Our travel tips: Timed tickets are needed for some of Philadelphia's winter attractions, including Longwood Gardens and Dickens Village. After Gainesville, join the Florida Turnpike which takes you the last stretch of the drive into Orlando. Denver also has a host of fabulous cultural attractions, so don't overlook the city itself on your way up to the mountains. The famous architect built the house in 1951 and it is interesting to see how far ahead of its time it is in terms of its design and accessibility - the look is incredibly modern despite some 70 years passing! I-80 is a notoriously busy road, with heavy commercial traffic and few landmarks of interest. Kentucky is only about seven hours from Chicago. You can easily visit on a short day road trip from Chicago, but if you want to explore the different trails and get away from it all, a weekend trip might work better despite being so close. The key message is to wrap up warm and be prepared for whatever weather the city throws at you - pretty standard for DC! Back on dry land, if you're still feeling energetic you can explore the trails of Saugatuck Dunes State Park, or follow the 300 steps to the top of Mount Baldhead to take in the lake view. Join I-90 E to head out of Chicago then merge onto I-94 to continue to follow the shore of Lake Michigan. Drive past snowy landscapes to reach 850 acres of skiing, snowmobiling, dogsledding and photography escapades. (866) 399-3866. www.grizzlyjacksresort.com. It's all a little strange, perhaps. 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. It's a tiny city with less than 1000 residents but its white-boarded houses, scenic sand dunes and fabulous beach make it a popular place to come to escape the city. For the perfect post-ski wind down, visit the Spa at Boyne Mountain before you head home. You can also find out more about the site at the Lincoln Borglum Visitor Center, or visit the Sculptor's Studio to find out more about how the monument was created. Take a carriage ride through Central Park, which is even more magical when there's snow on the ground. Check ahead to find details of live performances and special events that are taking place. As well as being beautiful, the crowds that flock to Niagara Falls are slightly less during winter. 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. Indiana Dunes, Indiana 1 hour from Chicago (50 miles) LazyTrips is a trading name of Uncle Bob Media Ltd. You could come to Cedarburg on a long day drive, but it's really perfect as a weekend getaway destination. Best Travel Destinations Within Driving Distance of Chicago - Essence Whether you're looking for a rural, lake or city getaway, here are a few ideas all within 6 hours of driving distance. 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. Just after St Joseph, turn off onto I-196 where the interstate divides, and carry on north along the shore until you reach Saugatuck. If you want to get better scenery, you can always cut across to the Mississippi and drive up the Great River Road (see #18 above). There are a lot of activities for children - special rides and a petting zoo so bring the family and enjoy a great weekend out of the city! This is the place to come for a great resort experience, with lodges, bars and of course, slopes, all in one place. Wisconsin Dells is known for two things - its scenic Wisconsin River gorge and the high number of waterparks which has given the town its nickname as the Waterpark Capital of the World. Around 20 miles south of New Glarus and a little closer to Chicago is the city of Monroe. For a different experience of New York in winter, skip the crowds and visit in January to enjoy NYC Winter Jazz Fest or NYC Restaurant Week, where restaurants put on their best fare at affordable prices. Heading towards Lake Michigan, you will find the small harbor village of Saugatuck. Our highlights: From Thanksgiving onwards, enjoy a Reveillon Dinner a local tradition which now sees restaurants across the city offering seasonal Creole-inspired food all through December. The most accessible section of this shore extends from the Indiana line 175 miles north to Ludington. If you're having issues using the site, please enable JavaScript and refresh your browser. The town on its western end is called Lake Geneva, the lake just to the north is called Lake Como with the town of Como sitting along it. You can also delve into the natural wilderness of Pisgah and Nantahala National Forests where you'll find more hiking opportunities, mountain biking routes, and the North Carolina Arboretum. 489 miles northeast of Chicago: Lake Bernard Park. RV campgrounds 500 miles from Chicago. This is a trip that will show off the best of what Lake Michigan has to offer - a complete circle of the lake, heading to Mackinac Island on the opposite corner before making the return trip. Sundays have a free Jazz Brunch outdoor concert series along the scenic Riverwalk. It's called - you guessed it - the Cheese Country Trail System (no, really)! 