Luxury Nature Adventure Road Trip from Chicago

Day 1: Urban Exploration

Chicago, IL

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Bongo Room

Start your day off with a delightful breakfast at The Bongo Room, famous for its creative pancakes and local ingredients.
Located in the Wicker Park neighborhood, easy drive to the next stop.
USD20, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Visit Millennium Park

Stroll through the iconic Millennium Park, marveling at the Cloud Gate sculpture and the surrounding gardens.
Short drive or Uber from The Bongo Room.
USD0, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Lou Malnati's Pizzeria

Enjoy a classic Chicago deep-dish pizza at Lou Malnati's, renowned for its buttery crust and fresh toppings.
Located downtown, a quick 10-minute drive from Millennium Park.
USD30, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore the Art Institute of Chicago

Immerse yourself in world-class art at the Art Institute of Chicago, featuring diverse collections from Impressionist to modern works.
A short walk from Lou Malnati's, making it convenient to reduce travel time.
USD25, 2 hours

4:30PM

Check-in at The Langham, Chicago

Relax in luxury at The Langham, known for its stunning river views and exceptional service.
Just a 5-minute drive or a pleasant 15-minute walk from the Art Institute.
USD250, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Everest

Indulge in a gourmet dining experience at Everest, where contemporary French料理 meets stunning views from the 40th floor.
A short 10-minute drive from your hotel.
USD150, 2 hours

8:00PM

Chicago Riverwalk

Finish your day with a relaxing stroll along the scenic Chicago Riverwalk, beautifully lit at night.
Approachable on foot from the restaurant.
USD0, 1 hour
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Day 2: Nature Retreat

Starved Rock State Park, IL

7:00AM

Breakfast at The Langham

Enjoy a lavish breakfast at the hotel's restaurant, featuring fresh pastries, artisanal cheeses, and omelets prepared to order.
Settle in comfortably before departing.
USD40, 1 hour

8:30AM

Drive to Starved Rock State Park

Embark on a scenic drive to Starved Rock State Park, where breathtaking nature awaits.
Approximately a 1.5-hour drive via I-55 and I-80.
USD0, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Hiking at Starved Rock

Explore the stunning trails at Starved Rock, discovering waterfalls and canyons while surrounded by tranquil woods.
Park the SUV at the visitor center and set off on the trails.
USD10 entry fee, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Lodge Restaurant

Savor a delicious lunch at The Lodge Restaurant, with views of the Illinois River, offering seasonal dishes.
Backtrack to the lodge from the trails, a 5-minute drive.
USD30, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit the Starved Rock Visitor Center

Learn about the park's ecology and history, and find unique gifts and souvenirs in the center.
A quick drive from the restaurant.
USD0, 1 hour

3:30PM

Check-in at the Starved Rock Lodge

Enjoy the rustic luxury of Starved Rock Lodge, perfectly located for more nature exploration.
Return to the Lodge for check-in, less than 5 minutes from the visitor center.
USD180, 1 hour

5:00PM

Relax by the Lodge Firepit

Unwind by the cozy firepit area, enjoying the ambiance of nature as the sun sets.
Explore the lodge grounds leisurely.
USD0, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at the Lodge Restaurant

Dine at the Lodge Restaurant once more, enjoying a seasonal menu with garden-fresh ingredients.
Conveniently located within the lodge.
USD50, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Stargazing at the Starved Rock Area

End your day by stargazing, with low light pollution offering stunning views of the night sky.
Find a quiet area near the lodge.
USD0, 1 hour
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Day 3: Charming Escape

Galena, IL

7:00AM

Breakfast at Starved Rock Lodge

Have a hearty breakfast at the lodge before embarking on your journey to Galena.
All set for departure.
USD40, 1 hour

8:30AM

Drive to Galena

Set off for the charming town of Galena, known for its historic buildings and unique shops, with a scenic 1-hour drive.
Take IL-178 and US-20 for serene views.
USD0, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Galena's Historic Main Street

Wander along the picturesque Main Street of Galena, discovering boutique shops and charming architecture.
Easily walkable and full of character.
USD0, 2 hours

11:30AM

Lunch at Fried Green Tomatoes

Enjoy a delightful farm-to-table lunch at Fried Green Tomatoes, featuring local produce in a cozy atmosphere.
Just a short walk from Main Street.
USD30, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Visit the Ulysses S. Grant Home

Tour the historical Ulysses S. Grant Home, learning about the life of the 18th President.
A quick 5-minute drive or 15-minute walk from the restaurant.
USD0, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Wine Tasting at Galena Cellars Vineyard

Indulge in a local wine tasting experience at Galena Cellars Vineyard, savoring unique blends.
A scenic 10-minute drive from the Grant Home.
USD20, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Check-in at Harrington Inn

Experience a luxurious stay at Harrington Inn, offering riverside views and upscale amenities.
A quick 5-minute drive from the vineyard.
USD200, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at The Limelight

Delight in a delicious dinner at The Limelight, known for its innovative cuisine and welcoming ambiance.
A short drive from the Harrington Inn.
USD70, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Evening Stroll along the Galena River

Conclude your journey with a picturesque evening walk along the Galena River, soaking in the serene beauty around you.
Accessible on foot from the restaurant.
USD0, 1 hour
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