Escape To These 7 Hidden Oases In Illinois To Find Peace And Quiet
By Melissa Mahoney|Published February 10, 2022
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Melissa Mahoney
Author
I'm an east coast girl living in a west coast world. I grew up in New England before moving to SoCal for several years. I then lived in NYC or a year before moving to AZ in 2009. I worked in the entertainment industry for many years of my adult life and have a deep love for photography, writing, and traveling around the U.S. as well as to far-flung locations around the world. Travel is my life and writing about it is a dream!
Oftentimes it’s hard to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life. Quite frankly, life can be a bit noisy and it would be nice to find a place where we can tune out that noise, connect with nature and ourselves, and find some peace and quiet. If that sounds like something you need in your life, then consider a visit to the following seven peaceful places in Illinois.
1. Promontory Point, Chicago
DuSable Lake Shore Drive, DuSable Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60615, USA
Need peace and quiet but live in Chicago? Escape to Promontory Point, a manmade peninsula that is part of the 600-acre Burnham Park. With views of Lake Michigan, trails, and picnic spots, it's an idyllic place to spend an afternoon.
To learn more, visit the Chicago Park District website.
Connect with nature on a visit to the 40-acre Horseshoe Mound Preserve, a lesser-known park located in Galena's countryside. Enjoy hiking trails, wildlife, and views of the valley from atop the mound where you'll also find the Council Ring. Reminiscent of Stonehenge, the Council Ring is formed by a set of giant stones that align with the winter and summer solstices.
Learn more about Horseshoe Mound Preserve in this post.
This temple is one of only eight of its kind in the world. The Baha'i House of Worship offers a place for spiritual contemplation with a stunning auditorium as well as beautifully manicured gardens.
Learn more about Baha'i House of Worship in this post.
Located close to Bell Smith Springs Recreation Area in the Shawnee National Forest, the little-known Burden Falls Wilderness offers both hiking and equestrian trails. Spend some time out in nature and hike to the small but scenic Burden Falls.
To learn more, visit the USDA Forest Service website.
Located approximately 50 miles from Chicago, Goose Lake Prairie offers a serene escape from the city. Stroll through the prairie lands, taking in nature views and watching the birds fly by. You'll feel your cares just melt away!
Visit the Illinois Department of Natural Resources website for more information.
Along the DuPage River through Naperville is a lovely walking path. At 1.75 miles long, the Naperville Riverwalk features fountains, bridges, outdoor sculptures and artwork, memorials, and more. Take in the sights as you take some time for yourself.
Some of the best views in the state are found in Wolf Lake. Take a short hike up to Inspiration Point, an overlook atop 300-foot limestone bluffs. Sit and stay for a while, take in the breathtaking views, and perhaps you'll find some inspiration here. This overlook is a true hidden gem and you may have it all to yourself!
Where do you go to some peace and quiet in the Prairie State? What other peaceful places in Illinois would you suggest? Please let us know in the comments.
In need of a relaxing weekend getaway? Book a stay at Galena’s Goldmoor Inn where you can experience plenty of peace and quiet.
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