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. At Louisville, change onto I-64 and follow it towards Lexington onto I-75 which takes you across into Tennessee. Only an hour away from downtown Chicago, Indiana Dunes became the newest National Park in the United States in 2019. Join I-90 W and follow it for over 900 miles, all the way to South Dakota. 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. It's a popular place to visit, so book lift passes in advance if you know when you're travelling. 2 hours 30 minutes from Chicago (155 miles). This leads you eventually onto I-95, which you'll follow south to Savannah. It's a great way to spend time with friends, get into the festive mood, as well as to find some unique Christmas gifts. Our highlights: Roll back 100 years and one of the biggest draws of Lake Geneva, WI, wasn't its snow, but the ice! 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. While both parks are not as large as some, there is plenty to explore with trails going through canyons and some amazing rock formations. 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 . Just after crossing the Ohio River at Evansville, turn onto I-69, continuing south on I-169 where the interstates divide. And of course, the Wizarding World of Harry Potter comes into its own during the winter. Sitting on Lake Michigan with the Great Lakes and a number of states within easy reach, there is every reason to get in the car and explore the surrounding areas of Chicago whether you are looking for a day trip, a weekend out or a longer adventure. It's also a popular LGBTQ destination. Once you arrive at Mount Rushmore, you can also spend time exploring the stunning Black Hills and surrounding area. No need to get on the flight. 1 hour 30 minutes from Chicago (93 miles). The main attraction is a 21-mile loop around the lake with stunning forest scenery and great views of the water. There are two giant lakes right in the middle of the city, either side of downtown which creates a uniquely relaxed vibe. Parking can be difficult, especially in the summer months when hundreds of visitors head to town. A wide selection of breweries includes European-style beers and the pizza-serving Harmony. 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. 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. A little further north from Chicago than Milwaukee is the town of Cedarburg. Within a short distance of the city you can ski, skate, snow tube and sled, sometimes with beautiful views across Lake Mendota. Then there's dozens of amazing natural parks to explore, especially towards the northern tip of the lake. So, sit back, relax, and learn all you need to know in planning a road . 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. 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. You will pass by some imposing homes and quiet lakeside neighborhoods with picturesque cafes. Muskegon Farmers Market operates indoors on Saturdays through the winter so you can warm up and stock up on some fabulous local produce. Constructed between 1906 and 1907, the Conservatory was conceived and designed by Chicago's West Park Commission's general superintendent and chief landscape architect, Jens . The Windy City also boasts a stellar location, just a drive away from fascinating landmarks, charming small towns, scenic lakes and iconic cities if you'd like to venture out to explore. If you're coming for the World of Winter Festival, remember to wrap up warm. Like Chicago, Saugatuck is also located on the Lake Michigan shore, but it couldn't be more different. 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. Seeing as you've travelled from one Great Lake to another, a visit to the National Museum of the Great Lakes seems like a good place to start when you arrive in Toledo. Car production moved to other cities in the US, factories in Asia and Mexico and large blocks of Detroit became ghosts of their own past. Back in town you'll get beautiful winter views over icy Lake Michigan. The first week of December is particularly busy, but many travellers report that the crowds and prices calm down a little mid-month. For a really exhilarating ride, fly right above the snow on one of the 9 ziplines. Stop at the Crane Orchards to sample one of their legendary pies as you make your way around! 1. A few of the upcoming options on our road trip list are all due north in Wisconsin. The same road takes you right into Philadelphia. 17 hours 30 minutes from Chicago (1,130 miles). So if time allows on your trip, you might like to tour a brewery or two or try some of the locally produced beers. Starved Rock State Park is just 100 miles southwest of Chicago, offering an ideal spot to enjoy nature with more than a dozen sandstone canyons along with beautiful waterfalls that are especially powerful in the spring. 1 hour 20 minutes from Chicago (80 miles). 