With brunch platters that are built for sharing (most accommodate 3-4 guests) its the perfect way to start your day in the city. An added bonus: if headed from downtown, you will drive through a lovely neighborhood of beautiful Victorian era homes (. . . This cool and fun Midwest city should not be overlooked. This mammoth shopping center is irresistible to hard-core shoppers, doesn't have a lot of shopping but does have such quirky attractions as (Wine enthusiasts may prefer the sips and stunning sunset at Falconer Vineyards). These are exactly the things that come to mind when thinking about a Great Lakes getaway whats not to love? 60 miles north of Traverse City is another Northern Michigan lakeside destination perfect for Midwest weekend getaways: Petoskey MI. Beth Gauper A trio of girlfriends from the Chicago area set off on the trails of Maplelag ski resort in northwest Minnesota. This charming pedestrian walkway follows the Milwaukee River through three vibrant neighborhoods, connecting you to some of the citys best dining, shopping, and entertainment. one of the best things to do in Indianapolis, 15 Beautiful Vineyards And Wineries In Wisconsin - Midwest Explored, 15 Beautiful Vineyards And Wineries In Michigan - Midwest Explored, 15 Things To Do in Cleveland, OH You Shouldn't Miss - Midwest Explored, https://midwestexplored.com/privacy-policy/. If you pedal north to Lincoln Park check out the Lincoln Park Conservatory and the Lincoln Park Zoo, both are free. There are hundreds of vacation Bicycling on the Root River State Trail in southeast Adventure fans will also find no shortage of stellar hiking and mountain biking trails. Shopping in southwest getaways. Youll feel like youve stepped back in time and are having tea with the cast from Downton Abbey. A girlfriend and her sister showed me their favorite spots to paddle, The Fall Art Tour in scenic southwest Wisconsin, The buffet brims with specialty egg dishes, homemade pastries and breads, waffles and scones, to name a few. Madison to Mount Horeb, Mineral Point, New Glarus and Janesville. I'll wait. an amazing Italian bakery that you must try. Harpole's Heartland Lodge is once again offering our Amazing Girls' Getaway Weekends! Framed by northwest Illinois hills, the business district's century-old buildings now house more than 90 shops filled with antiques, home accessories and art. On a typical day you can find her with her kids playing soccer, bike riding, or attempting an over complicated Pinterest craft! Shady Lane Cellars is just outside of Traverse City, MI. Its a great way to get out on the water and learn a bit of Chicago history. log cabin on Minnesota's North Shore-which I made them leave one The drinks are gorgeous and the food is tasty. 4 on the list: 4. the last 20 years. Christmas in If you really want to unwind, book time at, We all know that a girls weekend getaway to Chicago isnt complete without shopping. Next, pick up a souvenir or two at Zimmerman Art Glass where you can watch glassblowers at work, or Broomcorn Johnny's, in case your partner could use a cleaning hint. Chicago Athletic Association 12 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60603. Once you and the crew have wrapped nerding out on the world's largest collection of FLW architecture, continue riding that intellectually-inspiring wave toErnest Hemingway's Birthplace to scope out rare artifacts from the writer. This collection of girls-only outings will inspire your next escape. Trust me, the skyline is even more amazing from the water. Definitely take the tour of the old State Asylumin Traverse City if you have a chance. Shore . A fellow beer lover and I made a pilgrimage from Capital Brewery in The trip is about 2.5 hours from start to finish. Mama Lus Taco Shop 149 E Front St, Traverse City, MI 49684. Alps and cross-country at Afton State For more, see Wisconsin's This year, we all turned 70 (ouch). Iron Horse Hotel 500 W Florida St, Milwaukee, WI 53204. Hurley, Indoor water parks of the Wisconsin If you pre-order the yummy charcuterie board a delightful selection of artisan meats and cheeses, jam, marcona almonds, crackers, and fresh fruit it will be waiting in your room when you arrive. But the women I meet The Village at Grand Traverse Commons 1200 W Eleventh St, Traverse City, MI 49684. Lining up schedules with your fellow Moms seems nearly impossible at times. With shops like Prada, Giorgio Armani, Barneys and Jimmy Choo, youll feel like youre in Hollywood strolling down Rodeo Drive. Sedalia. See Last call for lake Or, rent a condo or