Located in the heart of the Midwest, Chicago is a vibrant city that offers a wide range of exciting attractions and activities for visitors. However, there are also many fun places to visit near Chicago that are worth exploring. From beautiful national parks to charming small towns, there are plenty of options for those looking to venture out of the city and experience all that the region has to offer.
Why Visit Places Near Chicago?
Visiting places near Chicago can be a great way to experience the natural beauty and charm of the Midwest. The region is home to many beautiful national parks, forests, and lakes, as well as charming small towns and cities that offer a glimpse into the region’s rich history and culture. By visiting these places, you can get away from the hustle and bustle of city life and enjoy some of the natural beauty and tranquility that the region has to offer.
Top Fun Places To Visit Near Chicago
Here are some of the top fun places to visit near Chicago:
- Indiana Dunes National Park: Located just an hour outside of Chicago, this national park offers beautiful beaches, hiking trails, and scenic views of Lake Michigan.
- Michigan City, Indiana: This charming small town is located just across the border from Chicago and offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and attractions, including the famous Michigan City Lighthouse.
- Starved Rock State Park: Located about an hour and a half outside of Chicago, this beautiful state park offers stunning views of the Illinois River and a variety of hiking trails and waterfalls.
- Galena, Illinois: This historic town is located about two hours outside of Chicago and offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and attractions, including the famous Ulysses S. Grant Home.
- Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin: Located about two and a half hours outside of Chicago, this popular vacation destination offers a variety of water parks, theme parks, and outdoor activities.
These are just a few of the many fun places to visit near Chicago. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventure, cultural attractions, or simply a relaxing getaway, there’s something for everyone in the region.
Fun Places To Visit Near Chicago
Chicago, the Windy City, is a hub of excitement and adventure, but there’s more to explore beyond its city limits. From scenic parks to thrilling amusement parks, and from historic sites to quirky museums, there are plenty of fun places to visit near Chicago. Here are some of the top recommendations:
Outdoor Adventures
Just a short drive from Chicago, you’ll find plenty of opportunities for outdoor fun. Here are some of the best places to visit:
- Indiana Dunes National Park: Located just 45 minutes from Chicago, this national park offers hiking trails, beaches, and scenic views of Lake Michigan.
- Starved Rock State Park: This beautiful park is about an hour and a half from Chicago and features stunning sandstone canyons, waterfalls, and hiking trails.
- Illinois Beach State Park: With its 6.5 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline, this park is perfect for swimming, fishing, and sunbathing.
Amusement Parks
If you’re looking for some thrills and spills, head to one of these amusement parks near Chicago: (See Also: Best Places To Visit Near To Hyderabad)
- Six Flags Great America: Located in Gurnee, Illinois, this park features roller coasters, water rides, and live entertainment.
- Montrose Beach: This beach in Chicago’s Lakeview neighborhood has a playground, picnic areas, and a skate park.
- Water Park of America: This indoor water park in Rosemont, Illinois, features water slides, a wave pool, and a lazy river.
Museums and Galleries
Chicago is known for its vibrant arts and culture scene, and there are plenty of museums and galleries to explore in the surrounding areas:
- Field Museum of Natural History: Located in nearby Hyde Park, this world-renowned museum features Sue, the largest T. rex skeleton ever found.
- Art Institute of Chicago: With its stunning architecture and world-class collection, this museum is a must-visit for art lovers.
- Chicago History Museum: Explore the history of Chicago and its people at this museum in Lincoln Park.
Historic Sites
Chicago has a rich history, and there are plenty of historic sites to visit in the surrounding areas:
- Lowell Cemetery: This historic cemetery in Chicago’s Logan Square neighborhood is the final resting place of many notable figures, including Abraham Lincoln’s son.
- Garfield Park Conservatory: This stunning greenhouse in Chicago’s West Side features beautiful gardens and a historic glasshouse.
- Palos Forest Preserve: This forest preserve in Palos Park, Illinois, features hiking trails, picnic areas, and historic sites.
