Travel
7 greatest day journeys from Chicago – Lonely Planet
Chicago has sufficient cloud-poking towers, rockin’ live-music golf equipment and world-class museums to maintain you occupied for weeks. However simply past metropolis limits, you too can scale sand dunes at a nationwide park, rev a Harley and amble round wineries.
Listed below are seven straightforward day journeys which might be not more than two hours away from the Windy City.
1. Get into nature at Indiana Dunes Nationwide Park
Journey time: 1 hour, half-hour
Rustling grasses, bird-filled marshes and white-pine forests fill a whopping stretch of Lake Michigan shoreline at Indiana Dunes National Park, which feels a world away from the massive metropolis. Rugged seashores beckon, and candy mountaineering trails meander up the sand and thru the woodlands.
Attempt the three Dune Problem, a view-tastic 1.5-mile climb to the park’s highest dunes: Mt Jackson, Mt Holden and Mt Tom (simply to confuse you, these are in Indiana Dunes State Park, a pocket inside the nationwide park.) Biking, paddling and winter snowshoeing are different enjoyable actions out there within the park.
Methods to get to the Indiana Dunes from Chicago: South Shore Line commuter trains make the 80-minute journey a number of instances each day from downtown Chicago to Dune Park station. By automobile, the 50-mile journey takes one to 2 hours, relying on visitors.
2. Admire Harleys and paintings in Milwaukee
Journey time: 1 hour, half-hour
Milwaukee is Wisconsin‘s largest metropolis, and it is a rollicking day journey from Chicago. Cease by the Harley-Davidson Museum to gawk at a whole lot of bikes, together with Elvis’s custom-built hog. Harleys have been invented in Milwaukee, therefore the massive bike love. The Milwaukee Art Museum drops jaws with its kinetic “wing” that soars open and shut, in addition to its outsider artwork and Georgia O’Keeffe work.
Throughout baseball season, Miller Park is the place to be for beers, bratwursts and the oddball sixth-inning foot race between individuals wearing large sausage costumes. Milwaukee has a popularity as a drinker’s paradise, with extra bars per capita than wherever within the US in addition to New Orleans. Pleasant neighborhood taverns pop up on nearly each nook. Champion’s exhibits the native spirit.
Methods to get to Milwaukee from Chicago: Amtrak runs seven trains each day to downtown Milwaukee, with a journey time of 90 minutes. By automobile, take the I-94 for the roughly two-hour journey.
3. Tour the lakeside hamlets of Harbor Nation
Journey time: 1 hour, half-hour
Harbor Nation includes a number of lakeside hamlets simply over the Michigan border, the place Chicagoans retreat for a style of small-town life. New Buffalo is probably the most resort-y of the bunch, the place you’ll be able to catch a wave on the public seaside and comply with it up with suds on the Beer Church.
Three Oaks is a bohemian farm-and-arts village the place you’ll be able to browse Elm Road’s galleries and design outlets. Vintage shops and folksy delis abound in Union Pier, Lakeside, Harbert and Sawyer. A number of wineries, similar to Tabor Hill, encompass the communities and provide tastings.
Methods to get to Harbor Nation from Chicago: Harbor Nation is a 90-minute drive east from downtown Chicago by way of I-90 and I-94. Whereas Amtrak stops in New Buffalo, the instances aren’t handy for day journeys, and also you’ll want your individual wheels to entry the opposite cities.
4. Encounter the thought-provoking Illinois Holocaust Museum
Journey time: 25 minutes
The Illinois Holocaust Museum is the third-largest Holocaust Museum on the earth, after these in Jerusalem and Washington, DC. Apart from its haunting Nazi-era rail automobile and movies of survivors’ tales from WWII, the venue incorporates thought-provoking artwork about genocides in Armenia, Rwanda, Cambodia and different nations. The particular exhibitions are significantly spectacular.
Methods to get to the Illinois Holocaust Museum from Chicago: By automobile, take I-94 – the 18-mile journey takes about 25 minutes. On public transportation, take the Union Pacific North (UP-N) prepare at Ogilvie Transportation Middle to Davis Road/Evanston. Catch the 208 bus on the Davis and Maple cease and get off at Golf Rd and Woods Dr. It is a two-minute stroll to the museum. The journey takes somewhat over an hour.
5. Stroll a piece of the 21-mile Geneva Lake Shore Path
Journey time: 1 hour, half-hour
Previous-money Chicagoans fled to Geneva Lake within the late 1800s to flee the city warmth and chill within the true-blue, spring-fed water. It’s nonetheless excessive on the getaway listing, and whereas the mansion-strewn shoreline is usually known as “the Hamptons of the Midwest,” guests of extra modest means are simply as welcome.