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. With heavy snowfall possible, parts of the Blue Ridge Parkway and other smaller roads are likely to be closed at times in the winter, so check ahead if you're hoping to travel a particular route. 1. 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. You can survey the options from atop the California Tower in Balboa Park. Morning departure is around 5% cheaper than an evening flight, on average*. 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. 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. Although it serves a lot of dishes to serve American tourist tastes, you can try the Wienerschnitzel (pan fried breaded veal cutlet) or the cheese fondue (dipping pieces of bread into molten cheese). 2 hours 40 minutes from Chicago (145 miles). The hip city has a lot of things to see and experience. 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. This makes for one of the best road trips from Chicago. Here you will find a great white sand beach and stroll along the boardwalk, watch local boats go by or explore the shops along the docks. Originally a very rural part of Michigan with a few small towns and their corresponding harbors on the lake, the area has grown into a popular tourist destination. Why you should visit: This is a year-round resort, but with 140 inches of snow, it comes into its own during winter. The village represents a historic view of Dutch settlements and you can even visit a wooden clog (shoe) making factory. 11 hours 10 minutes from Chicago (700 miles). ETA: 10+ hours with couple of short breaks. Our highlights: Florida is the warmest part of the continental US through the winter - perfect for escaping the sub-zero temperatures of the Midwest! Southern Illinois Distance: 6-hour drive Southern Illinois has a hilly landscape and a rural vibe. Leave time to explore. Winters are bitterly cold and very snowy - that drive from Chicago might not be the best idea in the middle of February! Then, soon after crossing the Mississippi River, change onto I-55 and follow it south. Sept. 2, 2022, at 12:30 p.m. 24 Top Weekend Getaways From Chicago. 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. Along the way you'll pass the cities of Madison, La Crosse and Sioux City, and you'll cross both the Mississippi and Missouri Rivers. 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. Where's the warmest, sunniest place in Chicago during the winter months? 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. After around an hour, exit at Kenosha and pick up WI-50 west which will take you to Geneva. 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. Motor City is the second largest city in the Midwest after Chicago and is worth making the drive for. You can't take your car with you to Mackinac - you'll have to park it at one of the designated ferry parking lots and make your way across. Alexander Molony as Peter Pan, Ever Anderson as Wendy, Joshua Pickering as John Darling and Jacobi Jupe as Michael Darling in "Peter Pan & Wendy," directed by David Lowery. 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! You'll learn about the many faces of Lake Erie, from the Underground Railroad which ferried slaves to safety across the lake, to prohibition bootleggers. Thanks A new report shows the most dangerous cities in the USand the safest places. You'll find yourself in a warm weather wonderland with trees, lights, skating and fireworks. How to get there: Follow I-90 east towards Cleveland, switching onto I-80 just before you reach the city. How to get there: This is a really simple trip just follow I-90 all the way from Chicago. From wherever you're starting in Chicago, pick up I-90 E and follow it out of the city then right the way across Indiana passing La Porte and Shipshewana. 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. 13 hours 40 minutes from Chicago (925 miles). The Great River Road runs the length of the Mississippi river and you can drive part of it on a scenic road trip from Chicago. If 21 miles seems a little much, focus in on the 2-mile stretch on the West End. To make the most of it, though, you really should consider stopping the night and exploring the local beer scene. It is more than 10-14 hours to get to a warm beach from Chicago. From Louisville, I-64 takes you east to Lexington, then turn onto I-75 to make your way through Tennessee to Knoxville. Add in beautiful beaches all over, some big sand dunes, including the Indiana Dunes National Park and the pretty towns of Harbor Country. Still under construction, this monument is dedicated to the Lakota leader who fought against the federal government to try and protect Native American land from being seized. You can see how every aspect of the village life would have been complete with the blacksmith shop, school and church buildings. 