Known just as much for its farmlands and forests as for the bustling city of Chicago has something great to offer almost every type of visitor. This includes an excellent selection of resorts. The choices range from peaceful nature retreats tucked away in the countryside to chic spa resorts found inside lofty Chicago high rise buildings, perfect for a relaxing weekend.
Chestnut Mountain Resort, Galena
The Chestnut Mountain Resort in Galena offers a fun-filled family vacation destination just about all year round. In winter visitors can enjoy excellent conditions and facilities for snowboarding and skiing. When the snow melts away in summer the mountain offers a wonderful diversity of fun outdoor recreation including zip lining, Segway tours, mountain biking and hiking.
The spacious guestrooms have everything you need for a comfortable stay including complimentary Wi-Fi. Other on-site amenities include a heated indoor pool and whirlpool and a restaurant which serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. The resort is located just steps from the Village Ski Center where most mountain activities take place.
Chestnut Mountain Resort, 8700 W. Chestnut Mountain Rd, Galena, IL 61036, 800 397 1320, View Map
Aerie's Resort & Winery
Perched overlooking the Illinois and Mississippi Rivers, Aerie's Resort & Winery offers a beautiful selection of rooms, suites, cottages, and villas. Amenities vary from room to room, but many come with flat screen TVs, coffee makers, kitchenettes, and relaxing whirlpool tubs.
The property also offers plenty of other things to keep visitors occupied, including a winery that hosts live music on the weekends, a terrace with beautiful views of the river, and a zipline course that takes approximately two hours. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available in most of the rooms, and minimum stay rules often apply on weekends.
Aerie's Lodging & Terrace Conference Centre, 14 W Main St, Grafton, IL 62037, Phone: 618-786-8439, View Map
Eagle Ridge Resort & Spa
The Eagle Ridge Resort & Spa can be found only six miles outside the town of Galena, but it sits on a 6,800-acre lakeside property that provides a true escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The 5,000-square-foot spa is the perfect place to unwind, and all the rooms are equipped with relaxing amenities like whirlpool tubs, pillow-top mattresses, and flat screen TVs. The property offers plenty of outdoor recreational opportunities to keep guests entertained as well; highlights include four award-winning golf courses, cross country skiing, horseback riding, and even hot air ballooning.
Eagle Ridge Resort & Spa, 444 Eagle Ridge Dr, Galena, IL 61036, Phone: 815-777-5000, View Map
Eaglewood Resort & Spa
Housed inside a beautiful Prairie-style building, the Eaglewood Resort and Spa is a sophisticated resort conveniently located only 14 miles away from O'Hare International Airport. The rooms and suites are decorated with charming mission-style furnishings, but they also offer modern amenities like iHome radios, coffee makers, complimentary Wi-Fi, and whirlpool tubs.
The 106-acre property boasts plenty of other amenities for guests to enjoy as well, including an 18-hole golf course, a 6-lane bowling alley, a spa with a full treatment menu, a fitness center with an indoor pool, and several excellent restaurants. On-site parking is available if needed.
1401 Nordic Rd, Itasca, IL 60143, Phone: 630-773-1400, View Map
Anthony Acres Resort, Lake Sara
The popular Anthony Acres resort has been welcoming visitors for more than 30 years. Family owned and operated, this resort has something for everyone in the family to enjoy – particularly those who are fond of fishing. The resort has several 1, 2 and 3-bedroom rustic cottages which boast fully equipped kitchens, satellite TV, outdoor BBQ and fire pits.
There is a roped-off swimming area, a children’s playground and lots of space for kids to run around and let off steam. Anglers can buy all their bait and tackle on site and there is an indoor fish cleaning room. If you enjoy golf you will find 2 18-hole courses on your doorstep.
