Illinois – Trips To Discover

14 Best Ski Resorts in the Midwest

K.C. Dermody — Wed, 11 Oct 2023 13:15:08 +0000

Blessed with abundant snowfall, the Midwest is a great place to enjoy zipping downhill on powdery slopes. Even when there isn’t enough powder, snow-making machines help to ensure the slopes will be skiable. While there aren’t many that include lodging right on-site in this area of the country, you’ll find plenty of cozy accommodation options nearby if you want to spend the night. Michigan is home to quite a few of the top ski resorts in the Midwest, but you’ll find good options in Minnesota, Indiana, Illinois, Wisconsin, Iowa, Ohio, and South Dakota too.

17 Best Pumpkin Patches in Illinois

Alyssa Ochs — Fri, 15 Sep 2023 13:15:03 +0000

As someone born and raised in Illinois, I know a thing or two about fall fun and the state’s best fall events! Pumpkin patches were a big tradition where I grew up and something that I now enjoy introducing to my young son. Pumpkins grow well in the fertile farmlands of the Midwest, where many farms open to the public to offer pumpkin-picking, festive attractions, and delicious food.

Here is a sampling of the best pumpkin patches in Illinois to inspire your autumn adventures.

Top 9 Airbnbs in Downtown Chicago, Illinois

Alyssa Ochs — Wed, 02 Aug 2023 13:15:53 +0000

I spent many years living in Chicago and getting to know the diverse neighborhoods throughout the city. When I had friends or family visit, most of them stayed with me, other people they knew, or in hotels. Vacation rental homes can be challenging to come by in Chicago, especially if you have a tight budget or want more than just a room in someone else’s house to rent.

However, there are some highly rated Airbnbs to consider in downtown Chicago so that you can be in the middle of all the action, including the following options.

15 Most Romantic Getaways in Illinois

Alyssa Ochs — Mon, 10 Jul 2023 13:00:27 +0000

All across Illinois, a place where I lived for many years, there is no shortage of date night spots and romantic settings to experience with your special person. But in addition to the lovely restaurants, quaint towns, relaxing parks, and lakeside views, there are also many hotels that are perfect for overnight stays to treat yourself to something special.

Here are some ideas for romantic getaways in Illinois to inspire your next couple’s trip.

16 Best Hotel Pools in Chicago, Illinois

Alyssa Ochs — Mon, 03 Jul 2023 13:30:00 +0000

If you don’t feel like swimming in the chilly waters of Lake Michigan during your trip to Chicago, the next best thing is to book a hotel with a great pool. I know first-hand from living in Chicago how hot and humid the summers can get, but pools are just as ideal during the cooler seasons to stretch sore muscles, relax in a tranquil environment, and let the kids splash around to burn off some energy.

Fortunately, there are lots of great hotel pools in the city of Chicago, including these top-rated lodging options.

Top 15 Romantic Getaways in the Midwest

Alyssa Ochs — Wed, 24 May 2023 13:30:35 +0000

As someone who grew up in the Midwest, I understand how easy it is to fall into comfortable ruts and find yourself doing the same routine things day after day. Not only does this pattern affect you as an individual, but also your relationship with the special person in your life. Fortunately, there are lots of places throughout the Midwest where you can plan a romantic getaway to shake things up, reconnect with each other, and perhaps ignite some much-needed passion too!

With a focus on Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, and Missouri, here are some romantic getaway hotel ideas in the Midwest.

15 Best Hotels Near Art Institute of Chicago

Alyssa Ochs — Thu, 06 Apr 2023 13:00:19 +0000

The Art Institute of Chicago, founded in 1879, is one of the most well-established and largest art museums in the entire world. Located right in the heart of the city, it draws in approximately 1.5 million people each year and has collections that span centuries.

If visiting this Chicago attraction is a top priority for you, then you might want to stay close to the museum for easy access, and so you don’t have to worry about driving and parking. Fortunately, there are quite a few hotels near the Art Institute of Chicago to help you plan an artistically inspired getaway to the Windy City.

The 15 Most Charming Towns in Illinois

Alyssa Ochs — Mon, 06 Feb 2023 14:30:48 +0000

Although Chicago is the first place that comes to mind when people think about visiting Illinois, there are lots of other travel destinations worth considering if you love small-town vibes. As someone who was born and raised in Illinois, I spent many weekends exploring what the tiny, unique towns had to offer, from mom-and-pop shops to holiday festivals and Amish culture. As you make your way through farmlands and country roads of the state, you’ll find welcoming faces, quaint B&Bs, and history to learn about.

Here are some of the most charming towns in Illinois to inspire your next Midwestern road trip.

Top 14 Cabin Rentals in Illinois

Pavlo Fedykovych — Thu, 02 Feb 2023 14:15:33 +0000

The waters of Lake Michigan in the north, the great plains in the center, the magical Shawnee National Forest in the south, and the Mississippi River in the west all create a fantastic natural backdrop for your weekend getaway in Illinois. Get out of the Chicagoland bustle, find solace in a remote country house, and give yourself the gift of a peaceful time outdoors. Whether it’s a solo escape, a family vacation, or a honeymoon outing, these top cabin rentals in Illinois are there for you. What the Prairie State offers is diverse and broad, so it’s high time to start planning your cabin vacation.

