Staycation: Hampshire, Illinois
I grew up in Hampshire, IL and most people have not heard of it. So when you are in a small town there is not much to do, let alone romantic places. A romantic place can be anywhere you go with someone you love. Lots of people like to go to Chick-n-dip for ice cream. You sit outside under the yellow lights as you swat the mosquitoes and sit on the red picnic tables while the kids run around with their dogs. Other good places would be the park or an open field at night where you can watch the stars.
--Contributed by sab, Hampshire, IL
Labels: Illinois
Staycation: Chicago
Chicago is a great place for a staycation! With its beautiful lakefront, the amazing skyline, and all the museums and activities downtown, we're lucky to have such a great city to call home.
My fiance and I had a mini-staycation last year: we played tourist for the day, with a romantic overnight stay at the Westin on Michigan Avenue. We went shopping on the Magnificent Mile, took in the sights from the museum campus (where the Field Museum, Shedd Aquarium, and Adler Planeterium are located). We spent hours exploring the Field Museum, which we hadn't visited since grade school field trips... and watched the sea life in the giant tank at the Shedd Aquarium.
There are miles and miles of paths along the lake for a romantic stroll, and tons of fine dining downtown. Your staycation could include a dinner cruise on the Odyssey, theater (Wicked!) or a night on the town.
--Submitted by pd, Evanston, Illinois
Labels: Illinois, Staycations
Staycations: Champaign, Illinois
There are three main places that are special to my wife and I.
The first is located in the country near Champaign, Illinois and is called Alto Vineyard. We will often take off after work and go sit at little tables among thepine trees and share a bottle of wine and discuss our day, or plans for our future. Some times we sit on the porch at the winery and just watch the sun while sharing wine with my best friend.
The second romantic place is a little martini bar in downtown Champaign where we will sit for hours sipping exotic martinis while looking into each others eyes. We love to sample the appetizers while spending time together. This is a place where the bartenders and patrons will leave you alone if you are in deep conversation or will provide entertaining conversation if you choose. It is one of our favorite "date" places.
There is a beautiful forest preserve near Ogden Illinois where we will walk beautiful groomed trails along the lake where you can find secluded benches to sit and spend time together.
--Submitted by SS, Champaign, Illinois
Labels: Illinois, Staycations
Staycations: Chicago's Buckingham Fountain
I think the most romantic place in Chicago is Buckingham Fountain. It's just so beautiful to look at and it's really peaceful to sit down and relax.
It looks really amazing at night, when the light are on. It's just so awesome to go there and just chill. Couples would love this because they can have time to themselves, while having a beautiful view while they talk.
Take a look at Buckingham Memorial Fountain in Chicago, and I assure you it's a moment with your loved one you won't forget.
--Photo and staycation advice submitted by SAM, Chicago
Labels: Illinois, Staycations
Staycations: Sears Tower, Chicago
We are real close to Chicago, and I would say the Sears Tower seems romantic, although I have never even been to the top. Either that or the Hancock tower, I know they have a beautiful restaurant up top.
Submitted by sbuki, Chicago
Labels: Illinois, Staycations
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