Best Memorial Day Getaways Near Chicago

When it comes to spending a three-day weekend, you might want to do something besides gobbling up hamburgers and tackling your to-do list of projects around the house. So this Memorial Day weekend, consider packing your bags and your car and leaving the Chicago area. From quick day trips to a full weekend away, there are plenty of options for getting away from Chicago to celebrate the start of summer. For an additional list of getaway locales near Chicago, check out this article.

Galena, Illinois
Galena Welcome Center
123 N. Commerce St.
Galena, IL 61036
(888) 942-5362
www.visitgalena.org

If you're looking for a destination that fits the bill for history buffs, shoppers and hikers then consider making plans to visit Galena, Illinois, over Memorial Day weekend. The town abounds with walking tours, historic sites that include the home of Ulysses S. Grant and stretch back to the early nineteenth century, and plenty of places to sip a glass of wine and grab a bite to eat. Those who prefer the great outdoors will enjoy riding bikes throughout the hilly landscape, hiking and more. Galena is about 180 miles from downtown Chicago.

Get ready to do some hiking while driving only about 50 miles from downtown Chicago when you visit Indiana Dunes. The dunes, located on Lake Michigan, offer spots for exploration, hiking, fishing, paddling and other outdoor recreation. While you're in the area, consider taking a look at the shops, restaurants and historical museums. The area boasts a wide range of restaurants offering an assortment of cuisine.

If you can't spend the entire weekend away from home, then consider taking a day trip to Kenosha, Wisconsin. Located about 60 miles north of downtown Chicago and right on scenic Lake Michigan, Kenosha offers a wide selection of museums, shopping and more. Many activities are free. Kenosha Public Museum is a must-see stop and gives visitors an inside look at the history of the area. While you're there, pick up some fresh fruit, vegetables and baked goods for your barbecue at the Kenosha Harbor Market.

Related: Getaway Guide: One-Tank Trip to Kenosha, WI

Instead of visiting one city, consider checking out four along the Mississippi River by taking a trip to the Quad Cities. This actually consists of five cities. The cities include Davenport and Bettendorf, Iowa, and East Moline, Moline and Rock Island, Illinois. The area boasts something for everyone. Learn about tractors, combines and other agricultural equipment at the John Deere Pavilion. Enjoy a ride up and down the Mississippi River, or play golf at one of the numerous courses in the area. Visitors can cool their heels by taking in a play, concert or catching a game in the area also. The Quad Cities are about a three-hour drive west of Chicago.

Whether you're looking for some new artwork for your home or just want to peruse what's available, consider making your plans for Saugatuck, Michigan. The town and the surrounding area is home to a number of galleries using photography, painting and more. Billed as, the art coast of Michigan, the area also has a wide selection of cafes, restaurants, bakeries, and unique shops. Saugatuck is about 150 miles from Chicago.

Related: Best Memorial Day Getaways Near Chicago