Hinsdale, Ill., is a charming and picturesque suburb located just west of Chicago. It is known for its elegant homes, tree-lined streets, and vibrant downtown. While life in Hinsdale offers plenty of local appeal, the desire to change scenery sometimes sparks the perfect weekend adventure. Luckily, its prime location provides convenient access to a diverse array of captivating destinations.
This guide will help you plan your next escape, detailing what makes each destination a unique and appealing for a memorable getaway.
Lake Geneva, WI (74 miles)
Lake Geneva, Wis., is a classic Midwest resort town, offering a picturesque lakeside escape just a short drive north of Hinsdale. It's renowned for its beautiful deep-water lake, historic estates, and a charming downtown that caters to visitors seeking relaxation and recreation.
You can enjoy boat tours of the lake, admiring the grand mansions that line the shores, or simply relax on the public beaches. The town also boasts a vibrant downtown area with unique boutiques, ice cream shops, and a variety of restaurants. In winter, the area transforms into a wonderland with ice sculptures and winter sports, providing year-round appeal for weekend trips from Hinsdale IL.
Starved Rock State Park (76 miles)
Starved Rock State Park, located near Utica, Ill., offers a dramatic natural escape with towering sandstone bluffs, seasonal waterfalls, and dense forests carved by melting glaciers. This state park is a prime destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking scenic hikes and unique geological formations.
The park features over 13 miles of hiking trails that lead to impressive canyons, waterfalls (seasonal), and overlooks providing stunning views of the Illinois River. Popular spots include St. Louis Canyon, French Canyon, and Council Overlook. The unique sandstone formations reaching heights over 80 feet are a significant draw. Many visitors also enjoy stopping by the lodge for a meal or to relax after a day of exploration.
Milwaukee, WI (92 miles)
Milwaukee, Wis., offers a vibrant urban getaway with a rich industrial history, a thriving craft beer scene, and diverse cultural attractions. Located just a short drive north on I-94 from Hinsdale, it provides a different flavor of city experience.
You can explore the Harley-Davidson Museum, which is dedicated to the iconic motorcycle brand, or visit the Milwaukee Art Museum, which is known for its unique winged architecture and extensive collection. The city's brewing heritage is celebrated with tours of historic breweries and modern craft taprooms. A stroll along the RiverWalk, or a visit to the Historic Third Ward with its boutiques and restaurants, reveals the city's dynamic character.
Champaign-Urbana, IL (134 miles)
Champaign-Urbana, Ill., offers a lively university town experience, combining academic vibrancy with a growing arts scene and diverse dining options. As the home of the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, the twin cities present a youthful energy and cultural richness.
You can explore the university campus, visit museums and performing arts venues, or enjoy a game during a college sports season. The downtown areas of Champaign and Urbana feature a variety of independent restaurants, craft breweries, and unique shops. It's an excellent destination for those seeking a relaxed urban getaway with intellectual and culinary appeal.
Saugatuck and Douglas, MI (152 miles)
Saugatuck and Douglas, Mich., nestled along the shores of Lake Michigan, form a vibrant arts community and popular resort destination. Known for their stunning dunes, beautiful beaches, and lively art galleries, these twin towns offer a charming and artistic getaway.
You can explore the Mount Baldhead dunes, enjoy a ride on the hand-cranked Saugatuck Chain Ferry across the Kalamazoo River, or relax on the expansive Oval Beach, which is consistently ranked among the best beaches in the Midwest. The towns' charming downtowns are filled with independent art galleries, unique shops, and diverse restaurants, making them perfect spots for leisurely strolls and artistic discovery.
Galena, IL (164 miles)
Galena, Ill., is a historic gem tucked away in the Driftless Area of northwestern Illinois, characterized by its remarkably preserved 19th-century architecture and scenic rolling hills. This town offers a unique blend of historical immersion, outdoor recreation, and small-town charm.
The main draw is Main Street, with over 125 independently owned shops, restaurants, and galleries housed in beautifully restored buildings. You can explore Ulysses S. Grant's Home State Historic Site, take a trolley tour to learn about the town's mining past, or enjoy a wine tasting at one of the local vineyards. The unglaciated landscape also provides hiking, biking, and skiing opportunities in winter, ensuring year-round appeal.
Indianapolis, IN (191 miles)
Indianapolis, Ind., offers a surprising array of attractions for a weekend getaway. It combines a rich sports history with a growing culinary scene and diverse cultural institutions. It's a manageable drive southeast from Hinsdale, providing a new urban landscape to explore.
The city is famously home to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, where you can tour the track and museum. The White River State Park offers cultural attractions like the Indianapolis Zoo and the Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art. The city's revitalized downtown also features a canal walk, numerous restaurants, and a lively atmosphere, making it a versatile destination for a weekend visit.
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore (347 miles)
For a more immersive natural adventure, a trip to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore in Michigan offers breathtaking freshwater coastlines, windswept dunes, and pristine forests. While a longer drive, it provides an unparalleled natural beauty for those seeking a scenic escape.
You can climb the iconic dunes, some hundreds of feet above Lake Michigan, or hike through diverse landscapes including forests and bluffs. The Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive offers stunning overlooks. The area also provides opportunities for swimming in Lake Michigan's clear waters and exploring quaint lakeside towns. This national lakeshore is ideal for nature lovers seeking grand outdoor experiences.
Plan Your Next Weekend Escape
With so many exciting options just a short drive from Hinsdale, your next weekend adventure awaits you. Whether you're exploring nature, diving into history, or simply relaxing, the area offers something for everyone. For those considering a move to this vibrant community, Megan McCleary can help you find the perfect home base for all your future weekend getaways.
Reach out to Megan McCleary to discover how you can make Hinsdale your starting point for endless adventures.
