Take a Day and Get Away in Illinois

There’s no doubt that a family vacation is a great way to spend time together, far away from the responsibilities of work and school. But they take a while to plan and can end up costing quite a bit of money. Sometimes you want to get away, but you can’t take time for a big family vacation. A weekend getaway is the perfect solution!

Your Mini Family Vacation

Each state has its well-known attractions and tourist traps. But if you want the best eateries or coolest out-of-the-way hangouts, you talk to the locals. So whether you’re going as a family or getting away from the kids for a day, a mini vacation is the thing for you. You can stay in-state or go on a day trip. In this new series, we’ll explore some great locales that you might not know about. To kick things off, we’re starting in Illinois. Join us as we take a brief tour through the Prairie State.

Volo Auto Museum in Volo, IL. You don’t have to be car nut to enjoy this auto museum. Whether you’re into novelty cars or Hollywood stars, the Volo Auto Museum has got it all. If you’re looking for something special, they sponsor different events throughout the year. There are even places for the kiddies, inside and out. The museum has been owned and operated by the Grams family since its opening in 1960. It is open 7 days a week from 10AM-5PM.

Starved Rock State Park in Oglesby, IL. If the great outdoors are more your style, why not visit Starved Rock? It is situated on the banks of the Illinois River and comprises some truly beautiful scenery. Revel in nature in all her glory. Hiking isn’t the only attraction. You can kick back with a visit to a local winery or explore the local history. Located two hours away from Chicago, it’s far enough to feel like you’re getting away while still being close to home.

Cantigny Park in Wheaton, IL. In his will, Robert R. McCormick donated Cantigny Park as a space for recreation and education. It is now home to gorgeous gardens, a golf course, two museums, and various programs. From brunch to a museum visit or a stroll through the gardens, Cantigny is sure to please. This is the perfect place to spend a relaxing day and you can visit year-round. Just remember, it’s can*TEE*nee, not can*TIG*nee.

The Super Museum in Metropolis, IL. It’s a bird, it’s a plane, it’s… Superman! Even if you’re not into comic books, you know the Man of Steel. He’s in cartoons, movies, and TV shows in addition to comics. Now, thanks to collector Jim Hambrick, he has a museum dedicated to him. If you’re planning a visit, why not visit in early June, when the town of Metropolis celebrates its annual Superman festival? And while you’re on your way there, don’t forget to check out some of the other attractions in southern Illinois.

Galena , IL. I was introduced to Galena as a child, when my family would visit during the Galena Country Fair . I was enchanted by the beautiful countryside and you will be, too. Galena is a city with a small town feel. Take a stroll through downtown and you’ll find a variety of shops, from antiques to locally made foods and fashion. Make it a weekend visit and visit one of the local breweries. There’s plenty to do in serene Galena that will bring you back time and again.

Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum and Library in Springfield, IL. Illinois may be called the Prairie State, but we also know it as the Land of Lincoln. The Abe Lincoln museum is home to several exhibits dedicated to the life and accomplishments of the 16th President. In addition to exhibits, both the museum and library feature various events throughout the year, from balls to book signings. It’s a great place to get away from the everyday and learn a bit of history.

Cahokia Mounds near Collinsville, IL. Long before any European settlers came to America, this country was home to native peoples. Known as Cahokia today, this site is the remains of an ancient city built by ancient Mississippians. This city was the largest such settlement north of Mexico and was a hub of commerce, religion, and culture. From children to adults, there’s something here for everybody to learn. You can explore the museum, take a tour, or hike a trail. Take in the sights as you immerse yourself in history.

Illinois Railway Museum in Union, IL. A depot for railway preservation, you’ll find everything from steam and diesel trains to electric cars and trolleys. The museum operates from April through October. If you can’t wait to visit, it will be open the first two weekends in December for their Happy Holiday train rides. One interesting bit of trivia is that the Railway Museum was the film location for the trains and railway depot in the 1992 movie A League of Their Own .

Shawnee National Forest in Harrisburg, IL. A sprawling forest located in southern Illinois, it offers diverse landscapes and plants and animals. One of its most famous attractions is the spectacular Garden of the Gods. You can hike the trails, take a trip on horseback, go climbing, or spend some time camping. Enjoy the wonders of nature year round. If you love the outdoors, the Shawnee National Forest is a haven away from home.

Illinois has many great places where you can get away. Take a step outside Chicago and explore the beautiful Prairie State. There’s so much to see.

Do you know any great hidden locations? Have you visited any of these attractions? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below.