Five Awesome Day Trips: Illinois

Illinois is perfect for day trips! The twenty-fifth largest state is full of cities with arts, culture, and entertainment and charming small towns, many of which are located to the east on the Great Lakes and to the west along the scenic Great River Road that follows the Mississippi River. The area was greatly influenced by the early Europeans that migrated to the Midwest after arriving on the east coast. The lakes and rivers were key to economic expansion and population growth. Our day trips focus on northern Illinois and include a mix of art, history, culture, and outdoor activities that are reachable from the greater Chicago area.

Here are five great day trip destinations around the Land of Lincoln:

Geneva (Home & Gardens)

Geneva is located along the scenic Fox River, about 45 miles west of Chicago. The area is known for its large bike trail system, which includes the Fox River Trail and the Illinois Prairie Path. The city is also home to the Fabyan Villa Museum, operated by the Preservation Partners of Fox Valley. Take a tour of the former farmhouse of Colonel George and Nelle Fabyan that was enlarged and remodeled by Frank Lloyd Wright. Inside the home you will find the Fabyan’s collection of Asian artifacts, natural history specimens, and original furniture. Adjacent to the home, the Fabayan Japanese Garden was designed by Taro Otsuka and is now maintained by the Fayban Forest Preserve and open for guided and self-guided tours. After your visit to this fantastic property, head to historic downtown Geneva to enjoy its hundreds of specialty shops, cafes, and restaurants.

Oak Park (Architecture Tour)

The village of Oak Park is best known for having more Frank Lloyd Wright buildings than any other place in the world. Located just 10 miles from Chicago, architectural enthusiasts flock to the area to explore the Prairie style architecture in the historic districts. The Frank Lloyd Wright Trust offers architectural tours that include the Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio, as well as other famous properties. There’s even a bike tour that explores the neighborhoods and covers 21 Wright-designed structures. Don’t rush back to Chicago after your tour- downtown Oak Park offers a range of shops, galleries, and restaurants to enjoy on your day trip.

Oglesby (Parks & Recreation)

Oglesby is the location of one of the most popular state parks in Illinois, Starved Rock State Park. The park is located 95 miles southwest of Chicago and features 18 canyons with overlooks and trails that provide views of beautiful seasonal waterfalls. The waterfalls are most impressive during the spring and early summer months; however, every season provides visitors with a unique experience. Spend the day among the tall trees, spotting wildlife and enjoying the natural beauty just a short ride away from the hustle and bustle of the major city. Book a room or cabin at the historic Starved Rock Lodge and Conference Center if you’d like to spend more time in the park.

Rockford (Flowers & Trees)

Nicknamed the Forest City and located just 90 miles northwest of Chicago, Rockford is the perfect day trip choice for nature lovers. Stroll through the Anderson Japanese Gardens, featuring twelve acres of winding pathways, koi-filled ponds, and tranquil landscapes. Fresco at the Gardens is an excellent choice for lunch before heading to the Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden and then a quick stop at the Tinker Swiss Cottage Museums & Gardens. Guided tours are available at all three locations with advance reservations.

Union (Railroad Museum)

Located 60 miles northwest of Chicago, Union is home to the Illinois Railway Museum, the largest railroad museum in the United States. Plan on spending much of the day at the museum, which includes twenty exhibits spread out across 100 acres of land. View historic structures like the 1851 East Union Depot, Spaulding Tower, the Schroeder Mercantile Store, and the Central Diner. The collection includes 450 pieces of equipment, from horse-drawn streetcars to million-pound steam locomotives. April through October you can board and ride electric, steam, and diesel-powered trains— sure to be one of the highlights of the trip!