Islands - Expert Travel Info & Tips: From Islands, to Mountains, & Everything In Between

The Best Cities And Towns Sandwiched Between Chicago And Columbus For A Perfect Midwest Getaway

staff@islands.com (Kate Mothes) — Fri, 03 Jul 2026 14:30:00 +0000

Scenic drives, charming stops, and great food make these underrated towns and cities between Columbus to Chicago are perfect for a memorable Midwest road trip.

What Chicago's 5 Best Suburbs To Visit All Have In Common

staff@islands.com (Jen Ottolino) — Sun, 21 Jun 2026 17:45:00 +0000

Just beyond Chicago's skyline, these five suburbs often captivate visitors more than the city itself, and they all share several important characteristics.

The Midwest's 10 Most Beautiful Beaches For Warm-Weather Summer Fun On Lake Michigan

staff@islands.com (Jen Ottolino) — Sat, 20 Jun 2026 19:45:00 +0000

Head to these gorgeous beaches along Lake Michigan for a nostalgic summer of concession stand popsicles, splashing in the water, and hiking the dunes.

Chicago's Family-Friendly Suburb Is A Village Brimming With Parks And Laidback Charm

staff@islands.com (Christine Dulion) — Tue, 16 Jun 2026 21:00:00 +0000

Looking for a getaway the entire family can enjoy that isn't the usual theme park or shopping? This village, southwest of the city, offers a serene experience.

5 Must-See Art And Architecture Spots In Chicago, According To A Local

staff@islands.com (Erika W. Smith) — Mon, 15 Jun 2026 16:00:00 +0000

The Windy City is loaded with gorgeous art, from stunning Art Deco skyscrapers to a world-class collection of Impressionist masterpieces - here's where to look.

12 Most Jaw-Dropping Train Stations Across The US

staff@islands.com (Jenna Intersimone) — Sun, 14 Jun 2026 16:30:00 +0000

The journey can be just as important as the destination, especially if you are traveling through one of these stunning train stations in the U.S.

Downtown Chicago's Last Remaining Route 66 Motel Is A Nostalgic Escape Back To The '60s

staff@islands.com (Anna Robinson) — Mon, 08 Jun 2026 09:15:00 +0000

Chicago was famously the starting point of Route 66, and there's still one classic motel on the historic road that you can stay at in the Windy City.

The Article Of Clothing In Chicago That Could Get You Booed When Visiting

staff@islands.com (Nola Sarkisian-Miller) — Sun, 07 Jun 2026 11:45:00 +0000

When visiting Chicago, avoid disrupting local life and being targeted by booing by saving this article of clothing for once you're back home.

5 Best Things To Do In Chicago This Summer That Locals Swear By

staff@islands.com (Kaylee Giacomini-Moran) — Sun, 31 May 2026 17:45:00 +0000

If you'll be spending some time in Chicago this summer, we've got a list of activities that won't make you look like a tourist. They're all favored by locals.

Not Portland, Not Denver: This Vibrant City Has The Most Breweries In The US

staff@islands.com (Erika W. Smith) — Fri, 29 May 2026 19:45:00 +0000

Dubbed the "Beer Capital of America," this Midwest metropolis is a haven for craft beer fanatics with unique microbreweries and age-old favorites.

Nearly Half Of Chicago's Beaches Are Cracking Down On A Fee Travelers Should Be Aware Of In 2026

staff@islands.com (Bridget Gleeson) — Mon, 25 May 2026 14:45:00 +0000

Headed to the sandy shores of Lake Michigan? Here's what visitors should know about parking changes coming to Chicago's beaches this summer.

The Midwest's 6 Most Charming Walkable Piers Promise Sweet Summer Fun

staff@islands.com (Rene Bennett) — Wed, 20 May 2026 11:45:00 +0000

Even without an ocean, the Midwest boasts several stunning and unique piers boasting lighthouse views, restaurants, historic sites, and other activities.

Chicago's Historic Suburb Is An Illinois Village With A Quaint Downtown And Stunning Golf Courses

staff@islands.com (Sara Caskey) — Mon, 18 May 2026 02:00:00 +0000

If you are looking for gorgeous golf courses and a small town with a charming vibe, this Chicago suburb is worth the train ride in from the city.

US Airport Hotels That Will Make You Want An Overnight Layover

staff@islands.com (Rebekah Winters Barton) — Sun, 17 May 2026 22:30:00 +0000

While airport hotels might seem like a place of last resort, these cushy landings make a long layover feel like a blessing instead of a curse.

Chicago's Charming Afternoon Tea Destination Is A Historic, Senior-Friendly Experience

staff@islands.com (Sara Caskey) — Sat, 16 May 2026 22:45:00 +0000

Not only does it offer a variety of teas, but this historic spot in Chicago features a luxurious dining area and is close to several other attractions.

Hands-Down, The 10 Best Chicago Suburbs To Visit, According To Locals

staff@islands.com (Rosheda Stephenson) — Fri, 08 May 2026 14:30:00 +0000

Chicago is one of the most visited cities in the U.S., but people who stick to the city limits are missing a lot of things to see and do in its suburbs.

Here's The Right Way To Visit Chicago's Museums If You Don't Want To Waste Time In Lines

staff@islands.com (Lucie Grace) — Sat, 02 May 2026 14:45:00 +0000

The line to get in to most of Chicago's museums can be awfully long, but you don't have to waste half the day waiting to just get in if you prepare.

Chicago's Charming Suburb Offers A Slice Of Tuscany With A Family-Friendly Vibe, Diverse Eats, And Local Shops

staff@islands.com (Ishaan Arora) — Sat, 02 May 2026 00:15:00 +0000

For a family day trip to the sister city of Pisa, Italy, check out this Chicago suburb with its vast range of culture and authentic Greek and Polish eats.

Chicago's Once-Thriving Quarry Turned Landfill Is Now A Vibrant Haven For Trails, Fishing, And Birdwatching

staff@islands.com (Jess Simms) — Fri, 01 May 2026 16:45:00 +0000

This unexpected industrial site in Chicago's Bridgeport neighborhood has new life as a leafy park where visitors can sit on the pond pier or take a stroll.

Chicago's Oldest Restaurant Is A Family-Owned Gem That You Can Still Dine At Today

staff@islands.com (Jenna Kelley) — Fri, 01 May 2026 11:45:00 +0000

Whether you're looking for a hearty meal of chicken and waffles or a classic club sandwich that's out of this world, this local favorite has got you covered.