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AI-Magellan
16 Mar 2025Updated last time
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10 best places for weekend getaways from Aurora, IL

Introduction to Weekend Getaways from Aurora, IL

Looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Aurora, IL without venturing too far from home? You're in luck! Whether you're craving the natural beauty of breathtaking landscapes, the quiet charm of historic towns, or the energetic vibe of vibrant cities, there are plenty of fantastic options just a short drive away. From the picturesque trails and waterfalls of Starved Rock State Park, to the well-preserved 19th-century architecture of Galena, IL, and the luxurious lakeside resorts of Lake Geneva, WI, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Discover cultural gems in Milwaukee, WI, explore the sandy beaches and dunes of Indiana Dunes National Park, or immerse yourself in the rich historical heritage of Springfield, IL. Whether you're planning a family outing, a romantic escapade, or a solo adventure, these destinations will provide an unforgettable weekend getaway that's perfect for recharging and exploring new horizons.

Recommended Activities

  • Trip Point Pin1

    Starved Rock State Park

    Starved Rock State Park offers breathtaking natural beauty with its waterfalls, canyons, and scenic hiking trails. It’s a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts looking to enjoy hiking, picnicking, and astonishing views of the Illinois River.
    Starved Rock State Park
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  • Trip Point Pin2

    Galena, IL

    Galena is a charming, historic town known for its well-preserved 19th-century buildings, quaint shops, and rich history. It's an excellent spot for a romantic getaway or a relaxing retreat with its wineries, scenic views, and an array of delightful bed and breakfast inns.
    Galena, IL
    Galena, IL
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    Galena, IL
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    Galena, IL
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    Galena, IL
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    Galena, IL
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    Galena, IL
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    Galena, IL
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  • Trip Point Pin3

    Lake Geneva, WI

    Lake Geneva offers a picturesque setting with its beautiful lake, luxury resorts, and a variety of recreational activities like boating, swimming, and golfing. It's a great spot for a family vacation or a relaxing weekend surrounded by natural beauty and upscale amenities.
    Lake Geneva, WI
    Lake Geneva, WI
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    Lake Geneva, WI
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    Lake Geneva, WI
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    Lake Geneva, WI
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    Lake Geneva, WI
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  • Trip Point Pin4

    Milwaukee, WI

    Milwaukee is a vibrant city known for its rich brewing history, cultural festivals, and diverse culinary scene. Visitors can enjoy attractions such as the Milwaukee Art Museum, Harley-Davidson Museum, and plentiful craft breweries.
    Milwaukee, WI
    Milwaukee, WI
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    Milwaukee, WI
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    Milwaukee, WI
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    Milwaukee, WI
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    Milwaukee, WI
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    Milwaukee, WI
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    Milwaukee, WI
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  • Trip Point Pin5

    Indiana Dunes National Park

    Indiana Dunes National Park offers stunning landscapes with its sandy beaches, dunes, wetlands, and forests. It’s an ideal destination for outdoor activities like hiking, bird-watching, swimming, and enjoying vistas of Lake Michigan.
    Indiana Dunes National Park
    Indiana Dunes National Park
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    Indiana Dunes National Park
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    Indiana Dunes National Park
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    Indiana Dunes National Park
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    Indiana Dunes National Park
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    Indiana Dunes National Park
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    Indiana Dunes National Park
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    Indiana Dunes National Park
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    Indiana Dunes National Park
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    Indiana Dunes National Park
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    Indiana Dunes National Park
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  • Trip Point Pin6

    Rockford, IL

    Rockford features a variety of attractions including the Anderson Japanese Gardens, the Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden, and the Burpee Museum of Natural History. It’s a wonderful destination for families and nature lovers.
    Rockford, IL
    Rockford, IL
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    Rockford, IL
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    Rockford, IL
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  • Trip Point Pin7

    Springfield, IL

    Springfield, the capital of Illinois, is rich in history and culture. It was the home of Abraham Lincoln, and visitors can explore numerous Lincoln-related sites such as the Lincoln Home National Historic Site, the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, and Lincoln's Tomb.
    Springfield, IL
    Springfield, IL
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    Springfield, IL
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    Springfield, IL
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    Springfield, IL
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  • Trip Point Pin8

