Summer’s almost over, so it’s time to start thinking about planning one last getaway over Labor Day weekend. Whether you are looking for scenic destination close to Chicago, or one last dip in the ocean, we’ve got your Labor Day weekend getaway planning covered — from the food to the hotels to the airport parking.
Close to Chicago
About 100 southwest of Chicago
At Starved Rock State Park flat Illinois is cleaved into canyons, cliffs and waterfalls.
To Do: Take a guided or independent hike into the 18 scenic canyons and relax at one of the 14 waterfalls. Keep a look out for the local wildlife including eagles, badgers, coyotes and many other species. If you are looking for other hiking options, check out the 5 miles of canyon trails at nearby Matthiessen State Park.
Stay: The Starved Rock Lodge was completed in the 1930s as a Civilian Conservation Core project. The CCC employed young men during the height of the Great Depression and put them to work on projects in parks across the country. The lodge maintains a rustic charm and lets you go from your room to the trail in a matter of seconds.
Eat: The Lodge has a legendary restaurant, so plan to have at least one meal there. For a breakfast or lunch, check out Nonie’s Bakery and Cafe. They bake their own bread, so you must try their famous french toast! If you are looking for a dinner with a little more kick, head to Cajun Connection for the best Louisiana cooking north of the Mason-Dixon.
Getaways Outside Illinois
Boston, MA and the New England Coast
Fly: Southwest has direct, round-trip flights (Depart Friday, September 2nd and Return Monday, September 5th) from Midway starting at $280.
Park: Skip the long-term parking at the airport and check out the Chicago parking start up ParqEx. ParqEx lets you easily find and plan parking where and when you need it at affordable rates. Download the app here to get started.
If you Stay in Boston
To Do: Maximize your time in Boston by walking the Freedom Trail. The Trail hits all the major points of interest including the Boston Common, the Old State House, the Old North Church, Bunker Hill and the USS Constitution. Boston is famous for being the birthplace of the craft beer movement and still has a vibrant beer scene. Check out where it all started by taking a free tour of the Sam Adams Brewery. The tour includes free samples of a number of their seasonal and specialty variety beers.
Stay: The Inn at St. Botolph is located in Boston’s historic South End and is just steps away from the Prudential Center T station. The Inn is an old brownstone mansion that’s been converted into a hip boutique hotel. Rooms start at $269 per night.
Eat: Island Creek Oyster Bar serves the freshest seafood in Boston. They have their own oyster bed in nearby Duxbury and offer a full selection of raw bar and dinner items. For breakfast, lunch, desert, or an anytime sweet, check out one of the three locations of Flour Bakery and Cafe.
If you Want to Hit the Coast
To Do: Head north of Boston to the beautiful, historic towns of the North Shore. Crane Beach in Ipswich, Massachusetts is a gorgeous, sandy stretch of shoreline on the historic Crane Estate. After you’ve gotten your fill of the waves, hike up to the breathtaking estate grounds. Weather not cooperating for a beach day? The picturesque nearby town of Essex is famous for its carefully curated antique shops.
Stay: The Ipswich Inn Bed and Breakfast offers elegant rooms and a tasty breakfast in a gorgeously restored 150-year old house in historic Ipswich, MA. Rooms start at $135 per night.
Eat: A visit to the Essex area isn’t complete without stopping by Woodman’s of Essex for their fried local oysters and fresh boiled lobster. Had your fill of seafood? Bunz Burgers are famous for not only their juicy burgers but stringer fries with a plethora of toppings.
Heading out somewhere else this Labor Day weekend? Need long-term parking while you are gone? Contact us about finding parking that fits your needs.
