Best Weekend Getaways from Chicago for Families

Kristy Pepping said:  Galena offers Chicago families a great weekend trip to experience. A charming city on the Galena River in northwestern Illinois, Galena delights visitors with its 19th century history and architecture, trolley rides, eclectic shopping, candy and fudge shoppes, spas, great food, local wines and a wide range of lodging, including more than 30 B&Bs. Check out the U.S. Grant Museum, The Old Blacksmith Shop, Linmar Gardens and Apple River Fort Historic Site for history and fun!

Gina I. said:  You can find some of the most impressive nature hikes near Chicago just a couple hours away! Nestled in the Rock River Hills, Castle Rock State Park is home to stunning rock formations, ravines, and several distinct plant species. Take your family on several miles of marked trails (ranging from 1/4-2 miles), providing excellent opportunities to view woodland animals, native birds, and gorgeous scenic views. They offer several picnic areas, including playground equipment, grills, and bathroom facilities.

Gina I. said:  Rockford, IL, is a quick drive from Chicago. Check out the Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens located along Rock River. It's the 3rd largest conservatory in the state with many year round activities to experience. The Discovery Center Museum, too, is one of the best children's museums near Chicago. It's a hands-on children's (STEM) science museum with more than 300 interactive exhibits and a full calendar of special events and planetarium shows. Check out the Rock River Discovery Park, too! It's an awe-inspiring outdoor playground adored by kids!

Sarah D. said:  Looking for a family camping getaway near Chicago where you can happily unplug? Triponds Family Camp Resort brings everyone back to nature and has something for everyone in your family! The camp "resort" offers an array of lodging options from spacious camp sites to rustic cabins to family cottages with a kitchen and bath! Triponds has on-site mini-golf, a pool and three ponds (hence the name), on-site dining and ice cream and so much more! The bouncy pillow even features daily toddler hours so that even your littlest ones can enjoy themselves in a worry-free environment!

Kristy Pepping said:  Only a short drive from Chicago, Peoria sits along the Illinois River in Central Illinois. It offers plenty of outdoor activities and local history. Fun things to do with kids in Peoria include the Corn Stock Theatre, watching a ball game at Dozer Park, Hornbaker Gardens and checking out the Horse and Buggy Museum.

Kristy Pepping said:  The Quad Cities area consists of Davenport and Bettendorf in Iowa, and Moline, East Moline and Rock Island in Illinois. Located in Western Illinois and Eastern Iowa, the Quad Cities region brings you all the excitement of a big city with all the hospitality of a small town. Things to do in the Quad Cities with kids include the Niabi Zoo, Backwater Gamblers Water Ski Show, Quad City Botanical Center and Twilight River Cruises.

Kristy Pepping said:  From the award-winning downtown to the white sandy beaches, you'll fall in love with Holland's small town charm and big city amenities. Located in Southwestern Michigan, Holland offers waterfront dining, windmills, shopping for wooden shoes, and their famous Tulip Festival every May.