1. For biking enthusiasts, exploring a bike trail in a new area is a great way to explore. The Arts and Crafts-style property features a quiet atmosphere and about a dozen flower-themed rooms, four of which come with balconies. If you are looking for more winter inspiration for holidaying in Illinois, see our post about things to do in Illinois during winter here. Whether you are an experienced climber or new to the activity, rock climbing is interesting to explore and experience a new area. Eleven of the state's best wineries, including some of the oldest vineyards in Illinois, are dotted along a 40-mile trail for you to discover at your own pace. Having opened in 1924, the Ariston Caf is nearing 100 years of continually being open. All sorts of terrain must be crossed to complete the loop. 11 Southern Illinois Attractions You Aren't Visiting Enough Lake of Egypt is one of Illinois best-kept secrets. There are many events and activities which are best enjoyed during this time, as well as year-round activities which have a different quality during winter. Day Trips In Wisconsin: The Very Best In The State - Only In Your State A canopy generally consists of various zip lines and aerial bridges, connected to create an extended route. There are many vineyards in the region that can offer an amazing experience and great-tasting wines. Enjoy some finger sandwiches and then take a look around to see what you can find; shoppers say Little Traveler sells lots of decorative items, especially for Christmas. Visiting the Fort de Chartres is a great way to learn about the French Colonial aspect of Illinois past. With beautiful forests and state parks, vibrant cities and quaint small towns, and rich history, southern Illinois is an amazing location for a range of holiday styles. Designed to represent classic childhood renderings of castles, knights, and dragons, this wonderland is always free to visit. Nestled in the Shawnee National Forest along the Ohio River, this ancient wonder is a glimpse into a forgotten world. There are also regular events to display and celebrate history. In Illinois, you can make such a journey along the Great River Road. If you prefer staying in a cute cabin on the southern Illinois wine trail, click here. The remnants consist of the earthworks of the fort, the cemetery, and the Menard house. Lounge in the sunny grass with cold drinks and finger foods. There are even international options such as cooking classes in Phuket or cooking classes in Sienna. The Icefields Parkway in winter: Must-see stops, driving tips, and more, Globetrotters in heart and soul. The foraged style allows for the introduction of a range of interesting and unique flavors, such as dandelion, nettle, chanterelle mushrooms, juniper, and elderberry. When you're both ready to tuck in, the Beall Mansion B&B will serve you well, with fireplaces, whirlpool tubs, included continental breakfast and free Wi-Fi. Take up disc golf and begin competing together in amateur tournaments. Here is an overview of the best southern Illinois wineries. There is also an interesting and somewhat spooky 543-foot rail tunnel to pass through. The town also provided support during the American Revolution. Recent guests of the Davie School laud the unexpected modern hotel amenities in a nostalgic and authentic setting. Winter is generally considered the off-season, meaning the trails have a lot fewer people and there is a much greater sense of tranquility and being alone in nature. Bobcats can also sometimes be seen on the refuge. Highlights: Alton is a great location for a winter weekend getaway with a number of unique events and beautiful sights to be seen. Highlights: Some highlights include wizard statues based on actual wizard figures painted by Jeremy Boo Rochman and climbable sleeping dragons. This is a necessary purpose and important to create a sustainable future. The village of Antioch, where the resort is located, also offers enough diversions to pass a few days. Lasting about three hours and spanning 40 miles, this is the best way to view the forest. There are also a number of resident animals who have been injured in such a way that they cant return to the wild. Here are some family friendly experiences you can do together that are sure to make your escape unforgettable: LEGOLAND Discovery Center Chicago Admission Ticket The parks all have a range of activities available for visitors to enjoy. Fort Kaskaskia is part of the French Colonial Historical Area and is considered a key part of the French Colonial history of Illinois. Featuring a charming train ride and plentiful gift and snack shops, this zoo is a fun outing for any family. The Inn at 835, just a mile from the museum, was founded in the late 19th century by local businesswoman Bell Miller, a florist for Springfield's high society. Southern Illinois can be a beautiful spot for a unique and interesting vacation. Snowstar Winter Park Ever a crowd-pleaser during the snowy season, tubing is the perfect winter activity for any group. Chocolate lovers are in luck more than 20 varieties are available to nibble at all times of day for Beall Mansion guests at the complimentary chocolate buffet. