Sometimes we need a getaway from busy life to somewhere quiet or somewhere you and your family can spend time together. But finding such destinations can be hectic work. If you live in Chicago and are looking for a road side trip solo or with group, there are number of wonderful lake destinations. These places offer you some amazing views and at the same time relaxing atmosphere, which is perfect of short trip. Read ahead to find out your next trip locations where you can enjoy nature very closely and make memories with your friends or family.
Lake Geneva in Wisconsin
It is about 90 minutes away from downtown Chicago and offers a perfect mix of clear water and walkable streets. You will find a 21 mile long Shore Path where you can walk and see amazing old estates along the way. It is a very popular resort town, so you get plenty of dining options and boat tours to enjoy your time.
New Buffalo in Michigan
This place is the closest real Lake Michigan beach town, and it takes just around 75 minutes to reach from the Loop. The sand here is beautiful, and watching the sunset over the open water is something you will definitely love. It gives you a great beach experience without having to drive for hours and hours.
Saugatuck and Douglas in Michigan
If you love art galleries and sand dunes, you should definitely check this area out. It is roughly two and a half hours away and features the famous Oval Beach, which many people consider one of the best around. You can spend your whole day browsing shops and then relaxing by the beautiful harbor.
Indiana Dunes in Indiana
This spot is just one hour outside of the city and can give you a much needed nature fix. The area offers great nature trails and sand dunes that feel like you’ve traveled hours away. The park is a perfect spot to spend a day in nature and still be able to come home at a reasonable time to rest.
South Haven in Michigan
This is a wonderful spot about two hours away where you can enjoy great beaches and even blueberry farms. You get to see a beautiful lighthouse and maybe try some local wineries if you like that sort of thing. It gets a bit crowded in summer, but the amazing views make it totally worth the trip.
Elkhart Lake in Wisconsin
People say this spring fed lake has some of the clearest water in the entire state. It sits about two and a half hours north, and it is very quiet unless there is a car race happening at the nearby track. You will appreciate the sandy bottom and the peaceful environment when you just need a serious break from the noise.
Green Lake in Wisconsin
At 237 feet deep, this is actually the deepest natural inland lake in Wisconsin. It is a three hour drive, so it works much better for a long weekend trip rather than a quick Friday night escape. You will find it very quiet and relaxing, with large resort hotels that have been there for a very long time.
Kenosha in Wisconsin
This town is located on the edge of Lake Michigan. With easy access via the train or interstate, Kenosha is an ideal destination for an outing that keeps everyone busy. Along the way are several beaches to explore. Some great museums, and the old historic downtown also provide fun activities. The water here is on the cool side but the lake lifestyle atmosphere is ideal for families.
Chain O Lakes in Illinois
Chain O Lakes is about 60 miles from downtown Chicago, so it is the most convenient place for you to go for boating. Rent a boat to tour the series of canals and enjoy some time out on the water. Chain O Lakes is not very organized, which means it’s great for taking it slow and doing as much or as little as you please on the water.
Delavan Lake in Wisconsin
If your main goal is fishing and a laid back environment, then this is a brilliant choice. It takes about one hour and forty minutes to get there, and you avoid the heavy crowds of the larger resort towns. It is a fantastic option when you just want to sit by the water and have a simple peaceful weekend.