Nowhere is that this extra evident than on the Lake Shore Path, the 21-mile public path that goes by all water’s-edge properties – proper by their entrance lawns! – for close-up views of the mega estates. Taking a ship journey with Lake Geneva Cruise Line is a should, as is a visit to the old-school Cheese Box for hunks of aged cheddar, havarti and different Wisconsin-made goodness.
Methods to get to Geneva Lake from Chicago: You want a automobile for this present day journey. Lake Geneva, the principle city on Geneva Lake, is 80 miles northwest of Chicago. Take I-94 north to Wisconsin freeway 50 west. The journey takes 90 minutes to 2 hours by automobile.
6. See the house of modernist structure in Oak Park
Journey time: 45 minutes
Architect Frank Lloyd Wright lived within the leafy suburb of Oak Park, subsequent door to Chicago, for 20 years. Followers come from all around the world to tour his home and studio the place he developed the well-known Prairie fashion, in addition to to gawp at his Unity Temple – named a UNESCO World Heritage web site in 2019 – that’s thought of to be the primary modern-style constructing.
Ernest Hemingway is Oak Park’s different well-known son. He was born in a sprawling Victorian residence only a few blocks from Wright’s pad. It’s now maintained because the Hemingway Birthplace Museum and offers a peek at Papa’s early life.
Methods to get to Oak Park from Chicago: It’s a easy tour by way of Chicago’s public transit system. Take the Inexperienced Line L prepare from downtown to Oak Park station, from which all the pieces is inside a mile’s stroll.
7. Discover Evanston, one of many prime faculty cities within the US
Journey time: 40 minutes
Evanston is Chicago’s neighbor to the north, a lakefront city of sprawling previous homes, artisan outlets and bookish cafes the place faculty college students caffeinate. Take a look at the quirky American Toby Jug Museum, with the world’s largest assortment of character-shaped jugs (suppose Barack Obama, Mick Jagger and R2-D2 as ceramic pitchers), and the Baha’i House of Worship, an eye-popping temple surrounded by peaceable gardens.
Each are free, which leaves cash in your pocket to lease a sailboat, kayak or stand-up paddleboard on the Northwestern University Sailing Center and get out on glimmering Lake Michigan. In any other case, wander among the many boutiques, brewpubs and brioche-laden bakeries like Hewn that pepper the walkable downtown.
Methods to get to Evanston from Chicago: Chicago’s L trains go to Evanston. Throughout weekday peak instances, take the Purple Line direct from downtown Chicago or take the Crimson Line to Howard station and swap to the Purple Line. It’s a couple of 40-minute journey, with departures each 10 minutes or so.
Trustees of the British MuseumThe primary go to of Hawaiian royals to London two centuries in the past will characteristic in a brand new exhibit on the British Museum.
Hawai’i: A Kingdom Crossing Oceans is a “dazzling celebration of the wealthy artistry of Hawaiian makers, previous current and future”, based on the museum.
The exhibition, which opens in January, will commemorate greater than 200 years for the reason that go to of Hawaiian King Liholiho and Queen Kamāmalu to London in 1824 when the royal delegation have been searching for an alliance and safety from the Crown.
This journey to the capital included a go to to the British Museum – the primary file of Native Hawaiian royals on the museum.
Royal Assortment Enterprises LtdThe exhibition will characteristic round 150 objects and artworks together with many by no means seen within the UK.
Among the many highlights is an ahu ʻula, a feathered cloak despatched in 1810 by the primary king of unified Hawaiʻi, Kamehameha I, to King George III.
Lent by King Charles III from the Royal Assortment, the cloak will probably be on show for the primary time in over 100 years, alongside the Hawaiian king’s authentic letter requesting assist and safety from the British Crown.
Trustees of the British MuseumGuests to the museum will probably be greeted on the steps of the Nice Courtroom by a nine-foot (2.7m) picture of the god Kū, the god of warfare and governance, dressed with a recent loincloth and standing atop a pole rediscovered inside a historic plinth.
A finely carved drum accompanied by an historic chant recounting early Polynesian migrations to Hawaii will characteristic alongside a bowl with determine, not too long ago returned from mortgage to Hawaii’s Bernice Pauahi Bishop Museum, that represents actions of individuals and objects between the Pacific and the UK.
The Anglo-Franco proclamation of 1843, on mortgage from The Nationwide Archives, highlights the UK and France’s formal recognition of Hawaii’s independence and emphasises diplomatic bonds between the nations.
Trustees of the British MuseumThe creation of the exhibition concerned “the meticulous conservation of ancestral treasures and the inclusion of ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi (the Hawaiian language) all through the area”, the British Museum mentioned.
Dr Alice Christophe, head of Oceania on the museum, mentioned the exhibit is a tribute to Native Hawaiian makers, previous and current.
