It's always a fun time when girlfriends get together and it's even better if they have a whole weekend to spend together. Whether or not you live in or near Illinois, it is worth considering the state as a travel destination. Options include the culture and nightlife of Chicago, the excitement of Big Ten sports, winery tours or even a weekend of gambling; you can find many great getaways in Illinois.
The city of Chicago offers an array of options for a weekend girls' getaway. Nightlife includes many clubs with live music and theater that includes everything from Broadway productions of "West Side Story," to legendary comedy presented by Second City, to small stages of local theater companies.
Museums such as the Art Institute of Chicago can satisfy your cultural needs, while you can see world-renowned architecture by just walking around the city.
If you are just looking to get pampered, try the Trump Chicago, which has a spa floor, where you can wander from your accommodations to treatment rooms in cozy robes.
Wrigley Field is a landmark in Chicago and a great place to see a major-league baseball game. Sports lovers may also have a lot of fun together at a college game in Illinois. Sports is serious business in Big Ten Country and you can either head to the north to Evanston where the Wildcats of Northwestern play, or south to Champaign for the University of Illinois. Whichever direction you head, you will be sure to find a good time. There's nothing quite like the tailgating experience for a girls' weekend getaway.
Illinois isn't exactly the wine capital of the United States, but you can still find some award-winning vintages. Lynfred Winery is a gem just outside of Chicago where you can find dozens of different types of wine -- something for everyone. They also have a bed and breakfast that offers in-room tastings in rooms that have whirlpool tubs and cozy fireplaces.
If you'd like to spend your girls' weekend trying different wineries, Illinois has a number of areas, including the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail, that offer multiple vineyards.
A weekend of gambling is a great way to enjoy time with the girls. Casinos are actually spread out throughout much of Illinois. Some of the larger ones, such as the Harrah's Casino Hotels in Joliet and Metropolis, offer fine dining, top entertainment, spa services and shopping, in addition to slot machines and table games. Look for weekend packages or group getaways at Illinois casinos. You can even get deals that include transportation and meals, for an affordable fun trip with the girls.