2 hours 20 minutes from Chicago (145 miles). Highlights include the cities of Indianapolis, Dayton and Columbus; as well as Wayne National Forest, Seneca Rocks, Shenandah National Park and Monongahela National Forest. Alternative options are the Frederik Meijer Sculpture Park and the Fish Ladder Park. At night, you can see the falls lit up in spectacular illuminations as part of the Winter Festival of Lights. Of course, there are two sides to every story, and a few miles from Mount Rushmore you can visit the Crazy Horse Memorial. Expect congestion on the Blue Ridge Parkway, especially if you visit at weekends. The 2,470-mile road trip from Chicago to San Francisco takes 38 hours to drive. Also B&Bs. Bozeman, MT. When it's complete the statue of Crazy Horse will be taller than the presidents at Mount Rushmore. SBD is a respectable 2nd place, IMO, and added attractions are wine country, nice beaches, warmer water (usually) and resort options (homestead resort near glen arbor gets high marks in the MI-Fo's). 8. The cheapest month to fly from Chicago is January. Then, check out the Christmas Village or the Made in Philadelphia Holiday Market. The high temperatures that hit Chicago Thursday broke a record that stretched all the way back to 1887, according to the National Weather Service. For a more magical festive feel, head to Frederick Meijer Sculpture Gardens. After heavy rainfall - this is also the perfect time for viewing colorful wildflowers. The classic design may look more like an East Coast city with Louisville having the second highest number of cast iron faades after New York, primarily in its West Main District. So if you are already in Chicago then you should explore these 12 best road trips from Chicago. Millions of years of geologic changes are reflected at the Garden of the Gods in Flight $$$: $500. The interstate carries on across Nebraska and then splits just as you approach the northeast corner of Colorado. 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. With art, culture, caf patios and waterfront dining, Toledo is a great short trip if you want a change of scene from Chicago. The cheese fondue is right up there on our list of the best foods in the world! At Denver Art Museum you can see another collection dedicated to the heritage of this part of the country, as the Petrie Institute for Western American Art is housed here. Utica, IL 61373. The Dells Boat Tours will take you through the narrow river passages - these Dells are gorges through layered rock formations that become small tall islands as the river widens. Drive, reach and enjoy the beautiful states around. 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. If you're staying overnight it's best to find accommodation with private parking. The best thing about Madison, like many places in Wisconsin, is the food. Or if you're feeling more active, there are sledding slopes in the park too. You can join the river at Savanna or a little further down at Clinton depending on the route you take. Back in the city, entry to the world-class Toledo Museum of Art is free all year round. The must-see attraction on your trip to Mount Rushmore National Memorial is the famous cliffside sculptures of the presidents, which you can see up close if you follow the short Presidential Trail. Denver is the gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park, as well as being a great place to head to in winter if you want to ski or snowboard on nearby slopes. All that snow means that you can ski in the area around Asheville. 506 miles east of Chicago: Upper - Kettle Creek State Park. Next, turn onto I-80 and head west past Des Moines and Omaha. It's a great way to experience this historic part of the city, full of character. But did you know that every single participant has to wear one? Or explore the wintery wilderness of Kishwauketoe Nature Conservancy - you can rent snowshoes if you don't have your own. If you've had about enough of cheese, you can go on an ATV ride around the trail network around Monroe. There are also several events to mark Dia de los Muertos in late October and early November. also, you have the option of taking the ss badger car ferry across Lake Michigan to avoid traffic around the bottom of the Lake and to add an 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. After Grand Rapids, turn onto Route 131 and continue north past Big Rapids and Cadillac, until you reach Boyne Mountain. If you want to test your senses, the Limburger cheese holds the title of the world's worst smelling cheese and is only made in Monroe. If you have time to head out of town, make your way to Tampa to see Christmas Town at Busch Gardens. Beer and baseball are the two things the city is particularly known for. 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. 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. Our highlights: Boyne Mountain is primarily a ski resort, so take to the slopes and explore more than 415 acres of ski runs. 2 hours 40 minutes from Chicago (150 miles). But is it worth a daytrip to an obscure Chicago suburb? Some travellers prefer to make this journey on a longer route via the I-90, heading south near Mount Rushmore to reach Denver.
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