Looking for summer weekend activities? Exploring a nearby winery is the perfect place to start. These five wineries located a few hours outside of Chicago will surprise you—the Midwest knows its wines as much as it does its brews. Whether you're embarking on a weekend getaway or a day trip, be prepared to learn all about the art of winemaking, taste a range of captivating flavor profiles and experience art and entertainment found in the form of painting parties, live music and more.
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4746 N Ford Road, Galena, IL / Website
With history dating back to 1974, Galena Cellars is an authentic family business. For a perfect weekend away, stay at their vineyard lodging while sipping on their award-winning wines.
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59 Main St., Oswego, IL / Website
One of Illinois’ leading boutique wineries, Fox Valley Winery has it all—painting parties, festivals, live music and more. Their tasting room also features the work of local artists, including wood carvings, pottery and hand-painted glass items.
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401 E Sheridan Springs Road, Lake Geneva, WI / Website
Studio Winery produces all their wines and spirits onsite at their location on the Upper East Side of Lake Geneva. Aside from offering a curated selection of artisanal wines, Studio Winery also functions as a recording studio and art studio.
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219 Robert Parker Coffin Road, Long Grove, IL / Website
Branded as a “California wine experience in Long Grove, Illinois,” Broken Earth Winery sources its wine from a 2,500-acre ranch in Paso Robles, California. This winery is committed to sustainability and is the largest 100% solar-powered winery in the United States.
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5175 Aptakisic Road, Long Grove, IL / Website
Grown from 20 different varieties of grapevines, the wines of Valentino Vineyards have earned over 40 medals and awards. Book a vineyard tour, wine tasting and wine appreciation seminar for $35 per person.
Photography by: Rostislav Sedlacek/Getty Images
