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Best Memorial Day Getaways Near Chicago

Want to take advantage of the long weekend without heading too far out of the city? There are several places close enough to Chicago to do in an easy trip but far enough away to feel like you're still getting away. Here are a few of the favorites.

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(Photo Credit: www.americanclubresort.com)

Kohler, Wisconsin
The American Club
419 Highland Drive
Kohler, WI 53044
(855) 444-2838
www.americanclubresort.com

Visit Kohler, WI for a relaxing spa getaway. Stay at the American Club hotel, which provides spa access and even a shuttle to get you to each amenity should you prefer not to walk the short distances. The Carriage House of The American Club is reputed to be the nicest of the three hotels connected to the Kohler Waters Spa. If you get tired of the 'healthy' spa treatments, change the pace of your trip and visit one of the many small museums in the area. The John Michael Kohler Arts Center is nearby and free to visit.

South Haven, Michigan
A Country Place Bed and Breakfast
79 Shore Drive N.
South Haven Charter Township, MI 49090
(269) 637-5523
www.acountryplacebedandbreakfast.com

If you're looking for a less pricey getaway, look no further than the beaches of South Haven, Michigan. There are several bed and breakfasts in the area to choose from, ranging from romantic to homey (click here for a list and descriptions). But after this winter, breakfasts served on the porch of the County Place Bed and Breakfast sound like just the thing. South Haven has a multitude of outdoor activities from fishing to boating if you're inclined in that direction, but it doesn't lack in shopping and museums either. Enjoy this quaint waterside town.

Cheshire
(Photo Credit: cheshirestl.com)

St. Louis, Missouri
The Cheshire
6300 Clayton Road
Saint Louis, MO 63117
(314) 647-7300
www.cheshirestl.com

St. Louis has a wealth of attractions for all times of the year, however, this Memorial Day, you can also enjoy the Bluesweek Festival. Enjoy some great blues music in the St. Louis Amphitheater while feasting on some BBQ and beer outdoors. Stay at The Cheshire hotel for something a little different than your normal chain hotel. Each room is named after an author and your stay includes a complimentary bookmark with your author's name. From there, explore the Arch, the museums and the nightlife to your heart's content.

Related: Five Free Ways To Celebrate Memorial Day In Chicago

Lake Geneva, Wisconsin
The Baker House
327 Wrigley Drive
Lake Geneva, WI 53147
(262) 248-4700
www.bakerhouse1885.com

You know that Lake Geneva is a great destination for enjoying water parks, both indoor and out, for the entire family. But come Memorial Day weekend, you can also experience the Burlington Chocolatefest. Of course, there are samples and demonstrations and there is also a decorating contest for the kids. Stay at the Baker House for a different feel including lakeside dining. Explore the quaint shops in the town and enjoy the beaches. Lake Geneva can truly be fun for the entire family or a couple.

Milwaukee, Wisconsin
County Clare
1234 N. Astor St.
Milwaukee, WI 53202
(414) 272-5273
www.countyclare-inn.com

Milwaukee is a short drive out of Chicago and often overlooked as a destination despite its spectacular zoo and wonderful shopping. Stay at the County Clare Irish Inn for something different than a normal chain. Within walking distance to the lakeside with a good pub within and charming rooms, you will want to visit again. While you're there, stop by Maxwell Street Days, a large and popular flea market taking place over Memorial Day weekend.

Related: Best Weekend Getaways In The Chicago Area

Meredith Lyons is an actor, competitive fighter and fitness instructor in Chicago who also owns an amazing cat named Jake. Meredith has been writing on Examiner as the Chicago Martial Arts Examiner since 2008. Her work can be found at Examiner.com.

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