museum, shedd aquarium, and adler planetarium.

Keep walking south from the fountain, and guests will reach Chicago's famous Museum Campus. This beautiful green space sits on Lake Michigan and has three amazing museums to explore!

The first is the Field Museum . It's full of cool things from nature and history, including the biggest dinosaur bones ever found! Right next door is Shedd Aquarium , one of the biggest in the world. Here, guests can see all sorts of water animals, from whales and dolphins to penguins and sharks!

The last museum on the campus is the Adler Planetarium . It was the first planetarium in the whole western half of the world! This museum isn't just about looking at things; it has fun shows, activities, and even telescopes to learn more about space!

10 Surprisingly Free Things That You Can Do In The Windy City Of Chicago

Head to the chicago architecture center.

Love learning about cool buildings? Head towards the river to One Illinois Center! This building was designed by a famous architect named Mies van der Rohe, and it's now home to the Chicago Architecture Center . Inside, guests can see models of all the skyscrapers in Chicago, and there's even a giant model of the entire city!

The Architecture Center also offers tours to help visitors learn more about all the amazing buildings in Chicago. The most popular tour is the Chicago Architecture Foundation Center River Cruise . This boat tour takes guests past 50 of the most famous buildings in downtown Chicago, and a guide will tell everyone all about their history.

Visit Picasso and Chagall

Love free art? Look no further than Daley Plaza and Chase Tower Plaza in Chicago! Right in Daley Plaza, guests can see a giant, 50-foot-tall metal sculpture by the famous artist Picasso. When it was first put on display in 1967, some people thought it looked weird, like a bug or a monkey! But today, everyone loves it, and it's become a symbol of Chicago.

Over at Chase Tower Plaza , guests can find another amazing piece of art. This time, it's a giant mosaic mural by artist Marc Chagall . It's made up of thousands of tiny pieces in over 250 colors and shows pictures of spring, summer, winter, and fall. It's a beautiful way to celebrate the changing seasons!

Evening Adventures in Chicago: Best Places To Walk To

As the Chicago sun dips below the horizon, the city transforms into a dazzling display of lights! Evenings are the perfect time for a leisurely stroll in Chicago! Forget crowded buses and expensive cabs; here's Chicago on foot.

Head over to the Skydeck at Willis Tower

Want to see Chicago from way up high? Head to the Willis Tower , one of the tallest buildings in the world! They have a special area called Skydeck , where guests can step out onto a glass box called " The Ledge. "

This box sticks out from the side of the building over 1,300 feet in the air! Guests can walk around it and see all of Chicago below them. It's a bit scary, but the views are incredible!

Guests who want the best views and potentially avoid crowds aim for an earlier visit in the morning or later in the evening. While sunsets can be spectacular from the Skydeck, they can also make it difficult to see clearly through the glass due to reflections.

Take a Leisurely Stroll on the Chicago Riverwalk

The Chicago Riverwalk is a fun, 1.25-mile path alongside the river. It's like a walkway for people only, with lots of cool places to explore! There are restaurants, bars, museums, art to look at, and even places to rent kayaks or take a boat tour. Guests might even see some birds or try some fishing!

From March to April, on Wednesdays through Sundays, and every day from May to December, there's a special light show on a giant wall facing the river. It's called Art on the MART , the biggest video art show in the world!

End the Night at Music Clubs — Visit Buddy Guy’s Legends and Jazz Showcase

Love live music, especially blues and jazz? Don’t miss these two Chicago clubs! Buddy Guy's Legends is a famous blues club named after a Grammy-winning blues guitarist. They have live music every single night, and even free shows during lunch and dinner!

Right next door is Jazz Showcase , a historic jazz club that's been around since 1947. They have amazing jazz musicians playing every night, from local stars to famous international acts.

In Chicago, every step unveils a new adventure, a testament to the city's vibrant spirit and pedestrian-friendly charm. So, lace up those walking shoes and embark on a journey of discovery through the dynamic streets of the Windy City.

