No one likes the idea of doing the exact same thing all the time with little or no variation in life. It makes things very boring and it can make a person feel like they’re not really living, but merely existing. The truth of the matter is that you have to spice things up every once in a while. If you don’t ever change up your routine, then you also don’t have the opportunity to find new favorite activities or even just remind yourself that you don’t merely exist to be the human equivalent of a hamster on a wheel day after day. The question is, what types of things can you do that are within a reasonable distance and don’t cost you a small fortune, yet also give you the opportunity to feel like you’re actually living life again? If you’re in or near the state of Illinois, you’re in luck. This is especially true if you’ve got a romantic side to you. As it turns out, there are quite a few things that you can do for a romantic getaway within the state, whether that involves an extended trip or something that you only have a day to complete. Here are twenty of them listed below.
20. Harvey House Bed and Breakfast (Chicago)
There are plenty of things that set this particular facility apart from a lot of others, not the least of which is the fact that you can get a suite with a king-size bed and a private whirlpool. The facility also offers couples massages and they even have special packages for individuals who want to go the extra mile. If you’re interested, you can purchase one of their special champagne and chocolates packages for an extra $40 in order to get things started off on the right foot.
19. The Homestead (Chicago)
There are a lot of things that make this particular location special. Perhaps the thing that really sets it apart is the fact that it’s located in a part of Chicago where you have virtually any type of activity you could ever dream of right at your fingertips. Enjoy theaters, shops and restaurants of the highest quality, all while having an opportunity to get a real feel for the city. When you’re finished exploring, you have the opportunity to come back to this facility which genuinely feels more like coming into an upscale home than anything else. If you want to catch a glimpse of what it might be like to live that type of lifestyle where you have an exquisite home and an opportunity to spend your day doing things that make you feel fulfilled deep inside, this is a perfect opportunity to do exactly that.
18. Timmerman House (outside St. Louis)
Maybe you’re not particularly interested in the idea of spending yet more time in the city. Maybe you are looking for something that will give you an opportunity to get out into the countryside in order to enjoy some peace and quiet and get away from it all for a while. If that’s the case, then this is the place you need to be. The first thing that you’re likely to notice when you look at the grounds here is that it looks like a typical house that you would see sitting in the countryside. Secluded and constructed of brick, it’s enough to make you feel more adventurous the moment you step on the property. Once you get there, you can enjoy things like hiking, fishing and golf. It’s the perfect getaway if you want some alone time with your significant other, yet you don’t particularly enjoy the posh lifestyle that is offered by some of these other options included on this list.
17. Market Street Bed & Breakfast (Taylorville)
This is often considered one of the most quintessential bed and breakfasts within the entire state. It’s been there for decades. One of the more interesting things about its history is that before he became president of the United States, Abraham Lincoln actually stayed there. That fact alone is enough to get most history buffs through the door. Once you get there, you have an opportunity to enjoy food and entertainment that is decidedly true to the state of Illinois, up to and including tomato pie. If the idea of staying in a Victorian house that’s been completely refurbished and enjoying the simple comforts that are synonymous with the state of Illinois appeals to you, then this one is hard to beat.
16. Maple Leaf Cottage Inn (Maple Leaf)
One of the most interesting things about this particular getaway is that it gives you a chance to explore the countryside and participate in activities such as hiking and rock climbing so you can get away from everything that makes you feel like you have to constantly do more and run faster. Of course, if that isn’t what you’re really looking for in a romantic weekend, you can always cuddle next to each other and watch a movie from the cottage’s rather extensive DVD Library.
15. Sybaris (Chicago)
This is one of the nicest looking places to get away for a romantic weekend in Chicago or virtually any other place in the country. As a matter of fact, the facility was voted the most romantic getaway in the entirety of the United States on more than one occasion. Once you get there, it’s easy to see why. In addition to having amazingly large suites complete with King-size beds, a television that takes up the majority of an entire wall and room service that rivals any five-star hotel in the world, the suite also comes complete with an individual indoor heated pool. The pools aren’t exactly small, either. In fact, they are large enough that you can enjoy a little bit of fun by sliding into them. In addition to the pools, you can also ask for a suite that has its own whirlpool and a number of other amenities. In short, you can find just about anything you want here so if you’re having problems finding what you’re looking for in this facility, a romantic getaway may not be the thing you’re actually looking for in the first place.
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14. Stillman Inn (Galena)
There’s no doubt about it, this is a beautiful mansion that’s been standing since the mid-1800s, 1858 to be exact. It’s also steeped in history, being right next to General Grant’s house and a number of other historical landmarks. Inside, the entire facility is finished to highlight its Victorian-era roots. It’s a perfect getaway for a couple who is looking for something that’s cozy and historical at the same time. There’s also plenty to explore around the facility and if you’re interested, you can purchase a special package there that includes wine, chocolate and a $50 gift card to a local restaurant.