even exchange houses. Galena . We stay at Clifty Falls State Park and shop, hike and play board games. Of course, Michigan Avenue isnt called the. and hike in parks and nature sanctuaries. Don't let the myth that there is nothing to do in the Midwest keep you from an unforgettable family vacation. The waterfall outside our door One of our favorite spots is Door County, Wisconsin. The best glamping in all 50 states. Cuyuna Lakes State Trail. Summer offers race-car test drives and ziplining at famed Road America, and lunch on the lake and spa treatments at Aspira Spa. Tubing the Rum In addition to not having to navigate traffic you will also be able to avoid costly city parking fees. From the shores of the Great Lakes to the lakes in the Ozarks, the Badlands to Pictured Rocks, Chicago to Cleveland, the midwest is a very diverse area of the United States. For more information, visit saugatuck.com. Of course, Michigan Avenue isnt called the Magnificent Mile without reason. Our favorite digs? Beware, lines for dinner in this tiny town form in the late afternoon. The Pfister Hotel in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Memorial Day, a girlfriend and I watched the parade downtown, then Head up to the rooftop for delicious girls weekend getaway cocktails and an even better view. Its like Chicagos Magnificent Mile under one roof. Formed by two rooms, the suite sleeps 6 and features a fireplace, balcony, kitchenette, and dining area. Shady Lane Cellars 9580 E Shady Ln, Suttons Bay, MI 49682. has camper cabins. I've watched her graduate from juice boxes to fine wines, all while watching paddle wheelers float by on the Ohio River. a great place in May. targeted at women, often visits to antiques or resale shops. They offer various walking tours. An We are arriving on the Friday around 17:30 local time and leaving 20:55 local time on the Monday. Skiing in Peter In the winter, can cross-country ski through the vineyard and warm up in the tasting room. Rent a Finally, no lake-cation would be complete here without a stop at Starboard Market for their delectable homemade sandwiches. And the infamous Street Corn. You can find it at 424 E Wisconsin Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53202. Madison . But, above all, did you remember to tell your friends there's an enchanted pathway with 227 years of donut-making? Shinola Hotel 1400 Woodward Ave, Detroit, MI 48226. Spend the Weekend In Vacation Okoboji! Women's weekends. take in a holiday show at the ornate theaters on Hennepin Avenue or a The 35 Best Beach Camping Sites in the U.S. We may earn commission from links on this page, but we only recommend products we back. Perfectly situated to explore downtown Detroit, the beautifully appointed rooms definitely have a certain wow factor and a quirky, to-die-for, vintage vibe. Start your itinerary by hiking the famed 340-foot Barn Bluff (pictured) for incredible views of the Mississippi River and Red Wing. Skiing in Ely, I met 11 Minnesota women who've skied together every Six of us made a pre-Christmas foray, stopping at the Company Store Do call if interested, schedule a tour at least 24 hours in advance (231) 342-6843. A girlfriend and I across the Michigan border at Big Powderhorn. more than a dozen towns around the region. impeccably groomed trails. Whether your group is looking for relaxation, shopping, adventure, or a bit of everything, its all at your fingertips in Chicago. During the Fall Art Tour in October, two women stop for coffee at Gundry Here's a calendar of getaway ideas for women who like variety. Afterward, satiate your appetite at Red Wing Brewery, where the unique 'zas (tater tot hot dish, anyone?) northwest Illinois town that's tailor-made for women. swimming hole on Minnesota's North Shore. FlowRider. This article will showcase 17 Midwest weekend getaways, some of which you haven't heard of before. The library area on the second floor is a cozy and luxurious space to relax, while The Drawing Room is a must-visit spot for its wood carvings, comfortable couches, and intimate atmosphere. If you're from Iowa, you know Lake Okoboji! trails up and down the shore, play games and drink wine. & Gray Cafe in Mineral Point, Wis. For more ideas, see Great shopping black-ash basketry and beginning water-color painting. They offer classic bikes, e-bikes, or scooters. Fun fact: Bristol Renaissance Faire, frequently ranked the first in the USA, celebrates its 30th this year. "Jennifer Carroll, Fair Grove, Missouri, "My friends and I hike in northern Minnesota. This Northern Michigan staple is worth a stop for cocktails. The lively pre and post-game atmosphere make it an event you wont forget. Green . Stay up to date by following their Facebook page. Stay at a condo, townhouse or mom-and-pop motel-there's plenty of Alternatively, consider visiting two or three different cities for one awesome week-long vacation. you go the latter half of August, when the busy season starts to wane. And everything else. Four of us took a trip to our favorite shopping town, this time for Women do like to shop, sip drinks and be silly. Bartolottas Lake Park Bistro 3133 E Newberry Blvd, Milwaukee, WI 53211. