Trips & Routes

Day Trips

Trips & Routes
Day Trips

Channel Your Inner Ferris Bueller and Take Your Own Day Off on This Illinois Day Trip

Follow in the footsteps of characters from 'Ferris Bueller's Day Off.' They'll lead you to some of the best sites in Chicago.

by Trent Jonas
on Aug 4
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5 Easy Day Trips You Can Take From Chicago, My Favorite Included

by Cait Kontalis
on Apr 25
A highway next to a lake with a city skyline in the background.
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With A Clubhouse And Zipline, This Family-Friendly Park In Illinois Is The Best Summer Day Trip

by Daisy Dow
on Jul 29
A large tree with a prominent branch and a wooden ladder leading up, surrounded by lush green foliage.
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7 Christmas Towns In Illinois That Will Fill Your Heart With Holiday Cheer

by Linze Rice
on Dec 6
Snowy street scene with shops and cars, festive lights, and falling snowflakes creating a cozy winter atmosphere.
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The Under-The-Radar Scenic Drive In Illinois That Showcases Mansions, Lake Michigan, And Forests

by Linze Rice
on Nov 9
Aerial view of a coastal university campus with buildings, green spaces, and a lake shoreline under a blue sky.

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This Little-Known Scenic Spot In Illinois That Comes Alive With Color Come Fall

by Linze Rice
on Oct 4
A serene forest path lined with trees, covered in fallen leaves, under a cloudy sky.
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Day Trips

12 Unforgettable Illinois Day Trips, One for Each Month of the Year

Discover 12 monthly day trips in Illinois to fill your year with exciting and unique experiences.

by Elizabeth Crozier
on Jan 7
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Day Trips

The 11 Very Best Day Trips You Can Possibly Take In Illinois

Discover the best day trips in Illinois, from historic sites to natural wonders.

by Elizabeth Crozier
on Jun 10
A vibrant sunset over a river, with clouds scattered in a colorful sky and lush greenery in the foreground.
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Day Trips

5 Incredible Illinois Day Trips You Can Take By Train

Discover unique and exciting train tours across Illinois for perfect day trips.

by Amanda Glandon
on May 17
Historic building with a classical facade, surrounded by modern skyscrapers and city streets.
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Here Are 11 Unique Day Trips in Illinois That Are an Absolute Must-Do

Discover the best day trips in Illinois, featuring gardens, wildlife adventures, historic towns, and scenic parks.

by Laura Meli
on Apr 7
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Day Trips

The Friendly Small Town In Illinois That’s Perfect For A Summer Day Trip

Kirkland, Illinois is an ideal summer day trip destination with its rich history, outdoor activities, and local dining options.

by Linze Rice
on May 17
Aerial view of a small town with green fields, a water tower, and a railway running through the center.
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The Scenic Drive To The Spoon River Valley Is Almost As Beautiful As The Destination Itself

The Spoon River Valley Scenic Drive in Central Illinois offers a picturesque 140-mile route with historic sites, local markets, and unique roadside attractions.

by Linze Rice
on Apr 27
A calm river scene with a bridge overhead and a small boat gliding through the water, surrounded by lush greenery.
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3 Illinois Day Trips That Are Even Cooler During The Winter

Explore three winter day trip destinations in Illinois to make the cold season more enjoyable.

by Trent Jonas
on Nov 30
A snowy street scene with charming shops and cars, illuminated by a glowing sign for a log cabin restaurant.
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Day Trips

Explore Inside A Cave, Then Dine At A Rocky Restaurant All At This Underrated Illinois State Park

Cave-in-Rock State Park offers a unique cave-themed day trip with exploration and dining options.

by Clarisa Akred
on Aug 8
A rocky cliff with a large cave entrance, surrounded by lush greenery and a dirt path along the riverbank.
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Day Trips

Hike To Ferne Clyffe Falls In Illinois, Then Reward Yourself With A Cupcake From Larry’s House of Cakes