15 Romantic Chicago Hotels for Couples

Alyssa Ochs — Mon, 28 Nov 2022 14:00:35 +0000

Chicago is one of the most romantic cities for couples to visit because of the stunning skyline views along the lake, cozy restaurants to satisfy any foodie, and fun entertainment options throughout the year. There are also many accommodations that are perfectly suited for two people because of offerings like couple’s massages, romantic package deals, rooftop cocktail lounges, and spacious suites that feel like home.

To help you narrow down your options, here are the best hotels in Chicago for couples.

Top 14 Hotels Near Navy Pier in Chicago

Alyssa Ochs — Thu, 01 Sep 2022 13:15:31 +0000

Navy Pier is one of the top attractions in Chicago and one of the best boardwalks in America. It’s an iconic space for entertainment, recreation, food, and more. Extending along the shoreline of Lake Michigan, the Navy Pier welcomes millions of visitors every year. Here, you can do everything from go on rides to view public art, watch fireworks, and take a cruise on the lake.

To make your visit to Chicago fun and convenient, consider staying at one of these top hotels near Navy Pier.

10 Best 5-Star Hotels in Chicago

K.C. Dermody — Thu, 21 Jul 2022 13:00:57 +0000

There is no shortage of 5-star luxury hotels in Chicago, making it easy to indulge your appreciation of exceptional accommodation in the Windy City. Suppose you want to enjoy the best of Chicago’s hotels while being in the heart of it all, from the upscale shops along the Magnificent Mile to Millennium Park’s art installations and lakefront beaches. In that case, these properties are sure to impress. Many have luxe spas, pools, and fine-dining restaurants, making it easy to relax and unwind after a day of exploring.

12 Places to Stay Near Wrigley Field

K.C. Dermody — Wed, 08 Jun 2022 13:00:02 +0000

For any baseball fan, attending a Cubs game at Chicago’s Wrigley field is a bucket-list experience. But even those who aren’t passionate about the game or the team are likely to appreciate the opportunity to cheer them on with the locals. Staying within walking distance of the iconic ballpark is a special treat, with options few and far between, but there are options that will put you very close to the field. Wrigleyville is the neighborhood you’ll want to be in for that, with some good vacation rental options and some boutique hotels.

If you’re looking for a more luxurious stay that’s still convenient while providing easy access to popular spots like the Magnificent Mile, you have lots of great picks. This list offers a good mix of both, providing something for just about anyone planning their trip.

14 Best Museums in Chicago

Pavlo Fedykovych — Fri, 13 May 2022 13:15:57 +0000

Are you ready to be engulfed by culture? Then Chicago is the place. Not only is this megalopolis one of the most exciting cities in the world, it is also home to a fantastic collection of museums. From high-tech architectural shrines to superb painting collections, rich immigration history, and natural wonders, the city has many wonderful things to offer. Definitely not a destination for a quick layover, Chi-town is for unhurried exploration. Few other places in the world rival it in terms of its cultural possibilities. Here are the absolute best museums to visit in Chicago.

13 Large Vacation Rentals That Sleep 20 or More in Illinois

Alyssa Ochs — Wed, 09 Feb 2022 14:30:17 +0000

Big groups often find it challenging to book convenient accommodations together and find themselves getting multiple hotels in different areas of town. Fortunately, there are some excellent vacation rental properties in cities across Illinois that keep your entire group in one place and that come with all the comforts of home.

If you are planning a family reunion, friends gathering, or business event in Illinois, here are some Airbnb and Vrbo properties that are perfect for large groups.

Top 6 Vrbo Rentals in Chicago

Alyssa Ochs — Wed, 02 Feb 2022 14:30:48 +0000

Chicago is always an exciting place to visit because of all the ongoing events, fabulous attractions, and welcoming vibe. Most visitors book hotels in the city during their stay, but you also have the option of getting a vacation rental property for a more personal touch and a little more space to spread out.

Here are some of the best Vrbo rentals in Chicago to plan your trip.

14 Best Chicago Hotels With a Lake View

K.C. Dermody — Fri, 07 Jan 2022 14:15:37 +0000

Chicago is a vibrant city that truly has it all, from art and culture to tasty cuisine and even glorious views. With the cityscape flanked by Lake Michigan, there are multiple hotels that offer gorgeous lake views, providing the best way to enjoy it all whether you’re inside or out. These options in particular are well worth booking for anyone who appreciates a good view.

Top 12 Illinois Lake House Rentals

K.C. Dermody — Thu, 23 Sep 2021 13:00:38 +0000

Located in the Great Lakes region, it’s no surprise that Illinois is home to many lakes. In fact, it offers more than 2,316 square miles of water, with Lake Michigan the largest body of water, although there are many smaller lakes throughout the state where you can enjoy a wonderful weekend getaway. If you’re looking for that idyllic lake house to enjoy time on, in, and around the water, these rentals are particularly ideal.

Top 14 Chicago Hotels with The Most Beautiful City Views

Alyssa Ochs — Tue, 03 Nov 2020 14:10:37 +0000

With its stunning architecture, glistening Lake Michigan, and exciting attractions, Chicago is a place where you definitely want a great view. When you stay somewhere with a view, you can admire what makes this city so unique and fascinating to visit over and over again. Here are our favorite hotels with the best views in Chicago.

Top 12 Staycation Spots in Chicago

Alyssa Ochs — Tue, 01 Sep 2020 13:00:42 +0000

With so much to see and do close to home, Chicago is one of the best cities in America to plan a staycation. Better yet, there are lots of great hotels, Airbnbs, and Vrbo properties to call your home base as you get to know your area. Here are our top staycation recommendations in Chicago!