18 Best Day Trips from Chicago To Relax

Chicago is an amazing city, but let’s be real, sometimes, you just need a change of sight. Whether you're looking for a nature escape, a historic town, or just a fun place to chill, there are plenty of great day trips just a short drive or train ride away. Maybe you're feeling burned out from classes, want a quick adventure with friends, or just need fresh air that doesn’t involve honking cars. Whatever your vibe, this list has something for you. Here are 18 best day trips from Chicago that won’t break the bank or require too much planning.

Nature & Outdoor Adventures

1. Indiana Dunes National Park

Distance: 50 miles ( 1 hour by car, 1.5 hours by train (South Shore Line) )
Address: 1100 N. Mineral Springs Road, Porter, IN 46304
Must-Do: Try the 3-Dune Challenge it’s short but intense.
What to Bring Back: A cool national park sticker or a beachy souvenir.
Estimated Budget: $30 - $55

If you need a break from Chicago’s noise, Indiana Dunes National Park is one of the best day trips from Chicago for a quick nature escape. The entry fee is $25 per vehicle (valid for 7 days) or $15 per person if entering on foot or bike. You can use your National Park Pass for free entry. After exploring, grab a bite at Goblin & The Grocer, where students get a discount on their $10 grilled cheese and tomato soup combo. Affordable and refreshing, this is one of the most accessible Chicago day tours for students on a budget. If you're staying in the city and need a well-located student-friendly neighborhood, explore this Chicago Student City Guide for top areas to live.

2. Starved Rock State Park

Distance: 100 miles ( 1.5 to 2 hours by car )
Address: 2668 E 875th Rd, Oglesby, IL 61348
Must-Do: Hike to Wildcat Canyon for the best views.
What to Bring Back: Handmade crafts from the Starved Rock Lodge gift shop.
Estimated Budget: $32 - $42

For a refreshing escape from city life, Starved Rock State Park is a top choice for day trips from Chicago. The entry is free, making it an easy and affordable getaway for students. The rugged trails lead to stunning rock formations and Wildcat Canyon, the tallest in the park, offering a rewarding view after the hike. After exploring, stop by The cafe at Starved Rock Lodge for a buffalo chicken wrap ($12). This is a great option for day trips from Chicago by car when you need a longer break.

3. Matthiessen State Park

Distance: 120 miles ( 2 hours by car )
Address: 2500 IL-178, Oglesby, IL 61348
Must-Do: Explore Devil’s Paint Box, a colorful mineral-stained canyon.
What to Bring Back: Local honey and maple syrup from nearby farms.
Estimated Budget: $36 - $46

For an outdoor adventure without the crowds, Matthiessen State Park is a solid pick for day trips from Chicago. The entry is free, making it an easy getaway for students on a budget. The park is known for Devil’s Paint Box, a mineral-stained canyon with striking red and orange hues. After your hike, stop by Skoog’s Pub & Grill in nearby Utica, where students get 10% off their $11 cheeseburger and fries combo. if you're looking for a short escape, this park is one of the best day trips from Chicago for nature lovers.

4. Kettle Moraine State Forest

Distance: 120 miles ( 2 hours by car )
Address: W3795 Hwy 67, Whitewater, WI 53190
Must-Do: Walk a section of the Ice Age National.
What to Bring Back: Some legendary Wisconsin cheese.
Estimated Budget: $38 - $46

If you're up for fresh air and rolling hills, Kettle Moraine State Forest is a great pick for day trips from Chicago. The entry fee is $8 per vehicle (WI plates), $11 per vehicle (out-of-state), or $5 per person on foot or bike. The highlight here is walking a section of the Ice Age National, where you’ll trek across landscapes shaped by glaciers thousands of years ago. Once you've worked up an appetite, head to The Cheese Counter & Dairy Heritage Center and enjoy a grilled cheese and soup combo for $10. This is easily one of the best day trips from Chicago for anyone who loves the outdoors.

