Spring Break Getaways: Best Road Trips from Chicago's Western Suburbs

If you're looking for great spring break destinations within driving distance from the Chicago suburbs, here are a few options to consider:

1. Lake Geneva, Wisconsin (1.5 hours)

• Perfect for a relaxing and scenic getaway, this charming town is great for outdoor activities like hiking, boating, and exploring the downtown area with unique shops and restaurants. You can also enjoy spas, wineries, and the beautiful lake.

2. Starved Rock State Park, Illinois (1.5-2 hours)

• Ideal for nature lovers, Starved Rock offers hiking, canyons, waterfalls, and picturesque views along the Illinois River. It's a great spot for a peaceful, scenic retreat with plenty of trails to explore.

3. Madison, Wisconsin (2.5-3 hours)

• The state capital offers a lively downtown scene, a gorgeous lakefront, and plenty of outdoor activities. Enjoy biking along the lakes or visit the many museums and restaurants. Madison also has a great college-town vibe. Try Ian's Pizza for a delicious lunch! Nearby Cave of the Mounds is a National Landmark that is perfect to explore when the weather is still uncertain--it's 50 degrees in the cave year round!

4. Galena, Illinois (3 hours)

• Known for its charming historic district, Galena is perfect for history buffs and those looking for a small-town experience. There are great hiking spots, wineries, art galleries, and antique shops and more. The golf courses may not be ready by March, but make a trip back in summer for top-tier golf!

5. Michigan City, Indiana (1.5 hours)

• This city has tons of great restaurants and the Lighthouse Place Premium Outlets would be perfect to explore if you're looking for a great mall with even better deals. Washington Park Zoo, Indiana Dunes State Park, and Friendship Botanic Gardens would also be great spots to explore! 

6. Indianapolis, Indiana (3 hours)

• Indianapolis is a great urban getaway with attractions like the Indianapolis Museum of Art, the Indianapolis Zoo, and it's home to the largest children's in the world! The downtown area has a lot of trendy dining and entertainment options. The Tamale Place was featured on Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives and would be a delicous casual lunch or dinner for the whole family.

7. The Dells, Wisconsin (3.5-4 hours)

• Wisconsin Dells offers a combination of indoor waterparks, outdoor activities, and unique natural formations like rock formations along the Wisconsin River. It's a fun family-friendly destination for spring break, with something for everyone in the family! Great Wolf Lodge and Kalahari are both favorite resorts.

8. Holland, Michigan (3 hours)

• A charming, artsy town by the lake, Holland offers beautiful beaches, art galleries, wineries, delicious restaurants, and a charming downtown. It’s a great place to unwind and explore the unique shops and small-town charm. Make sure to visit Cave park for a fun playground and great beach views!

Any of these spots would be great for a spring break, depending on whether you're looking for outdoor adventures, relaxation, shopping, or something in between!