This summer, reset your travel-search to drivable destinations and cultural institutions, national landmarks, and other famous sites that the state of Illinois is home to. From iconic movie sets to state parks that take less time to get to than your parents’ in the burbs. There are scenic overlooks that past presidents have heralded, miles of bikeable trails, and pup-friendly parks that will make your tail wag.

At Fulton Grace, we know that ‘finding home’ isn’t just about the confines of your house. It’s about the people and things around you, how you utilize your amenities, and how you come to favor tour city’s natural offerings. Luckily, Chicago is surrounded by a wealth of options and we’ve done the research to get you started!   

John Hughes Movie Sets

13 iconic movie sets and where to find them in Chicago and Illinois. 

Channahon State Park

Just one hour from Chicago proper, you can’t beat the lush retreat Channahon State Park offers.

Gebhard Woods State Park

In one hour and twenty minutes, you’ll find yourself on a 30-acre state park.

Starved Rock

One of the most visited parks by Chicago city residents, Starved Rock State Park offers an array of visual treats. Drive time is one hour and fifty minutes.

Prairie Wolf Dog Park

Just 40 minutes from the city, your dog will think they’ve gone to heaven. Pack a picnic and towels for your pup! Prairie Wolf Dog Park is the retreat your best friend dreams of.

Baháʼí House of Worship

This temple located in Wilmette is bikable (alone the lakefront), drivable, and of course CTA-friendly. To take in the view of the Bahai House of Worship is truly memorable and certainly, a beauty to behold. On a sunny day, grab your helmet and head over to the temple to witness one of eight continental temples ever constructed to represent all of North America!

Pullman, Chicago

Technically part of the city, this 77th district area has been deemed a national monument! Just miles from the loop, the historical neighborhood of Pullman deserves a visit.

Grandview Drive

The “world’s most beautiful drive,” as President Theodore Roosevelt referred to it in a visit to Peoria in 1910, offers visitors numerous panoramic scenic views of the Illinois River Valley and the chance to view many historic and remarkable homes lining it.

Kankakee River State Park 

Just one hour from the city, the Kankakee River State Park offers a peaceful tranquility hard to find within the city limits. The drive there is smooth and the foot traffic is minimal, even better the trails are all bikable!