Hey There, Lovely
A trip to your local Library could count as an adventure in my book:)
However, some of the thrill seekers in the room might disagree with an eye-roll. That’s ok! I’ve compiled a list of destinations to ease your cabin fever that is a bit more heart pounding. I’ve made the starting point Arthur, IL because I’m close by and you might be too!
Here. We. Go.
1. Garden of the Gods
I’ve never actually been myself, but I will be remedying that later this year!
Garden of the Gods is one of the most photographed locations in the state, Garden of the Gods is located within the Shawnee National Forest; Its scenic beauty is extraordinary. In the recreation area, you can hike, camp, nature watch or picnic. It’s the perfect weekend getaway for our family because it feels like you are much further from home than you actually are. It’s a great way to explore the State but be back home on the same day. Clearly marked trails, pets allowed, and designated campsites add to the convenience of your trip.
Here are a few more details as well as a link!
: 3 Hours South of Arthur, IL
: 3,318-acre Parcel of Land
: Herod, IL 62947
: Open 24 Hours
It’s crazy to think I have passed this Arch multiple times but never stopped to gaze or ride to the top.
It’s a curved, 630-ft.-tall Monument celebrating US western expansion, with views from the top & a museum. The Arch is located right next to the water with a beautiful riverfront boardwalk to walk and enjoy dinner as well as a garden with walking paths.
: St. Louis, MO 63102
: Open Everyday 9am-6pm
Bonus!
While you are at the Arch you might as well drive the 11 minutes to the Missouri Botanical Gardens; you won’t regret it. The butterfly house and outdoor gardens along with the atrium and plantings will delight and inspire you even in the most dreary of weather. It also makes for great Engagement Photos!
*wink, wink
3. Rockville, IN
My parents and I look forward to this annual trip.
It’s often referred to as the Covered Bridge Capital of the World. In October, this little town is crawling with tourists checking out the annual Covered Bridge Festival, and rightly so with its numerous craft, food, and specialized product vendors lined up with unique finds. If you would rather skip the crowds and festivals check out this link and head out to canoe lake sugar creek, explore the 31 covered bridges, or check out a retreat for a small group experience.
: 2019 Covered Bridge Festival Dates, October 11-20st.
: 1 Hour and 20 Minutes East of Arthur, IL
: More than 2 million people visit annually
Bonus!
On route to exploring the covered bridge be sure to make a pit stop at Urban Farmchic. The name says it all! They have eclectic, stylish decor, clothing and furniture.
: Wednesday-Friday Open from 10am-5pm
: 102 S Market St, Rockville, IN 47872
You will want all the things!
If you love antique shopping, Taylorville has so much to offer. I highly recommend Dear Yesteryear. Plan to shop this large store first, and plan to stay for a while. They fulfill their tag line to a T, and it’s your fault if you walk out empty-handed.
“Mixing the very best of the old, with the trendiest of the new.”
: 421 W Springfield Rd, Taylorville, IL 62568
: Just over an hour drive Southwest of Arthur, IL
: Check out The Wooden Flower and Best 4 less
Bonus!
You will thank me for introducing you to your new favorite burger joint. Seriously, don’t miss this little hole in the wall with its nostalgia in spades.
: Lunch @ Bill’s Toasty Shop
5. Galena On The Fly Inc.
Galena looks incredible and although it’s a long haul to the tip of IL the images that would come from this bird’s eye view would most definitely be incredibly breathtaking. On the Fly is one of the largest Hot Air Balloons in the country.
“Drift above the rolling landscapes of Jo Daviess County and the historic Galena, Illinois countryside while taking in views of Iowa, Illinois, and Wisconsin from your 3,000-foot-high perch.”
: Hot Air Balloon Ride (Thunder Bay falls) almost 5 hours from Arthur, IL
: 444 Eagle Ridge Dr, Galena, IL 61036
: Far North
Just one more, please.
Since I’m terrible at excluding anything, here’s just one more for the adventurer in you!
BONUS!!
6. Starved Rock State Park
I haven’t visited this beautiful park yet, but the waterfall images on the site make me want to jump in my car and head out asap.
“Starved Rock State Park is a wilderness area on the Illinois River in the U.S. state of Illinois. It’s known for its steep sandstone canyons formed by glacial meltwater. Several, including the St. Louis, French and Wildcat canyons, have waterfalls. A wooded trail leads to Lover’s Leap Overlook, with views of the river and Starved Rock Dam. Park wildlife includes white-tailed deer, bald eagles, and migratory birds.”
: 2,630 acres
: 2668 E 875th Rd, Oglesby, IL 61348
: Almost 3 hours North of Arthur, IL
I hope I’ve convinced you to try one of these getaways or maybe I’ve converted you to someone who thinks a library visit is an adventure or at the very least a treat! Thanks to the lovely lady sporting my green vest right here for these beautiful images in this blog! You always make me laugh uncontrollably, Lori Plank.
I am so thankful you stopped by to read my blog. I hope you found it helpful and fun! Leave me a comment below if you have ever been to these destinations or if you are planning on going. I would love to hear from you.
Talk soon!
XOXO, Klassic Photography