Watch CBS News

Maps of northern lights forecast show where millions in U.S. could see aurora borealis this weekend

By Alex Sundby

Updated on: May 11, 2024 / 8:54 PM EDT / CBS News

Americans as far south as Alabama and Northern California were being treated to a show of the northern lights this weekend from a powerful geomagnetic storm which reached Earth, officials said. If the weather conditions are right, people in wider areas on the map could look up and see the aurora borealis .

The storm prompted government forecasters to warn of potential disruptions to communications systems, the power grid and satellite operations, but it also put on a fantastic light display in the night sky Friday. 

"The aurora is when we get energized particles that have left the sun in more quantities than usual, and they interact with Earth's magnetic barrier," Shawn Dahl, senior space weather forecaster for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, explained to CBS News.

The geomagnetic storm reached Earth Friday evening as an "extreme" G5 , according to the NOAA's Space Weather Prediction Center. Geomagnetic storms are ranked from G1 to G5.

"This one is pretty large, It think it's pretty extreme, we got to the G5, which is the highest in terms of strength," said Dr. Nour Rawafi, an astrophysicist with the Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory.

It marks the first G5 geomagnetic storm to reach Earth since October 2003. A G5 is so large it can disrupt satellites we rely on for communications and GPS. Elon Musk's Starlink satellites were reporting "degraded service."

Dahl explains a G5 storm can potentially disrupt the GPS we use on our phones.

"It could, because most of our phones are single-frequency GPS systems," Dahl said. 

Experts say the aurora borealis will likely be viewable again Saturday night, with the best chance to see the northern lights between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. Sunday. 

"If you happen to be in an area where it's dark and cloud free and relatively unpolluted by light, you may get to see a fairly impressive aurora display, and that's really the gift from space weather, is the aurora," Rob Steenburgh, a space scientist with the NOAA's Space Weather Prediction Center, told reporters Friday morning.

Northern lights map for Friday night

A map from the center showed the aurora would be visible for much of the northern half of the U.S. Friday night. A red line on the map shows how far south the aurora forecast went.

The National Weather Service's St. Louis office said people in the area should leave the city for the best possible chance to view the northern lights.

"Get away from city lights into a dark, rural surrounding and look north," the office said on social media . "Aside from some clouds associated with a passing front, much of the time looks mostly clear."

The prediction center notes on its website that people don't need to be directly underneath the aurora to see it. Instead, it can be observed from as much as 620 miles away.

The weather service's office for the San Francisco Bay Area had been less optimistic when asked if there was a chance for a nighttime show there. 

"Probably not, but I'll still look up while walking my dog," the office said . But the weather service turned out to be wrong, the northern lights were visible from the Bay Area. 

Northern lights map for Saturday night

Friday night wasn't the only opportunity for a northern lights show. The storm was expected to last through the weekend, and the prediction center released a forecast map for Saturday night.

Officials said people in the southern U.S. who can't see the aurora with their naked eyes could still take some dazzling pictures with their phones.

"Cellphones are much better than our eyes at capturing light," the Space Weather Prediction Center's Brent Gordon told reporters Friday. "Just go out your back door and take a picture with a newer cellphone, and you'd be amazed at what you see in that picture versus what you see with your eyes."

Stunning photos showed the vivid display of the northern lights over Europe and the U.K. after nightfall there on Friday.

— Michael George contributed to this report. 

• National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
• National Weather Service
• Aurora Borealis
• Northern Lights

Alex Sundby is a senior editor at CBSNews.com. In addition to editing content, Alex also covers breaking news, writing about crime and severe weather as well as everything from multistate lottery jackpots to the July Fourth hot dog eating contest.

More from CBS News

Solar storms can affect electronics and the power grid – an expert explains

Sun emits its largest X-class flare of the solar cycle

4 dead as storms slam Houston again; hundreds of thousands lose power

Mysterious origin of the "tree of life" revealed

• Share full article

Advertisement

Supported by

Solar Storm Intensifies, Filling Skies With Northern Lights

Officials warned of potential blackouts or interference with navigation and communication systems this weekend, as well as auroras as far south as Southern California or Texas.