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission (for which we are deeply grateful) at no extra cost to you. There are many great museums in southern Illinois, including the Super Museum, the worlds largest collection of Superman items. There are many hiking trails as well as an active bird-watching community. Julia Scott Vrooman lived there for more than a century, befriending the families of two presidents (the Wilsons and Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt) and baking bread that she sent to the Queen of England and other dignitaries. Here are some of the best historical sites to enjoy: Fort de Chartres is a remnant of the 18th Century French colonization of the area of Illinois. All things to do Category types Attractions Tours Day Trips Outdoor Activities Concerts & Shows Food & Drink Events Shopping Transportation Traveler Resources Types of Attractions Nature & Parks Fun & Games Sights & Landmarks Nightlife Boat Tours & Water Sports Museums Spas & Wellness Classes & Workshops Zoos & Aquariums Water & Amusement Parks the African American Museum of southern Illinois. Address: 2865 Hickory Ridge Road, Pomona, IL, 62975. Experience Illinois with your significant other by exploring Chicago, driving the Great River Road, hiking in Ottawa and more. Sybaris Northbrook offers couples reservations like the Chalet suite, which comes with a heated pool and hot tub, misting steam room, a waterfall, massage chairs, a fireplace and an additional whirlpool tub in the bedroom area. Illinois, including 18 fun or romantic activities in nearby cities within 25 miles like Marion, Cobden and Makanda. The previously mentioned Giant City State Park has a great range of hiking trails but is also available for horseback riding. The name came from a series of rocky rapids in that area of the Mississippi which are notoriously difficult to navigate. Another great place to stay or eat, this beautiful winery features immaculate walking grounds, signature drinks, and award-winning wines. The hotel is just 2.9 miles from the zoo, and offers complimentary breakfast. Some of these include the ever-popular Giant City State Park, Dixon Spring State Park, and Cave in Rock State Park. This makes it ideal for water activities, such as boating and fishing along with picnicking and hiking with great views. Several of the wineries offer unique experiences when visiting and so following the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail is a great way to try a little bit of everything. Jeremy Rochman Memorial Park, more commonly known as Boo Castle Park, is an exciting theme park with a touching back story. 146, Golconda IL 62938, Giant City State Park, 235 Giant City Road, Makanda, Illinois 62958. If you are traveling with your loved one and looking for ideas for a romantic weekend in southern Illinois, click here. It is the perfect location to end a busy day of exploring southern Illinois. Then head to Arts and Antique Row, which as the name suggests is the downtown antique shopping district. There are also many guides on-site to provide further information on the expedition, the preparation, and the historical significance of the expedition. Get involved with a darts league for couples. They display exhibits of everything from African American art to slave artifacts. The earthen mounds show evidence of a complex and sophisticated society. 4. Back at Cypress, unwind in one of the many apartments or cottages available to rent including some dog-friendly accommodations, if your couples getaway isn't complete without your pup. Alton is known as a great place to see bald eagles as they migrate through the area in winter. The Tunnel Hill State Trail is a 45mile former rail line. For example, fall is a great time to spot white-tailed deer on the refuge, while summer is more suited to birdwatching for songbirds, especially bluebirds. Here you'll find both the Lincoln Home National Historic Site, where the Lincoln family lived for 17 years, as well as the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum. The African American Museum is a non-profit organization aiming to preserve and celebrate African American history and achievements. Wondering where to stay in Giant City State Park, click here. The Old Chain of Rocks Bridge is an interesting part of American history. TRIPBUZZ. It has five courses offering a chance to play golf all-round the year for all skill levels. Things to do as a Couple: 30 Fun & Romantic Activities At Home and Out! The more than 60 restaurants ensure your sweetie won't go hungry or thirsty, since the Old Bakery Beer Company is a certified organic craft brewery with seasonal taps and a hearty menu. Spend a romantic weekend getaway in Illinois at the Blue Sky Vineyard. 15 Best Things to Do in Southern Illinois - Travel Lens These are all great options for relaxing holiday fishing. Don't forget a bottle opener! Starved Rock State Park is known for its sandstone canyons several of which have waterfalls. It was originally a small town of French settlers and Native Americans. 1. These golf courses are a great way to enjoy southern Illinois. The park has climbable sleeping dragon sculptures, castles, mazes, and more fantasy elements that are perfect for sparking the imagination in children. 