Visitors usually go to the Midwestern state of Illinois for Chicago, the main destination that attracts visitors from over the world. However, Illinois offers plenty of other interesting experiences and locales that are worth exploring. While Chicago and Springfield are the biggest cities offering a bevy of attractions and sights, there are several lesser-known and smaller towns that offer a more laid back experience that is equally enjoyable. If you are a couple looking for a romantic trip, your choice depends on your interests as your options range from an active weekend filled with outdoor activities to a more relaxed pace of cosying in a cabin. To know more, read on for the top romantic weekend getaways in Illinois, USA.
We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and access to couple-friendly amenities and activities. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on April 09, 2024.
1. Lake Forest (Fort Sheridan Forest Preserve) (from USD 159)
Located near Lake Forest, Fort Sheridan Forest Preserve is a verdant oasis located three hours or 223 mi (359 km) away from Springfield. Plan out a day with your sweetheart on the banks of stunning Lake Michigan where you can enjoy amazing views of its blue waters. If you are an outdoorsy couple, you can explore the various activities offered inside the preserve including hiking, skiing, fishing, and bird-watching. You can also have a picnic or just sit quietly and soak in the serene vibe.
Hilton Garden Inn Lake Forest Mettawa
Address: 26225 North River Woods Boulevard
136.07 km (84.6 mi) from Starved Rock State Park
2. Taylorville (from USD 85)
Inexpensive with a total cost of $95, should be valued around $40.
Friendly staff, easy check-in, decent deluxe rooms, good AC, quiet area, convenient to Historical Society Exhibit.
Convenient to attractions, quiet area, near event locations, perfect spot for easy access, close to the Lake.
Breakfast advertised but not offered, free breakfast not available due to Covid, no breakfast items provided, breakfast area filled with boxes, no continental breakfast, no breakfast as advertised.
Just 30 mi (48 km) from Springfield and less than an hour away lies the small town of Taylorville which is home to the lake of the same name. If you are looking for a quiet vacation, then booking a cabin or planning a camping trip to this destination is an ideal option. Have a lazy weekend spent swimming, picnicking, and just walking around the trails. If you and your partner are interested in history, drop by Christian County Coal Mine Museum.
Super 8 by Wyndham Taylorville IL
Address: 400 Abes Way
197.32 km (122.7 mi) from Starved Rock State Park
3. Springfield (from USD 159)
Springfield is best known for its association with Abraham Lincoln. Spend an enjoyable weekend exploring the capital city of Illinois and its range of historical monuments and collections of striking houses by the famed architect, Frank Lloyd Wright. You can also take a romantic stroll in the extensive grounds of Washington Park Botanical Garden with its pretty landscapes. A perfect date idea would be going to Route 66 Drive-In Theater where you can watch a movie with your sweetheart.
Crowne Plaza Springfield Convention Center, an IHG Hotel
Address: 3000 South Dirksen Parkway
180.35 km (112.1 mi) from Starved Rock State Park
You might be interested in these Airbnbs!
4. Chicago (from USD 299)
Reasonable for the location and amenities offered.
Small but nice swimming pool with jacuzzi, gym, and full kitchen in the room.
Perfect for visiting museums, planetarium, aquarium, and parks, with easy access to public transport.
Complimentary breakfast with a wide variety, but limited options for some, and some opportunities for improvement.
The vibrant Windy City combines natural beauty, amazing architecture, buzzing nightlife, and a lively cultural scene, so a weekend here offers a plethora of exciting experiences. For a memorable romantic trip, options include a sunset cruise on Lake Michigan or Chicago River, enjoying a picnic at Grant Park, and watching the water show at Buckingham Fountain. The stunning panoramic views atop Willis Tower is worth a trip as well as a stroll down the glitzy Michigan Avenue. You should also consider walking down Lakefront Trail and Chicago Riverwalk for amazing views of the city skyline and Lake Michigan. Chicago is situated around 3 hours or 201 mi (323 km) from Springfield.
Homewood Suites By Hilton Chicago Downtown South Loop
Address: 59 E. 11th Street, Chicago, IL
127.78 km (79.4 mi) from Starved Rock State Park
5. Ottawa (from USD 169)
Ottawa is located at the confluence of Illinois River and Fox River around 2 hours or 137 mi (220km) from Springfield. The city is host to a number of historic houses such as Reddick Mansion which offers a glimpse into another era. Head to Washington Park Historic District to enjoy some greenery and history. The city is also a gateway to the stunning Starved Rock State Park where you can take in astonishing canyons and bluffs and go camping, hiking, or boating, making for a superb close-to-nature experience. In the mood for a romantic dinner? Head to the historic Zeller Inn which offers an opulent setting featuring mahogany decor, marble counters, stained glass fittings, carved gargoyles, and more,
Hampton Inn Ottawa - Starved Rock Area
Address: 4115 Holiday Lane
13.33 km (8.3 mi) from Starved Rock State Park
6. Rockford (from USD 149)
Reasonable pricing for the amenities and location offered.