Enjoy a memorable day trip in Illinois by hiking the Ferne Clyffe Waterfall Trail and visiting Larry’s House of Cakes for delicious treats.

by Jessica Bohl
on Oct 13
A serene waterfall cascades into a tranquil pool surrounded by rocky terrain and lush greenery.
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Day Trips

You Must Visit These 8 Awesome Places In Illinois This Fall

Discover eight must-visit places in Illinois for a perfect fall getaway, each offering unique seasonal experiences.

by Laura Meli
on Jul 30
A historic building surrounded by vibrant autumn trees with colorful leaves under a clear blue sky.
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Visit The Kid-Friendly Super Museum In Illinois, Then Stop For Ice Cream At Sissy’s Sweet Shoppe

by Clarisa Akred
on Jul 8
Colorful vintage building with superhero-themed decor and a classic car parked in front under a blue sky.
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Day Trips

After Exploring The Blackberry Maples Prairie Hill Loop Trail, Get Feed For Birds At Johnsen’s Farm & Country Store In Illinois

A day trip to Blackberry Maples Prairie Hill Loop Trail and Johnsen’s Farm & Country Store in Illinois offers hiking, birdwatching, and family fun.

by Marla Stein
on Jul 6
A sunlit field with tall grasses and wildflowers, surrounded by trees under a soft evening sky.
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Day Trips

This Summer, Take On A Chicago Barrel Run Tour For The Ultimate Illinois Day Trip

Take a unique brewery tour in Chicago on a barrel-shaped bus for an unforgettable summer experience.

by Melissa Mahoney
on May 3
A wooden barrel-shaped food truck with large windows and a staircase, parked on a city street.
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Day Trips

10 Out Of This World Summer Day Trips To Take In Illinois

Discover ten unique summer activities and destinations in Illinois, from sunflower farms to historic railroads.

by Elizabeth Crozier
on Apr 22
Sunset over calm water with a sandy shore and buoys floating in the distance, creating a serene atmosphere.
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The Small Town In Illinois Boasting World-Famous Pie Is The Sweetest Day Trip Destination

Palms Grill Cafe in Atlanta, Illinois, is renowned for its homemade pies and nostalgic atmosphere along Historic Route 66.

by Melissa Mahoney
on Mar 9
A storefront with a striped awning reading "THE GRILL," featuring flower pots and Coca-Cola signage.
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Magic Meadows Alpacas Farm In Illinois Makes For A Fun Family Day Trip

Magic Meadows Alpacas offers tours, photoshoots, and yoga with friendly alpacas in Wonder Lake.

by Melissa Mahoney
on Sep 15
Two alpacas stand behind a green fence with a sign for "Magic Meadows Alpacas" in a sunny outdoor setting.
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Everyone Should Take This Exhilarating Adventure To Some Of Illinois’ Best Hidden Gems

Explore the 33-mile Meeting of the Great Rivers National Scenic Byway in Illinois, featuring stunning views and numerous points of interest.

by Melissa Mahoney
on Jan 19
A scenic view of a lighthouse by a road, with vibrant autumn foliage on a hillside and a clear blue sky.
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Day Trips

Admission-Free, The Phillips Park Zoo In Illinois Is The Perfect Day Trip Destination

Phillips Park Zoo in Aurora offers free admission and a variety of attractions for a fun-filled family day.

by Melissa Mahoney
on Jul 20
Entrance to Phillips Park Zoo, featuring a stone archway and lush greenery, with visitors walking along a path.
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Day Trips

9 Things You Must Do Underneath The Summer Sun In Illinois

Discover nine exciting summer activities to enjoy in Illinois, from glamping and beach trips to waterfall hikes and ice cream trails.

by Melissa Mahoney
on Jun 21
A person in a helmet zips across a cable, surrounded by trees and an adventure park in the background.
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Day Trips

Both A Restaurant And A Driving Range, Illinois’ Deacon’s Restaurant And Bar Is An Underrated Day Trip Destination