She added: “It tells the story of the deep and layered relationship between Hawaii and the UK, reflecting on care, sovereignty and the complexity of allyship.
“We hope this present will spark conversations and uplift folks within the archipelago and past.”
The exhibition will run from 15 January to 25 May 2026.
France is a rustic steeped in historical past, and nowhere is that this extra evident than its fantastically preserved medieval cities.
From Alsace’s timber-framed homes to Provence’s dramatic hilltop villages.
These cities permit guests to step again in time, wander cobblestone streets, marvel at historical structure, and expertise the appeal of bygone eras.
On this listing, we’ve gathered 20 of the best-preserved medieval cities in France that you simply completely should see.
20 Greatest Medieval Cities in France To Go to
Scroll down to find the 20 finest medieval cities in France that needs to be on each historical past buff and tradition fanatic’s bucket listing!
1. Riquewihr, Alsace
Riquewihr is a picturesque village in Alsace typically described as some of the lovely in France.
Its well-preserved Sixteenth-century structure, with colourful half-timbered homes lining slender cobblestone streets, makes it really feel like stepping right into a fairy story.
Guests ought to come right here to expertise the distinctive Alsatian tradition, discover the encircling vineyards, and style the area’s well-known wines.
Don’t miss the Dolder Tower, a Thirteenth-century defensive gate, or wine cellars providing tastings. The Alsace villages are among the most picturesque places in France.
2. Eguisheim, Alsace
Eguisheim, a cute fairytale town in France, is thought for its concentric round format and vibrant floral shows.
The city’s magnificence lies in its colourful medieval homes, charming central sq., and surrounding vineyards.
Guests will take pleasure in strolling by the slender streets, visiting the Chapel of St. Leo IX, and mountain climbing the close by Three Castles path.
The city can also be well-known for its storks, which nest on rooftops throughout summer time.
3. Rocamadour, Occitanie
One in all France’s most unique towns is Rocamadour, a vertical village dramatically constructed into the face of a cliff. Its beautiful location and spiritual significance make it a must-visit place that needs to be in your France bucket list.
The city is dwelling to a number of vital spiritual websites, together with the Sanctuary of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
Guests can climb the Grand Escalier (Nice Staircase) to the château on the prime, which gives breathtaking views of the Alzou Canyon.
4. Sarlat-la-Canéda, Dordogne
Sarlat is without doubt one of the best-preserved medieval cities in France, well-known for its golden stone buildings and gastronomic delights.
Guests ought to come right here to wander the labyrinthine streets, discover the bustling market, and take pleasure in native specialties like foie gras and truffles.
Don’t miss the panoramic view from the highest of the Sainte-Marie church tower or a go to to the Manoir de Gisson.
5. Dinan, Brittany
Dinan is a walled city recognized for its spectacular ramparts, half-timbered homes, and picturesque port.
Guests will love strolling alongside the previous metropolis partitions, exploring the quaint Rue du Jerzual, and having fun with a meal at one of many cafes alongside the previous port.
The city’s magnificence is enhanced by its location overlooking the Rance River. Go to the Château de Dinan and climb the Tour de l’Horloge for panoramic views.
6. Honfleur, Normandy
Honfleur, with its picturesque previous harbor and slate-covered home facades, has lengthy been a favourite topic for artists.
Guests come for the charming ambiance, maritime historical past, and glorious seafood eating places.
Key points of interest embody the wood Church of Saint Catherine, the Eugene Boudin Museum, and the gorgeous Jardin des Personnalités.
7. Perouges, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
Perouges is a superbly preserved medieval walled city that appears frozen in time. Its cobbled streets and stone homes make it a preferred movie location.
Guests ought to expertise life in a Fifteenth-century city, style the native specialty “galette de Pérouges,” and benefit from the peaceable ambiance. Don’t miss the central Place du Tilleul or the Eglise-Forteresse.
8. Saint-Cirq-Lapopie, Occitanie
Perched excessive above the Lot River, Saint-Cirq-Lapopie is a shocking medieval village that has impressed many artists. Its magnificence lies in its dramatic setting, Gothic facades, and slender alleyways.
Guests can discover quite a few artisan outlets, hike within the surrounding space, or take a ship journey on the Lot River. The village is especially magical within the night when the day-trippers have left.
9. Gordes, Provence
Gordes is a placing hilltop village within the Luberon area, well-known for its stone buildings cascading down the hillside.
Guests come for the breathtaking views, particularly at sundown, and to discover the encircling lavender fields and olive groves.
Key points of interest embody the Sixteenth-century château, the close by Sénanque Abbey, and the standard Tuesday market.
10. Locronan, Brittany
Locronan is a small city that has maintained its Renaissance appeal, with granite homes and an exquisite central sq..
