One Tank Getaways to Chicago Northwest

Looking for weekend getaways near Chicago or easy day trips from the city? A one tank getaway to the Northwest suburbs of Chicago puts you right in the middle of outdoor adventure, family-friendly attractions, vibrant dining, and unforgettable events - all just a short drive away.

From Arlington Heights to Elk Grove Village, Schaumburg to Itasca, Chicago Northwest brings together eight unique communities into one easy escape. Whether you're planning a weekend stay, a spontaneous road trip, or a quick day out, these summer itineraries make it easy to relax, recharge, and explore:

• Family Fun Weekend
• Couples Retreat
• Nature Escape
• Shop + Play Weekend

Family Fun Weekend

Start your family weekend with hands-on fun at LEGOLAND Discovery Center. For families with younger kids, nearby favorites like Peppa Pig World of Play, Nelly’s Playground, M&M Playroom, or Kids Art & Café offer plenty of space to explore, imagine, and burn off energy.

If the kids still have energy, grab dinner and some interactive game play at Dave & Buster's or level things up with high-speed thrills at Andretti Indoor Karting & Games. 

Settle in for the night at a family-friendly hotel with a pool and order up some delivery! Get up early for a sunrise paddle at Busse Woods. Then swing on over with coffee and breakfast at a local favorite - Fulla Beans. Head back to the hotel for a refresh and relax a bit before it's time for a majestic evening with the Queen at Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament.

Couples Retreat

Treat yourselves to a romantic weekend at Eaglewood Resort & Spa, where everything you need for a relaxing escape is right on-site. Enjoy a couples massage at The Spa at Eaglewood, play a round of golf or bocce ball, take a dip in the indoor pool, or unwind in the sauna and hot tub. Stay the weekend to catch the Sounds of Summer live music series—no need to leave! But if you’re up for a little exploring, you’re just minutes from local favorites like Church Street Brewing Company, Buon Johnny, Antonio's, Woodfield Mall, and 390 Golf Experience.

Nature Escape

Reconnect with the outdoors on a peaceful weekend escape in Chicago Northwest. Start your day with a quiet walk through Spring Valley Nature Center, then let the kids climb, splash, and explore at nearby Bison’s Bluff Nature Playground. Continue the adventure with a visit to Pirate's Cove in Elk Grove Village, where little ones can explore, climb and play in a charming outdoor setting designed just for them.

Bring your bikes or lace up your walking shoes and explore the scenic trails throughout the Chicago Northwest region - from expansive Busse Woods, where you might spot the resident elk, to the peaceful paths at Wood Dale Grove Forest Preserve or even around Lake Arlington.

After a day outside, enjoy the fresh air even longer with outdoor dining across Chicago Northwest. Dine al fresco at local favorites like Chicago Prime Italian or Fox & Turtle, or soak up the atmosphere at Arlington Alfresco, where downtown streets transform into a vibrant open-air dining experience.  

End your outdoor adventure with craft brews and good vibes at local favorites like Pollyanna Brewing Company's and Mikerphone Brewing - the perfect toast to a day well spent in nature.

Shop + Play Weekend

Treat yourself to a weekend of retail therapy and all-out fun in Chicago Northwest. Explore hundreds of stores at Woodfield Mall, then hop on the free Woodfield Trolley to discover even more finds at Woodfield Village Green and IKEA.

When it's time to play, take your pick from high-energy experiences! Head to ENTERRIUM for arcade games, bowling, and a lively dinner all in one spot, test your skills at immersive experiences like Great Big Game Show or Cube Challenges, and keep the competition going all weekend long. 

Make the most of your stay with exclusive hotel packages and local deals, and explore all of our restaurants to refuel in style.

No matter what kind of summer escape you're looking for—family fun, outdoor adventure, a romantic retreat, or a weekend of shopping and play—Chicago Northwest offers the perfect one tank getaway. Explore more, stay longer, and make memories just beyond the city limits. Your summer starts here.