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

If you're anything like us, we're already filling up a bucket list of places to go and things to do in the months ahead (New Year's Eve or not). Save yourself the “best day trips near me” internet search. We’ve listed our faves so you, too, can plan your year with monthly day trips in Illinois that will make it easier to complete your bucket list. We've come up with 12 ideas to get you started, so pull out the planner and let's go! Which locations are your favorites?

1. January: Snowshoe and tubing

While we're getting snow during the first month of the year, it might not be a bad idea to check out Mount Hoy at Blackwell Forest Preserve. Through February, there are inner tube rentals that make this hill incredibly fun to enjoy.

2. February: Indoor Waterpark

Since temperatures are certain to still be freezing during this month, take one of these monthly day trips to an indoor water park at Great Wolf Lodge where guests can even stay the night. Dump buckets, water slides, wave pools, and much more abound at this unique park. This is one one-day trip you might want to turn into a weekend getaway. Book your stay at the Great Wolf Lodge.

3. March: Visit Metropolis

Illinoisans know that Superman makes his home in the southern portions of our state right along the Ohio River in the town of Metropolis. There is a museum there that locals love and tourists adore even more, and it's filled with items from the movies and TV series. Seriously, if you've never been to the Super Museum in Illinois, you haven't lived.

4. April: Boop the Snoots

Aikman Wildlife Adventure is a small-town attraction that is worth a visit any time of the year, but spring is an especially lovely time to visit. You'll find more than 150 exotic and farm animals waiting to meet you as you drive through this unique safari.

5. May: Cruise the Canal

Unique attractions abound in the Land of Lincoln and continue with this 70-passenger, mule-pulled canal boat in central Illinois. Guests can enjoy the I&M Canal Boat most months of the year but the best views are available in the spring and summer.

6. June: Visit Alton

With its historic monuments and other attractions, this river city of Alton, Illinois is a fun place to explore when the weather is nice. It is also fun to drive around and take in the views of the Mississippi River before hitting up one of the popular local restaurants!

7. July: Make a splash at Raging Waves

July is the perfect time of year to go to a waterpark like Raging Waves in northern Illinois. You'll find every sort of water slide, pool, and other aquatic attraction at this park.

8. August: Waterfalls and Wineries

For a fabulous road trip that only lasts a day, check out this waterfalls and wineries road trip in Illinois that takes you to five fun locations. You'll get to go hiking and sip on some delicious vino.

9. September: Visit Nauvoo

Wineries, gorgeous architecture, tours, and other charming attractions are all found in Nauvoo. This beautiful little small town makes for an incredible day trip you will never forget. Nauvoo is unique in that, even though it's one of the smallest towns in Illinois, you'll still find plenty of adventures. The entire town is listed on the National Register of Historic Places! There are also some really nifty log cabins you can stay in--check out Nauvoo Log Cabins for more information.

10. October: Leaf Peepin' and Wine Drinkin'

Visit one of Illinois' best vineyards this fall for foliage views and wine sipping. Guests love strolling the grounds of this 13-acre vineyard and tasting multiple varieties of white and red wines. Head out to Blue Sky Wines in Makanda and see what living in Illinois is really about!

11. November: Visit Batavia

While it is a lovely place to visit any time of year, visiting Batavia during autumn is guaranteed to be a good time. There are many gorgeous places to walk around and enjoy views of the Fox River as well as beautiful architecture and gazebos. If you want to turn your day trip into a weekend getaway, there are plenty of places to stay in Batavia. The Fox Den is just outside of the town but it's worth it!

12. December: Visit Galena

Galena is always a lovely place to vacation, if you live close enough for a day trip, it is definitely recommended to visit Galena in December when the town is decorated for the holidays. Get your Christmas shopping done while enjoying one of the most charming towns in Illinois.

For more like this, check out these year-round day trips in Illinois!

What other monthly day trips do you want to take this year? Share this article with someone you want to embark on one of these day trips in Illinois with.

For more adventures, check out some of the best hikes in Illinois.