9 Road Trips to Take Before Summer Ends
Posted by:
Casey O'Connell
Chicago in the summertime is absolutely amazing – don’t get me wrong – but every once in a while it’s nice to take a quick weekend trip to get away from all of the hustle and bustle. If you’re like me, by the time August rolls around (wait, August is here?) it can seem like the summer is slipping away from you with so much left to do! We’ve rounded up a list of some of the best weekend road trip destinations for Chicagoans that you can still squeeze in before summer officially comes to an end.
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Indiana Dunes, IN (1 hr.) – So close to Chicago, the Indiana Dunes is a great place for a quick getaway. Go out and explore the Dunes’ 15 miles of beautiful Lake Michigan coastline, as well as great hiking trails, awesome fishing and wonderful hotels and shops.
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Grand Beach, MI (1 hr., 20 min.) – Located between Michigan City and New Buffalo, Grand beach has long been a favorite summer weekend getaway for Chicagoans. The most popular thing to do here is pack a cooler and head to the beach, but what else do you really need in a summer getaway?
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Lake Geneva, WI (1 hr., 30 min.) – Lake Geneva is one of the most popular summer weekend getaway locations for Chicagoans, and it’s not hard to see why. From the amazing town filled with local restaurants and shops, to the marinas, hotels, and beaches, it’s the perfect place to make a quick escape in the summertime.
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Starved Rock State Park, IL (1 hr., 57 min.) – If you’re living in Chicago, hiking is Starved Rock’s main attraction. There are over 13 miles of magnificent hiking trails, leading to waterfalls and beautiful wildlife. Also you can entertain yourself with trolley tours, horseback riding, boating and water cruises, as well as tons of opportunities for camping and fishing.
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Milwaukee, WI (2 hrs.) – Milwaukee has some very similar characteristics to Chicago, but it operates at a tad slower of a pace, which is part of what makes it so appealing as a weekend getaway location. Go visit Miller Park, or attend one of the many festivals that take place there during the summer. Milwaukee is also known for its wide selection of craft breweries and restaurants.
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Kohler, WI (2 hr., 45 min.) – If you’re looking to get away and get pampered, take a trip to the historic Kohler village and stay at Kohler Waters Spa at the American Club Resort. You’re sure to leave as relaxed and refreshed as ever.
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New Glarus, WI (3 hrs.) – Known as “America’s little Switzerland” New Glarus is a great place to go for a quick road trip destination, but also makes you feel like you’re in a different world. The town’s Swiss roots show through in their music festivals, food and architecture. Oh and we can’t forget about New Glarus Brewing Company – make sure to stop by there on your way through town!
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Door County, WI (4 hrs., 15 min.) – A bit further than the aforementioned destinations, Door county is unique because it is filled with tons of islands situated along a peninsula, providing more than 300 miles of magnificent shoreline. There are tons of activities in which to partake, from countless water sports to exploring Door County’s five beautiful state parks, it’s sure to entertain the entire family.
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Traverse City, MI (5 hrs.) – Again, not extremely close, but another great option that shouldn’t be overlooked. They call this place the “Caribbean of the North” and it’s easy to see why. Filled with beautiful beaches and tons to do, National Geographic names Traverse City one of its “Top 10 Summer Trips.” If you take a visit here you will find tons of opportunities for water activities, as well as hiking trails and more than 20 golf courses with gorgeous views. Reminds us of a Tim Allen commercial.
So, what are you waiting for, the dog days of summer? Tweet us @ChiAutoShow if you’ve already visited one or more of these destinations or whether you have something to add to the list!
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