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

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.

Chicago's Underrated Suburb Is A Village With Beachside Parks, Fishing Spots, And Small-Town Charm

staff@islands.com (Jen Ottolino) — Tue, 28 Apr 2026 23:00:00 +0000

This small suburb, nestled in Northern Illinois, offers laidback, lakeside vibes just outside the Windy City with retro diners and plenty of annual events.

Chicago's 'Magic Hedge' Is Found At A Lake Michigan Bird Sanctuary With Beach Trails And Rare Sightings

staff@islands.com (Rene Bennett) — Sun, 26 Apr 2026 19:45:00 +0000

Along Lake Michigan in Chicago, this quiet natural area draws the most avid birdwatchers with rare species, migration activity, and beachside paths.

The US Airport With The Most Flights In 2026 So Far

staff@islands.com (Rachel Dennis) — Fri, 24 Apr 2026 00:15:00 +0000

This Midwest airport has recorded the most flights in 2026 so far, with hundreds of millions of travelers projected to pass through this year.

America's Hands-Down Best Breakfast Restaurants, According To Reviews

staff@islands.com (Jenna Intersimone) — Thu, 23 Apr 2026 14:30:00 +0000

Breakfast is often considered to be the most important meal of the day and it just may be the tastiest -- especially at these U.S. hot spots.

Chicago's Classic Park Has An Underground, Artsy Feel

staff@islands.com (Jess Simms) — Wed, 22 Apr 2026 18:45:00 +0000

Home to sports fields, a swimming pool, and tons of annual concerts, this Chicago park is a wonderful year-round destination for all sorts of activities.

Chicago Or New York: Which City Really Has The Best Food?

staff@islands.com (Rachel Dennis) — Mon, 20 Apr 2026 23:45:00 +0000

From deep dish pizza and Chicago-style hot dogs to a New York slice and classic delicatessen delights, is Chicago or New York City a better foodie spot?

A Small Illinois Village Is Transforming Into A Lively Chicago Suburb With A Cute Main Street

staff@islands.com (Rebecca High) — Wed, 15 Apr 2026 23:45:00 +0000

Experience the relaxing vibe of small-town life while supporting a variety of local businesses in this growing village located west of Chicago.

This Charming Chicago City Park Right Next To Navy Pier Offers Intimate Lakeside Views

staff@islands.com (Erika W. Smith) — Tue, 14 Apr 2026 21:00:00 +0000

Any time you find a quiet getaway in a major city, it feels special. The same goes for this small park right in the heart of Chicago's downtown.

Illinois' Tiny Village Outside Chicago Is A Historic Golfing Haven

staff@islands.com (Rebecca High) — Tue, 14 Apr 2026 12:45:00 +0000

A tiny village near Chicago, Illinois has been a golfing haven since the days that most of its patrons arrived on horseback, and it remains renowned today.