When you need time to retreat from the daily grind of life with some good friends, why not plan girlfriends weekend getaway? Although Chicago is certainly a popular destination, there are plenty of lovely cities and towns throughout Illinois.
Exploring the outskirts or lesser known areas of Illinois could be a perfect way to revive your spirits while reconnecting with good friends. From Galena to Rockford, there are plenty of places in Illinois worth considering for a girlfriends getaway vacation or temporary escape from your usual routine.
Get away with girlfriends in Galena, Illinois and stay at the Farmer’s Guest House
The Farmer’s Guest House, an architectural focal point, was build in 1867. Before the guest house was used for travelers and visitors, the building and its neighboring structures served as a bakery and even a store. With such a notable history, what better place for a girlfriends getaway? The atmosphere is low key and cozy, sure to soothe jangled nerves. There is plenty for good friends to do on a weekend – or even longer – in Galena. Wineries, artists’ studios and gourmet restaurants are plentiful. For those who like to see the sights, there is Linmar Gardens or Apple River Fort. As the only 19th century restored inn in the area, it deserves consideration for a ladies only retreat or weekend getaway. First class service will make everyone feel pampered.
Amenities: each room has individually controlled thermostats, very cushy beds, unique style and decor. The rooms also have a distinctly feminine flair, perfect for a girlfriends’ getaway weekend tailored to women who love florals and frills. If you prefer a room with a whirlpool and/or fireplace, be sure to inquire about those options.
A bit about Galena: Historical atmosphere is a part of Galena. River cruises on the Mississippi River (not far away) as well as browsing antique shops or simply walking through the city are popular. Some mansions in the city go back to 1885 and at least one of them is still used as a bed and breakfast (Bernadine’s Stillman Inn).
Girlfriends getaway information for Farmer’s Guest House
334 Spring Street
Galena, Illinois 61036
(815) 777-3456
Website: http://www.galenabedandbreakfast.com/here
Landers House is perfect for a Girlfriends Getaway in Utica, Illinois
At Landers House, located in Utica, women friends can have the best of both words – luxury and solitude or visits to scenic attractions. Want a private cottage? There are plenty available. Cushy bath robes, private breakfasts and porches are also options. The setting? It is located within a mile of Starved Rock and Matthiessen State Parks. Bicycling, hiking and visiting parks are popular choices for a ladies only getaway. Starved Rock state park features canyons, waterfall and views that keep photographers very happy. For those daring enough to try it, they can actually climb to the top (it is quite a hike), an ideal way to add some fitness to a ladies only weekend retreat.
Be forewarned, though – Landers House is so appealing that you might have a hard time leaving your choice of guest accommodations, ranging from individual rooms to cottages and guest suites. Winding walkways and breathtaking landscaping are perfect for friends who want to stroll the grounds and chat.
For those who prefer to bring along a pet, be sure to ask for Caribou Cottage, a pet friendly building. Girlfriends who choose a ladies only retreat here may end up spending the day chatting and enjoying the atmosphere while leaving daily cares behind. Even the coffee is a special signature blend!
Amenities for a ladies only getaway at Landers House
Jacuzzis, wet bars, loft bedrooms, fireplaces, skylights, private porches, cable tv, free robes, breakfast served in your cottage. Some rooms have fire pits and chaise lounges.
A bit about Utica: Starved Rock may not be well known to some outside Illinois but it is well worth visiting, with some truly unique rock formations and features. There are three state parks and Utica is also situated in the National Heritage Corridor.
Landers House address and contact information for a ladies only getaway:
115 E. Church Street
Utica, IL 61373
(815)667-5170
Website: here
The Getaway Lodge is an aptly named B & B for a break from routine
Located in Rockford, Illinois, this lodge is perfect for a girlfriends’ or ladies only getaway. If riverfront views are your preference, you’ll want to put this at the top of your list. Retreat accommodations are a specialty here and suites have quaint names, including the Bordello, Frontier and Timber. Rustic is definitely the atmosphere but not without luxuries such as hot tubs and mini-refrigerators.
Amenities at the Getaway Lodge
Fireplaces, special occasion packages, gourmet breakfasts, whirlpool tubs, fireplaces, wireless internet, private entrances to rooms from individual screened porches or patios. Group rentals are available, making this a prime choice for a girlfriends getaway.
About Rockford, Illinois: Although Rockford is Illinois second largest city, you wouldn’t know it while staying at the Getaway Lodge. There is plenty of open space here. Area attractions include Rock Cut State Park, gardens, golf courses, antique stores and the option of visiting nearby Madison, Wisconsin. Be sure to ask about the Angel Museum, a lesser known attraction and you’ll be given directions for finding this unique building.
Ladies only weekend retreat info for the Getaway Lodge
11052 Ventura Boulevard, Rockford
(815) 636-1884
Website:here
Girlfriends needing a getaway should include the Starved Rock Lodge and Conference Center
Although arguably among the more well known of the possible locations for a ladies only weekend, the Starved Rock Lodge and Conference Center is balm to tired spirits. Imagine thousands of acres of gorgeous forests, canyons and waterfalls. Besides, it is the only lodging I know that is actually located right in the state park itself. With so much space, it is the perfect blend of superb features and privacy. You can really find it all here, making it among my prime choices for a girlfriends only retreat.
Because there are so many rooms here, you might want to check out this link here to check out some choices. There are over 90 of them, ranging from rustic to more modern. Knotty pine and pioneer cabins might suit your taste or perhaps you’ll be with a group of ladies who want more up to date decor. At the Starved Rock Lodge, you can decide what suits your tastes.
Girlfriends getaway amenities at the Starved Rock Lodge and Conference Center
Indoor pools (including lap pools), fireplaces, saunas, jacuzzi tubs and poolside tables. You don’t have to leave the Lodge to find fine dining, either and there is a Visitor Center as well as a Concession stand. Monthly events keep guests happy, with Christmas songs, holiday musicals and annual dinners to fit the seasons. Free Trolley rides and plenty of opportunities for hiking and exploring the many acres of park land could fill a girlfriends getaway quite nicely.
Starved Rock Lodge and Conference center – location and info
PO Box 570
RT 178 and 71
Utica, IL 61373
(800) 868-7625
Sources:
Personal experience and phone verification of current info
http://www.riverhouse.ws/index.html
http://www.galenabedandbreakfast.com/
