The Great Escape: The Haute 5 Weekend Getaways for Chicagoans

Memorial Day Weekend. BBQs. Family. Fun. A Full House. Chaos. Wanna get away? Here’s your haute 5 spots to escape urban life and enjoy the real lake effect. And with four states within an hour of the city, there’s plenty of Midwest hospitality to choose from.

The Abbey Resort in Lake Geneva, WI

For 45 years, The Abbey Resort & Spa in Fontana, Wisconsin has been a respected and luxurious iconic retreat. Located just 80 miles from downtown Chicago, The Abbey Resort & Spa is nestled on 90 acres of beautifully manicured grounds. Following a $40 million renovation in 2005, it is the only full-service resort on the shores of Lake Geneva. Guestrooms feature a beautiful lake-cottage design, with an outdoor patio or balcony.  The 35,000 sq. ft. AVANI Spa opened in July of 2008 and features 18 treatment rooms, adult’s only pool, life-fitness studio, fitness classes and full salon services.

The Abbey Resort & Spa, 269 Fontana Ave. Fontana, WI 53125

Eagle Ridge Resort & Spa in Galena, IL

150 miles west of Chicago, Eagle Ridge Resort & Spa offers a variety of premier accommodations that are relaxing, comfortable and amenity-rich. Choose from guest rooms with large whirlpool bathtubs and balconies to townhome styled villas and spacious single-family distinctive homes that are surrounded by the beautiful and tranquil Galena Territory countryside. With champion golf, award-winning dining and spa facilities, it is the perfect staycation for Chicagoans.

Eagle Ridge Resort & Spa, 444 Eagle Ridge Dr. Galena, IL 61036

The Harbor Grand in New Buffalo, MI

A hop, skip and a jump across the Chicago Skyway resides a waterfront inn on the New Buffalo Harbor. Guest rooms feature views of the water, fireplaces, whirlpool tubs, and spa showers. With all the comforts of home, indulge in breakfast in bed, 24-7 Ben and Jerry’s, bike rental, Vosge Haut-Chocolat, and an extensive DVD library. Say aaah.

The Harbor Grand, 111 W. Water St. New Buffalo, MI 49117

Glidden Lodge Beach Resort in Door County, WI

A trendsetting, upscale facility offering the best in modern amenities and gracious hospitality, Glidden Lodge Beach Resort has brought relaxation to a higher level. The new one, two and three bedroom suites all have an Eastern exposure that captures the sunrise over the lake on what is known as Whitefish Bay. Catch the stunning sunset at Cave Point, walk the miles of white sand beaches and enjoy tennis or volleyball on the shore.

Glidden Lodge Beach Resort, 4676 Glidden Dr. Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235

Starved Rock Lodge in Utica, IL

90 miles southwest of Chicago is Starved Rock,  a scenic state park full of beautiful waterfalls and hiking. The park covers 2,640 acres and features 18 canyons formed by glacier meltwater and erosion with rare sandstone formations. Stay in a cabin or the lodge directly amidst nature. Though still in IL, your mind will be as far from the stresses of the city as ever.

Starved Rock Lodge, 2668 E. 875th Rd. Oglesby, IL 61348