By Katrina Miller and Judson Jones

Katrina Miller reports on space and astronomy and Judson Jones is a meteorologist.

A dramatic blast from the sun set off the highest-level geomagnetic storm in Earth’s atmosphere on Friday that is expected to make the northern lights visible as far south as Florida and Southern California and could interfere with power grids, communications and navigations system.

It is the strongest such storm to reach Earth since Halloween of 2003. That one was strong enough to create power outages in Sweden and damage transformers in South Africa.

The effects could continue through the weekend as a steady stream of emissions from the sun continues to bombard the planet’s magnetic field.

The solar activity is so powerful that the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, which monitors space weather, issued an unusual storm watch for the first time in 19 years, which was then upgraded to a warning. The agency began observing outbursts on the sun’s surface on Wednesday, with at least five heading in the direction of Earth.

“What we’re expecting over the next couple of days should be more significant than what we’ve seen certainly so far,” Mike Bettwy, the operations chief at NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center, said at a news conference on Friday morning.

For people in many places, the most visible part of the storm will be the northern lights, known also as auroras. But authorities and companies will also be on the lookout for the event’s effects on infrastructure, like global positioning systems, radio communications and even electrical power.

While the northern lights are most often seen in higher latitudes closer to the North Pole, people in many more parts of the world are already getting a show this weekend that could last through the early part of next week.

As Friday turned to Saturday in Europe, people across the continent described skies hued in a mottling of colors.

Alfredo Carpineti , an astrophysicist, journalist and author in North London, saw them with his husband from the rooftop of their apartment building.

“It is incredible to be able to see the aurora directly from one’s own backyard,” he said. “I was hoping to maybe catch a glimpse of green on the horizon, but it was all across the sky in both green and purple.”

Here’s what you need to know about this weekend’s solar event.

How will the storm affect people on Earth?

A geomagnetic storm watch or warning indicates that space weather may affect critical infrastructure on or orbiting near Earth. It may introduce additional current into systems, which could damage pipelines, railroad tracks and power lines.

According to Joe Llama, an astronomer at Lowell Observatory, communications that rely on high frequency radio waves, such as ham radio and commercial aviation , are most likely to suffer. That means it is unlikely that your cellphone or car radio, which depend on much higher frequency radio waves, will conk out.

Still, it is possible for blackouts to occur. As with any power outage, you can prepare by keeping your devices charged and having access to backup batteries, generators and radio.

The most notable solar storm recorded in history occurred in 1859. Known as the Carrington Event, it lasted for nearly a week, creating aurora that stretched down to Hawaii and Central America and impacting hundreds of thousands of miles of telegraph lines.

But that was technology of the 19th century, used before scientists fully understood how solar activity disrupted Earth’s atmosphere and communication systems.

“That was an extreme level event,” said Shawn Dahl, a forecaster at NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center. “We are not anticipating that.”

Unlike tornado watches and warnings, the target audience for NOAA’s announcements is not the public.

“For most people here on planet Earth, they won’t have to do anything,” said Rob Steenburgh, a space scientist at NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center.

The goal of the announcements is to give agencies and companies that operate this infrastructure time to put protection measures in place to mitigate any effects.

“If everything is working like it should, the grid will be stable and they’ll be able to go about their daily lives,” Mr. Steenburgh said.

Will I be able to see the northern lights?

It is possible that the northern lights may grace the skies this week over places that don’t usually see them. The best visibility is outside the bright lights of cities.

Clouds or stormy weather could pose a problem in some places. But if the skies are clear, even well south of where the aurora is forecast to take place, snap a picture or record a video with your cellphone. The sensor on the camera is more sensitive to the wavelengths produced by the aurora and may produce an image you can’t see with the naked eye.

Another opportunity could be viewing sunspots during the daytime, if your skies are clear. As always, do not look directly at the sun without protection. But if you still have your eclipse glasses lying around from the April 8 event, you may try to use them to try to spot the cluster of sunspots causing the activity.

How strong is the current geomagnetic storm?