5. Rock Cut State Park

Distance: 90 miles ( 1.5 hours by car )
Address: 7318 Harlem Rd, Loves Park, IL 61111
Must-Do: Paddleboard on Pierce Lake
What to Bring Back: A bag of Rockford’s locally roasted coffee.
Estimated Budget: $28 - $38

For a peaceful escape with plenty of outdoor activities, Rock Cut State Park is a great option for day trips from Chicago. With two large lakes and miles of trails, it’s an ideal spot for kayaking, fishing, or hiking. Try paddleboarding on Pierce Lake, a beginner-friendly way to enjoy the water. The entry is free, making it a budget-friendly getaway. After a day outside, stop by Rockford Roasting Company for a latte and pastry ($8) before heading back. If you're looking for relaxation and adventure, this is one of the best day trips near Chicago to unwind.

6. Lake Geneva

Distance: 80 miles ( 1.5 hours by car )
Address: 1 Lake Geneva Blvd, Lake Geneva, WI 53147
Must-Do: Hop on the Mailboat Tour, and watch mail carriers literally jump from boat to dock.
What to Bring Back: A box of homemade fudge from the downtown shops.
Estimated Budget: $55 - $66

If you're looking for a mix of relaxation and entertainment, Lake Geneva is a solid choice for day trips from Chicago. This lakeside town is known for its historic mansions, waterfront, and unique Mailboat Tour, where mail carriers jump from a moving boat to deliver mail to lakefront homes. The tour costs $42 per person and runs from June to September. Once you’ve explored the lake, grab a sweet treat from Kilwins, a local favorite known for its homemade fudge ($12 per box). With plenty to do, it’s no surprise this is one of the best day trips near Chicago for a quick escape.

7. Mississippi Palisades State Park

Distance: 180 miles ( 3 hours by car )
Address: 16327A IL-84, Savanna, IL 61074
Must-Do: Climb Indian Head Rock.
What to Bring Back: Handmade Native American crafts.
Estimated Budget: $55 - $65

For incredible river views and rugged landscapes, Mississippi Palisades State Park is a must for day trips from Chicago. The entry fee is $5 per vehicle or $2 per person on foot or bike, making it a budget-friendly escape for students. The park’s highlight is Indian Head Rock, a towering limestone formation that rewards climbers with a stunning overlook of the Mississippi River. After taking in the views, visit The Old Market Lane, a shop offering handmade Native American crafts and jewelry. Whether you're here for climbing or sightseeing, this is one of the most rewarding Chicago day trips for nature lovers.

Small Towns with Big Personality

8. Galena

Distance: 180 miles ( 3 hours by car )
Address: 123 N. Main St., Galena, IL 61036
Must-Do: Take a haunted ghost tour through the town’s historic buildings.
What to Bring Back: A bottle of local Galena wine.
Estimated Budget: $91 - $103

If you're into history with a touch of the supernatural, Galena is a must for day trips from Chicago. This charming town is known for its well-preserved 19th-century buildings and ghostly legends. The Haunted Galena Ghost Walk ($25 per person) takes you through eerie mansions and streets where spirits are said to linger. After the tour, stop by Galena Cellars Vineyard & Winery, where you can grab a bottle of locally made wine ($18-$25). With its rich past and small-town charm, Galena is perfect for those looking for day tours from Chicago that offer both history and mystery. If you're looking for a neighborhood in Chicago with a similar balance of greenery, affordability, and connectivity, check out these best neighborhoods in Chicago.

9. Naperville

Distance: 30 miles ( 45 minutes by car, 45 minutes by train (Metra BNSF) )
Address: 123 N. Main St., Galena, IL 61036
Must-Do: Swim in the Centennial Beach Quarry.
What to Bring Back: Gourmet chocolates or a Naperville-themed candle.
Estimated Budget: $25 - $30

For a quick and easy getaway, Naperville is a great pick for day tours from Chicago. The highlight here is Centennial Beach, a former quarry turned into a massive swimming area with sand, diving boards, and grassy picnic spots. Entry is $10 for students with an ID, making it an affordable place to cool off in the summer. After a refreshing swim, visit Le Chocolat du Bouchard, where you can grab gourmet chocolates ($12 per box) or a Naperville-themed candle as a souvenir. Wfhether you're looking for a quick day trip or exploring Chicago day trip ideas, Naperville has a lot to offer.

