Romantic Winter Weekend Getaway
Winter is the perfect time to sneak away for a romantic weekend in the Elgin area. Whether you want to plan your getaway, follow our itinerary or do a mix of both you will have a great time with the one you love. Our itinerary includes a mix of exploring nature at one of the area parks, planning your own self-guided appetizer crawl through one of several historic downtown areas and of course dancing the night away with some live music.
Visit Viator Coffee Co., or one of our other area coffee shops, for some couple time.
Day 1
Schedule
Check in to your hotel and get ready for the night! If you need hotel recommendations then check our listings.
Start your night with a cozy, romantic dinner. Mockingbird Bar & Garden in East Dundee has a charming tented patio with twinkle lights that set the perfect mood for the weekend. If you are looking for an Italian meal then make a reservation at Aliano’s Ristorante in East Dundee, known for its delectable food and mixed drinks. For a pasta and wine fix on the west side of Elgin, check out Cafe Roma. Al’s Cafe and Creamery in downtown Elgin is within walking distance of lots of entertainment and we cannot talk enough about their desserts. What a perfect way to end a romantic dinner!
A list of romantic dinners would not be complete without mentioning Buckingham’s Steakhouse & Bistro, located in the Grand Victoria Casino. Enjoy a delicious steak or seafood dish and then grab drinks on the boat.
Enjoy fine dining at Buckingham Steakhouse at the Grand Victoria Casino.
Day 2
Schedule
Discover all about what makes Elgin tick at Elgin History Museum
Morning
Kick off your day with a visit to one or two stops on the Explore Elgin Area Coffee Trail. Coffeeshops are located throughout the region so wherever you start your day there will be an option for you to taste.
If you are looking for an active start to your winter morning then take your coffee with you as you explore some of the trails throughout the area. The Fox River Trail offers views of the beautiful Fox River and you might just glimpse the Bald Eagles in their winter residence. The majestic eagles can be spotted fishing and nesting all along the trail but are usually easier to spot by the river dams in Elgin and South Elgin. If you are looking for some quiet time for just the two of you then consider checking out the trails around Hawthorne Hill Nature Center or Bartlett Nature Center. All trails will get your relaxing morning started. For additional park ideas check out our list.
For couples looking to learn about the area as they visit, we always recommend spending a couple of hours exploring the area museums. The Elgin History Museum is located in the historic, Old Main Building, with exhibits bringing to life Elgin’s rich heritage. The Elgin Public Museum is located in the beautiful Lords Park and when it is covered in snow makes for another beautiful place to walk around. You can even spot the resident bison at the Lords Park Zoo! The Elgin Public Museum is the oldest building in Illinois built expressly as a museum that is still serving that purpose. If you will be visiting Bartlett then you cannot miss a stop at the Bartlett History Museum. Learn all about the history that makes this a unique community to visit!
Explore our Appetizer Crawl!
Afternoon
Spend the afternoon into the early evening exploring the Elgin area in one of the most delicious ways we could think of…an appetizer crawl. We have come up with several options to choose from or combine as the best way to try the most restaurants and get a real feel for the culinary scene in the Elgin Area.
Evening
Once you have eaten your fill of the area treats then head to one of the live music and entertainment destinations to dance the night away or just sit back and listen to local music. Rookies RocHaus in downtown West Dundee has music every weekend with shows covering all genres. Old Republic serves up burgers, cocktails and a changing line up of live music over the weekends.
Enjoy a nightcap at one of several taverns offering specialty cocktails before heading back to the hotel. In downtown Elgin, sample the martinis and music at Martini Room or walk over to Vern’s Tavern for old-time charm served up with a Cinnamon Apple Mule or Mistletoe Margarita. Benningan’s is located in the Holiday Inn and also offers a full bar with kitchen service for late night guests.
Enjoy live music at Rochaus in West Dundee.
Day 3
Schedule
Begin your final day in the area by checking out of your hotel and enjoying a hearty breakfast along with a Mimosa or Bloody Mary at Benedict’s Egg & More, a lovely spot in nearby East Dundee that is ideal for a romantic breakfast. Located in a historical home, Benedict’s is known in the area for the live tree growing through it. Or enjoy the wide selection offered by Southern Belle’s, a restaurant that offers hearty breakfast and lunch options along with a coffee bar and cocktails.
Following breakfast, spend the afternoon exploring the many shops in the area. Stop by Half-full Nest Vintage Market in West Dundee and browse among the carefully curated items that include clothing, home goods to clothing and some very unique toys and memorabilia. Plan to visit State Street Market in Elgin and see goods from 30 plus artisans that include collectibles, antiques, specialty items, unique gifts. Don’t miss stopping by Whatnot & Whimsies Antiques & Resale in downtown Elgin and explore the vintage clothing, hats and shoes as well as a several dishware collections and toys. This is a shop that is perfect to browse through.
Step back in time with special finds at Half Full Nest Vintage & Market.
