8 Quarantine-friendly Day Trips from Chicago
Happy August!
Today is Day 134 of Illinois’ mandatory quarantine due to the COVID-19 virus. Luckily the state has been able to flatten the curve and has progressed to Phase 4 of Governor Pritzker’s 5 stage public health reopening plan which allows for some more mask-friendly opportunities to get outside and explore.
All of the following day trips are just a drive away from Chicago and allow for social distancing outdoors.
Starved Rock State Park, Oglesby, IL
Located in Lasalle County, Starved Rock State Park spans over 13 miles on the Illinois River.
My sister and I took a day trip out here last earlier this summer to spend the day hiking and snapping pictures. Formed by glacier melt-waters, the park has over 18 sandstone canyons to explore some of the most popular include the St.Louis, French, and Wildcat canyons. It also is home to a bunch of wildlife (including bald eagles).
I’d recommend getting here right when the park opens to beat the crowds and the heat. Remember to bring water, good hiking shoes, sunscreen, and binoculars.
2. Anderson Japanese Garden, Rockford, IL
Inspired by the Portland, Oregon Japanese gardens, this 12 acre park has consistently been awarded as one of the best Japanese gardens in North America. Here you can explore traditional 16th century architecture and wind your way down paths that include streams, waterfalls, koi-ponds and more.
$11 for adult entry.
3. Indiana Dunes National Park, Porter, IN
Last year, the Indiana Dunes was designated as the United State’s 61rst national park. With over 3 million visitors annually it is the #1 tourist spot in Indiana.
Located on 15 miles of Northwest Indiana’s Lake Michigan shoreline, the park is a quick car ride from the Chicagoland.
Visitors can spend the day hiking/biking trails, relaxing at the beach, boating, birdwatching, horseback riding or even geocaching.
4. Von Bergen’s Country Market, Heron, IL
To be completely honest, I heard about this road side stand from a TikTok post!
This family farm is located in McHenry County and boasts a wide variety of fruits and vegetables to pick from. Besides their daily harvest, they have a wagon ride, children’s play area, animal farm, and a sunflower maze. Pro Tip: best time to go is right before sunset for those #goldenhour pictures.
There’s a $5 entry fee for all vistors.
5. McHenry Outdoor Theater, McHenry, IL
Just about 30 minutes away from Von Bergen’s Country Market is a drive-in movie theater and they’re OPEN during the pandemic. Make sure to arrive early though as it is “first come, first serve,” and they only allowed 50% capacity.
Dogs are allowed to come if they’re leased and cleaned up after. There’s also a concession stand and bathrooms located on site.
Tickets are $12 for adults. You can also rent a radio to listen to the movie for $5.
6. Morton Arboretum, Lisle, IL
The Morton Arboretum is a 1,700 acre outdoor museum and scientific center founded by Joy Morton (the Founder of Morton Salt) in 1922. With over 16 miles of hiking trails, 9 miles of roads, a maze garden, and more, they have cataloged over 4000 different plant species.
For the past few years, there’s also been a art exhibit installed on the property of Wooden Troll sculptures created by the Danish artist, Thomas Dambo.
Tickets are $15 for adults and must be purchased for a specific date and time on their website.
7. Shawnee National Forest, Herod, IL
This park is a bit of a hike from Chicago but well worth the drive. Located in Southern Illinois, Shawnee National Forest has a over 115 miles of land to offer.
You can start off your day hiking the Little Grand Canyon trail, explore the dramatics rock formations and cliffs, and finish out with a sunset view at the Garden of the Gods. If you have more time you can also zip-line through the forest, or go wine-tasting at the 11 different wineries along Shawnee Wine Trail.
8. Giant City Stables, Makanda, IL
Located within Giant City State Park, Giant City Stables offers guided horseback trail rides through 4000 acres of Southern Illinois countryside. While the park offers rock-climbing on the sandstone cliffs the heart of the park is this 30 horse stable with a 12 mile horse trail open to the public.
An hour ride cost $50 per person.
The stables also offer riding lessons, summer camps, and equine therapy.
