Weekend Trips from Chicago by Car for Families

When you live in or around Chicago, the idea of packing up the car for a quick weekend getaway feels like an absolute lifesaver. Trust me, as much as I love the city, sometimes you just need a break from the hustle. And let’s be real, dragging the family through airports for a two-day trip? Not fun. Thankfully, there are some seriously awesome spots just a few hours’ drive away that make for the perfect family escape.

Starved Rock State Park

First on my list has to be Starved Rock State Park. It’s about a 1.5-hour drive from Chicago, which is totally manageable with kids-especially if you pack some snacks and load up their favorite music or podcasts. Now, if your family is into hiking, this place is going to blow your mind. I remember going there for the first time and being amazed by the waterfalls, even though it wasn’t some epic trip out West.

My kids loved spotting deer and trying to count all the different types of birds we saw. Plus, they have cabins if you don’t feel like dealing with camping logistics, which I honestly appreciate more the older I get.

Lake Geneva, Wisconsin

Another great spot is Lake Geneva, Wisconsin. It’s just about an hour and a half north, and it’s the kind of place that’s fun for literally all ages. You’ve got beaches, boat rentals, and even some easy, family-friendly hiking. One time we rented a paddle boat, and of course, within five minutes, one of the kids was already over it. But, we made up for it with ice cream from Kilwins right after, which I’d recommend whether you have kids with you or not.

You can also walk along the Lake Geneva Shore Path-about 26 miles of it wraps around the lake. Not that I’m saying you should hike the whole thing with kids, but it’s nice to stroll a bit and admire the jaw-dropping lakeside mansions.

The Indiana Dunes National Park

Now, if your crew is into more hands-on learning, The Indiana Dunes National Park is another great option. It’s just an hour’s drive from the city, and you can mix in some time at the beach (the dunes are right on Lake Michigan) with educational nature programs.

The park rangers offer family-friendly tours that teach you about the local plants and wildlife, and let me tell you, the kids love it. Mine were obsessed with rolling down the sand dunes, and I won’t lie, I gave it a try too. Pro tip: bring an extra pair of shoes because, without fail, the sand will get everywhere.

Galena, Illinois

For a slightly longer drive (but totally worth it), Galena, Illinois is about three hours west. This spot has this quaint, small-town charm that makes it feel like you’re way further from Chicago than you actually are. We stayed at a bed and breakfast, and while I’m normally more of a hotel kind of person, this place had a laid-back vibe that I couldn’t resist.

You can spend the day wandering around Main Street, popping into little shops, or take a trolley tour to learn about the town’s history. It’s the kind of trip where you don’t need an agenda. Just wander, relax, and enjoy. Oh, and definitely check out the Ulysses S. Grant Home if you’re into history-it’s surprisingly interesting, even for kids. My son still talks about it.

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