    New Glarus, WI

    New Glarus is a charming Swiss-themed village known for its picturesque landscapes, Swiss-style architecture, and the famous New Glarus Brewing Company. It's perfect for a quaint and culturally enriching escape with delightful local cuisine and festivals.
    New Glarus, WI
    New Glarus, WI
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    New Glarus, WI
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    New Glarus, WI
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    New Glarus, WI
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    New Glarus, WI
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    New Glarus, WI
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    New Glarus, WI
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  • Trip Point Pin9

    Madison, WI

    Madison is Wisconsin's capital and offers a unique blend of natural beauty, vibrant culture, and academic excellence. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful lakes, the University of Wisconsin-Madison campus, and a variety of museums, shops, and restaurants.
    Madison, WI
    Madison, WI
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    Madison, WI
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    Madison, WI
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    Madison, WI
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    Madison, WI
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    Madison, WI
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    Madison, WI
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    Madison, WI
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    Madison, WI
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    Madison, WI
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    Madison, WI
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  • Trip Point Pin10

    Lake Shelbyville, IL

    Lake Shelbyville is an ideal destination for water-based recreation and outdoor activities. The lake offers excellent opportunities for boating, fishing, swimming, and camping. With its beautiful shoreline, scenic views, and numerous parks and trails, it provides a relaxing and enjoyable environment for nature lovers and families.
    Lake Shelbyville, IL
    Lake Shelbyville, IL
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    Lake Shelbyville, IL
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    Lake Shelbyville, IL
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    Lake Shelbyville, IL
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    Lake Shelbyville, IL
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    Lake Shelbyville, IL
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    Lake Shelbyville, IL
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Restaurants

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    The Safehouse

    The Safehouse

    An espionage-themed restaurant in Milwaukee, WI, where diners enter through a secret entrance and enjoy unique, spy-themed dishes.
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    The Lab

    The Lab

    Located in Lake Geneva, WI, The Lab offers a science-themed dining experience with inventive cocktails and dishes presented with a scientific flair.
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    Dinner in the Sky (Chicago)

    Dinner in the Sky (Chicago)

    An extraordinary dining experience in Chicago, IL, where guests are hoisted 150 feet into the air to enjoy gourmet meals with stunning views.
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    The Funky Monk

    The Funky Monk

    Located in Rockford, IL, this restaurant offers a unique and eclectic dining experience with funky decor and a diverse menu of creative dishes.
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    Blackhawk Restaurant

    Blackhawk Restaurant

    In Springfield, IL, this historic restaurant offers a retro dining experience with dishes inspired by old-school recipes and a nostalgic ambiance.
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Hotels

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    The Roxbury Motel

    The Roxbury Motel

    Located in New Glarus, WI, The Roxbury Motel offers themed rooms that transport guests into different worlds, from fairy tales to famous movies.
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    The Great Tree Inn

    The Great Tree Inn

    Nestled near Galena, IL, this unique bed and breakfast features treehouse-style rooms that provide a serene and whimsical lodging experience.
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    Cove of Lake Geneva

    4.1

    Cove of Lake Geneva

    A nautical-themed resort in Lake Geneva, WI, featuring suites with maritime decor and amenities like an indoor water park and lakeside views.
    4.1
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    The Iron Horse Hotel

    4.3

    The Iron Horse Hotel

    Located in Milwaukee, WI, this luxury boutique hotel is known for its unique industrial-chic design, catering specifically to motorcycle enthusiasts.
    4.3
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    Old Chicago Inn

    4.5

    Old Chicago Inn

    In Chicago, IL, this historic B&B offers vintage-style accommodations with antique furnishings and a classic Chicago speakeasy in the basement.
    4.5
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Local Events & Happenings

  • Event Icon

    Shelly Belly

    Shelly Belly

    The event will take place at The Apollo Theatre Ac in Belvidere.
    Map IconThe Apollo Theatre Ac in Belvidere (28.59 mi)
    Calendar Icon6 Sep 2025
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    Snot, Finding Ghosts, So Called Saints

    Snot, Finding Ghosts, So Called Saints

    The event will take place at The Apollo Theatre Ac in Belvidere.
    Map IconThe Apollo Theatre Ac in Belvidere (28.59 mi)
    Calendar Icon19 Sep 2025
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    Adam Calhoun , Hard Target, Cymple man, Dusty Leigh

