Experience Lake Life in Illinois: Family-Friendly Vacation Rentals on Lake Michigan
Illinois offers an incredible lake life experience, especially for families seeking the perfect vacation rental on the shores of Lake Michigan. Imagine waking up to sparkling blue waters, spending your days on sandy beaches, and enjoying summer outdoor activities like boating, fishing, and paddleboarding.
From cozy lakeside cabins to spacious modern retreats, Illinois has vacation rentals that cater to families craving the ultimate lake getaway. Plus, with Chicago nearby, you can easily explore the city’s attractions like Navy Pier and Millennium Park or attend the Chicago Air and Water Show, blending urban excitement with the tranquility of Lake Michigan.
Top 3 Facts about Illinois
01
Ferris Wheels
The world’s first Ferris wheel, designed by George Washington Gale Ferris Jr. and standing 264 feet tall, was constructed for the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago.
02
Route 66
Illinois is often referred to as the “Land of Lincoln” as it was Abraham Lincoln’s home state. Additionally, it is where Route 66, the iconic American highway, begins.
03
The Great Chicago Fire
Chicago is infamous for the Great Chicago Fire of 1871, which destroyed much of the city. Despite popular belief, the fire did not start when a cow kicked over a lantern, as the legend suggests.
Must See Attractions
Navy Pier
Tourist Attraction
This beloved waterfront destination is known for its iconic Ferris wheel, diverse entertainment options, and stunning views of the city skyline, making it a must-visit attraction for locals and tourists alike.
Starved Rock State Park
Nature & Parks
This park captivates visitors with its majestic sandstone canyons, towering bluffs, and cascading waterfalls, creating a natural haven for hiking, wildlife observation, and appreciation of the region’s geological wonders.
Millennium Park, Chicago
Speciality Parks
The park is home to the iconic Cloud Gate sculpture, affectionately known as “The Bean,” which reflects the city’s skyline and offers fantastic photo opportunities. Visitors can also enjoy the serene Lurie Garden, the interactive Crown Fountain, and the striking Jay Pritzker Pavilion, where free concerts and events are held throughout the year.
Where to Sleep
Discover Illinois’s Lakes
1. Lake Springfield
Lake Springfield combines urban convenience with natural beauty, offering fishing, sailing, and lakeside parks for residents and visitors, all near Springfield.
2. Clinton Lake
Located near the city of Clinton, Clinton Lake provides a peaceful escape for camping, fishing, and water sports, surrounded by rolling hills and wooded landscapes.
4. Lake Shelbyville
Known for its clear waters and extensive shoreline, this lake attracts boaters, anglers, and nature enthusiasts to explore its coves and wooded areas.
5. Carlyle Lake
This is the largest man-made lake in Illinois and provides a tranquil retreat for fishing, boating, and camping, surrounded by scenic woodlands and wildlife habitats.
6. Rend Lake
Surrounded by forests and wildlife, Rend Lake offers a serene setting for outdoor activities, including fishing, birdwatching, and hiking along its picturesque shores.
7. Lake Michigan
Bordering Chicago, Lake Michigan offers waterfronts, sandy beaches, and stunning skyline views, making it a focal point for recreational activities and scenic beauty.
8. Fox Lake
Fox Lake is a popular destination for boating and water sports enthusiasts, with numerous marinas and a vibrant Chain O’Lakes community.
Annual Events and Festivals
August 2024
Chicago Air and Water Show
Held annually along Lake Michigan’s shoreline, this aerial spectacle attracts millions of spectators. It showcases precision flying, daring aerobatics, and water stunts. Renowned for its jaw-dropping performances by military and civilian aircraft, including the iconic U.S. Navy Blue Angels and the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, the show transforms the lakefront.
Thursday, August 8 – Sunday, August 18, 2024
Illinois State Fair
A time-honored tradition dating back to 1853 and hosted in Springfield, fairgrounds come alive with the energy of various attractions. Showcasing the agricultural heritage of Illinois, the fair features livestock exhibitions, competitive events, and showcases of the state’s finest crops and produce. The fair offers a carnival atmosphere with amusement rides, games, and live entertainment that ranges from grandstand concerts to nationally recognized performers. For a slower pace, consider one of the many fall festivals happening throughout the state.
September 2024
Route 66 Mother Road Festival
The festival celebrates the historic and legendary Route 66. Attracting enthusiasts from across the country, it features classic cars, ranging from vintage automobiles to muscle cars, lining the streets, creating a nostalgic spectacle that transports visitors to a bygone era. Attendees can immerse themselves in the rich history of the iconic Route 66. The festival is a cultural extravaganza with live music, delicious local cuisine, and an array of vendors offering memorabilia and artifacts.
Top Hiking Trails
Dells Canyon and Bluff Trail
Matthiessen State Park Fort, Oglesby, ILlinois
This short two-mile hike is a favorite in the Oglesby region and takes less than an hour to complete the loop. View quaint waterfalls and bridges as you hike the well-traveled path. There are plenty of side trails to explore if you wish to lengthen your hike.
Waterfall Glen Trail
Waterfall Glen Main Trail, Darien, Illinois
Located within the Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve, this 9.5-mile loop trail winds through woodlands, wetlands, and prairies, providing hikers, joggers, and cyclists with a varied and scenic journey. The highlight of the trail is the Sawmill Creek Bluff, where a stunning overlook provides panoramic views of the preserve. The trail’s name is derived from the scenic man-made waterfall along Sawmill Creek. Along the way, visitors may encounter an array of plant and animal life, adding to the trail’s natural charm.