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. You cant go wrong by ending your day catching a show at. Magic happens in the kitchen atamical. Spend a long weekend in Milwaukee, which If your group is looking for a slower pace head to Belle Isle. and Monroe. Center in Sandstone offers a Women's New Ulm New Ulm, Minnesota has a rich German heritage that you'll see virutally everywhere! Tubing the Rum River. Our noon mainstay was rhubarb pie, and our last stop was the meat market to buy summer sausage for my husband and cheese for my dad. Its worth checking out even if you just take in the exterior of the building; the architecture is amazing. Epic hikes and scenic vistas are the norm at nearby Sleeping Bear Dunes. You can even take the train to Chicago if you dont want to drive. stayed at a B&B, and once on a chilly January weekend. At this village on the St. Croix River, Whether your group is looking for relaxation, shopping, adventure, or a bit of everything, its all at your fingertips in Chicago. No trip to the Door is complete without a traditional Wisconsin fish boil, and there's no better place to do it than Rowley's Bay Restaurant, which conveniently offers lodging so you won't find your crew wandering aimlessly around the waterfront thinking, "Shoot, there's no Uber across the water". A number of excellent Missouri restaurants are located nearby with a wide variety of cuisines to choose from, like the delicious beef brisket from Fenrweh Distillery and Restaurant or Vintage Restaurants's traditional German entrees. parks and on rivers. If youre departing from Michigan, taking the Lake Express ferry from Muskegon to Milwaukee adds an element of fun to your adventure! Shore, Naniboujou Lodge on Minnesota's North fresco. The Osthoff Resort, which houses Aspira, is an out-of-towner favorite thanks to its lakefront location and roomy suites. It is time to think a little out of the box. But in case your friends need further persuasion, try this: 1) Jolly's, an old-fashioned drive-in with hot dogs, root beer floats, and all the classics. . If your group is looking for action attend a Cubs game at historic Wrigley Field. Situated about 80 miles northwest of Chicago - perfect for a weekend getaway from the "Windy City" - the small town of Lake Geneva is a year-round outdoor enthusiast's paradise in Wisconsin . Minnesota, I met the Fat Bottom Girls Cycle Club of Des Moines, also But we still get together every year. River When your crew is ready to kick back and relax check out. bike ride as well as shopping: On the 40-mile Fox River Trail, you can Christmas tubing in a county park. Bicycling between St. Charles, Geneva and Jenn and Adam O'Neal put down roots at Pepperharrow Farm, a 20-acre homestead near Des Moinesand worked with nature to bring it back to life after a devastating 2022 tornado. lodgings, all meals and ski rental and instruction. In town between June and September? If an invite comes your way for a stay at the Inn at Bay Harbor yes! I've been to this classic chick town only alone, with my preteen son It's a good place to You deserve it. We made a November foray to State Street, Monroe Street and to the Please consider an update. For more information, visit clearlakeiowa.com. A few favorite spots are in front of The Renaissance Center and at Mt. to look: each other. 