Giant explosions on the surface of the sun, known as coronal mass ejections, send streams of energetic particles into space. But the sun is large, and such outbursts may not cross our planet as it travels around the star. But when these particles create a disturbance in Earth’s magnetic field, it is known as a geomagnetic storm.

NOAA classifies these storms on a “G” scale of 1 to 5, with G1 being minor and G5 being extreme. The most extreme storms can cause widespread blackouts and damage to infrastructure on Earth. Satellites may also have trouble orienting themselves or sending or receiving information during these events.

The current storm is classified as G5, or “extreme.” It is caused by a cluster of sunspots — dark, cool regions on the solar surface — that is about 16 times the diameter of Earth. The cluster is flaring and ejecting material every six to 12 hours.

“We anticipate that we’re going to get one shock after another through the weekend,” said Brent Gordon, chief of the space weather services branch at NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center.

Why is this happening now?

The sun’s activity ebbs and flows on an 11-year cycle, and right now, it is approaching a solar maximum. Three other severe geomagnetic storms have been observed so far in the current activity cycle, which began in December 2019, but none were predicted to cause effects strong enough on Earth to warrant a watch or warning announcement.

The cluster of sunspots generating the current storm is the largest seen in this solar cycle, NOAA officials said. They added that the activity in this cycle has outperformed initial predictions .

More flares and expulsions from this cluster are expected, but because of the sun’s rotation the cluster will be oriented in a position less likely to affect Earth. In the coming weeks, the sunspots may appear again on the left side of the sun, but it is difficult for scientists to predict whether this will cause another bout of activity.

“Usually, these don’t come around packing as much of a punch as they did originally,” Mr. Dahl said. “But time will tell on that.”

Jonathan O’Callaghan contributed reporting from London.

An earlier version of this article misstated the radio frequencies used by cellphones and car radios. They are higher frequencies, not low.

How we handle corrections

Katrina Miller is a science reporting fellow for The Times. She recently earned her Ph.D. in particle physics from the University of Chicago. More about Katrina Miller

Judson Jones is a meteorologist and reporter for The Times who forecasts and covers extreme weather. More about Judson Jones

What’s Up in Space and Astronomy

Keep track of things going on in our solar system and all around the universe..

Never miss an eclipse, a meteor shower, a rocket launch or any other 2024 event  that’s out of this world with  our space and astronomy calendar .

A dramatic blast from the sun  set off the highest-level geomagnetic storm in Earth’s atmosphere, making the northern lights visible around the world .

With the help of Google Cloud, scientists who hunt killer asteroids churned through hundreds of thousands of images of the night sky to reveal 27,500 overlooked space rocks in the solar system .

A celestial image, an Impressionistic swirl of color in the center of the Milky Way, represents a first step toward understanding the role of magnetic fields  in the cycle of stellar death and rebirth.

Scientists may have discovered a major flaw in their understanding of dark energy, a mysterious cosmic force . That could be good news for the fate of the universe.

Is Pluto a planet? And what is a planet, anyway? Test your knowledge here .

Where you can see northern lights Sunday night from another solar storm

If you missed the recent auroras over the past two days, you may have another chance. The sun will continue to send more activity to Earth on Sunday night and early this week.

Fast eruptions from the sun are expected to slam into Earth on Sunday night and Monday morning, triggering another round of geomagnetic storms, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Sunday is predicted to offer the best chance for aurora-chasing before this round of solar activity diminishes.

After predicting geomagnetic storms of level G4 or G5 — the most intense rating — on Sunday morning, NOAA downgraded the forecast to G3, meaning less likelihood for a repeat of Friday night , when storms brought aurora sightings down to Florida and Mexico.

Activity is expected to wane by the pre-dawn hours of Monday, although storm levels are still predicted to reach moderate (G2) to strong (G3). Auroras could be spotted as far south as Iowa and Washington state with the naked eye, but cameras could capture the dancing lights farther south.

By Tuesday morning, NOAA forecasts that geomagnetic storm activity will diminish to minor levels (G1). During a minor storm, only higher latitudes such as northern Michigan or Maine typically see auroras.

