Looking to escape the city this summer? Here are some of the best day trips from Chicago

It’s official, the dog days of summer are upon us. As temperatures hit record highs, now is the perfect time to escape the city for a day of relaxation. Chicagoans don’t have to travel far to bask in the beauty of nature or explore some of the nation’s top tourist destinations. Here are some of the best day trips from Chicago!

Six Flags Great America

Gurnee, IL | Approx. 1 hour from Chicago

There’s no better place to enjoy high-flying thrills this summer than Six Flags Great America. A short one-hour drive from Chicago, the sprawling theme park features dozens of roller coasters, family rides, live entertainment, and other attractions. New for the 2024 season is the Sky Striker, an exhilarating pendulum ride launching riders 172 feet in the air and providing breathtaking views over Chicagoland.

Bahá’í Temple

Wilmette, IL | Approx. 1 hour from Chicago

Tap into your spiritual side at the Bahá’í House of Worship in Wilmette, an hour from Chicago along the beautiful North Shore. Conceived as a universal house of worship, the Bahá’í House of Worship features a gorgeous temple with ample room for meditation and spiritual connection. Guests can explore the temple’s gardens, enjoy plenty of photo ops, and walk over to nearby Gillson Beach for some fun in the sun.

Starved Rock State Park

Oglesby, IL | Approx. 2 hours from Chicago

Starved Rock in downstate Oglesby is a hidden natural wonder waiting to be uncovered. Located about 2 hours south of Chicago, the state park is known for its steep sandstone canyons and cascading waterfalls. The park offers guided tours, river cruises, live music, and other fun-filled activities. 

Indiana Dunes National Park

Porter, IN | 1 hr. 15 mins. from Chicago

Just across the lake lies Indiana Dunes National Park, one of the most breathtaking lakeshores outside of Chicago. The Dunes cover 20 miles of terrain, perfect for hiking, camping, swimming, and wildlife observation. Perhaps one of the Dunes’ biggest draws is the epic sunset views from the park’s various beaches. On a clear evening, the Chicago skyline is visible in the distance, making for some incredible photo ops.

Wisconsin Dells theme parks

Wisconsin Dells | Approx. 3.5 hours from Chicago

Known as the “Waterpark Capital of the World” the Wisconsin Dells is the ultimate one-stop destination for summer fun this season. The Dells boasts the largest concentration of indoor and outdoor waterparks in the country, with more than 20 different parks to explore. Visitors can enjoy world-class dining, shopping, zip lining, horseback riding, and other fun summer activities. 

Historical tours and shopping in Galena

Galena IL | Approx. 3.5 hours from Chicago

Galena is a small town on the border of Illinois and Iowa with a rich cultural history and plenty to discover. Visitors can explore the Ulysses S. Grant home, take a farm or trolley tour, embark on a nature hike, learn about beekeeping, and so much more. Galena is home to stunning 19th-century architecture, and first-rate dining and shopping, making it the perfect weekend getaway from Chicago.