When a little R&R is needed, Chicagoans often escape to the resort home communities of Michigan, Indiana, and Wisconsin. But what if we told you there was a place, within Illinois, that has many of the same great qualities? We’re talking lake access, a beautiful beach, a quaint downtown, and all-around natural beauty. Drive about 30 miles north of Chicago – or hop on the train – and you’ll discover this gem of a community otherwise known as Lake Forest.

There’s a lot to love about this North Shore suburb, but for now we’ll share 10 things:

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Maybe you want to ditch that gym membership, or maybe you’re looking to shake up your fitness routine. Whatever the reason, Chicago is home to a variety of experiences that offer anything-but-traditional ways to get active – you won’t even realize you’re working out! Not convinced yet? Check out some of our recommendations below. Spoiler: you may even have a little fun.

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After a long few days at the office, a weekend getaway can be the perfect way to relax and recharge. It’s no wonder so many Chicagoans flock to quiet waterfront locales in Wisconsin and Michigan to experience the wonderment and rejuvenation that these places have to offer. One destination of note is New Buffalo, Michigan, a town of just under 2,000 people along the Lake Michigan shoreline.

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Rich in history and community pride, Western Springs seems like a storybook town. The village continues to grow and thrive through community events, local attractions, a bustling downtown that boasts popular shops and restaurants, and a convenient location that’s just a short train ride from downtown Chicago.

Here are just a few things we love about this historic, idyllic town:

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The 2020s should be an exciting time for real estate in Chicagoland. Urban neighborhoods are emerging as trendy yet affordable hotspots, while more established suburbs are providing undeniable value to homebuyers looking outside of the city. Get ahead of the curve by watching the latest installment of @ The Market, in which @properties co-founders Mike Golden and Thad Wong make their picks for the hottest neighborhoods and suburbs to watch over the next decade.

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There’s no place quite like the West Loop. What was once a meatpacking district has quickly grown to become one of the hottest neighborhoods in Chicago. From world-class restaurants to iconic festivals and great parks, it’s no wonder people flock to this side of town.

Whether you’re on a leisurely visit or looking to call the West Loop home, it’s sure to welcome you with open arms. Here are just a few things we love about this vibrant neighborhood:

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Imagine a place that’s got world-class golfing, high-end spas, relaxing boat cruises, charming shops, breweries, and even skiing. What if we told you there was such a place and that it is only one and a half hour’s drive from downtown Chicago? That place is Lake Geneva, Wisconsin. And as a popular resort town that draws visitors from both the Chicago and Milwaukee metro areas, there is plenty to see and do.

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Chicago goes through a sort of metamorphosis as winter takes a firm grip over the city, bringing cold weather and incredibly short days. But don’t feel bad making runs to the local convenience store in sweatpants and slippers — during the coldest winter days, it takes a lot of motivation and sheer willpower just to leave the house. When not hibernating, Chicago residents can be seen digging their vehicles out from snow drifts and ice, meeting up at corner bars, or even jumping into a frozen Lake Michigan.

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Coastal lifestyle magazines often get the Midwest wrong. There’s almost always a portrait of farmers and hectares upon hectares of corn fields and images of a frozen Chicago. And sure, the sweet yellow crop may be Iowa’s single largest export, and yes, Chicago can and does get incredibly cold in the winter, but throughout the Great Lakes region, there is history to explore and an infinite number of outdoor recreation opportunities.

It’s a theme that Chicago-area residents are well versed in — adventure awaits in any direction you decide to drive.

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It may be unfair to describe Downers Grove as simply a suburb. With a location just about 20 miles due west of downtown Chicago, this village of 50,000 residents boasts a thriving local economy, highly ranked schools, and some of the top natural attractions in the metro area. And it’s certainly not flyover country, being the corporate headquarters to some massive publicly traded companies while also having direct access into Chicago via the expressway system and commuter rail.

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