Lonely PlanetJul 17, 2026
11 perfect day trips from Chicago
Explore beyond the endless delights of The Windy City with these 11 excellent day trips from Chicago.
20 things in this story
- Illinois Rock & Roll MuseumMuseumlearn about acclaimed icons of the music industry
- Rialto Square TheaterTheatremagnificent theater to tour
- Old Joliet PrisonSightbrave the halls of the former prison
- Joe’s Hot DogsFast foodlocal favorite serving up classics since 1953
- Midewin National Tallgrass PrairieTrailrestored prairie habitat home to endangered species
- Elsewhere
- Chicago BanditsPlaceRosemont, United Statesprofessional women's softball team
- Fashion Outlets of ChicagoSightRosemont, United Statesshopping destination recommended by a Bandits pitcher
- Carmine’sRestaurantRosemont, United StatesItalian spot recommended by a Bandits pitcher
- American Toby Jug MuseumMuseumEvanston, United Statesworld's largest collection of character-shaped jugs
- Baha’i House of WorshipSightEvanston, United Statesgrandiose temple surrounded by peaceful gardens
- Northwestern University Sailing CenterPlaceEvanston, United Statesrent sailboats, kayaks, or stand-up paddleboards
- HewnBakeryEvanston, United Statesfavorite bakery for brioche-laden pastries
- Frank Lloyd Wright Home and StudioMuseumOak Park, United Stateswhere Wright developed his famous Prairie style
- Unity TemplePlace of worshipOak Park, United Statesseminal building in modern architecture, UNESCO World Heritage site
- Hemingway Birthplace MuseumMuseumOak Park, United Statesgives a peek at Ernest Hemingway's formative years
- 671 LincolnSightWinnetka, United Statesprivate residence, home of the McCallister family in Home Alone
- Chicago Botanic GardenSightGlencoe, United Statesoffers scenic walking and biking trails
- Skokie LagoonsNature reserveGlencoe, United Statesyear-round retreat for nature enthusiasts
- Stadium at Parkway Bank Sports ComplexSightRosemont, United Stateshome base for the Chicago Bandits softball team
- Miller Brewing CompanyRestaurantMilwaukee, United Statesfamous Milwaukee brand