Will there be clouds in my area?

In the Northeast, people may struggle to see the aurora through clouds on Sunday night, although some breaks are possible toward Monday morning. Unfortunately, clouds will blanket much of the area Monday night to Tuesday morning.

In the Mid-Atlantic, the skies will be mostly clear from Sunday night into Monday, providing promising views from West Virginia to South Carolina. Heavy cloud cover moves in over the region on Monday night into Tuesday morning.

The southern United States (from Georgia to western Texas) will be largely covered in clouds from late Sunday night to Tuesday morning.

The West Coast and northern Plains should have primarily clear skies from Sunday night to Tuesday morning.

If your region has a cloudy forecast over the next few days, don’t necessarily fret. Sometimes breaks emerge in the cloud canopy. And while clouds will make it harder to see the northern lights, sometimes they also make for interesting photos .

Will you be able to see the northern lights around D.C.?

It is unlikely that auroras will be visible Sunday night in the D.C. region, according to NOAA’s 7:15 p.m. update.

Washingtonians had a brief window during which to see auroras early Saturday morning . But there were too many clouds and the geomagnetic storm wasn’t quite strong enough for northern lights to be seen Saturday night into Sunday morning — although auroras were reported in Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains at 10:30 p.m. and about 12:30 a.m., as well as in the mountains to the west.

You will improve your chances of seeing the aurora borealis significantly by finding an observing location away from city lights (this advice applies to any population center). Also, the lights — if they appear — may be rather faint and only visible through your camera lens, which is more sensitive to light than your eyes. Look to the north to try to find them.

Where has the aurora already been seen this weekend?

The geomagnetic activity over the past few days has been one for the books, producing once-in-a-lifetime or once-in-a-generation aurora displays.

The weekend began strong with an extreme (G5) storm on Friday into Saturday morning. One space weather physicist collected aurora observations on X from every state in the United States, and from much of the Northern Hemisphere — including rare places like Italy, Austria, London, Mexico and India. Auroras were even spotted in tropical locations, including Puerto Rico and the Bahamas.

In the Southern Hemisphere, the lights — known as the aurora australis — were photographed in Chile , Argentina , New Zealand and Australia.

Although activity decreased Saturday night, storm levels still briefly reached into strong (G3) to severe (G4) levels. At its peak, people were able to snap aurora pictures in the mountains of Virginia.

Were any satellite or power grid operations affected?

Intense geomagnetic storms can disrupt satellite, GPS and power grid operations. After Friday’s storm, NOAA received reports of issues on some power grids and high-frequency radio and GPS communications.

The last time a G5 storm hit was in 2003. That one also brought widespread auroras and some power interruptions in certain regions of the globe.

Why has there been so much auroral activity recently?

The slew of auroral activity stems from a particularly bustling area on the sun known as active region 3664. The region — measuring about 17 times the diameter of Earth — is marked with a cluster of dark splotches, known as sunspots. Sunspots are areas on the sun’s surface where its magnetic field is much higher than anywhere else on the sun. These magnetically complex regions are often the source of large, explosive bursts on the sun.

Last week, the sunspot group launched multiple eruptions from its surface — called coronal mass ejections — toward Earth. Coronal mass ejections are large clouds of solar energy and magnetized plasma that can temporarily disturb Earth’s magnetosphere, if aimed correctly. Some solar particles travel along Earth’s magnetic field into our upper atmosphere, exciting molecules and releasing photons of light, or the aurora.

Geomagnetic activity from this sunspot group will last until around Tuesday, then the sunspot group will rotate away from Earth’s view. If it rotates all the way around the sun and faces back to Earth in several weeks, it could send additional activity our way. However, most sunspot groups weaken on second appearance.

NOAA scientists continually monitor the sun and are tracking any potential activity from other sunspot groups.

Jason Samenow contributed to this report.

Awesome, you're subscribed!

Thanks for subscribing! Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon!

The best of Chicago for free.

Sign up for our email to enjoy Chicago without spending a thing (as well as some options when you’re feeling flush).

