Things to Do Outside Chicago

Chicago is one of the most vibrant cities in the United States and is home to some of the most iconic landmarks in the country. From the towering skyscrapers to the buzzing cafés, Chicago is filled with activities for people of all ages. But if you’re looking for something a bit different than the hustle and bustle of downtown, there are plenty of things to do outside of the city limits. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful weekend getaway or an adrenaline-filled adventure, here are some of the best things to do outside Chicago.

Explore the Outdoors

If you’re looking to explore the outdoors, there’s no better place than Illinois. From the lush forests in the north to the rolling hills in the south, the state is home to hundreds of parks and nature reserves. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful hike in a sheltered forest or an adrenaline-filled mountain biking session on rugged terrain, there are plenty of outdoor activities to choose from. With over 200 state parks and more than 100 public recreation areas, there’s something for everyone.

One of the most popular outdoor activities is camping. Illinois has a wide range of camping sites, ranging from rustic cabins to luxurious resorts. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful weekend away or a thrilling adventure, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from. Some of the best campsites include Starved Rock State Park, located in Utica, and Apple River Canyon, located in Elizabeth.

Experience Local Culture

Illinois has a rich cultural heritage that can be experienced through its many festivals and events. From music festivals and farmers’ markets to art exhibitions and food tastings, there’s something for everyone. If you’re looking for a lively atmosphere, head to one of the cities’ annual events such as Taste of Chicago or The Art Institute’s Summer Festival. However, if you’re looking for something more low-key, head to one of the small towns outside of Chicago such as Elburn or Paxton, where you can experience the local culture through farmers’ markets and small festivals.

Visit Local Wineries and Breweries

The state of Illinois is home to some of the best wineries and breweries in the Midwest. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing afternoon spent sampling local wines or a night out at one of the many local breweries, there are plenty of places to choose from. Some of the most popular wineries include Westport Winery in Galena, Scratch Brewing Company in Ava, and Noon Whistle Brewing Company in Lombard. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing afternoon or an evening spent sampling local brews, there are plenty of places to choose from.

Experience Unique Shopping Opportunities

Illinois is home to some of the best shopping destinations in the Midwest. From quaint antique shops to designer boutiques, there are plenty of places to explore. If you’re looking for something unique, head to Galena’s Main Street where you can shop for vintage clothing and antiques. Or if you’re looking for something modern, head to Chicago’s Magnificent Mile where you can explore designer boutiques and high-end stores.

Book a Tour of Chicago’s Architecture

Chicago is home to some of the most iconic architecture in the world. From the Sears Tower to the John Hancock Building, there’s something for everyone. Book a tour with Viator and explore some of the city’s most iconic buildings with an expert guide. Learn about the history and architecture of buildings such as The Rookery, The Monadnock Building, and The Wrigley Building and take in stunning views from some of the city’s tallest buildings. Book an architecture tour here and experience Chicago from a unique perspective.

Take a Lake Cruise Along Lake Michigan

Explore Lake Michigan from a unique perspective with a cruise along its shores. From sightseeing cruises that take you past some of Chicago’s most iconic landmarks to dinner cruises with live entertainment, there’s something for everyone. With Viator, you can book a three-hour cruise on an authentic paddlewheel riverboat that takes you along Lake Michigan’s north shore with stops at Navy Pier and Monroe Harbor. Enjoy stunning views of the city skyline and see some of Chicago’s most iconic landmarks from a unique perspective. Book a lake cruise here and experience Lake Michigan like never before.

Take a Food Tour in Evanston

Experience Evanston like never before with GetYourGuide’s Food Tour. Explore Evanston’s culinary delights with an expert guide who will take you through some of the city’s best restaurants, cafes, and bars. Sample some of Evanston’s finest dishes while learning about its history and culture from your guide. Visit some of Evanston’s most iconic restaurants such as The Keg and Sushi Kushi and sample dishes such as classic American burgers and Japanese sushi rolls. Book a food tour here and experience Evanston like never before.

Visit Starved Rock State Park

Starved Rock State Park is one of Illinois’ most popular parks and is home to a variety of wildlife and stunning scenery. The park is located along the Illinois River and offers a variety of activities for visitors including hiking, camping, fishing, horseback riding, and more. Explore majestic sandstone canyons on one of the park’s many trails or take a leisurely stroll along one of its scenic riverside paths. With over 13 miles of trails and two campgrounds, Starved Rock State Park is one of Illinois’ most popular parks and offers something for everyone. Book a tour here and experience Starved Rock’s breathtaking beauty like never before.

Conclusion

From exploring nature parks to experiencing local culture, there are plenty of things to do outside Chicago. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful weekend away or an adrenaline-filled adventure, there are plenty of activities to choose from. For those who are looking to explore nature, there are plenty of parks and nature reserves around Illinois. And for those who are looking for something more culturally stimulating, there are plenty of festivals and events taking place throughout the year. No matter what type of experience you’re looking for, Chicago has something for everyone!