10. Holland

Distance: 140 miles ( 2.5 hours by car )
Address: 1 Windmill Island, Holland, MI 49423
Must-Do: Walk through Windmill Island Gardens and see an actual Dutch windmill.
What to Bring Back: Tulip bulbs or wooden clogs.
Estimated Budget: $40 - $50

For a unique cultural escape, Holland, Michigan, brings a touch of the Netherlands to the Midwest. A top choice for day tours from Chicago, this town is famous for its Dutch heritage, charming streets, and colorful tulip fields in the spring. The highlight is Windmill Island Gardens, home to De Zwaan, a 250-year-old working Dutch windmill. Entry is $12 for adults and $6 for students with an ID. Before heading back, stop by Veldheer Tulip Gardens to pick up tulip bulbs ($10 per pack) or a pair of wooden clogs. It’s also a great spot for day trips near Chicago if you want extra time to explore.

11. Saugatuck

Distance: 130 miles ( 2.5 hours by car )
Address: 107 Butler St, Saugatuck, MI 49453
Must-Do: Ride the hand-cranked chain ferry across the Kalamazoo River.
What to Bring Back: Hand-blown glass art.
Estimated Budget: $35 - $45

If you're looking for a mix of art, nature, and small-town charm, Saugatuck is a great choice for day trips from Chicago. Known for its beachy vibe and thriving art scene, this town offers a relaxed escape from city life. One of its most unique experiences is the hand-cranked chain ferry ($2 per person), one of the last of its kind in the U.S. After exploring the town, visit Amazwi Contemporary Art, where you can pick up hand-blown glass art ($25+) as a souvenir. Whether you are looking for a casual hangout or looking for a fun trip for a day or a one-day trip from Chicago, Saugatuck is worth the trip.

12. St. Joseph

Distance: 95 miles ( 1.5 hours by car )
Address: 2011 N. Main St, St. Joseph, MI 49085
Must-Do: Climb the St. Joseph Lighthouse for amazing views.
What to Bring Back: Silver Beach popcorn.
Estimated Budget: $25 - $35

For a break from the city, St. Joseph is a great option for day tours from Chicago. This lakeside town offers a peaceful spot to walk along the shore, explore local shops, and enjoy the water. A must-do here is climbing the St. Joseph Lighthouse ($10 per person), where you’ll get a wide, open view of Lake Michigan. After that, stop by Silver Beach Carousel & Concessions for a bag of Silver Beach popcorn ($5). If you're looking for a change of pace from the usual places to visit in Chicago, this town is an easy and refreshing getaway.

Culture & City Adventures

13. Milwaukee

Distance: 90 miles ( 1.5 hours by car, 1.5 hours by train (Amtrak Hiawatha) )
Address: 400 W Canal St, Milwaukee, WI 53201
Must-Do: Ride a vintage Harley at the Harley-Davidson Museum.
What to Bring Back: A Harley-Davidson souvenir.
Estimated Budget: $60 - $70

If you’re looking for a mix of history, culture, and great food, Milwaukee is a top choice for day trips from Chicago. This city is home to the Harley-Davidson Museum ($22 per person, $14 with student ID), where you can sit on a vintage Harley and explore the history of one of America’s most famous motorcycle brands. After the museum, grab lunch at Motor Bar & Restaurant, known for its classic burgers and cheese curds. Before heading back, pick up a Harley-Davidson souvenir ($10+) as a keepsake. For those who love exploring Chicago city attractions, Milwaukee offers a refreshing change of view. If you're staying in Chicago and need accommodation close to these attractions, browse this Student Housing Guide for Chicago to find options near major universities and landmarks.