3 Arts Cub Cafe at Restoration Hardware in Chicago, Shaws Oyster Bar 21 E Hubbard St, Chicago, IL 60611. Trust me, making time to get away nourishes friendships and helps our tired, stressed bodies relax. Shop. For more information, visit ci.sandusky.oh.us. Brewery and pub tour of southern Discover a selection of 1,000 vacation rentals in Amsterdam, NL that are perfect for your trip. Superior, with snowshoeing/hiking across the highway at Judge C.R. I know time for myself is important and its something Im committed to making it happen. Located in downtown Detroit Vincentes has delicious authentic Cuban food. Valley . Whether you're traveling with friends, family, or even pets, Vrbo vacation homes have the best amenities for hanging out with the people that matter most, including high chairs for kids and kitchens. and Wisconsin in mid-August, and many start offering partial weeks. Wausau . For best trips by month, see 12 months of girlfriend The Inn at Bay Harbor 3600 Village Harbor Dr, Bay Harbor, MI 49770. With 2017 marking the 150th anniversary of Frank Lloyd Wright, it's the perfect time to tour Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio before a stroll around the village to see examples of the architect's signature Prairie School-style. . With shops like Old Navy, Nordstrom Rack, and Marshalls youre sure to find some deals. October 8, 2020 October 2, 2022 Katy Flint. Pull yourself away from Bay Harbor for a few hours for a trip to Downtown Petoskey. They know how to do Detroit style pizza. If you are looking to do some budget-friendly shopping on your girls weekend getaway, check out State Street. If local "barn hostel" Hungry Hippie Farm and eatery Angry Trout Cafe don't give it away, this harbor village on Lake Superior is wildly creative. You truly, You and your gals will find hip and bustling restaurants, well-manicured, Get out and explore the city. following the flight of Black Hawk in 1832, making stops at scenic river Perhaps this destination isnt the first to come to mind when thinking of Midwest weekend getaways, but the Motor City has made big strides in the last decade and deserves consideration. Sun, shopping, spa, wine? Plan to spend at least the afternoon, its a super fun area. Naniboujou Lodge on Minnesota's North The Geneva, 12 Best Things to Do in Fort Wayne with Kids, Free & Affordable Activities Included, 100 Free Things to do in Michigan Will Keep You Adventuring Year Round. Hit the beaches of Door County Shore . towns. trails around Bearskin and Golden Eagle lodges. Its like Chicagos Magnificent Mile under one roof. For more information, visit gettothebc.com. A tiny adorable market and patio in Capitol Park, Eatri Markets feels like a cozy set youd see in a movie or at someones perfectly curated backyard party. Itching for a nightcap? There is so much more to this state than it's 10,000 Lakes that it makes a perfect destination for one or more weekend getaway in the Midwest. January Hit the sales in Chicago, see a touring Broadway show, explore the neighborhoods or go on one of the food tours. After earning your dinner, indulge in the hearty grub at The Smokehouse, though if tomorrow involves a boating or sailing excursion, try to resist a second serving of the fantastic spinach artichoke dip. Summer House Santa Monica 1954 N Halsted St, Chicago, IL 60614. Its an amazing spa and you dont have to be a hotel guest to use the spa. Or, brush up on your cross-country skiing skills on Corsair Trail before journeying through and around Huron National Forest on the Sunrise Side Wine and Hops Trail. This collection of girls-only outings will inspire your next escape. With a laid-back vibe, this place is always hopping. While there I highly recommend grabbing lunch at the Public Market in the Third Ward. Here I am sharing the Midwest with you to entice you to take advantage of all it has to offer! 3 Arts Club Cafe 1300 N Dearborn St, Chicago, IL 60610. Superior Municipal Forest and heard colorful stories about local Gluten Free Pizza at Comos Restaurant in Ferndale, SPKRBOX Detroit 200 Grand River Ave, Detroit, MI 48226. The attentive staff, heated robes, and special touches will make your visit as indulgent as possible. Definitely get the Street Corn. Its an amazing way to see the breathtaking Chicago lakeshore via bicycle. "-Deb Watne, Moorhead, Minnesota, "My friends go to Lake Geneva, Wisconsin. Os-what-a? An antiques-savvy girlfriend and I got on a motorcoach with other women Hurley By Kelsey Ogletree March 21, 2022 Advertisement Credit: Courtesy of Moccasin Springs Spa Nor will you regret snoozing at Old Town Carmel Bed and Breakfast, where you can sprawl out on your patio, beside the fireplace, or just laze in bed with a book (and delightful breakfast). Let's find your ideal travel companion. Its truly a one of a kind destination. Milwaukee is another city with so many amazing dining choices. One king and two queen beds make up the sleeping area. There's nothing like immersing yourself in nature on a woodsy getaway where days are wiled away outside. of downtown, are a great deal for friends. For a women-only weekend, go to the Women's Ski Weekend at Camp du Shore,in northeast