Guests will admire the dearth of seen trendy infrastructure, making it really feel actually timeless. The city is thought for its spiritual heritage, conventional Breton festivals, and as a filming location.
Don’t miss the Church of Saint Ronan or the native artisan workshops.
11. Cordes-sur-Ciel, Occitanie
Cordes-sur-Ciel, or “Cordes within the Sky,” is aptly named for its hilltop location, typically shrouded in morning mist. This bastide city is thought for its well-preserved Gothic structure and thriving arts scene.
Guests ought to come to discover the medieval homes, go to artisan workshops, and revel in panoramic views of the countryside. The city hosts a well-known medieval competition every July.
12. Mont Saint-Michel, Normandy
Mont Saint-Michel is without doubt one of the most iconic landmarks in France, a medieval marvel that rises dramatically from the ocean.
This UNESCO World Heritage website is a small rocky island topped by a shocking abbey and surrounded by a picturesque village.
Guests are drawn by its distinctive structure, wealthy historical past, and the fascinating phenomenon of maximum tides that isolate and join it to the mainland.
Discover the winding streets, go to the magnificent abbey, and be taught concerning the website’s significance as a pilgrimage heart.
13. Minerve, Occitanie
Minerve is a small village with a dramatic historical past, perched on a rocky peninsula between two deep gorges. Guests come for its Cathar historical past, beautiful pure setting, and glorious native wines.
Discover the village’s slender streets, go to the Twelfth-century church, and be taught concerning the Cathar siege on the small museum.
14. Monpazier, Nouvelle-Aquitaine
Monpazier is without doubt one of the best-preserved bastide cities in France, recognized for its excellent grid format and exquisite central sq..
Guests will admire the well-preserved medieval and Seventeenth-century structure, the lined market corridor, and the peaceable ambiance.
15. Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur
Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is nestled between two rocky cliffs, with a star suspended on a series between them.
The city is known for its advantageous porcelain and proximity to the Verdon Gorge – one of many best places in the French Riviera area.
Guests ought to discover the slender streets, go to the Notre Dame de Beauvoir chapel perched above the city, and store for native ceramics.
16. Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert, Occitanie
Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert is a serene medieval village tucked right into a dramatic gorge on the pilgrim path to Santiago de Compostela.
Its UNESCO-listed Gellone Abbey, with its exceptional Romanesque structure, rises above a maze of slender streets and stone homes.
Don’t miss the abbey’s lovely cloister, the Place de la Liberté with its historical elm tree, or the satan’s bridge spanning the gorge.
17. Conques, Occitanie
Conques is a jewel of Romanesque artwork nestled in a wooded gorge in Occitanie.
Its magnificent Abbey Church of Saint Foy, with its intricate tympanum and golden reliquary, has drawn pilgrims for hundreds of years alongside the Santiago de Compostela route.
Don’t miss the treasury’s medieval goldsmith assortment, the carved capitals within the cloister, or the sundown view from the Bancarel viewpoint.
18. Najac, Occitanie
Najac is a shocking medieval fortress city perched dramatically alongside a single ridge excessive above the Aveyron River.
Its majestic Thirteenth-century royal fortress stands on the highest level, whereas the village’s stone and half-timbered homes stretch alongside the ridge in a novel linear format.
Don’t miss the Gothic church of Saint-Jean with its uncommon fortified options, the panoramic views from the fortress hold, or the traditional lined market corridor the place native farmers promote their produce.
19. Vézelay, Bourgogne-Franche-Comté
Vézelay is a hilltop village in Burgundy topped by its magnificent Basilica of Saint Mary Magdalene.
This UNESCO World Heritage website rises majestically above the Remedy Valley, its golden stone glowing within the sundown whereas its medieval streets are lined with historic homes and ramparts.
Don’t miss the spectacular views over the Burgundian countryside, or the home the place Jules Roy lived, now a literature museum.
20. Saint-Paul-de-Vence, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur
Saint-Paul-de-Vence is a remarkably preserved medieval city perched on a hilltop close to Good, remodeled into an inventive haven within the twentieth century.
Its large medieval ramparts encircle slender cobblestone streets lined with elegant stone homes, whereas up to date artwork galleries and boutiques occupy historical buildings.
Remaining Ideas on The Greatest French Medieval Cities
Exploring France’s medieval cities is like stepping right into a residing historical past e-book.
Every village gives a novel glimpse into the nation’s wealthy previous, well-preserved structure, and timeless appeal.
From the long-lasting Mont Saint-Michel to the lesser-known gems like Perouges, these cities present unforgettable experiences for historical past lovers, tradition lovers, and informal vacationers alike.
Able to plan your trip in France? Use our complete France Travel Guide to make sure you don’t miss any of the unbelievable locations.
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