33% 3 votes 9 Pack a picnic basket with everything you'll need for a romantic afternoon at the park, like Burgers, champagne, and fresh fruit. Watch the birds with a cup of coffee in hand or rent a canoe for a different view of the river. Now is the time to get planning and find the perfect southern Illinois weekend getaway for you. However, if youre tired of hiking, you could try the SkyTour, an aerial skylift providing amazing views over the Mississippi and Illinois Rivers from great heights. There is also Hogg Hollow Winery, the first winery of Pope County which is surrounded by the beautiful Shawnee Forest. The best hidden gems and little known destinations - straight to your inbox. Set just outside Chicago you'll find the affluent suburb of Northbrook, where filmmaker John Hughes once called home and which inspired the setting for many of his cult classics such as "Sixteen Candles," "Ferris Bueller's Day Off" and "The Breakfast Club." Diners rave over the restaurant's large patio and bar, noting that B.A.S.H. Aeries resort in Grafton combines wine tasting with a zipline and a skytour. These include owls, coyotes, bobcats, and groundhogs, along with a variety of turtles and snakes. 3. Using zip-lines, aerial bridges, and short hikes, a canopy tour will take you through the heights of the trees and the ground-level scenery. The clear waters of the waterfall make for an amazing view. Ottawa calls itself "The Middle of Everywhere," a motto that rings true for this destination and for much of Illinois. Foodies seeking an Illinois escape can head to Champaign, a great Midwestern food town that's home to a lively community from the University of Illinois campus. The best part? Both options require a combination of patience and advance reservations, but they're well worth it, according to patrons. Music festivals, parades, marches and more commemorate Juneteenth across America. These climbing areas usually have a range of named routes on them, adding up to over 500 routes in total. Services are inconsistent, so it is best to stock up on water, etc when it is available. Camp Cedar Point/Camp Manitowa1327 Camp Cedar Point Ln, Makanda, IL 62958, Lake Murphysboro State Park52 Cinder Hill Dr, Murphysboro, IL 62966. Another example is Lake Murphysboro State Park, which surrounds the star-shaped Lake Murphysboro. OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. This includes boating, as well as waterskiing, jet skis, and of course, swimming. Some of these include Blue Sky Vineyards, which offers the romance of Italy while in southern Illinois, and Alto Vineyards, a family-owned and run business. Becker1999/Flickr. Much different wildlife can be seen at the refuge. The riverfront is the place to look for a dinner reservation; try The Blue Duck Barbecue Tavern. Some overnighters say the accommodations may feel a bit kitschy (you can sleep in a train) but they enjoyed walking along the trails during the day. The area spans about 3,000 acres and some bluffs drop as low as 100 feet. Aikman Wildlife Adventure. Couples Bucket List: 100+ Fun Things to Do as a Couple There are many eagle-spotting events held during this time. The latter contains presidential artifacts found nowhere else and a theater that shows educational films and living history performances to immerse you in the time of Lincoln. If you take a peek, you can still see the ruins of the original chimney. The fort was occupied for much of the 18th Century, first by France and later by Great Britain, but fell into disrepair after flooding in 1772. Many of the scenic nature spots in the area feature breathtaking waterfalls and waterways. We take your privacy seriously and will never sell your data to anyone. cabin on the southern Illinois wine trail, click here. Of course, while traveling it is necessary to eat as well. 1. 16 Top Romantic Getaways in Wisconsin - U.S. News Travel This is a great cause and very important in the modern world. Its unique appearance signifies the innovation present in early 20th Century construction. Our states true secret gem is the whole southern portion of Illinois, but were not trying to keep it hidden. This Asian-fusion restaurant brings a modern twist to fusion cuisine with craft cocktails, nigiri, four different types of mac 'n' cheese, Thai doughnuts and burgers. Highlights: Winter hiking is a perfect experience for enjoying nature without the hindrance of other people and truly taking in the tranquility of nature. For lunch, a stop at the famous Ariston Cafe is a must. A great example is Camp Cedar Point, also known as Camp Manitowa. There are also many important trees in the area, including giant cane the only bamboo native to North America, and bottomland hardwoods one of the wettest types of hardwood forest. Sybaris Pool Suites are unusual themed rooms that all come with an en suite indoor pool. 2. 22 Great Indoor Activities For Couples - GoDates Constructed in 1854 from native white oak timber, the bridge provided an essential link in the transport of agricultural products, especially to the nearby port town of Chester. 