12 Perfect Destinations for a Long Weekend in Illinois
A brief retreat to change the scenery and relax your mind can work wonders for your physical and mental well-being, especially if you have a demanding career in the city. Fortunately, Illinois offers a charming variety of cozy escapes away from the flurry of Chicago. These delightful destinations provide the sweet spot for a laid-back short vacation with a combination of undisturbed nature, welcoming locals, and fun outdoor adventures.
Furthermore, each community harbors unique histories and cultures, increasing the items you can add to your itinerary. A broad spectrum of experiences awaits in these destinations for a long weekend in Illinois, whether you want to have some fun on the river in St. Charles or leisurely stroll down the rustic streets of Galena. So pack your travel bag for a short yet pleasurable recess in the following towns.
Carbondale
This college community in Jackson County ensures your sojourn is packed with exciting adventures to let you get the most out of it. Carbondale has an infectious vibrance that you automatically get a feel for when watching a basketball game at the Banterra Center. This over 8,000-capacity arena is home to the SIU Salukis. Meanwhile, Super Splash Park invites you to channel your inner child for remarkable aquatic fun, featuring water slides and swimming pools.
Those who prefer to hang outside can get cozy in the serene grounds of Marberry Arboretum. This adorable sanctuary houses at least 600 species of greenery on its lovely 24-acre property. After a gratifying day jam-packed with activity, guests can spend a comfortable night at Holiday Inn Carbondale, which sits a short distance from downtown.
Litchfield
This South Central Illinois locality invites travelers to spend their vacation in a cozy waterfront setting, especially those escaping the rowdy scene in nearby Springfield. Litchfield is perfect for outdoorsy tourists, and spoils them with swimming opportunities in the cool waters of Milnot Beach. This summer hotspot also attracts kayakers, boaters, paddleboarders, and picnickers. Alternatively, you can round up a few friends for a laid-back tee time on the manicured greens and nine challenging holes of the Litchfield Country Club.
Don't leave Litchfield without a nice souvenir to take back home. Fortunately, you can find an exciting selection of merchandise, antiques, crafts, and more at the Litchfield Pickers Market. Lastly, take advantage of luxurious accommodation at Baymont by Wyndham Litchfield, whose supreme amenities range from a heated pool to a hot tub and a fitness center.
St. Charles
The self-proclaimed “Pride of the Fox” doesn't disappoint with its picturesque riverfront scenery, stunning natural areas, and bustling downtown district. A slow-paced cruise onboard the St. Charles Paddlewheel Riverboat allows first-timers to appreciate the town's beauty as they enjoy unmatched panoramas of the Fox River. But if you prefer not to get on the water, you can take it easy in the tranquil green spaces of Pottawatomie Park. The site enjoys a cool breeze from the river and hosts family-friendly amenities like a playground, picnic spots, and a mini golf course.
Downtown explorers will run into a lively arts culture inside the historic Arcada Theatre. This longstanding cultural hub entertains the locals with live music and cabaret performances. While there are multiple lodging venues in St. Charles, Hampton Inn & Suites offers great value for your money.
Fulton
Fulton is a sleepy riverside municipality in Whiteside County with a friendly community of Dutch immigrants. It promises rich cultural encounters at its various attractions, including Heritage Canyon. This rustic complex of buildings recreates a mid-1800s settlement, showcasing the state of life for the area's pioneers. A quirky collection of European windmills inside the Windmill Cultural Center reminds vacationers of Fulton's foreign roots. Examining them reveals the complex traditional craftsmanship and architecture that went into creating them.
The town lies on the banks of the Mississippi River, offering scenic hiking and biking sessions along the Great River Trail. From the path, you can't miss the rowing De Immigrant Windmill, an authentic Dutch windmill shipped from the Netherlands. When you can barely keep your eyes open from exhaustion, you can find a nice spot to lay your head at AmericInn by Wyndham.
Savanna
Savanna sits pretty on the banks of the Mississippi River, providing a nonchalant rural atmosphere for those planning to relax and unwind. It has appealing outdoor surroundings, highlighted by the 2,500-acre Mississippi Palisades State Park. Visitors come here to make the most of secluded camping, hiking, and bird watching opportunities. History buffs and culture connoisseurs find mutual interest inside the Savanna Museum and Cultural Center. This wonderful facility displays a blend of artifacts, relics, and memorabilia highlighting years of cultural, political, and social evolution in Savanna.
Along Main Street, newcomers and locals alike gather at the Savanna Times Theater to watch the latest Hollywood productions in a welcoming atmosphere. Savanna Inn & Suites is one of the most preferred options in the town due to its proximity to major local attractions.
Danville
This vibrant city in Vermilion County offers a combination of natural, cultural, and historical points of interest to guarantee all vacationers something interesting to look forward to. Historians can immerse themselves in the community's colorful past at the Vermilion County Museum, which exhibits interactive artifacts inside an 1800s Italianate dwelling. The historic Fischer Theatre is where the artistically inclined go to watch splendid stage performances, from musicals to dramas, in a rustic yet intimate atmosphere.
