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The Land of Lincoln is a fantastic destination for a family-friendly, budget-friendly weekend trip. In terms of entertainment, cultural experiences, and recreational opportunities, Illinois has a lot to offer both adults and children, whether you're exploring the attractions in Chicago or the central or southern regions of the state. Here are our best suggestions for short trips to Illinois that will allow you to experience the Midwest.

Galena

For couples and families with children looking for a weekend getaway in Illinois, Galena is a great option. There are many things to do in the town, from charming mom-and-pop stores to historical locations like the residence of President Ulysses S. Grant. Stay in one of Galena's charming inns or B&Bs for a memorable and peaceful experience. The Midwest Garlic Fest and the Great Galena Balloon Race are two excellent festivals to schedule your weekend escape around. Galena, located along the Mississippi River and roughly three hours west of Chicago, is the definition of charm. For your winter weekend vacation, a ski resort is close by and there are some fantastic treks here as well.

Starved Rock State Park

Starved Rock State Park, which is close to the town of Oglesby, is one of the most breathtaking natural attractions in the state of Illinois. If you need a break from the bustling city of Chicago or the farmlands that make up the majority of the state, this is a great weekend vacation. There are several chances for outdoor activities nearby, including waterfalls, hiking trails, canyons, and rock formations. You may spend your weekend completely immersed in nature by staying in the lodge or setting up a tent in the park.

Arthur

The Amish settlement of Arthur, a tiny town in east-central Illinois famous for its unique horse and buggies, is another Illinois weekend excursion worth mentioning. Come here if you want to appreciate a simpler period and a slower pace of life. In the area surrounding Arthur, there are several Amish-run stores that offer quilts, jams, cupboards, and much more. Additionally, if you go in the fall, you have to go to the Great Pumpkin Patch, one of the top pumpkin patches in the Midwest. Take a buggy ride, partake in a home-cooked Amish lunch at Yoder's Country Kitchen, and attend a small-town celebration like the Cheese Festival or the 4th of July, which is becoming more and more popular.

Geneva

Geneva is a charming city in the western suburbs of Chicago that you should visit for a weekend break. From the city, you may drive or take the train in less than an hour to get there. Geneva is well located for riverside dining and drinking as it is situated along the Fox River. Come here if you want a charming atmosphere, tranquil parks, wildlife preserves, tree-lined streets, and a pleasant retail area in a traditional town. An excellent venue to get a drink, go on a tour, and sample spirits are the Fox River Distilling Company.

Shawnee National Forest

Explore the outdoors via hiking, rock climbing, mountain biking, and backpacking in southern Illinois. Between the Ohio and Mississippi rivers is a wooded area with lakes, hills, and forests to explore. Sandstone cliffs and rock formations make up the famed Garden of the Gods area in this area. The River to River Trail and the Rim Rock National Recreation Trail are two well-liked paths near Jackson Falls, which is a fantastic location for rock climbing.

The post 5 of the Best Over the Weekend Getaways in Illinois appeared first on Brookdale on the Park Blog.

The Arboretum is open from 7:00 a.m. to sunset.

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Explore an oasis of magnificent trees and beautiful landscapes.

The Morton Arboretum, a 1,700-acre living museum, champions trees throughout the world through science and conservation, education and outreach, and plant collections. Conveniently located approximately 25 miles from Chicago, the Arboretum features an award-winning Children’s Garden, Maze Garden, and 16 miles of hiking trails. Whether you seek a quiet stroll or an active family adventure, the Arboretum offers a variety of exhibitions, activities, events, and classes for all ages to enjoy.

All admission fees include parking. The Arboretum grounds are open 365 days a year. Buildings are open daily, except on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day; closed at 3:00 p.m. on Christmas Eve.

Please leave dogs and other pets at home, except on specially designated days. Service animals are welcome, including animals-in-training. See the accessibility guide for more information.

See the discounts page for limited-time specials and ongoing offers.

The Morton Arboretum is fully open to members and guests with timed entry admission. As always, we follow state and local public health guidelines. We look forward to seeing you!

Timed-Entry Admission Process

Timed-entry admission ensures an optimized and expeditated member and guest entry process and reduces crowding at the Arboretum. Each member or guest, including children and infants, must have an advance reservation to enter the Arboretum at a specific date and time. Tickets are not available at the gatehouse.