Clean rooms, comfortable beds, and a nice pool and hot tub.
Conveniently located near restaurants and off the interstate, but may be noisy due to traffic.
Breakfast has a good selection, but some areas need improvement such as the fruit salad, waffle batter, and coffee.
Located in Northern Illinois, Rockford is a bustling large city that blends outdoor and cultural attractions. Known as the City of Gardens, it offers plenty of beautiful gardens where you can spend a day with your loved one. Top options include Anderson Japanese Gardens, Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens, and Tinker Swiss Cottage Museum and Gardens. Close to the city is Rock Cut State Park which offers additional options for fun outdoor recreation such as camping, boating, and hiking. Rock River, which cuts through the city, makes for a great setting for a cruise, so be sure to check that out. Rockford is around 199 mi (320 km) away from Springfield, a drive of around 3 hours.
Hampton Inn Rockford
Address: 615 Clark Drive
106.83 km (66.4 mi) from Starved Rock State Park
7. Mount Vernon (from USD 149)
Spend a quiet weekend in Mount Vernon, a small city located around 2 hours or 143 mi (230 km) away from Springfield. Get a glimpse into the lives of pioneers at Jefferson County Historical Society where you will find authentic log cabins, Mount Olive Church, and more. Explore art shows and exhibits being held at the city’s Cedarhurst Center For The Arts. For some lighthearted fun, the Aquatic Zoo water park is the place to go. If you want to spend some time amidst nature, then the nearby Rend Lake offers a serene atmosphere where you can bond and try water activities such as boating and fishing.
Doubletree By Hilton Mt. Vernon
Address: 222 Potomac Blvd.
333.18 km (207.1 mi) from Starved Rock State Park
8. Effingham (from USD 154)
Effingham, located around 2 hours from Springfield, or 88 mi (142 km) is a town best known for hosting the largest cross of the United States, Cross at the Crossroads. The small town offers other attractions such as Wilhelmina Art Gallery where you will find artworks by national artist Wilma Woidt Kruger. If you want to get some fresh air then head to Calico Trail in the city or Douglas-Hart Nature Center in the outskirts for hiking and camping.
Holiday Inn Express & Suites - Effingham, an IHG Hotel
Address: 1604 W. Fayette Ave.
246.09 km (153.0 mi) from Starved Rock State Park
9. Galena (from USD 90)
Located around 4 hours from Springfield or 236 mi (380 km) away, Galena is a historical town that will charm you with its cosy and quaint ambience. Set against the backdrop of Mississippi River Valley, the city’s iconic Main Street showcases wonderfully preserved 19th-century buildings. So wander around, take in the atmosphere, and explore the many boutiques, galleries, and stores here. You can maybe hop onto a trolley for a tour. If you want to spend some time amidst nature, then plan out a day in Galena River Trail where you can stroll around while enjoying the views. Don’t forget to book a visit to one of the area’s well-known wineries for a romantic evening sipping local wines.
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Galena, IL
Address: 11334 Oldenburg Lane
175.05 km (108.8 mi) from Starved Rock State Park
10. Alton (from USD 115)
Alton is located around 1.5 away from Springfield, or 86 mi (138 km), on the banks of Mississippi River just across St. Louis. In this quiet city, you can enjoy a laid back stay while relishing a variety of experiences. Explore its historic downtown where you can see boutiques, bars, and restaurants. Step into Mississippi Mud Pottery and check out their range of handmade pottery. If you are both up for a spooky adventure, then consider joining one of the ghost-hunting walking tours. After all, Alton is known as “One of the Most Haunted Small Towns in America.”
Best Western Premier Alton-St. Louis Area Hotel
Address: 3559 College Avenue, Alton, IL, USA, 62002
285.46 km (177.4 mi) from Starved Rock State Park
Plan an unforgettable couples' trip
When it comes to planning trips, personal preferences are, of course, the main criteria. Our list provides a lot of options across a wide variety of experiences so you can easily find something that makes sense for you as a couple. So take a look at these top romantic weekend getaways in Illinois, USA, and choose out your favoured destination.
History
Get Trip101 in your inbox
Unsubscribe in one click. See our Privacy Policy for more information on how we use your data
Create an account to