Have you ever wondered “How can I get away for a weekend when I don’t have time to plan a getaway?” Some people do not travel simply because they do not have the bandwidth required to plan a trip. During one stressful time in my life, husband and I needed an escape that we didn’t have time to plan. We made a valiant attempt, but ended up at the hotel all weekend enjoying the pool and on-site restaurant. We left feeling refreshed got the rest we needed and did not have any regrets.
If we had been more selective about our lodging, there would have been a range of activities. You don’t have to to a ton of planning to have an enjoyable getaway.
Suggested Resorts to Get Away for a Weekend
For an easy weekend getaway, you’ll want to pick a resort with a fair amount of on-site amenities. That way, you never need to leave the resort grounds in order to find adventure.. The city, suburbs and tourist centers have a number of amenity rich resorts. However, my blog focuses on off-the-beaten path destinations. The two I’ve chosen to highlight are in less crowded areas.
Harpole’s Heartland Lodge
Harpole’s Heartland Lodge is in west central Illinois, about halfway between Quincy, IL and St. Louis, MO. It is nestled in the river valley between the Mississippi and Illinois rivers. The views are stunning.
If you’re used to resorts where golf is the featured activity, this resort will be a change of pace. Hunting is one of the major activities. However, the resort has so much more to offer too. The amenities on their 1200 acres property include:
- A variety of hunting opportunities
- A sporting clays course
- Hiking
- ATV Rentals
- Horseback Riding (you can even bring your own horses)
- Hayrides
- Bonfires
- Bike riding
- Fishing
- Antler Shed Hunting
- Morel Mushroom Hunting
- Berry Picking
- Bird and wildlife watching
- Sports – volleyball, croquet, paintball, horseshoes
The resort offers a variety of lodging options including regular rooms or luxury suites with hot tubs and fireplaces. Note that the property does not have a swimming pool.
Most guests choose to purchase the Food and Activity Pass. You will receive home cooked meals in the dining area and some of the activities are included in the pass.
Holiday Inn Club Vacations Fox River Resort
Holiday Inn Club Vacations Fox River Resort is in Sheridan, IL, about an hour and 45 minutes southwest of Chicago. You will find the resort in the rolling hills along the Fox River. It is ideal for a family getaway since it features a water park. Other amenities include:
- Golf
- Mini Golf
- A lake with fishing and boating
- Horseback riding
- Cross-country skiing
- Indoor and Outdoor Swimming Pools
- 9 Hole Golf Course
- Basketball, Tennis, and Volleyball Courts
- Activity Center
- Movie Theater
- Arcade
- Pool table
- Ping pong
Accommodation options include studio suites with a kitchenette and 2 Bedroom Villas with full kitchens. There are 3 dining options on site, but all feature casual food. If you’re looking for a romantic dinner, you may want to consider going off site. Don’t worry, there are some options close by.
Travel Accessory
I’m a huge fan of the product and gift lists you see floating around the internet because I usually find some new-to-me product for myself, a friend or family member. I’d like to offer you the same inspiration by highlighting a travel accessory in each post.
This section contains an affiliate link. If you use this link to buy something I may earn a commission.
If you’re going to enjoy a weekend of rest and relaxation, you may want to fully embrace it by getting this unisex spa robe for lounging around.
Final Thoughts
Are there any other full service resorts that should be added to the list. Let us know in the comments.. If you use my trip suggestions or if you’ve visited any of these locations in the past, please provide your reviews in the comments. Happy vacationing!