Saint Louis Canyon Trail
Saint Louis Canyon Trailhead, Oglesby, Illinois
Saint Louis Canyon Trail invites visitors into a natural amphitheater of towering sandstone walls and lush greenery. This scenic trail, approximately 2.5 miles in length, winds through a diverse landscape and takes about an hour to complete. The highlight of the trail is the Saint Louis Canyon, where visitors are greeted by a stunning, cascading waterfall framed by towering cliffs. The trail itself provides a relatively moderate hike, offering a mix of wooden bridges, natural steps, and serene forest paths.
Best Golf Courses
TPC Deere Run
3100 Heather Knoll, Silvis, Illinois
Home to the PGA TOUR’s John Deere Classic, this golf course offers a challenging yet enjoyable experience for players of all skill levels. Crafted by renowned architect D.A. Weibring, the course features rolling hills, fairways, and strategically placed bunkers. One of the signature elements of TPC Deere Run is its finishing stretch, with the 16th, 17th, and 18th holes known as the “Deere Run Trio,” providing a thrilling and strategic conclusion to the round.
Cantigny Golf
27 W 270 Mack Road Wheaton, Illinois
This 27-hole championship golf facility is part of the Cantigny Park estate, which also encompasses stunning gardens, museums, and educational programs. It offers a strategic layout with well-manicured fairways, scenic water features, and picturesque bunkers. With its commitment to excellence, beautiful surroundings, and dedication to providing a memorable golf experience, Cantigny Golf stands as a premier destination for golf enthusiasts in the Chicagoland area.
The Preserve At Oak Meadows
900 N Wood Dale Rd, Addison, Illinois
This 18-hole championship course recently underwent a transformative restoration to enhance its playability and ecological integrity. It features meticulously designed fairways, strategic bunkering, and naturalistic water features, providing an engaging experience for golfers of all levels. The course seamlessly integrates into its natural surroundings, creating a serene and picturesque environment.
Water Sports
Lake Michigan Swimming
Swimming
Swimming in Illinois offers a diverse range of aquatic experiences, from refreshing lakes to vibrant water parks. Lake Michigan, bordering the eastern edge of the state, offers expansive sandy beaches and cool freshwater for beachgoers to enjoy. Additionally, natural bodies of water, such as Starved Rock State Park’s Illinois River, provide a scenic backdrop for those seeking a more immersive swimming experience.
Midwest Waters Angling Co.
Fishing
From the iconic shores of Lake Michigan to the tranquil lakes scattered across the rolling landscapes, Illinois offers an array of fishing opportunities. Anglers can cast their lines in pursuit of a variety of fish species, including bass, catfish, crappie, walleye, and the prized muskie. The state’s numerous rivers, such as the Illinois River and Fox River, provide excellent fishing grounds, while expansive lakes like Carlyle Lake and Rend Lake offer ample space for both bank and boat fishing. Many fishing charters, such as Midwest Waters Angling Co., are available throughout the state.
Chicago River Canoe and Kayak
kayaking, canoeing, & paddling
Illinois boasts rivers, lakes, and marshes, creating an ideal environment for kayaking. The Chicago River, with its architectural backdrop, offers an urban kayaking experience, while the Fox River winds through landscapes in the northern part of the state. Starved Rock State Park provides a unique kayaking opportunity with its stunning canyons and sandstone cliffs along the Illinois River. Additionally, the Chain O’Lakes region in northern Illinois, known for its interconnected lakes and waterways, provides endless possibilities for exploration.
Resorts to Discover in Illinois
Grand Bear Resort at Starved Rock
Family-friendly
2643 IL-178, North Utica, Illinois 61373
Deer Path Inn
Luxury, Couples
255 E Illinois Rd, Lake Forest, Illinois 60045
Starved Rock Lodge & Conference Center
Ecological, Family-friendly
One Lodge Ln, Oglesby, Illinois 61348
Tips on Vacationing in Illinois
Start with Chicago
Start your trip in the vibrant city of Chicago. Explore iconic attractions like Millennium Park, Navy Pier, and the Art Institute of Chicago, indulge in the city’s diverse culinary scene, and head out to a lake for some outdoor adventures.
Route 66
Drive or explore parts of the historic Route 66, which crosses through Illinois. Visit nostalgic roadside attractions and small towns along the route.
Explore the Outdoors
Discover Illinois’s natural beauty by exploring Starved Rock State Park, where hiking trails lead to stunning canyons and waterfalls. Alternatively, bike along the scenic trails in the Great River Road area.
Frequently Asked Questions about Illinois
When searching for short-term rentals in Illinois, you can find a variety of accommodations on popular platforms like Lake, Airbnb, Rent By Owner™, Vrbo, and Booking.com. These platforms offer various options for regions and types of rentals, making finding your perfect vacation home easy.
Illinois offers numerous spots for nature lovers looking for cabin rentals. Popular destinations include Shawnee National Forest, Starved Rock State Park, Lake Shelbyville, and Garden of the Gods Recreation Area. You’ll find charming cabins with various amenities, sizes, and styles, perfect for a relaxing escape.
The Great River Road along the Mississippi River provides a scenic drive, passing through charming towns and offering beautiful river views.
The best time to visit is during the late spring to early fall (May to September) when the weather is mild, and outdoor activities are in full swing.
Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy activities such as hiking in Starved Rock State Park, exploring the Garden of the Gods in Shawnee National Forest, and biking along the Lakefront Trail in Chicago.