Quirky Attractions
Chicago is known for its quirky attractions, and there are plenty of unique places to visit in the surrounding areas:
- Navy Pier: This lakefront attraction in Chicago features boat cruises, an amusement park, and entertainment options.
- Willis Tower (formerly Sears Tower): Take in panoramic views of the city from the Skydeck on the 103rd floor of this iconic skyscraper.
- Chicago’s First Lady Cruises: Take a romantic cruise on Lake Michigan and enjoy the city’s skyline.
Day Trips
If you have a day to spare, consider taking a trip to one of these nearby cities:
| City | Distance from Chicago | Attractions |
| South Bend, Indiana | 1 hour 30 minutes | University of Notre Dame, Studebaker National Museum, and the South Bend Riverwalk |
| Milwaukee, Wisconsin | 1 hour 45 minutes | Harley-Davidson Museum, Milwaukee Art Museum, and the Lakefront Brewery |
| Madison, Wisconsin | 2 hours | University of Wisconsin-Madison, Olbrich Botanical Gardens, and the Wisconsin State Capitol |
Conclusion
As you can see, there are plenty of fun places to visit near Chicago. From outdoor adventures to quirky attractions, and from historic sites to day trips, there’s something for everyone. So why not get out and explore the surrounding areas? You never know what hidden gems you might discover!
As we conclude our journey through the fun places to visit near Chicago, we hope you’ve been inspired to plan your next adventure. From the scenic beauty of the Indiana Dunes to the thrill of the Six Flags Great America roller coasters, there’s something for everyone in the Chicago area.
In this article, we explored the top attractions and activities that are within a short drive or train ride from the Windy City. We highlighted the unique experiences offered by the Brookfield Zoo, the Museum of Science and Industry, and the Navy Pier, among others. (See Also: Places To Visit Near Rome Italy)
We also touched on the great outdoors, with recommendations for hiking and biking in the Palos Forest Preserve and the Des Plaines River Trail. And for those who love the water, we suggested taking a boat tour of the Chicago River or visiting the popular beaches along Lake Michigan.
Whether you’re a foodie, a history buff, or an adrenaline junkie, there’s no shortage of exciting and fun places to visit near Chicago. We hope this article has provided you with some inspiration and ideas for your next trip.
So why wait? Start planning your next adventure today and discover the many fun places to visit near Chicago!
Here are five FAQs related to “Fun Places To Visit Near Chicago”:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some popular beaches near Chicago?
Chicago has several beautiful beaches within a short drive. Some popular options include North Avenue Beach, Oak Street Beach, and Montrose Beach. These beaches offer a relaxing day of swimming, sunbathing, and people-watching.
Are there any amusement parks near Chicago?
Yes, there are several amusement parks near Chicago that are perfect for families or thrill-seekers. Some popular options include Six Flags Great America in Gurnee, Illinois, and Mt. Prospect’s Centennial Park, which features a mini-golf course and an amusement park with roller coasters and other rides. (See Also: Unique Places To Visit Near Niagara Falls)
Can I visit any museums near Chicago?
Yes, there are many world-class museums near Chicago that are worth visiting. Some popular options include the Field Museum of Natural History, the Art Institute of Chicago, and the Museum of Science and Industry. These museums offer a wide range of exhibits and interactive displays that are fun for visitors of all ages.
Are there any scenic bike trails near Chicago?
Yes, there are several scenic bike trails near Chicago that offer a fun and relaxing way to explore the surrounding area. Some popular options include the Lakefront Trail, which runs along the shores of Lake Michigan, and the Palos Forest Preserve, which features over 20 miles of trails through wooded areas and wetlands.
Can I visit any zoos or aquariums near Chicago?
Yes, there are several zoos and aquariums near Chicago that are home to a wide range of animals from around the world. Some popular options include the Lincoln Park Zoo, the Brookfield Zoo, and the Shedd Aquarium. These zoos and aquariums offer interactive exhibits, animal feedings, and behind-the-scenes tours.