ideas, here's my own Fab Fifty. Burn off your edible adventure at Wapehani Mountain Bike Park's hiking trails and single-track mountain biking trails. One August, a girlfriend and I escaped 95-degree heat floating near Isanti, an hour north of the Twin Cities. It is the perfect place to find items that are unique to Detroit and Michigan made. . Cool, casual and so much fun! my sister, nieces and daughter rented the Illgen Falls cabin on the I can see all the stores in my memory, though their names escape me now. Pack Your Bags, Get Your Gals and Hit the Road. This town embodies that Mary Poppins charm at every turnno wonder it's called Michigan's "Art Coast." You'll find low rates at hotels. Amish tours in southeast Stillwater Unwind by the fireplace or catch up with your besties with your toes in the sand. Grab Sunday Brunch at this upscale hotel designed for motorcycle riders. You can easily spend the day exploring this park. Unwind at the delightfully retro-feeling Coffee Pot Inn, where you'll feel like you've landed in a vintage TV show. cabin and bring wine. If you pedal north to Lincoln Park check out the, If a relaxing day is what your group is seeking, head out for afternoon tea at the. From the southernmost parts of Missouri to the tip-top of Minnesota, the Midwest is full of weekend lake destinations, mountainside resorts, and bustling cities. visiting New Duluth Your email address will not be published. Empire Bluff Trail, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, Wheels on Rails 5843-5853, US-31, Grawn, MI 49637. Nearly all of them work for trips with the best places for breakfast in Cleveland!! There's more to do in summer and fall. Its hard to narrow it down to just a few. After a full day in the city your group is bound to be exhausted. December to see a play, tour B&Bs, shop at the arts center and walk the antiques shops. Stop in for a tour, brew or a bite at the popular Lakefront Brewery Beer Hallor Patio. Coast and Loop. Even if you and your favorite gals dont have the time or budget for an overnight getaway make sure that you make time for you and your gals to grab dinner, a movie or maybe just a coffee while strolling your local Target. On Saturdays the market is focused on fresh produce, meats, baked goods, flowers and local art. Lanesboro Not all of us have gone every year, but most of us haven't missed more than a couple. Superior, St. Patrick's Day skiing at Whitecap Mountains near This Wisconsin peninsula has it all, and even is relatively quiet if Take a spin at the 90-year-old Washington Park Velodrome, the nation's oldest cycling track of its kind. Plus, the Riverwalk is home to a fantastic outdoor art gallery. Any day that takes you from breathtaking bluffs to beautiful boots (Red Wing Shoe Store & Museum is home to the world's largest boot) is a win. Batavia. If time allows, tour the Kilwins Chocolate Kitchen (1050 Bay View Rd, Petoskey, MI 49770) on the north side of town or visit Sturgeon River Pottery to the south (3031 Charlevoix Ave, Petoskey, MI 49770) its brimming with pottery and gifts galore. If your gals are looking for adventure on your girls weekend getaway, check out, a great way to get out on the water and learn a bit of Chicago history. So, when I learned I got to spend the weekend visiting, I was super excited. After a full day in the city your group is bound to be exhausted. . For more information, visit lflbchamber.com. Isanti, an hour north of the Twin Cities. The view is perhaps the best in the city. Holiday shopping in The Chicago Starbucks Reserve Roastery building is definitely a must (646 Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611). traveled to this Mississippi River bald-eagle hot spot twice, once in an I always going in for one thing and leave with all sorts of treasures. From mummies to modern art, the collection is impressive. Reservations recommended. Last time I went I laughed so hard I got a free ab workout. Any city that has its own Donut Trail is reason enough for us to pack our bags. For more information, visit visitbloomington.com. Craving more activity? cottages as well as bare-bones rooms. Sep 11, 2022 - The best midwestern road-trip ideas for a weekend getaway with girlfriends. One of them is Stay there for a beachfront, then catch a show at Center Stage or Citadel Theatre. They're also very popular in This inviting, backcountry Ohio region features sprawling parks, welcoming locals, and awe-inspiring Cedar Falls. Cottages in this Mississippi River town and see the Prairie Moon But, you dont have to go far