This Secluded Illinois Airbnb Sits Steps From a Roaring Waterfall

Growing up in Wisconsin, I heard a lot of talk about Illinois. Bears football aside, a lot of what I heard was about the "nothing" of Illinois—that it was just a lot of cornfields and flat land. That is true. The Prairie State has its fair share of prairies. And yet, its landscape is much more than I ever anticipated, too, especially when you consider the beauty of Thunder Bay Falls, a curtain waterfall that doesn't require a hike to enjoy—and this cabin, which is easily one of the top Airbnbs near waterfall trails in Illinois.

The trail to Thunder Bay Falls isn't much of a trail. In fact, it's more of a footpath that leads directly to the falls viewpoint in the span of just a minute or two. This makes it my ideal kind of waterfall hike, especially on a busy weekend away. Plus, it's just a stone's throw away from this oh-so-homey lodge.

Laurel's Log Lodge is an Airbnb located near the falls in Galena, Illinois. This dreamy cabin can sleep up to 10 guests across four bedrooms and six beds. Its expansive interior and exterior living areas provide plenty of space for large travel parties in a rustic-chic atmosphere. In addition to being only a few minutes away from Thunder Bay Falls, it's also close to (and a part of) the Galena Territory Association Owners' Club, which allows guests access to the indoor and outdoor pools, fitness center, sports courts, and more.

What Makes This Stay Special

But as far as fun goes, you don't even have to leave the Airbnb to have a good time. On top of the fire pit, indoor fireplace, and covered hot tub, there is an entire recreation room in the home as well. It has ping-pong, a pool table, foosball, a Pac-Man arcade machine, and a TV lounge area. Laurel's Log Lodge is well-equipped for an entire weekend of entertainment.

Tips for Planning a Waterfall Weekend

Speaking of entertainment, since Thunder Bay Falls is only a five-minute drive from the Airbnb, you don't have to go far for an epic weekend. But the waterfall is just one stop of many for a truly memorable vacation. Over a weekend, you've got plenty of time to fill in gorgeous Galena. If you want to get to know the area, hop aboard a Galena Trolley Tour for an hour or spend some time exploring the city's historic Main Street district, which is home to over 125 shops and restaurants.

If you'd rather hit the trail than hit the town, get outdoors and immerse yourself in nature along the Grand Illinois Trail. The starting point in Aiken is only about 10 miles from the Airbnb, making it an easy drive. From Aiken to Blanding Landing, the trail is 5 miles point to point. So you could walk the whole thing out and back to your car for a 10-mile adventure, or just meander the trail along the mighty Mississippi until it's time to turn around.

However you plan your Galena getaway, be sure to utilize the Only In Your State Travel Planner to get you started. This handy guide will give you all the scuttlebutt on the goings on in Illinois from the folks who know it best.