Deacon's Restaurant & Bar at the Golf Farm in Wauconda offers a combination of dining, golf, and entertainment, making it a perfect day trip destination.

by Melissa Mahoney
on May 7
Exterior of Deacon's Bar & Grill with a sign displaying hours, surrounded by power lines and a cloudy sky.
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The Unique Day Trip To Starved Rock In Illinois Is A Must-Do

Starved Rock State Park in Illinois offers a variety of outdoor activities and scenic views, making it a popular escape from city life.

by Chloe Lira
on Dec 1
A serene waterfall cascading down rocky cliffs, surrounded by lush greenery and sandy ground in a tranquil natural setting.
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This Day Trip To Galena Is One Of The Best You Can Take In Illinois

Galena, Illinois, offers a charming day trip with historic buildings, scenic views, and various activities for all seasons.

by Carol Jarzyna
on Oct 25
A scenic view of colorful autumn trees and charming houses on a hillside.
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Day Trips

These Creepy Day Trips Through The Spookiest Places in Illinois Are Perfect For Fall

Explore Illinois' haunted destinations with two spooky day trips, the Sinister Southern and Nefarious Northern routes.

by Benjamin Clancy
on Oct 15
Gravestones in a cemetery, some engraved with "U.S. Soldier," surrounded by grass and trees.
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Day Trips

The Outdoor Discovery Park In Illinois That’s Perfect For A Family Day Trip

Rock River Discovery Park in Rockford, Illinois, is a unique, award-winning, science-themed playground with both indoor and outdoor interactive exhibits.

by Elizabeth Crozier
on Jun 25
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Day Trips

This Incredible Museum In Illinois Is A Fantastic Day Trip Destination

The Super Museum in Metropolis, Illinois, is a must-visit for Superman fans with its extensive collection of memorabilia.

by Sophia Mitrokostas
on Jul 14
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Day Trips

16 Things That Will Always Make Illinoisans Think Of Home

Illinoisans often feel nostalgic for home due to unique local experiences and landmarks.

by Elizabeth Crozier
on Feb 8
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Day Trips

9 Picture Perfect Fall Day Trips To Take In Illinois

Discover nine magical fall day trips in Illinois featuring apple picking, corn mazes, fall foliage, and more.

by Elizabeth Crozier
on Sep 18
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Day Trips

The Day Trip Of A Lifetime You Can Only Take In Chicago

Explore Chicago's North Shore with visits to historic sites, gardens, and a music festival.

by Elizabeth Crozier
on Sep 18
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Day Trips

These 6 Charming Pumpkin Patches In Chicago Are Picture Perfect For A Fall Day

Discover the seven best pumpkin patches in Illinois, each offering unique fall activities and attractions.

by Elizabeth Crozier
on Sep 6
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Day Trips

The Remote Winery In Illinois That’s Picture Perfect For A Day Trip

Experience the charm of Tuscany at Blue Sky Vineyard in Southern Illinois, offering award-winning wines and picturesque views.

by Elizabeth Crozier
on Apr 7
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Day Trips

See Over 150 Animals At Aikman Wildlife Adventure, A Lovely Family Day Trip Destination In Illinois

Aikman Wildlife Adventure in Arcola offers a unique family-friendly experience with over 150 animals and a drive-thru safari.

by Amanda Glandon
on Mar 28
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Day Trips

10 Amazing Field Trips Every Illinoisian Took As A Kid… And Should Retake Now

Revisit 10 nostalgic field trip destinations in Illinois, perfect for family outings and educational experiences.

by Laura Meli
on Mar 6
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Day Trips

10 Underrated Places In Illinois To Take An Out-Of-Towner

Discover 10 underrated tourist spots in Illinois that offer unique experiences beyond the typical Chicago attractions.

by Laura Meli
on Feb 19
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Day Trips

Here Are 12 Spots In Illinois You Must Explore This Winter

Explore 12 must-visit winter spots in Illinois, from frozen waterfalls to snow-covered parks.

by Laura Meli
on Dec 6
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