or spend a ton of money to feel the day-to-day responsibilities roll off your shoulders. If your group is looking for action attend a. game at historic Wrigley Field. Minnesota school break and the start of the Minnesota firearms deer Honestly, this place is a dream come true. spa in the historic brewery complex, where there's shopping, live A girlfriend and I stayed at the old Telemark Resort and skied, tubed, River We rent a cozy cabin on Lake Superior, hike University, on the edge Harbor. BUDGET . If beer is your libation of choice, one of the many area breweries will be sure to satisfy. You can walk the 20-mile lakeshore path past Gilded Age mansions or For more information, visit thisisindiana.org. spring-break trip, and I took one with a friend and our daughters and Their blend of masks, moisturizers, and serums will leave you glowing. TheDetroit Riverfrontshould win an award for creating a space where people want to be.Gorgeous walkways, beautiful gardens and parks, and plenty of trendy seating options go on for miles. just east of the Twin Cities, we skied downhill at Afton We rented a cottage on Park Point, shopped at Dewitt-Seitz Marketplace Plan to spend at least the afternoon, its a super fun area. One Grab Your Besties, Mama, and Take one of These Girls Only Midwest Weekend Getaways. Mineral Around the Region The Best Midwest Spa and Wellness Getaways to Melt Your Stress Away Whether you're looking for an immersion in nature, a city retreat or a spot to ward off stress for a day, these destinations have you covered. ), A Designer Turned Her Childhood Friend's Home into a Masterful Mash-Up of '70s and '80s Decor Hits. Old-timey blooms are back in vogueand none more so than roses. Baraboo, Brewery and pub tour of southern I always remind people looking for true Midwest weekend getaways about Mackinac Island. An ethnic festival featuring a different ethnicity every weekend and showcasing art, ethnic performances, and cook-offs. Don't mistake them for humdrumthese vacations are anything but. When your crew is ready to kick back and relax check out Well Spa in The Pfister Hotel. For more information, visit doorcounty.com. Craving a hit of Indiana Jones adventure? We shop till we drop all day Saturday. Mackinac Island, Michigan. the fine Granite Peak downhill slope, snowshoeing in a state park and Center, Best little towns that charm the What could be better than an afternoon at the spa? When women want to find the perfect travel companions, they know where In nearby Pine River, we hiked and went End with the flourless chocolate cake. In the summer, the outdoor pool hits the spot. Cindys Rooftop 12 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60603. 2) Sara's House, a farmhouse shopping hub full of repurposed furniture and accessories. My friends still talk fondly about the 1943 Finnish She's probably seen Dave Matthews Band in your hometown, and she'll never turn down a bloody mary. We spend a day shopping at Country Club Plaza and getting manis and pedis. Budget option : If you don't mind lugging gear 1 miles, reserve the From endless boutiques, to Cherry Republic, to The State Theater downtown Traverse City is truly bustling with life. If you cant fit an architectural tour into your schedule opt for a quick ride via a. . Hit the sales in For unforgettable digs, hole up at Riley's Railhouse, a bed and breakfast fashioned from an old freight station, or DunesWalk Inn, a restored mansion that will put you a skip away from the gorgeous shores of Lake Michigan. Reservations recommended. We all know that a girls weekend getaway to Chicago isnt complete without shopping. Head to this . Beth Gauper, 2007 - all rights reserved. From sit-down restaurants to fresh meat, seafood, produce, chocolates, and cheese counters this place has it all. season-probably is our favorite trip. One year, we Los Angeles. getaways. While there, take in one of theirinviting events, like Balloons over Bay Harbor or their Fathers Day weekend Boat Show, where youll be face to face with very impressive boats. Mansion. For more information, visit visithamiltoncounty.com. I could spend hours in this place! "Karen Vokracka, Oakville, Missouri, Related:Midwest Living's Kansas City trip guide, "We have a sisters weekend every fall. Chippewa River. north of Milwaukee, where Festive Friday Eves start in mid-November, on Traveling to Chicago can be relaxing. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from Qualifying Purchases. Vintage Chophouse at the Inn at Bay Harbor 3600 Village Harbor Dr, Petoskey, MI 49770.