If you want to get away, but not too far away, check out these unique options for vacation ideas around Illinois.
You can experience your childhood fantasy of living in a treehouse, or try camping in a glamourous tent, or even see what it's like to stay the night in a converted grain silo.
If you love the idea of camping but you're not so thrilled at the thought of truly roughing it, you can try something in between with these unique rental properties around the state.
1. Enchanted Garden Treehouse
Schaumburg, Illinois
Imagine spending the night 15 feet off the ground in a decked-out cedar treehouse. You can chill out near the fire pit, watch the Koi swimming in the pond and listen to the relaxing sounds of the waterfall. The property includes many amenities, including a hot tub, gas grill, outdoor shower with hot water, fireman's pole, Keurig coffeemaker, and a kitchenette.
And if a vacation isn't a vacation for you unless you've got access to WiFi and streaming options, this is the rental for you. You're also in close distance to many restaurants if you'd prefer delivery to making your own meal. Check out all the amenities and photos on the Airbnb website.
2. The Has Bin
Alvin, Illinois
You may have never considered staying in a grain silo before, but I bet you will after you see this listing. It's a former grain silo that's been converted into a cozy, rustic living space. Photos show a spiral staircase leading to a second-story loft with views of the fields and the train that runs behind the house.
Alvin, Illinois is about two and a half hours south of Chicago, and it is mainly farmland. Though you are in the middle of nowhere when you stay here, you're only about a 40-minute drive from the University of Illinois at Champaign/Urbana. Check it out here.
3. "Glamping" on Flower Farm Overlooking Wetlands
Lewistown, Illinois
If you've ever tried tent camping, then you know it's a lot of work. It may be worth it as you're gazing at the stars surrounded by nature, but it takes a little know-how and some effort to have an enjoyable trip.
You can make life easier by renting a tent, skipping the set-up process, and avoiding having to haul all of that equipment around. And this isn't just any tent. It's a furnished bell tent that sits on a bluff inside of a flower farm. If you like to be active on your vacations, you can rent a kayak and explore the 15,000-acre wetland preserve. Find out the details here.
4. Ten Acre Treehouse's - Captains Quarters
Nauvoo, Illinois
Nauvoo is a rural town situated along the Mississippi River. The treehouse is set in a heavily wooded area. When you scroll through the photos in the listing, you start to feel like you've entered a fairytale world.
This 2-story, 400 square foot treehouse includes a nautical theme, a 13-foot vaulted entryway, a charming window seat filled with old books to explore, and a wraparound deck with amazing views of the forest. And with a small kitchen area with a microwave, refrigerator, and coffee maker, this treehouse offers convenience far above and beyond your usual campsite. Check out the photos and available dates here.
5. The Havana Cabana Lakefront Cottage
Havana, Illinois
There is nothing "rustic" about this lakefront cottage. The photos show a beautiful, modern-looking interior decorated in shades of white and gray. Newly renovated, the property looks up-to-date and comfortable.
You can have the best of both worlds here, with modern amenities indoors, and a patio, and access to a private beach out the back door. You can kayak, fish, or just relax and enjoy the sunset. If you'd like to go into town, nearby Havana offers dining, shopping, and grocery stores. Check availability on Airbnb.
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