Anthony Acres Resort, Lake Sara, 15286 Resort Road, Effingham, IL 62401, 217 868 2950, View Map
Goldmoor Inn
Set on a beautiful hilltop property just outside of Galena, the Goldmoor Inn is a charming bed and breakfast with wonderful views of the Mississippi River. The estate offers an excellent selection of suites, cottages, and log cabins, which come with amenities like fireplaces, whirlpool tubs, and private balconies. A complimentary in-room breakfast is served each morning, and room service is available throughout the day. Guests are also welcome to enjoy their other meals at the inn's upscale restaurant. The property also features a lovely selection of gardens, and other amenities include a wine cellar, massage services, complimentary Wi-Fi, and three meeting rooms.
9001 W Sand Hill Rd, Galena, IL 61036, Phone: 815-777-3925, View Map
Herrington Inn & Spa
Conveniently located within walking distance of downtown Geneva, The Herrington Inn & Spa is a boutique hotel with 61 elegant rooms to choose from. All rooms come with whirlpool tubs, fireplaces, and patios or balconies, many of which offer views of the river.
A complimentary continental breakfast is available every morning, and the hotel also offers a nightly turndown service with milk and cookies. The hotel's fine dining restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner every day of the week, and the hotel spa offers a full treatment menu. Guests can arrange to be picked up from the nearby rail station.
15 S River Ln, Geneva, IL 60134, Phone: 630-208-7433, View Map
Eurostars Magnificent Mile
Found in the trendy River North Gallery District, Eurostars Magnificent Mile is located within easy walking distance of both Millennium Park and the shopping district on the Magnificent Mile. The contemporary rooms are equipped with self-serve bars, Keurig coffee makers, and technology such as iPads, flat screen TVs, and complimentary Wi-Fi.
In addition to these excellent in-room amenities, the hotel also offers a chic contemporary restaurant, a luxurious spa with a steam roof and a fitness center, and a rooftop bar with beautiful views of the city. Room service is available to guests 24/7.
Eurostars Magnificent Mile, 660 N State St, Chicago, IL 60654, Phone: 312-202-6000, View Map
Hilton Chicago Oak Brook Hills Resort
Boasting an 18-hole championship golf course and two restaurants, the Hilton Oak Brook Hills Resort is a traditional conference hotel that caters both to visitors traveling for work and those traveling for pleasure.
The comfortable rooms come with complimentary Wi-Fi, coffee machines, and flat screen TVs, while the suites offer separate living areas and minifridges. Some units also feature private balconies.
When not in their rooms or on the golf course, guests are welcome to make use of the resort's well-equipped fitness center, the indoor and outdoor pools, and the tennis, basketball, and volleyball courts.
Hilton Chicago Oak Brook Hills Resort, 3500 Midwest Rd, Oak Brook, IL 60523, Phone: 630-850-5555, View Map
Lincolnshire Marriott Resort
Thanks to its fantastic location on a 175-acre property in the North Shore woods, the Chicago Marriott Lincolnshire Resort offers enticing amenities like an 18-hole golf course, a tennis center, 37 miles of trails for hiking and biking, and a restaurant that serves food prepared with ingredients grown on-site.
The chic, modern rooms are part of the resort's allure as well; all come with pillowtop mattresses, luxury bath products, and an evening turndown service. Club level rooms also offer access to an exclusive lounge with complimentary food and beverages, including a continental breakfast and an honor bar.
Chicago Marriott Lincolnshire Resort , Ten, Marriott Dr, Lincolnshire, IL 60069, Phone: 847-634-0100, View Map
Oak Terrace Resort & Spa
Hidden away in the countryside of central Illinois, Oak Terrace Resort & Spa is perfectly suited to a relaxing getaway. There are several accommodation options to choose from, including lodge rooms with private balconies, two-bedroom townhomes, and luxury villas with hot tubs and fireplaces. The property is centered around a 65-acre lake and it offers plenty of outdoor amenities for guests to enjoy; highlights include a golf course, tennis courts, and boat rentals. The spa is a great place to relax and unwind, and there is an excellent selection of on-site dining options with something to suit every preference.
100 Beyers Lake Rd, Pana, IL 62557, Phone: 217-651-4250, View Map
The Peninsula Chicago
Established in 2001, The Peninsula Chicago is a five-star hotel set inside a landmark high-rise building in downtown Chicago. The luxurious spa offers a full menu of Asian-inspired spa treatments and takes up two full floors of the hotel; guests who book two or more hours of spa treatments are given complimentary access to the indoor swimming pool, the relaxing sun terrace, and the well-equipped fitness center.