Entry times are honored for one hour after the time on the entry pass or ticket; those who arrive outside that one-hour window may be denied entry.

Timed-entry passes are not required for President’s Council or Thornhill Society members. Interested in joining the President’s Council or Thornhill Society? Learn more.

Entering the Arboretum

After you secure a timed entry pass or ticket online, it will be sent electronically to the email address provided in the transaction process. You can either print it out or show it on your phone to the gatehouse attendant when you arrive. Members must also present their member cards. If members or guests in a group arrive in separate cars, each must have their own ticket or pass to present, either as a printout or on a phone. The gatehouse attendant will scan each ticket or pass.

Ensure a Safe Visit

We rely on you to help the Arboretum remain a safe place for all to enjoy. If you are not feeling well, please refrain from visiting until you are fully recovered.

Masks are required indoors by the State of Illinois, regardless of vaccination status. This includes the Visitor Center, The Arboretum Store, The Plant Clinic, Sterling Morton Library, and the Thornhill Education Center. Fully vaccinated individuals are not required to wear masks outdoors. Unvaccinated (and partially vaccinated) individuals should wear masks outdoors when unable to maintain a social distance of six feet.

Plan Your Day

To prepare for a rich and satisfying experience at the Arboretum, find mapsand seek out places to visit. Learn about accessibility, dining and shopping, events, and things to do. And discover the amazing Human+Nature sculpture exhibition (included in Arboretum admission)!

Support the Arboretum

We are thankful for the strong and generous support from donors and members who have helped the Arboretum weather the significant financial effects of the coronavirus pandemic. But there is still important work to do to help trees. Please make a gift to support the Arboretum. Every contribution makes a difference and is greatly appreciated. You can also become a memberor renew your membership to continue your support.

• COVID-19 FAQ

• Timed-entry FAQ

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• Guests:
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The post The Best Place to See Fall Colors in Naperville: The Morton Arboretum appeared first on Brookdale on the Park Blog.

​​If you love the outdoors, love being active, and are thinking about vacationing in Naperville, check out these four hiking trails that you might fall in love with. Naperville is a suburban town in Chicago, Illinois but has a lot of things to do, and it’s far off than just a boring old little town. Naperville has some great hiking trails that let you hike for miles, and when you get hot, make sure to dip in the lake afterward as some have lakes for you to enjoy. Here are four hiking trails to try out when you are in Naperville, Illinois: 

1. McDowell Grove:

There is quite a lot to do in McDowell grove. But there are great trails that combine to be seven miles worth. The scenic route takes you along the lake, various trails, and paths to take. You may even catch a glimpse of the wildlife as you trail along the paved paths. There are also trails for riding, longboarding, running, and easy trails for dogs as well. After hiking the long trailhead back and take a dip in the fresh lake as you can swim around or drive your boat.

2. Greene Valley Forest Preserve:

The most popular trails in Naperville, Illinois as these trails are hand-curated and perfectly groomed to be on. the trails are quite easy but carry some elevation so be ready to sweat. But the preserve is open all year round and even in the snow, the hiking trails are ready to be walked on. there are two trails in which make one hard for the more advanced hikers, and one easier for the beginner hikers. Whichever you choose, you will be sure to love it. there are scenic routes along the way, but if you choose the woodsy trail, you will end up on a hill overlooking the whole preserve which is a beautiful view to see. 

3. Springbrook Prairie Forest Preserve:

Springbrook is a six-mile moderate trail that features lots of wildflowers, and no matter the skill level of hiking, you can still enjoy the trail while getting your blood flowing. The great part is that the trail is open all year round and it also offers a lot of activities to do for all ages. If you do take your dogs, they have to be on a leash. The trail has two parts which are great for beginner to easy, then a moderately advanced option for moderate, and hard. The harder one involves lots of dirt and grass, so it’s much more of a workout and a bit harder. Get ready to get your blood pumping as no matter which way you choose, they will both be a workout. 

If you are in the area of Naperville, be sure to check out these hiking trails. They are great for any level of expertise and along the way you will fall in love with the nature around you.

After working up an appetite during your hike be sure to check out the only Mexican buffet In town and Las Palmas in Naperville, located adjacent to Ogden Six movie theater. 

The post The Three Best Hiking Trails to Enjoy Nature in Naperville appeared first on Brookdale on the Park Blog.