    Adam Calhoun , Hard Target, Cymple man, Dusty Leigh

    The event will take place at The Apollo Theatre Ac in Belvidere.
    Map IconThe Apollo Theatre Ac in Belvidere (28.59 mi)
    Calendar Icon20 Sep 2025
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  • Event Icon

    Nile, Cryptopsy , The Last Ten Seconds of Life , Cognitive

    Nile, Cryptopsy , The Last Ten Seconds of Life , Cognitive

    The event will take place at The Apollo Theatre Ac in Belvidere.
    Map IconThe Apollo Theatre Ac in Belvidere (28.59 mi)
    Calendar Icon28 Sep 2025
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  • Event Icon

    From Ashes To Embers, Bury Your Past, Modifire, Gilded Cages, The Fiction We Create, Solar

    From Ashes To Embers, Bury Your Past, Modifire, Gilded Cages, The Fiction We Create, Solar

    The event will take place at The Apollo Theatre Ac in Belvidere.
    Map IconThe Apollo Theatre Ac in Belvidere (28.59 mi)
    Calendar Icon11 Oct 2025
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  • Event Icon

    Zakk Sabbath, Use Your Illusion , Dark Chapel

    Zakk Sabbath, Use Your Illusion , Dark Chapel

    The event will take place at The Apollo Theatre Ac in Belvidere.
    Map IconThe Apollo Theatre Ac in Belvidere (28.59 mi)
    Calendar Icon9 Nov 2025
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  • Event Icon

    The Lacs, Demun Jones, Charlie Farley , Dusty Leigh , Shocka Hustlemane , Big Buck Beezy, Blake Banks , Loess Hills

    The Lacs, Demun Jones, Charlie Farley , Dusty Leigh , Shocka Hustlemane , Big Buck Beezy, Blake Banks , Loess Hills

    The event will take place at The Apollo Theatre Ac in Belvidere.
    Map IconThe Apollo Theatre Ac in Belvidere (28.59 mi)
    Calendar Icon15 Nov 2025
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    Picture for The Lacs, Demun Jones, Charlie Farley , Dusty Leigh , Shocka Hustlemane , Big Buck Beezy, Blake Banks , Loess Hills

Travel Gems from Reddit

Music for Your Journey

  • Music Icon

    Eagles - Take It Easy - 2013 Remaster

    Eagles - Take It Easy - 2013 Remaster

    A perfect road trip anthem with a laid-back vibe that will keep you relaxed and entertained.
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    Rascal Flatts - Life is a Highway

    Rascal Flatts - Life is a Highway

    This energetic classic is a must-have for any road trip playlist, inspiring a sense of adventure.
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  • Music Icon

    Willie Nelson - On The Road Again - Live

    Willie Nelson - On The Road Again - Live

    A classic tune celebrating the joy of travel and hitting the open road.
    Listen on Spotify
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    Rusted Root - Send Me on My Way

    Rusted Root - Send Me on My Way

    An upbeat and cheerful song that adds a positive, feel-good vibe to your journey.
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    Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros - Home

    Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros - Home

    A comforting and heartwarming song that feels like the perfect soundtrack for exploring new places.
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    Tom Petty - Runnin' Down A Dream

    Tom Petty - Runnin' Down A Dream

    This lively tune captures the essence of chasing your dreams and enjoying the open highway.
    Listen on Spotify
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    Rihanna - Shut Up And Drive

    Rihanna - Shut Up And Drive

    A fun and energetic song to keep you pumped up and focused while driving.
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    Tracy Chapman - Fast Car

    Tracy Chapman - Fast Car

    A reflective and soulful track that adds depth and emotion to your driving experience.
    Listen on Spotify
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  • Music Icon

    Whitesnake - Here I Go Again - 2018 Remaster

    Whitesnake - Here I Go Again - 2018 Remaster

    A rock classic with an anthemic quality that perfectly suits the open road and adventure.
    Listen on Spotify
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  • Music Icon

    Chuck Berry - Route 66

    Chuck Berry - Route 66

    A quintessential road trip song that celebrates the spirit of American travel and exploration.
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