SUMMER VACATION

VACATIONSummer

CATCH SOME TIME OUTDOORS OR AT A HISTORIC VENUE WITH THESE 3 DAY TRIPS

By Chris Walker | Photos provided

Go ahead — scratch the itch to do something different this summer. See where the day takes you! There are countless places to spend the day not too far from home that won’t wipe away the contents of your wallet. The options span the spectrum, offering fun and unique adventures whether alone, jammed with the family in the minivan or with that special someone. Check out these three destinations this summer.  CHAIN O’LAKES STATE PARK Situated on almost 6,500 acres of land and 488 miles of shoreline, Chain O’Lakes State Park has a lot of adventures to offer throughout the year, but especially during the summer. Whether you’re looking for a picturesque, comfy location for picnicking, camping and horseback riding or trying to get closer to the water for boating, fishing and more, you can enjoy a busy day in Spring Grove. While not a swimming destination, guests in canoes, kayaks and boats frequent the park’s Turner Lake. There also is an on-site stable that offers twohour pony rides with 8 miles of horse trails to discover. Hikers and bikers have four different trails to enjoy while the Gills on the Chain concession building near the boat launch serves food along with camping, bait and other items, including boat/kayak rentals. The park features seven picnic areas and a handful of shelters for larger gatherings. After your time outdoors, stop by the nearby Volo Auto Museum, which features iconic classic and muscle cars as well as original cars known from movies and TV.

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 STARVED ROCK STATE PARK It was Ferris Bueller who said “The question isn’t ‘What are we going to do?’ — the question is ‘What aren’t we going to do?’” on his unforgettable day off. While his trek was in Chicago, those who travel to Starved Rock Lodge in Oglesby will find themselves in a similar, pleasant quandary as there is so much to do that you can only fit so much into a single day. “We are so much more than a day trip,” says Kathy Casstevens, marketing manager for the Starved Rock Lodge & Conference Center. “Starting in June, we have river cruises, music tribute shows and outdoor music on the veranda every Friday night.” Those looking to kick back and enjoy such entertainment in the evening often find their comfortable seat after spending hours hiking the 13 miles of scenic trails, which meander through glaciercut canyons with seasonal waterfalls often adding more beauty to the healthy adventure. “This remarkable state park is home to a wide variety of wildlife from white-tailed deer to wild turkeys, bald eagles, squirrels and many more animals,” Casstevens says. “Mother Nature’s display of hundreds of wildflowers is a reason to buy a field guide before you arrive.”

During the summer months, many enjoy leisurely boat rides along the Illinois River that offer unparalleled views of Eagle Cliff and the Starved Rock Lock & Dam.

 WILL COUNTY Some might even be willing to break the law for one of Merichka’s world-famous “poor-boys.” But you can enjoy one with a little cash while also visiting the former home of some of the most notorious law breakers during a day trip to Will County. Merichka’s, which is Slovenian for Mary, opened in 1933 after Prohibition was repealed. Today in Crest Hill, the third and fourth generations of namesake Merichka Zdralevich continue to serve a truly one-of-a-kind sandwich that makes a great lunch or dinner. Those who have seen the classic film “The Blues Brothers,” are already a little bit familiar with the Old Joliet Prison, which opened 75 years before Merichka’s. You can get an up close and personal look at the former home of the baddest of the bad by taking one of many tours, including self-guided, general history, guard and a photography tour that allows ample time to capture unique images. On July 11, Aug. 8 and Sept. 12, there are car shows on-site with live music, food trucks and more.

“There are so many historic sites in the area,” says Sarah Vogel, vice president of Will County Lodging Association’s board of directors. “The biggest draw of Joliet is the historic value of the sites.”

A fine way to finish off a busy day in the area is by enjoying live entertainment in the downtown area at The Forge or legendary Rialto Square Theatre, or by checking out a Joliet Slammers baseball game.

TO PLAN YOUR DAY TRIP, LEARN MORE ABOUT THESE PLACES HERE: www2.illinois.gov/dnr/Parks/Pages/ChainOLakes.aspx www.starvedrocklodge.com www.visitwill.com

SHOP • EAT • DRINK • PLAY • STAY • FEST

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Some of Illinois’ best festivals are right here in Geneva! In the summer, Geneva becomes the perfect backdrop for a selection of the nation’s most talented artists at our annual Geneva Arts Fair. In the fall, our Festival of the Vine offers the perfect blend of good wine, good food and good fun for the whole family. Fantastic shopping, restaurants and taverns are always here for you to enjoy. For more info, visit genevachamber.com.