Weekend Trips from Lincoln Park, IL

A two-hour drive from Lincoln Park brings travelers to New Buffalo, a quaint beach town along the shores of Lake Michigan. Located in the region affectionately known as “Harbor Country,” New Buffalo offers soft sandy beaches, charming inns, and a walkable downtown filled with art galleries and wine tasting rooms. Visitors can enjoy sunset views at the public beach, explore nearby Warren Dunes State Park, or dine on fresh-caught perch at local favorites like The Stray Dog. New Buffalo strikes the perfect balance between relaxation and recreation, making it a top choice for weekend travelers.

For those looking to reconnect with nature, Starved Rock State Park is a must-visit destination just under two hours southwest of Lincoln Park. Renowned for its dramatic canyons, scenic waterfalls, and over 13 miles of hiking trails, Starved Rock offers a breathtaking natural experience year-round. During spring and summer, wildflowers bloom along shaded trails, while autumn brings vivid foliage displays. In winter, frozen waterfalls draw photographers and ice climbers. The historic Starved Rock Lodge provides cozy accommodations and a rustic dining experience, rounding out an invigorating outdoor getaway.

Tucked into the rolling hills of northwest Illinois, Galena is a preserved 19th-century town filled with architectural charm and historic appeal. Just over three hours from Lincoln Park, Galena transports visitors back in time with its cobblestone streets, red-brick buildings, and heritage-rich attractions like Ulysses S. Grant’s home. The town is also home to upscale boutiques, wineries, and art galleries. Outdoor enthusiasts can hike, golf, or ski depending on the season, while couples enjoy romantic stays at one of Galena’s many bed-and-breakfasts. This enchanting town offers an immersive escape from urban life.

Just under three hours from Lincoln Park, the twin towns of Saugatuck and Douglas are renowned for their artistic flair, pristine beaches, and scenic dunes. Oval Beach consistently ranks among the best in the Midwest, offering a peaceful haven for swimming, sunbathing, and kayaking. Visitors can explore local art galleries, climb Mount Baldhead for sweeping views of Lake Michigan, or hop aboard a retro chain ferry across the Kalamazoo River. 

A little over 90 minutes north of Lincoln Park lies Milwaukee, a dynamic city offering a rich blend of history, culture, and culinary delights. While often overshadowed by its larger neighbor to the south, Milwaukee shines with its lakefront museums, breweries, and thriving music scene. The Milwaukee Art Museum, with its iconic winged architecture, anchors a cultural district that includes Discovery World and the Harley-Davidson Museum. Food lovers can explore the Milwaukee Public Market or take a brewery tour at Lakefront Brewery. For urban explorers, Milwaukee makes a compelling weekend trip that’s both convenient and enriching.

Located about an hour southeast of Lincoln Park, Indiana Dunes National Park offers one of the most unique natural landscapes in the Midwest. Stretching 15 miles along Lake Michigan’s southern shore, the park features sandy beaches, forested trails, and towering dunes that attract hikers, birdwatchers, and beachgoers alike. Visitors can climb the 126-foot-high Mount Baldy, explore wetland boardwalks, or simply relax by the water. With over 50 miles of trails and a surprising diversity of ecosystems, Indiana Dunes is a top pick for nature lovers seeking a quick yet rewarding retreat.

About three hours from Lincoln Park, the town of Holland, Michigan, is best known for its Dutch heritage and tulip-lined streets. Each spring, the Tulip Time Festival transforms the city into a riot of color, drawing thousands of visitors. Even outside festival season, Holland delights with its charming downtown, Windmill Island Gardens, and sandy Lake Michigan beaches. Travelers can enjoy local breweries, bike along scenic trails, or visit the only authentic Dutch windmill operating in the U.S. Holland combines small-town hospitality with European flair, making it a memorable weekend destination.

Whether you're dreaming of a home with quick lake access or a city residence that makes every weekend getaway easy, there's a property that fits your lifestyle. Contact Millie Rosenbloom to explore exceptional real estate options in and around Lincoln Park.