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

The Best Day Trips From Chicago, According To Locals

staff@islands.com (Jenna Intersimone) — Mon, 27 Jul 2026 16:30:00 +0000

Chicago is a metropolitan playground with plenty to see and do, however, you can also have an excellent time on a day trip within 2 hours of the city.

5 US Airports With The Best Parking (And 5 With The Worst)

staff@islands.com (Rebekah Winters Barton) — Sun, 26 Jul 2026 12:30:00 +0000

If you're lucky, you can grab a cab to the airport or a ride from a friend. If you have to drive yourself, though, some airports are better than others.

14 Best Midwest Camping Destinations To Visit

staff@islands.com (Kate Mothes) — Sat, 25 Jul 2026 16:30:00 +0000

While the Midwest may not seem as exciting as the coastal regions, there are plenty of attractions here, especially if you're a lover of the outdoors.

Outside Chicago Is Illinois' Hilly Nature Preserve With Wetland Trails, Birdwatching, And Remote Beauty

staff@islands.com (Kaylee Giacomini-Moran) — Tue, 21 Jul 2026 19:00:00 +0000

Chicago might bring to mind thoughts of the big city - but this nature preserve located nearby offers some of the most remote experiences in the state.

The Best Fried Fish Spots Worth Visiting In Every State

staff@islands.com (Rosheda Stephenson) — Tue, 21 Jul 2026 12:30:00 +0000

Seafood lovers can rejoice that every restaurant on our list ranks highly on Google and offers crispy, golden-brown treats from the sea (and lots of sides).

Between Indianapolis And Aurora Is A Small Midwest City With Local Eats, A Museum, And A Charming Downtown

staff@islands.com (Jess Simms) — Tue, 21 Jul 2026 12:00:00 +0000

If you're looking for an inviting, small town with just the right mix of events, restaurants, and even a little nightlife, this one might be right for you.

Illinois' Underrated Chicago Suburb Has Idyllic River Trails, A Summer Festival, And Local Eats

staff@islands.com (Sam Scott) — Mon, 20 Jul 2026 21:45:00 +0000

Roughly an hour outside of Chicago is a quaint village ideal for quiet getaways, with a family-friendly summer festival, cozy eateries, and outdoor spots.

Between Indianapolis And Peoria Is Illinois' Lake State Park With Forest Camping, Scenic Trails, And Fishing

staff@islands.com (Anahid Akkam) — Mon, 20 Jul 2026 19:00:00 +0000

Illinois hides a state park that's a peaceful lake retreat with forest camping, scenic trails, fishing, and quiet natural beauty for a refreshing getaway.

One Of 'America's Most Scenic Byways' Is A Breathtaking Midwest Adventure Hub Along The Illinois River

staff@islands.com (Olivia Typaldos) — Sun, 19 Jul 2026 20:00:00 +0000

A nationally beloved riverside byway through Illinois passes by spectacular scenery, including natural wonders and charming Midwest towns.

This Park Right On The Illinois River Charms With Pretty Walking Paths, Wildlife, And Nearby Family Fun

staff@islands.com (Ben M Stower) — Sun, 19 Jul 2026 17:00:00 +0000

An urban hideaway right on the river, this park is loved by families for its gentle walking paths, tree-covered lawns, and easy access to fun activities.

Between Rockford And Peoria, Illinois Is A Historic City With River Views, A Unique Museum, And Fun On The Water

staff@islands.com (Rebecca High) — Sat, 18 Jul 2026 12:25:00 +0000

Hidden along the Illinois River, this historic destination offers waterfront parks, a renowned duck decoy museum, local restaurants, and outdoor recreation.

Between Indianapolis And Peoria Is A Scenic Forest Preserve With River Views, Fishing, And Hiking

staff@islands.com (Olivia Typaldos) — Sat, 18 Jul 2026 03:45:00 +0000

Not only does this forest preserve offer hiking, fishing, and river views, but the region has ties to Abraham Lincoln, making it a historic destination.

10 Once-Thriving US Quarries That Now Lay Eerily Abandoned

staff@islands.com (Rebekah Winters Barton) — Tue, 14 Jul 2026 12:30:00 +0000

If you love history or visiting spooky places, you'll have fun exploring these quarries that once helped shape the U.S. and now stand deserted.

Between Chicago And Starved Rock State Park Is Illinois' Quaint Village With Scenic Parks

staff@islands.com (Joe Orovic) — Mon, 13 Jul 2026 01:00:00 +0000

This village may be small, with a population of only about 2,500 people, but it offers a quiet escape with green spaces, a historic trail, and comfort food.

Just West Of Chicago Is A Growing Suburb With River Views, Outdoor Adventure, And Cozy Dining

staff@islands.com (Anna Smith) — Thu, 09 Jul 2026 16:45:00 +0000

If you want to visit an Illinois city on the water, but don't want Chicago's noise, you can check out this suburb that has trails and riverside restaurants.

Forget Yellowstone, Bison Roam Wild In Illinois' Hugely Underrated Prairie Preserve Just Over An Hour From Chicago

staff@islands.com (Will Suphan) — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 12:25:00 +0000

The small preserve has half a dozen bison roaming around, making it a great spot to catch a glimpse what hiking or just relaxing outside the city.

Illinois' Serene Peoria Suburb Is A Wooded City With Parks, Trails, And Quaint Vibes

staff@islands.com (Isaiah Reynolds) — Sat, 04 Jul 2026 18:00:00 +0000

There's not much going on in this community, and that's the point: The best thing to do is head to one of the handful of parks to enjoy a day in the woods.

Illinois' Friendly Chicago Suburb Has Natural Beauty, Small-Town Charm, And Local Eats

staff@islands.com (Karla Demery) — Sat, 04 Jul 2026 12:25:00 +0000

Less than an hour outside of Chicago, and easily reachable by public transportation, there's a quiet little town with great parks and surprisingly good food.

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.

Between Milwaukee And Chicago Is Illinois' Charming Village With A Historic Downtown, Cute Shops, And Lake Views

staff@islands.com (Jen Ottolino) — Thu, 02 Jul 2026 09:15:00 +0000

Looking for a weekend trip in northern Illinois? This lakeside destination offers historic architecture, unique local businesses, waterfront parks, and dining.