The rooms come with marble bathrooms and floor-to-ceiling windows, some of which feature views of the nearby Lake Michigan. Other in-room amenities include flat screen TVs, iPod docks, mini bars, and complimentary Wi-Fi.
2508, 108 E Superior St, Chicago, IL 60611, Phone: 312-573-6860, View Map
Great Wolf Lodge and Water Park
Regardless of the weather, the Great Wolf Lodge and Water Park offers year-round fun for the whole family. The all-year indoor water park is probably the largest draw-card of this resort, but there are plenty of outdoor experiences to enjoy as well.
The water park is kept at a very pleasant 84 degrees all year round and offers a great respite during the cold winter months. Outside the water park, a host of other fun activities await you including wall-climbing, mini-golf, bowling, a ropes course and arcade games. The accommodations include regular or family-friendly wolf-themed rooms with log bunks for the kids.
Great Wolf Lodge and Water Park, 1700 Nations Drive, Gurnee, IL 60031, 847 623 9653, View Map
WorldMark Galena
Sitting at the edge of a beautiful forest, WorldMark Galena offers a charming mountain atmosphere and a selection of comfortable suites. The Eagle Ridge Golf Club is only a five-minute walk away, and the hotel is only eight miles away from Lake Galena. Both studio and one-bedroom suites are available; all come with kitchens or kitchenettes, whirlpool tubs, and cozy living areas complete with fireplaces.
There are plenty of communal spaces and amenities for guests to enjoy as well, including a barbecue area, a basketball court, a game room, and an indoor pool with a hot tub and sauna.
WorldMark Galena, 5129 W Longhollow Rd, Galena, IL 61036, Phone: 815-776-9020, View Map
Grand Bear Resort at Starved Rock, Utica
Perfect for a family getaway or a group escape, the Grand Bear Resort at Starved Rock offers year-round relaxation and adventure. There is an assortment of rustic-themed guestrooms for couples or families or you could opt for one of the spacious cabins or villas, which are ideal for larger groups. The indoor water park provides year-round fun for all ages and boasts a wave-pool, lazy river, large hot tub, various slides and a splash area for younger children. Outside the water park you can enjoy more than 60 games at the Cave Arcade before filling up hungry tummies at one of several on-site restaurants and food outlets.
Grand Bear Resort at Starved Rock, 1643 IL Route 178, Utica, IL 61373, 866 399 3866, View Map
Hyatt Lodge Oak Brook Chicago
Nestled on a lakeshore, amidst acres of forest preserve, Lodge Oak Brook Chicago is an ideal base from which to explore all the attractions of bustling Chicago. Whether you are visiting for a weekend getaway or attending a conference, this hotel provides a relaxing ambiance, conducive to work or play.
You can choose from a selection of attractively appointed guest rooms and suites, all of which offer comfortable Grand Beds, marble bath rooms and spa showers. There is a light-filled indoor heated pool and a fitness center. The warm and welcoming Hearth Lounge is perfect for cocktails before your dinner at the Lakeside Café and Patio.
Hyatt Lodge Oak Brook, 2815 Jorie Blvd, Oak Brook, Chicago, IL 60523, 630 568 1234, View Map
Cypress Resort and Marine, Antioch
Located just an hour away from Chicago, the Cypress Resort and Marine is a haven of rest and relaxation. The resort is set in an elevated located overlooking Petite Lake, in the beautiful Chain O’ Lakes. Guests are welcome to bring their own boats or rent a boat to enjoy the lake activities. The up-scale cottages are widely spaced and offer a relaxing ambiance and all you need for a fun family vacation. The resort offers access to a sandy stretch of beach where you can catch some rays or go swimming. Other activities include kayaking, cycling, pier fishing, water skiing, tubing, boating and bird watching.
Cypress Resort and Marine, 25635 W. Hermann Avenue, Antioch, IL 60002, 224 818 4177, View Map
