Admit it: you’re stressed out. Your kids are driving you bonkers, another Chicago winter is around the corner and your politically polarizing Facebook newsfeed is giving you a migraine. So it’s time. Time to pack up the car and run away for the weekend … or the week … or two.
Because life is too short. And these cozy cabin getaways are just too gosh darn amazing.
Little Sister Resort
Sister Bay, Wis.
Known as a Door County, Wis. family tradition, these lovely lakeside cottages and chalets have gorgeous scenic views of the Green Bay shoreline and are just minutes from multiple state parks, shopping destinations, mini golf, go-karts and more. Take a peaceful stroll down Pebble Beach or rent on-site paddle boats, kayaks, rowboats and more. After a day of fresh air, outdoor activity and the family time you’ve been craving, head to the casual, on-site Fred & Fuzzy’s Waterfront Bar & Grill for homemade deliciousness, freshly caught fish and a nightcap.
Packing essential: A good book. The resort has a private deck with lounge chairs, perfect for snuggling up with a riveting read.
Timber Ridge Outpost & Cabins
Elizabethtown, Ill.
Stop everything. You can stay in a treehouse in southern Illinois, and it’s as awesome as it sounds. As one of the quirkiest getaways you’ll probably ever do, it’s also most likely going to be one of the most memorable. Located near the Shawnee National Forest, the pet-friendly treehouses can sleep 2-6 guests and feature a bathroom and kitchenette, a campfire area and an outdoor grill. Family-style games at Timber Ridge, including the very popular archery golf, make it an old-fashioned good time for everyone in your squad. Best part? There are hammocks. Does it get more relaxing than that? No it does not.
Packing essential: Fishing poles. The catch-and-release pond makes for the ideal first-time fishing experience for kids.
Candlewood Cabins
Richland Center, Wis.
These cabins are truly stunning, and the prices are even better. That’s probably why they book up so quickly. Immerse your family in the gorgeous hills and valleys of southwest Wisconsin, get unplugged (there are no TVs on the properties) and rejuvenate your nature-loving spirit. Bonus: you can buy wood for the outdoor fire pits. And be absolutely sure to schedule in some kayaking down the Pine River. The Log Cabin and Hillside Cabin are the ideal locations for kid-friendly perfection, and we can’t think of a more special romantic retreat than Candlewood’s adult-only glass houses.
Packing essential: Board games. Quality family game night, check.
Birds of a Feather Lodge
Bridgman, Mich.
Just 90 miles from Chicago is a charming Michigan oasis where you can spend your mornings hiking, your afternoons on the beach exploring the sandy excellence of Warren Dunes State Park, and your evenings soaking in a private hot tub as your kids play in a fenced backyard. Birds of a Feather Lodge is seriously luxurious, with flat-screen TVs, fire pits for s’mores, an indoor fireplace, a five-minute walk to a gorgeous overlook of the dunes and a 10-minute walk to the beach. Each cabin houses 8-10 people. Apple picking is a must while you’re visiting in the fall, and a trip to Captain Mike’s Fun Park is all your kids will want to do in the summer.
Packing essential: Your pets. For a mere $30 fee, your doggo can tag along.
