Trifter

When it’s time to take a vacation and you find yourself short on cash, take a staycation. While you may be accustomed to the attractions and opportunities that Chicago has to offer, you’ll find plenty of things to do and places to stay that will have you feeling like a tourist and enjoying a vacation without the driving and flying.

Six Flags Great America

Hop in your car and head to the northern Chicago metro area where you’ll find Six Flags Great America in Gurnee, IL. If you’re looking for a thrill, you’ve come to the right place. Scream your head off on Vertical Velocity, Iron Wolf, or Superman: Ultimate Flight. Don’t be intimidated if you prefer more subdued rides or have children that don’t yet meet the height requirements. There are plenty of family and children’s rides as well as activities and shops to keep you busy.

The Drake Hotel

If you were looking to spend a romantic weekend with your sweetheart but don’t have the cash for airfare, you can still enjoy each other’s company in luxury at The Drake Hotel. Say goodbye to your Chicago apartment or loft and spend the weekend away on Michigan Avenue. The Romance Package at The Drake includes sparkling wine to welcome you, a full breakfast buffet at the Drake Bros’ Restaurant and a late check out time. Prices can range anywhere from the $200’s to over $700 per night. It all depends on the view and size of the room. But, you’ll get to spend the night away from it all before heading back to work on Monday.

Tirra Salon and Spa

Spend the day relaxing at the spa. At Tirra you can select packages such as the Bliss Out, a 4.5 hour treatment including a customized massage, manicure and pedicure, a light lunch, shampoo and style and make-up touch up. Or, you can pick from a variety of individual services that include those already listed and facials, waxing and hair coloring. And, if you have your own favorite spa, make an appointment with friends and grab lunch and shop afterward to complete your staycation.

Lynfred Winery

If you want a taste of the country but don’t want to travel too far from the Chicago metro area for your staycation, then pay a visit to Lynfred Winery in Roselle, IL. You can stop by just for a tour or tastings. But, if you want to make a staycation out of it, stay in one of the suites at the bed and breakfast. Depending on what time of year you make the trip, room rates are between $299 and $385, but they include more than just a place to sleep such as fresh flowers, cheese and crostini trays, a private winery tour, premium tastings of 8 wines and breakfast for two. There are also several other wineries, tours and tastings available in the Chicago area. Your options are practically endless.

Take the Artsy Route

If you’ve never taken the time to check out some of Chicago’s artistic and educational gems, then now is the time. Take a trip to the Museum of Science and Industry and the Art Institute of Chicago Museum. Or, pay a visit to Grant Park and explore the Field Museum of Natural History, the Shedd Aquarium and the Adler Planetarium. And, if you have children, the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum is a must see. You could spend all day or weekend exploring the exhibits and shows at these institutions, and you can top it all off with a fantastic dinner at one of your favorite restaurants.

Whether you want to spend the weekend relaxing or thrill seeking, there are plenty of things to do in the Chicago metro area to keep you busy on your staycation.