Do you want to get away from Chicago for the holidays but are not sure where to go? There is a lot to do in Chicago during the Christmas season, but if you want to see some other festive Midwestern cities, it’s just a short drive away.
Effingham
Effingham, Illinois, is located in southern Illinois and is recognized as home to the world’s most prominent cross. This city becomes a dazzling show of lights during the holiday season, with elaborate decorations illuminating the downtown area and the area around the cross. At the Effingham County Cultural Center and Museum, visitors can enjoy Christmas shows complete with toe-tapping music and art displays that range from spiritual designs to mainstream artwork depicting the holiday season.
Meanwhile, Hendelmeyer Park provides an additional winter wonderland of lights for locals and visitors alike. Take pictures before the cross and bring the kids to see Santa Claus every Saturday in December. When you’re done, walk back to your Effingham vacation home to listen to local caroling before getting comfortable. The Firefly Grill is great for getting some locally sourced, rustic supper assistance.
Door County, WI
Door County is most popular in the summer, but the area is just as picturesque in the winter. Getting to Door County from Milwaukee may take anything from five to a little over an hour and a half. But you might make a lovely road trip out of it by following the Lake Michigan Circle Tour route. When there are fewer visitors, lodging costs decrease. Relax at a lakeside lodge while taking in a good movie.
Peoria, IL
Peoria, Illinois, about 2.5 hours from Chicago, is home to the nation’s longest continuous Santa Claus procession. The East Peoria Festival of Lights begins on November 25 and continues through the end of December. Millions of lights make up the bulk of the larger objects and floats. Walking tours of the light festival, which include Santa’s hamlet, are available, as are additional activities, including a laser light display with a Christmas theme and a narrated nativity scene. A sail aboard The Spirit of Peoria over Christmas may be an excellent activity for the whole family. A two-hour cruise with supper (or a handmade buffet if you choose for a matinee) and live music.
St. Charles
St. Charles is the perfect destination for a white Christmas if you’re searching for a historical journey this season. Every year in December, the city puts on a Christmas parade when the mayor and Santa Claus make appearances, and free horse-drawn carriage rides are available. Several small, independently owned stores in the downtown area sell unique, handcrafted things that would make great holiday presents. Walk about town and take in the festive window displays and storefront decorations before warming up with a cup of hot chocolate at Town House Books and Cafe or Buttermilk Cafe. This ancient city is conveniently situated only 40 minutes from the heart of Chicago, making it a great vacation spot for a small-town atmosphere and easy access to the major metropolis.
Naperville
Naperville, located in northwestern Illinois, is a great place to spend the holidays with loved ones because of its lively downtown and proximity to Chicago. Naperville goes all out for the holidays by hosting a Jingle Bell Jamboree throughout December when local artists and bands play seasonal favorites with popular rock tunes.
Naper Lights and other Santa-themed decorations may be seen in Naper Settlement today. Take the kids to see Santa among all the unique stores selling presents for the people on your list. The Dandelion Fountain is the place to go if you’re looking for a special picture op. The Holiday Mansion Tour, which takes visitors through lavishly adorned mansions, is a popular seasonal activity.
Galena, IL
Galena is perfect if you’re searching for a vacation with plenty of outdoor activities. Galena, located about three hours north of Chicago on Interstate 88, is home to many inns and ski areas. Unlike many other resorts and tourist towns, Galena sees a lot of action throughout the winter months owing to its excellent skiing. Throughout December, Galena hosts a wide variety of Christmas-themed events and festivities.
Monticello
Spend a couple of frigid December days in Monticello, Illinois, exploring the city’s historic downtown and the nearby Allerton Park. This city is recognized across the state for its festive atmosphere and annual Christmas parade during the holiday season. Gather the kids for a march down the downtown streets to collect candy, and then take them to watch The Polar Express in the historic Depot area. In December, you and the kids may ride the trains and have lunch with Santa, making them one of the city’s most popular things to do.
Hiking activities for all ages may be found at Illinois’s state parks, many of which are located along Illinois’s beautiful lakeshore. Beautiful holiday light displays, Santa-themed festivities, and spectacular fireworks over lakes make Illinois a must-see throughout the holiday season.
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