4 Fall Getaways Within 3 Hours of Chicago

Think your outdoor adventures are winding down just because summer has come to an end? Think again. Fall is a wonderful time for getaways. A time to get out and about to see how gorgeous the Midwest truly is. With the tapestry of colors that is the Midwest’s turning leaves, now is the perfect time to hit the road. Weather wise, it’s also that time of year when the strangling heat has dropped off, but it’s still warm enough during the day to enjoy your time outside. So get inspired to see a few beautiful fall destinations that are just 3 hours or less from Chicago.

Kettle Moraine State Forest

If you want the best of fall colors, you can’t go wrong with Kettle Moraine State Forest in southern Wisconsin. This trip is just about two hours from Chicago as long as traffic is being cooperative. The area is also a great option if you want to get in some fall camping, too. The spot boasts stunning fall views along the Kettle Moraine Scenic Drive, where you can stop along the way to see the Wade House, an 1860’s stagecoach inn. If you like history, you might also enjoy the nearby historical reenactment town of Old Word Wisconsin. There’s also a natural history museum for the Midwest. While there, you can pick up information about the family friendly self-guided nature trails that highlight the unique land formations in this area.

The Elegant Farmer

Sitting about 2 hours away from Chicago, just north of Burlington, WI is The Elegant Farmer in in Mukwonago, WI. There’s just something about fall that screams apple pie, and you’ll find pie so good here it that is warrants the drive.

In addition to a wide array of harvest-based baked goods and other products, the location also boasts family-friendly events throughout the fall, like the weekend Autumn Harvest Festival. During the festival, you can pick right from the orchard, choose pumpkins from the patch or let the little ones enjoy a pony ride.

If you want to work off the extra calories, take a hike at nearby Ice Age Trail, where you can learn about the glacial ice that sculpted the area’s landscape.

These getaways to Wisconsin are less than 10 miles apart so you may want to explore both Kettle Moraine State Forest and Mukwonago during the same trip.

Starved Rock State Park

An Illinois favorite, Starved Rock State Park sits about 2 hours southwest of Chicago. Hike the forest amid gorgeous fall colors and discover enchanting waterfalls. The park offers lodging, including cabins. And there are regular events like boat rides, trolley tours and scheduled group hikes. The area is also host to local wineries and breweries, making it wonderful weekend getaways for couples and friends.

Close to Starved Rock you will also find Matthiessen State Park, which is known for its own beautiful trails and waterfalls and tends to be less crowded.  If your timing is right, you can also check out the radio-controlled model airplane field, where hobbyists gather to fly their aircraft in a wide open field.

Galena

If you’re looking for an ultimate weekend getaway location in Illinois, consider Galena, which is about 3 hours away west of Chicago. The town is known for its quaint history and historical reenactments. It’s a hot spot for B&B’s, live entertainment and museums as well. It has become such a vacation hot spot, there’s likely something here for just about every interest, like mini golf, a working forge tour and pubs.

What Your Mechanic Should Check Before You Hit the Road

Before you head out on a fall trek, you’ll want to make sure your car is in good shape. Schedule an oil change or trip inspection at Hong Kong Auto Service, and we’ll take a look at:

• Fluid levels
• Hoses and belts
• Tire tread and tire pressure
• Air filter
• Suspension and steering components
• Battery terminals (to make sure they’re corrosion-free)

Before you head off on your adventure, schedule an appointment to have your car checked. After all, nothing puts a damper on a road trip like a breakdown. If you have your auto maintenance work done with us, you can drive with confidence knowing that your car is covered under the Hong Kong Auto Service Auto Repair Warranty. Your safety is our first priority and we want you to have a safe and fun-filled trip.