Déjà vu! We already have this email. Try another?

By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news, events, offers and partner promotions.

Love the mag?

Our newsletter hand-delivers the best bits to your inbox. Sign up to unlock our digital magazines and also receive the latest news, events, offers and partner promotions.

• Things to Do
• Food & Drink
• Time Out Market
• Coca-Cola Foodmarks
• Attractions
• Los Angeles

Get us in your inbox

🙌 Awesome, you're subscribed!

14 unexpected great vacations from Chicago

Chicago offers awesome direct flights to destinations that are the perfect combination of cute, quick and cheap

Some of the most intriguing direct flights out of Chicago's O'Hare International Airport are replete with mountains, water and swathes of green space straight out of a museum painting. If you're bored with driving through the  best day trips from Chicago  or aren't up for a scenic train ride  or somewhere as steamy as Puerto Rico , check out these quick, fun vacations. These travel desinations have scenery up the wazoo and make great weekend jaunts for busybodies with only days to spare or those of us with an entire week's worth of vacation to burn.

Prices and flight times reflect information found at the time of publication. 

RECOMMENDED: More  weekend getaways from Chicago

An email you’ll actually love

Anchorage, AK

Flight $$$: $500 Time in the air: 7 hours Best attractions: Tour the Cook Inlet by boat or try paddling through the gorgeous Eklutna Lake . There are also many, many trails and a wonderful lookout over the city at Flattop Mountain.

Asheville, NC

Flight $$$: $300

Time in the air: 2 hours

Best attractions: Tour the grounds and gardens of the Biltmore Estate , then drink your way through a truly staggering amount of quality local breweries like  Hi-Wire Brewing and  Green Man .

Flight $$$:  $550 Time in the air: 3 hours

Best attractions:  Skiing, duh. Also try checking out the famous  Maroon Bells . And remember, folks, marijuana is legal if you so wish to "enhance" your journey.

Bozeman, MT

Flight $$$:  $500 Time in the air: 3 hours

Best attractions:  The  Museum of the Rockies , which has the largest collection of dinosaur bones in the U.S. Also, just a 90-minute drive from Yellowstone !

Burlington, VT

Flight $$$:  $375 Time in the air: 2 hours

Best attractions:  Gobble up the Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream factory tour . There’s also a handful of seriously great breweries like Magic Hat Brewing Co. and Queen City Brewery . Do yourself a favor and get out to the mountains as well—it's like nowhere else in the States.

Chattanooga, TN

Flight cost:  $250 Time in the air: 2 hours

Best attractions:  The breathtaking views from high above at Lookout Mountain or deep underground winding through the Raccoon Mountain Caverns . Need we say more?

Columbia, SC

Flight $$$: $300 Time in the air:  2 hours

Best attractions: Canoe through Cedar Creek in Congaree National Park , which although it looks like a swamp, actually isn’t. Plan a trip around late winter rain so the forest is flooded.

Flight $$$:  $225 Time in the air:  1.5 hours

Best attractions:  Explore the downtown area and be sure to find the William A. Irvin , a decommissioned iron ore and coal freighter parked along the shore of Lake Superior, and travel belowdecks, walking the gangways and picking up a thing or two about the area's history along the way.

Fort Myers, FL

Flight $$$:  $125 Time in the air: 3 hours

Best attractions:   Rent a few mopeds and buzz your way along Fort Myers Beach and Estero Island, stopping at all the cute cafes and beaches as you go. Seriously, you don't even have to leave this thin island of beach for your entire stay. The nice weather, a few cheap cocktails and a pair of sunglasses are all you need.

Lexington, KY

Flight $$$:  $225 Time in the air: 1 hour

Best attractions:  Billed the “horse capital of the world,” it would be a shame to not pay a visit to the legendary horse tracks at  Keeneland  to bet on a race or two, or check out the positively huge Kentucky Horse Park .

