Weekend breaks in Chicago

Chicago is an exciting, dynamic place, and while there's plenty to explore within the city itself, there's also much to experience beyond its borders. Here are a few recommended spots for the perfect weekend getaway from Chicago.

Weekend breaks in Illinois

Starved Rock State Park

Starved Rock State Park is just a two-hour drive away from Chicago. Visitors can explore the area's canyons and waterfalls, keeping an eye out for the area's wildlife, including deer, otters and eagles. Depending on the season, different kinds of activities are available: cross-country skiing, horseback riding, and canoeing.


Galena is located three hours west of Chicago. Located in the countryside of Illinois, this quaint town is popular with residents of Chicago looking to for a weekend escape from the intensity of city life. There are plenty of interesting historical sites to explore, or visitors can simply enjoy some time in the outdoors.


Springfield is the capital of Illinois and is three and a half hours away from Chicago by road. Notably, Springfield is the birthplace of one of the most famous US citizens, Abraham Lincoln. The main attractions are the historic and government sites such as Lincoln’s home and tomb, the Illinois State Capitol and the Dana-Thomas House.

Weekend breaks in Wisconsin


Milwaukee is just one hour's drive from Chicago. It has been strongly influenced by the old European world and one can still feel it in the city atmosphere. Milwaukee is mainly known for its breweries but has a lot of others interesting attributes: parks, lakes, ethnic restaurants, and the Milwaukee County Zoo.

Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is ideal for children because of the water parks, and is roughly three hours away from Chicago. This is an ideal getaway for the Labor Day weekend, just before kids go back to school in September.

Search Expat Arrivals

Our Chicago Expert

Veronique's picture
Lyon, FRANCE. Chicago, US
I am a freelance writer and editor: http://www.writerforever.com. I am specialized in topics such as expatriation, education... more

Got a question about your new country?

Login with your Facebook account (Recommended)