As local travel experts, we know what travelers are looking for when it comes to finding the perfect accommodations for their next trip. To compile our lists, we scour the internet to find properties with excellent ratings and reviews, desirable amenities, nearby attractions, and that something special that makes a destination worthy of traveling for.

Don’t go stir-crazy this winter; instead, visit one of Illinois’ unique getaways. From secluded cabins in the forest to high-rise hotels with all the amenities, there is something to please any traveler. Fill your suitcase with sweaters, slip on some wool socks, and get ready to enjoy a wonderful weekend retreat with a stay at one of these winter cabins in Illinois.

1. White Pines Lodge, Mount Morris
White Pines Lodge, 6712 W Pines Rd, Mt Morris, IL 61054, USA
White Pines Inn
The well-preserved log cabins dating back to the Depression Era are each outfitted with a cozy fireplace and all of the modern conveniences. Make your winter stay complete by going cross-country skiing and taking in a holiday show at the White Pines Dinner Theatre for a truly romantic winter weekend getaway.
2. Grizzly Jack's Grand Bear Resort, North Utica
Grand Bear Resort at Starved Rock, 2643 IL-178, North Utica, IL 61373, USA
Grizzly Jack's Grand Bear Resort/Facebook
For a getaway that allows you to both embrace and escape the cold all in one trip, head to the Grand Bear Resort. While you're there, venture into Starved Rock State Park for snowshoeing and other winter activities, and then take cover inside at the resort's indoor waterpark.
3. Galena Cellars, Galena
Galena Cellars Vineyard, 4746 N Ford Rd, Galena, IL 61036, USA
Galena Cellars
Thinking of going wine tasting during your winter vacation in Illinois? Try actually staying at the vineyard itself! At Galena Cellars, guests can take over the two-bedroom house on the property, just steps from the tasting room.
4. Chicago Athletic Association Hotel, Chicago
Chicago Athletic Association - The Unbound Collection by Hyatt, 12 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60603, USA
Chicago Athletic Association Hotel/Facebook
Complete with in-room fireplaces, a cozy game room, and delicious dining options, the Chicago Athletic Association is the perfect place to stay for a romantic winter weekend getaway. While there's plenty to do on the property, adventurous guests can walk across the street and hop on the ice skating rink in the famed Millennium Park.
5. Heartland Lodge, Nebo
Harpole's Heartland Lodge, 10236 393rd St, Nebo, IL 62355, USA
Heartland Lodge
Deer hunting enthusiasts, grab your bows! Heartland Lodge boasts some of the best hunting grounds in Pike County. After your busy day in the wild, return back to the homey lodge for a good night's sleep.

Related Stories

This A-Frame Pet-Friendly Cabin VRBO In Illinois Is One Of The Coolest Places To Spend The Night

This A-Frame Pet-Friendly Cabin VRBO In Illinois Is One Of The Coolest Places To Spend The Night

 You'll Have A Front-Row View Of The Illinois Shawnee National Forest At These Cozy Cabins

You'll Have A Front-Row View Of The Illinois Shawnee National Forest At These Cozy Cabins

 You'll Have A Front Row View Of The Illinois Shawnee Forest In These Cozy Cabins

You'll Have A Front Row View Of The Illinois Shawnee Forest In These Cozy Cabins
6. Big Sky Cabins, Alto Pass
Big Sky Cabins, 1215 Rattlesnake Ferry Rd, Alto Pass, IL 62905, USA
Big Sky Cabins
You'll have 20 acres of forest and farmland all to yourself when you rent this four-bedroom winter cabin in Illinois. The best part of staying here, though, is that it's located right in the heart of the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail!
7. Nauvoo Log Cabins, Nauvoo
Nauvoo Log Cabins LLC, 65 N Winchester St, Nauvoo, IL 62354, USA
Nauvoo Log Cabins
With some of the most picturesque winter cabins in Illinois, you'll step back in time to the tiny pioneer town that's simply one-of-a-kind. Take a one-mile journey down the road to visit the historic Nauvoo Temple during the day, and cozy up in your very own historical dwelling at night.
8. Haagen Haus, Alton
Haagen Haus, 617 State St, Alton, IL 62002, USA
Haagen Haus
Soak in the small-town charm of Alton at this historic home that's been turned into a guest house ideal for a quiet retreat in Illinois. Take a stroll downtown or try your luck at the Argosy Casino.
9. Timber Ridge Outpost, Karbers Ridge
Timber Ridge Outpost & Cabins, 546 N Iron Furnace Rd, Elizabethtown, IL 62931, USA
Timber Ridge Outpost
One of the most unique winter cabins in Illinois, Vacationers seeking a treehouse experience in the colder months will enjoy the heated cabin atop the trees at Timber Ridge. Call the massage therapist on staff up to your dwelling in the sky and settle in for a relaxing weekend.
10. Pere Marquette Lodge, Grafton
Pere Marquette Lodge & Conference Center, 13653 Lodge Blvd, Grafton, IL 62037, USA
Pere Marquette Lodge & Conference Center
Take a dip in the indoor pool, watch for bald eagles, or stop in at the winery - there's so much to do at this historic resort in Illinois. If you're just looking to relax, there's a spot just for you in front of the 50-foot fireplace in the lodge.
11. Peace of Earth Lodge, Rushville
Peace of Earth Lodge, 15503 Ray Rd, Rushville, IL 62681, USA
Peace of Earth Lodge
For an eco-friendly experience, book a room in this solar-powered Peace of Earth Lodge in Illinois. Strap on some skis and trek through the snow-covered grounds of the surrounding forest.

What are you waiting for? Pick a place and hop in the car! If you have a favorite Illinois getaway that wasn’t mentioned, let us know in the comments. Be sure to check out one of these awesome winter attractions in Illinois this season.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

More to Explore

Things to do in Illinois

Jackie Ann | October 06, 2022

Is Illinois a good place to visit in the winter?

Absolutely! Don’t let the frigid temperatures scare you away. There’s an old Norwegian saying that translates to “there is no bad weather, only bad clothes” and we couldn’t agree more. When dressed properly, you can enjoy the beautiful Illinois winter all season long. Typically, Illinois sees the “worst” of winter around January, but you’ll always want to check the weather forecast, especially the Farmers’ Almanac for future predictions. 

What are the best outdoor activities in winter in Illinois?

There’s something truly magical about visiting Illinois in the winter when everything is cloaked in a fresh coating of snow. There are plenty of outdoor activities in Illinois to keep you entertained like winter horseback riding, ice skating, and more. There are also plenty of hiking trails in Illinois that are picture-perfect during the winter months. If you’re up for chasing waterfalls, seeing a frozen waterfall in Illinois is a breathtaking sight and there are plenty of waterfalls to see!

Are there any good campgrounds for winter camping in Illinois?

While we wouldn’t recommend pitching a tent in the middle of winter, there are plenty of campgrounds in Illinois that offer a cozy cabin to snuggle up in for a relaxing weekend getaway. Located in the Shawnee National Forest, Willowbrook Cabins is one of the best options for camping in the winter. The cabins come with everything you need, including a full kitchen and a washer/dryer, and you’re near awesome attractions like Garden of the Gods and Jackson Falls, both stunning in the winter months. 

Related Articles

Explore Illinois