Marquette, MI

Flight $$$:  $325 Time in the air: 1.5 hours

Best attractions:  Walking and shopping the incredibly picturesque downtown along Lake Superior’s shore. A bountiful farmers' market sells fresh produce, the Lower Harbor Ore Dock majestically extends into the water and the view from Sugarloaf Mountain is nothing to scoff at.

Portland, ME

Flight $$$:  $400 Time in the air: 2 hours

Best attractions:  We’re not ashamed to say, this is the better Portland. Take one of the plentiful boat tours and explore the islands in Casco Bay or go out on your own and hit the trails along the seaboard. Also, have yourself a lobster roll.

Providence, RI

Flight $$$:  $225 Time in the air:  2 hours

Best attractions:  The quaint digs. This East Coast city replete with classic American architecture and incredible public institutions and parks is often unfairly written off as a college town, when really it's a great escape from the city with great food and drink.

Savannah, GA

Flight $$$:  $300 Time in the air: 2 hours

Best attractions:  Strolling through Bonaventure Cemetery and the squares. Savannah is the first city in the U.S. where the grid system was established, and many of the city’s intersections are squares.

[image] [title]

Discover Time Out original video

• Press office
• Investor relations
• Work for Time Out
• Editorial guidelines
• Privacy notice
• Do not sell my information
• Cookie policy
• Accessibility statement
• Terms of use
• Copyright agent
• Modern slavery statement
• Manage cookies
• Advertising

Time Out products

• Time Out Worldwide

Time Out magazine

• Skip to main content
• Keyboard shortcuts for audio player

The huge solar storm is keeping power grid and satellite operators on edge

Geoff Brumfiel

Willem Marx

NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory captured this image of solar flares early Saturday afternoon. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration says there have been measurable effects and impacts from the geomagnetic storm. Solar Dynamics Observatory hide caption

NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory captured this image of solar flares early Saturday afternoon. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration says there have been measurable effects and impacts from the geomagnetic storm.

Planet Earth is getting rocked by the biggest solar storm in decades – and the potential effects have those people in charge of power grids, communications systems and satellites on edge.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration says there have been measurable effects and impacts from the geomagnetic storm that has been visible as aurora across vast swathes of the Northern Hemisphere. So far though, NOAA has seen no reports of major damage.

The Picture Show

Photos: see the northern lights from rare, solar storm.

There has been some degradation and loss to communication systems that rely on high-frequency radio waves, NOAA told NPR, as well as some preliminary indications of irregularities in power systems.

"Simply put, the power grid operators have been busy since yesterday working to keep proper, regulated current flowing without disruption," said Shawn Dahl, service coordinator for the Boulder, Co.-based Space Weather Prediction Center at NOAA.

NOAA Issues First Severe Geomagnetic Storm Watch Since 2005

• LISTEN & FOLLOW
• Apple Podcasts
• Google Podcasts
• Amazon Music
• Amazon Alexa

Your support helps make our show possible and unlocks access to our sponsor-free feed.

"Satellite operators are also busy monitoring spacecraft health due to the S1-S2 storm taking place along with the severe-extreme geomagnetic storm that continues even now," Dahl added, saying some GPS systems have struggled to lock locations and offered incorrect positions.

NOAA's GOES-16 satellite captured a flare erupting occurred around 2 p.m. EDT on May 9, 2024.

As NOAA had warned late Friday, the Earth has been experiencing a G5, or "Extreme," geomagnetic storm . It's the first G5 storm to hit the planet since 2003, when a similar event temporarily knocked out power in part of Sweden and damaged electrical transformers in South Africa.

The NOAA center predicted that this current storm could induce auroras visible as far south as Northern California and Alabama.

Extreme (G5) geomagnetic conditions have been observed! pic.twitter.com/qLsC8GbWus — NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center (@NWSSWPC) May 10, 2024

Around the world on social media, posters put up photos of bright auroras visible in Russia , Scandinavia , the United Kingdom and continental Europe . Some reported seeing the aurora as far south as Mallorca, Spain .

The source of the solar storm is a cluster of sunspots on the sun's surface that is 17 times the diameter of the Earth. The spots are filled with tangled magnetic fields that can act as slingshots, throwing huge quantities of charged particles towards our planet. These events, known as coronal mass ejections, become more common during the peak of the Sun's 11-year solar cycle.