10 Fun Things to Do in Northern Illinois June 2023 | Expedia Itinerary options for a variety of budgets make Chicago a versatile choice for a couples escape. There is also Raging Rivers Water Park, which has a variety of waterslides ranging from flumes through to a vortex water ride. The Vault Caf is a caf located in a 100-year-old historic bank building with the vault still intact (hence the name). Super Splash Park is a great choice for something relaxed as they have a standard 8-lane pool along with waterslides and a lazy river. For more ideas of things to do in Grafton, check out our previous post here. You can also try Cooper's Hawk Winery & Restaurant in nearby Wheeling for walk-in wine tastings in addition to an extensive food menu. Zion / iStock Photo/Wirepec 1. With over 33 in southern Illinois, visitors are spoilt for choice. A trip to one of these Illinois destinations will uncover plenty of opportunities for romance and a zest for living well. This Depression-era eatery operated here from the 1930s to the 1960s. The first thing to figure out for your trip to Southern Illinois is where you're going to stay. There are 8 zip lines, 3 aerial bridges, and 3 small ground hikes. Expect stairs, gravel, grass, pavement, and uneven ground throughout. 17 amazing things to do in Northern Illinois ( cities, activities, and Cavan Images / Getty Images by Sarah Hanlon Updated Mar 08, 2023 There is also a reconstruction of the Camp River Dubois and Settlers Cabin, designed to the regulations of US Army military posts of the time. If you're in Bloomington with your honey during the summer, consider what light through yonder window breaks and book tickets for the Illinois Shakespeare Festival, held here annually. This tip can offer many different activities to do as a couple, the easiest and cheapest outdoor activity is to go on a hike. We take your privacy seriously and will never sell your data to anyone. If you prefer staying in a hotel, check out this list of boutique hotels in Illinois. If you are open to venturing out, consider the Davie School Inn, an eclectic B&B in Anna just 10 to 20 miles from most of the wineries on the route. This is great for a light hike as you can experience many different views of the waterfall along the trail. 27 Fun Things for Couples To Do at Home When Bored - Develop Good Habits (Note: Some of the following activities, attractions and locations may be affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. This makes it the most complex prehistoric site north of Mexico. Another great option is the Garden of the Gods Observation Trail, an easy hike that passes through some of the amazing stone formations in the area and includes many impressive viewpoints for observing this natural wonder. Finally, for some traditional, top-quality American barbeque, there is nowhere better than 17th Street BBQ. Whether it's a road trip to a national park or a spa weekend in a fancy hotel, make sure you go somewhere new and exciting as a couple at least once a month. Plus, Lake Geneva . For a more extensive breakdown, see our list of best hiking trails in Illinois here. Address: Dixon Springs State Park, 982 IL. The Underground Railroad passed through here, and visitors can explore Alton's abolitionist and Civil War history with nine self-guided stops through town following the Lincoln Legacy Trail. Travelers can always walk off an indulgent meal at one of Champaign-Urbana's many art galleries; the Wandell Sculpture Garden; or the contemporary Spurlock Museum, which focuses on world cultures. Experience Illinois with your significant other by exploring Chicago, driving the Great River Road, hiking in Ottawa and more. 2. Giant City State Park has over 20 miles of hiking trails, most of which are at gentle elevations and beginner-friendly. Giant City State Park has a number of designated climbing areas and is very popular. 4.2 Miles . 75 Fun Things for Couples to Do at Home - Holly Habeck With amazing nature, charming small towns, artisan wineries, and more, southern Illinois is ideal for all traveler types. Located on the Southern . Check out these amazing cabins in Giant City State Park. A CityPASS, for example, bundles admission to several top Windy City attractions at a significant discount, whether you want to see the Art Institute of Chicago, Shedd Aquarium, The Field Museum, SkyDeck Chicago or select others. 40 Exciting & Romantic Bucket List Ideas for Couples - wikiHow Address: 635 Robinson Hill Road, Makanda, IL, 62958. Both offer boutique accommodations with tranquil views. Some of the common wildlife of the area include waterfowl, shorebirds, and various other wetland animals. Deciding where to go and what to do while in a new place can be a daunting task, so we have brought together this compilation of the best places to go and things to do while visiting southern Illinois. Here we share some ideas for a wonderful family getaway in southern Illinois. Wildey Theatre 71 Theaters By denisehX4185VH We came from out of town and I think some signage to show you the way to this venue and the other beautiful venues in. For your overnight stay, check out the circa-1930s Starved Rock Lodge, which has an indoor pool and trails on the property. Here we have a range of the best places to visit and things to do in southern Illinois Southern Illinois can be a beautiful spot for a unique and interesting vacation. A cabin with a hot tub offers more range of things to do and a way of relaxing without just sitting around. A sparkling, wine-colored gem of southern Illinois is the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail near Pomona. If you are looking for more waterparks in Illinois, click here. Timber Ridge Outpost & Cabins (Elizabethtown) Facebook/Timber Ridge Outpost & Cabins The first thing to figure out for your trip to Southern Illinois is where you're going to stay.