13. Cloran Mansion Bed & Breakfast (Galena)
Just like the location listed in the above paragraph, this one is in Galena, Illinois. It’s also another multi-story Victorian-era mansion that will get your attention the moment you lay eyes on it. Beautifully restored, it comes complete with a romantic courtyard where you can enjoy a nice dinner. There are plenty of other amenities as well. First and foremost, you can tour the garden that is there on the ground or explore some of the other historical landmarks in the area. If you’re interested, you can even purchase a couples massage that lasts for an hour and other packages that include wine and a gourmet dinner. The next morning, you have your choice of several options for your complimentary breakfast. It really is an experience that is meant to be enjoyed to the fullest and they make it very easy to do exactly that.
12. Hilton Chicago Indian Lakes (Chicago)
This one seems to have everything. You can play golf, enjoy the indoor atrium that is no less than six stories high, or sit beside one of the many indoor waterfalls. There’s also a pool located on the grounds, one indoors and one outside. If you feel like being pampered, enjoy the spa that’s located on the grounds and make the most out of your experience.
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11. Creekside Vineyard Inn (Coal Valley)
Just as the name implies, this facility is, at its heart, a vineyard. If you love the idea of touring a vineyard and going on a wine tasting tour, there are a few things that could be more fitting than a bed and breakfast that is also a working vineyard. If you’re so inclined, you even have the opportunity to enjoy an entire bottle of wine that is made right there on the grounds.
10. Chestnut Inn (Henry)
Maybe you’re in the mood for something that you would probably never expect to find in Illinois. Here, you have the opportunity to enjoy a romantic weekend getaway that makes you feel more like you’re in the Mediterranean than anywhere else. The facility is located in an old, restored farmhouse but the atmosphere and the food provided are all distinctly Mediterranean in nature. If you’re looking for something that’s a little bit different, this might be exactly what you’ve been hoping to find.
9. Goldmoor Inn (Galena)
Another romantic getaway located in Galena, this one is one of the more unique romantic getaways in the entire state. It used to be a private residence and it looks just like a castle, but it is actually one of the best romantic getaways that you can find. There are even individual log cabins that you can stay in that are dotted around the property. Each of them has its own heated whirlpool for your enjoyment. When you’re ready to eat, you don’t even have to get out of the cabin if you don’t want to. They will deliver your meals directly to your cabin.
8. The Langham Chicago (Chicago)
This is not just a romantic getaway, but also a five-star hotel. If there is something you can think of, you can bet that they have it. From private suites to a luxurious indoor swimming pool and fine dining, this facility has it all. It’s the perfect place to enjoy all that Chicago has to offer in one of the most luxurious settings you could ever imagine.
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7. Bishop’s Hill (Oak Park)
This is one of the more quaint romantic getaways that you’ll find in the state. It’s also located right next to Ernest Hemingway’s old house. If you’re a history buff or you love writing, this could easily be one of the most interesting romantic getaways you’ll ever have the chance to enjoy.
6. Victorian Rose Garden (Algonquin)
This is a great place to get away from everything and enjoy home cooked meals that are truly second to none. If you’re looking for a quiet place where you can just relax, recharge and focus on one another, this is one of the best options available to you. Better yet, you get to do it all in gorgeous surroundings that are meant to help you relax from the moment you walk in the door.
5. Hawk Valley Retreat & Cottages (Galena)
This is a great, out-of-the-way place to relax and get away from it all. It’s also one of the best places that you can visit if you want to do some sightseeing. Whatever you have in store with that special someone, all of it is made better by being in a beautiful place with wonderful food where you don’t have to lift a finger in order to enjoy all of it.
4. Essence Suites (Orland Park)
Imagine being able to visit a truly modern facility that has nothing but your best interests at heart. That’s exactly what you get here. From the King-size bed to the heated whirlpool that’s located directly in your suite, everything is designed to make romance blossom. You can even order your own bottle of wine or champagne in order to kick off the festivities.
3. Copperstone Inn (Rockton)
In addition to having the opportunity to visit a building that is truly magnificent in its own right, everything here is all about allowing you to stop focusing on the world around you and start focusing on your special relationship with one another. Go sightseeing, enjoy a walk on the spacious grounds or spend time cuddling up in your room. Enjoy wine and some of the best food in the state while you’re at it. It really doesn’t get much better than this.
2. Kishauwau Cabins (Tonica)
If you’re the type that enjoys something a bit more rugged, this might be just for you. It is more secluded and it definitely looks more rugged on the outside, but on the inside, it looks like a nice, cozy place to get romantic. If you have pets and you’re interested in bringing them along for your special weekend, you can do that here. There’s also a kitchen in each cabin and all the cabins are air-conditioned so you can stay comfortable throughout your stay.
1. Grand Bear Resort at Starved Rock (Utica)
This is a place that has practically everything you could ever want. Each room has its own fireplace and heated whirlpool. If that’s not enough to get you interested, consider the fact that there is an indoor pool and even a fitness center so you can keep up with your workout regimen after you have enjoyed a weekend of romance. The food at the restaurant is second to none and there is a bar located on the premises. There really is something for everyone here.
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