Ask The Expert: Best Ways To Prepare For A Spring Break Staycation In Chicago
With spring break right around the corner, Chicagoans are starting to contemplate vacation ideas that don't require too much travel. These difficult economic times are showing that many Americans are downsizing on their travel plans. However, downsizing in expense doesn't necessarily mean downsizing on quality. Opting for a staycation in the Chicago area can be a great way to save on travel expenses for spring break while taking advantage of some of the great hotels and resorts the area has to offer.
Eagle Ridge Resort & Spa
444 Eagle Ridge Drive
Galena, IL 61036
(815) 777-5000
www.eagleridge.com
Perfect for every type of getaway, there are packages at different price points. There are three different golf packages to choose from, two different spa packages, romantic getaways and even family time packages perfect for children of all ages. This is a great vacation spot for those looking to get out of the city without having to travel too far away. Recommended by Kate C. Ficke of The Travel Gallery, the price can sometimes drive off those looking for a more inexpensive trip. However, because of the many amenities and activities that cater to differing personalities and preferences, this is a resort to look into for staycation travel.
Related: Best Campgrounds in the Chicago Area
American Club Resort
Inn on Woodlake
705 Woodlake Road
Kohler, WI 53044
(920) 457-8000
www.americanclubresort.com
Price: Packages starting at $128
Another recommendation from Kate at The Travel Gallery, this resort is only a few hours' drive from Chicago to Wisconsin. It offers packages for spa retreats, couples packages and family vacation stays. Many of the packages offer discounted prices on spa services, movie theater snacks and food and beverage credits. The picturesque Inn on Woodlake resort gives the feel of a mountainous chalet, without all the travel expense and headache in flying.
Related: Escape to the Tropics In Chicago
Clock Tower Resort
7801 E. State St.
Rockford, IL 61108
(815) 398-6000
www.clocktowerresort.com
Kate of The Travel Gallery recommended this Best Western resort, emphasizing the inexpensive price. The Best Western Clock Tower Resort contains one of the largest indoor water resorts in Illinois, CoCo Key Water Resort. There are special packages that include water park passes, Discovery Center Children's Museum passes and additional activities geared towards families and kids. However, with 24-hour fitness centers, tennis courts, basketball courts, flat-screen televisions and whirlpool suites, this resort caters to more than just families. Spring breakers will enjoy the inexpensive dining options featuring the Tilted Kilt Pub and Eatery.
Key Lime Cove
1700 Nations Drive
Gurnee, IL 60031
(877) 360-0403
www.keylimecove.com
Located less than an hour from downtown Chicago, this resort is directly across from Six Flags. Children two or younger are free and there are constant specials and package discounts. Those who sign up for Club KeyLime have first access to promotional offers on vacation stays. This is a great way to spend a spring break with the whole family or a couple looking to get away from the stresses of the city.
Pheasant Run Resort
4051 E. Main St.
St. Charles, IL 60174
(630) 584-6300
www.pheasantrun.com
The convenient location draws in travelers, being less than an hour from Chicago with easy access to both airports. There are two theaters, including the largest professional, award-winning theater within the area. The Zanies Comedy Club features constant entertainment, there are always numerous antique shows and even featured entertainment shows like The Art of Murder. Instead of opting for the typical spring break vacation, choose a more eclectic stay from the largest entertainment resort in the Midwest.
About Kate C. Ficke:
The Travel Gallery has been serving travel needs out of Chicago since 1976. Specializing in a number of different travel options from international cruises to domestic family vacations, Kate was able to recommend a few different locations for those looking to travel close to the Chicago area.
Sara Lugardo is a Korean American who thrives in writing about Asian community news in Chicago. She has a Bachelor's in Communication and is currently working on her Master's. Her work can be found on Examiner.com.