Meanwhile, outdoor enthusiasts can find their comfort zone at Lake Vermilion County Park. This adorable space lies on the shores of a 1,000-acre reservoir and allows you to fish, boat, or picnic in serenity. Adjacent to the lake, you can conveniently seek shelter for the night at Days Hotel by Wyndham Danville.
Freeport
This adorable river town is reputed for its delicious pretzels and boasts a rich history intertwined with the iconic Lincoln and Douglas debates. Guests can take an absorbing history lesson at the Lincoln-Douglas Debate Square and admire the life-size statues of the two iconic political figures. Freeport hosts one of America's longest-running theaters. The Winneshiek Playhouse has hosted seasonal events since the 1910s and continues entertaining vacationers with engaging live performances by homegrown talent.
But if you crave time alone to meditate, you will appreciate the peace offered by Krape Park. This riverside sanctuary is framed by majestic limestone bluffs and features a spell-binding 44-foot waterfall that is a joy to the eyes. When lethargic from a long day of adventure, consider spending the night at Country Inn & Suites, situated near the Freeport Art Museum.
Arthur
Arthur's charm lies in its overall simplicity and down-to-earth community, which presents the ideal atmosphere to slow down and appreciate simple life's pleasures. This welcoming village lies in the middle of Amish Country and treats visitors to unique cultural experiences. First-timers can start by sampling delicious Amish cuisine at Yoder's Kitchen, including fried chicken and mashed potatoes. Also, Yoder's Lamps Antiques & Collectibles has lovely primitives and collectibles that you can use for your home decor.
Stepping outdoors, you can relive your childhood days running through lines of corn at the Master Maze and try to solve mind-bending puzzles. Later, when you want to lie down and relax your worn-out body, Arthur's Country Inn provides a no-frills accommodation experience, featuring Amish furniture and free WiFi.
Galena
Galena is one of the perfect destinations for a long weekend in Illinois, promising a laid-back experience filled with nostalgia. It boasts a picturesque downtown district marked by elaborate Victorian architecture with walk-friendly avenues. But you can take the Galena Trolley Tours to simplify the sightseeing experience. This delightful excursion takes you past all the major points of interest in downtown while providing information about its backstory. While there are many places to see and visit, historical highlights include the Italianate Ulysses S. Grant Home, where the former Civil War general once lived with his family.
Also, the DeSoto House Hotel is a long-standing landmark from the mid-19th century, yet it continues to provide tourists with a rustic lodging experience. When you decide to breach the downtown limits, Grant Park awaits with lush picnic spaces and isolated trails straddling the scenic Galena River.
Casey
Popularly known as "Big Things Small Town," Casey presents newcomers with a challenge of locating its endless list of "World's Largest" objects. You can spend a lion's share of your itinerary on a fun hunt for these quirky roadside installations, from the World's Largest Wind Chime and the World's Largest Rocking Chair to the World's Largest Mailbox. Collectively, Casey boasts a dozen items listed in the Guinness Book of World Records.
After hours of walking, you can relax on the quiet grounds of Fairview Park and get lost in its soothing river views. Alternatively, you can replenish your energy with delicious baked goods from Wildflour Bakery before spending a cozy night's rest at Eighteen-Ninety Sleepover.
Woodstock
Woodstock grabs headlines with its iconic festivals, movie heritage, and historic charm. This unassuming suburb hosts the Woodstock Square Historic District, which provides a vivid perspective of the community in its early days. The corridor is lined with noteworthy landmarks listed on the National Register and transports visitors back to the Victorian period. The Woodstock Opera House is an excellent example and stands out for its grandiose facade. Since it was opened in the late 1800s, it has continued hosting musicals, operas, dramas, and other cultural performances.
One of the best times to visit Woodstock is when it marks Groundhog Day, with the townspeople coming together to honor the classic film shot in its downtown. Finally, book a room at The Cherry Tree Inn Bed and Breakfast to sleep in a well-preserved Victorian hotel.
Macomb
Prepare for a long weekend of outdoor thrills and cultural immersion in this enticing escape in McDonough County. Macomb is surrounded by acres of natural spaces maintained by the Macomb Park District, which serve as recreational hubs. If you find favor in the great outdoors, you can head to Lakeview Nature Center. This 80-acre oasis features a mix of wetland and prairie habitat with miles of hiking trails winding through. The presence of Western Illinois University elevates the town's art scene and exposes art enthusiasts to unique visual pieces at the WIU Art Gallery.
Macomb's colorful backstory is told by the Western Illinois Museum, where interactive relics and memorabilia highlight years of local and regional history. When it's all said and done, remember to book a room at the Hampton Inn to refresh for the next day's activities.
Between the historic charm of Woodstock and the riverside splendor of Freeport, there is no shortage of fun destinations for a long weekend in Illinois. Each brings a unique character and exciting experiences to the table, allowing you to curate your itinerary to your liking. Whether you envision a jam-packed holiday defined by endless outdoor adventures or a more laid-back retreat spent on relaxation and unwinding. Whatever floats your boat, these pleasant destinations promise to deliver an unforgettable experience in the United States.