A powerful solar storm is bringing northern lights to unusual places

Usually, they miss the Earth, but this time, NOAA says several have headed directly toward our planet, and the agency predicted that several waves of flares will continue to slam into the Earth over the next few days.

While the storm has proven to be large, predicting the effects from such incidents can be difficult, Dahl said.

Shocking problems

The most disruptive solar storm ever recorded came in 1859. Known as the "Carrington Event," it generated shimmering auroras that were visible as far south as Mexico and Hawaii. It also fried telegraph systems throughout Europe and North America.

Stronger activity on the sun could bring more displays of the northern lights in 2024

While this geomagnetic storm will not be as strong, the world has grown more reliant on electronics and electrical systems. Depending on the orientation of the storm's magnetic field, it could induce unexpected electrical currents in long-distance power lines — those currents could cause safety systems to flip, triggering temporary power outages in some areas.

my cat just experienced the aurora borealis, one of the world's most radiant natural phenomena... and she doesn't care pic.twitter.com/Ee74FpWHFm — PJ (@kickthepj) May 10, 2024

The storm is also likely to disrupt the ionosphere, a section of Earth's atmosphere filled with charged particles. Some long-distance radio transmissions use the ionosphere to "bounce" signals around the globe, and those signals will likely be disrupted. The particles may also refract and otherwise scramble signals from the global positioning system, according to Rob Steenburgh, a space scientist with NOAA. Those effects can linger for a few days after the storm.

Like Dahl, Steenburgh said it's unclear just how bad the disruptions will be. While we are more dependent than ever on GPS, there are also more satellites in orbit. Moreover, the anomalies from the storm are constantly shifting through the ionosphere like ripples in a pool. "Outages, with any luck, should not be prolonged," Steenburgh said.

What Causes The Northern Lights? Scientists Finally Know For Sure

The radiation from the storm could have other undesirable effects. At high altitudes, it could damage satellites, while at low altitudes, it's likely to increase atmospheric drag, causing some satellites to sink toward the Earth.

The changes to orbits wreak havoc, warns Tuija Pulkkinen, chair of the department of climate and space sciences at the University of Michigan. Since the last solar maximum, companies such as SpaceX have launched thousands of satellites into low Earth orbit. Those satellites will now see their orbits unexpectedly changed.

"There's a lot of companies that haven't seen these kind of space weather effects before," she says.

The International Space Station lies within Earth's magnetosphere, so its astronauts should be mostly protected, Steenburgh says.

In a statement, NASA said that astronauts would not take additional measures to protect themselves. "NASA completed a thorough analysis of recent space weather activity and determined it posed no risk to the crew aboard the International Space Station and no additional precautionary measures are needed," the agency said late Friday.

People visit St Mary's lighthouse in Whitley Bay to see the aurora borealis on Friday in Whitley Bay, England. Ian Forsyth/Getty Images hide caption

People visit St Mary's lighthouse in Whitley Bay to see the aurora borealis on Friday in Whitley Bay, England.

While this storm will undoubtedly keep satellite operators and utilities busy over the next few days, individuals don't really need to do much to get ready.

"As far as what the general public should be doing, hopefully they're not having to do anything," Dahl said. "Weather permitting, they may be visible again tonight." He advised that the largest problem could be a brief blackout, so keeping some flashlights and a radio handy might prove helpful.

I took these photos near Ranfurly in Central Otago, New Zealand. Anyone can use them please spread far and wide. :-) https://t.co/NUWpLiqY2S — Dr Andrew Dickson reform/ACC (@AndrewDickson13) May 10, 2024

And don't forget to go outside and look up, adds Steenburgh. This event's aurora is visible much further south than usual.

A faint aurora can be detected by a modern cell phone camera, he adds, so even if you can't see it with your eyes, try taking a photo of the sky.

The aurora "is really the gift from space weather," he says.

• space weather
• solar flares
• solar storm