14. Springfield

Distance: 90 miles 3 hours by car
Address: 413 E. Jackson St., Springfield, IL 62701
Must-Do: Walk through Lincoln’s actual home.
What to Bring Back: Lincoln-themed memorabilia.
Estimated Budget: $40 - $50

For history lovers, Springfield is a must-visit for day trips from Chicago. This city is known for its deep connection to Abraham Lincoln, and a highlight is walking through his actual home at the Lincoln Home National Historic Site. The guided tour is free, making it a budget-friendly stop for students. After exploring, check out Cozy Dog Drive In, home of the original corn dog, where a meal costs around $8. Before heading back, grab Lincoln-themed memorabilia ($5+) from a local gift shop. If you’ve explored Chicago tourist spots and want to see more history, Springfield is worth the trip.

15. Grand Rapids

Distance: 180 miles ( 3 hours by car )
Address: 1810 Front Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504
Must-Do: Try a craft beer flight on the Ale Trail.
What to Bring Back: Artisanal coffee beans.
Estimated Budget: $50 - $60

If you’re up for a mix of city life and local flavors, Grand Rapids is a great pick for day trips from Chicago. Known as Michigan’s craft beer capital, this city is packed with breweries, art galleries, and coffee shops. A must-do here is sampling a craft beer flight on the Grand Rapids Ale Trail ($12-$18 per flight), with student discounts available at select locations. If beer isn’t your thing, stop by Madcap Coffee for a fresh brew. Before heading back, grab a bag of artisanal coffee beans ($15) as a souvenir as a memory of your one-day trip from Chicago.

16. South Bend

Distance: 90 miles ( 1.5 hours by car )
Address: 100 Moose Krause Circle, South Bend, IN 46646
Must-Do: Walk through Notre Dame Stadium.
What to Bring Back: Notre Dame gear.
Estimated Budget: $30 - $40

If you’re a sports fan or just love exploring historic campuses, South Bend is a great option for day trips from Chicago. The city is home to Notre Dame University, and a must-do is walking through Notre Dame Stadium ($15 per person for a guided tour), where you can see the famous field up close. After touring the campus, stop by Legends of Notre Dame, a student-friendly restaurant known for its classic burgers and fries ($12). Before heading back, pick up some Notre Dame gear ($20+) as a souvenir. This makes for an easy and fun option for Chicago day tours.

Unique Destinations

17. Oak Park

Distance: 10 miles ( 20 minutes by car, 20 minutes by train (Green Line ‘L’) )
Address: 951 Chicago Ave, Oak Park, IL 60302
Must-Do: Take a Frank Lloyd Wright walking tour.
What to Bring Back: Wright-inspired home decor.
Estimated Budget: $25 - $35

For architecture lovers, Oak Park is a must-visit day trips from Chicago. This historic suburb is home to the Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio, where the famous architect designed some of his earliest works. A guided walking tour ($25 per person, $15 with student ID) takes you through the neighborhood to see Wright’s iconic designs. After the tour, grab a bite at Hemmingway’s Bistro, a cozy French-inspired spot offering a student discount on their $14 croque monsieur. Before heading back, stop by the Frank Lloyd Wright gift shop for Wright-inspired home decor ($20+) as a unique souvenir.

18. Cantigny Park

Distance: 30 miles ( 45 minutes by car )
Address: 1S151 Winfield Rd, Wheaton, IL 60189
Must-Do: Climb inside a real military tank at the First Division Museum.
What to Bring Back: Military history books.
Estimated Budget: $20 - $30

For those interested in military history and outdoor spaces, Cantigny Park is a solid pick for day trips from Chicago. The highlight here is the First Division Museum, where you can climb inside real military tanks and explore engaging exhibits. Entry is $5 per person or free with a student ID, making it an affordable visit. The park also has well-maintained gardens and open areas perfect for a relaxing walk. Stop by Le Jardin, a cafe inside the visitor center, for a sandwich and soup combo ($10). Before heading back, check out the museum’s shop for a military history book ($15+).

Chicago is great, but getting out of the city, even for a few hours, can do wonders for your mind. Whether you need a nature fix, a beach day, or just a fun adventure, these day trips have got you covered. So, where are you heading first? Let us know!