Day trip options from downtown: Indiana Dunes, Milwaukee and Starved Rock
From Aloft Chicago Downtown River North you can plan three popular day trips: Indiana Dunes (reachable by South Shore Line train in about 70–90 minutes), Milwaukee (Amtrak Hiawatha about 1 hour 29 minutes or by car), and Starved Rock State Park (about 1.5 hours southwest). Each option works as a full-day excursion from the hotel's River North location at 515 North Clark Street.
In this guide
Base information from Aloft Chicago Downtown River North
Aloft Chicago Downtown River North sits at 515 North Clark Street in River North, a few blocks from the Magnificent Mile and the Chicago Riverwalk. Use the hotel as your base for transit-accessible day trips or drives out of the city.
The hotel offers free Wi‑Fi, a 24/7 Re:charge Gym, Beatrix restaurant, the W XYZ Bar in the lobby, and a 24/7 Re:fuel grab‑and‑go pantry. If you need help arranging tickets or directions, the front desk and concierge can advise; check-in starts at 3:00 pm and check-out is 12:00 pm.
- Address: 515 North Clark Street, Chicago, IL 60654
- On-site dining: Beatrix (breakfast, lunch, dinner, weekend brunch) and Coffee & Pastry Counter
- Fitness: Re:charge Gym open 24/7 (reservations required for cardio machines)
- Lobby bar: W XYZ Bar with live music and a complimentary billiards table
| Hotel Rooms | Examples |
|---|---|
| Room | 1 King Bed or 2 Queen Beds |
| Room, City View | 1 King Bed or 2 Queen Beds |
| Room, City View (Windows on 2 Sides) | 2 Queen Beds |
Indiana Dunes: beaches and dunes by train
Indiana Dunes National Park is a feasible car-free day trip from downtown Chicago. From Millennium Station you can take the South Shore Line; travel time is commonly reported as about 70–90 minutes one-way depending on the schedule.
At the dunes you’ll find swimmable beaches, dune trails and varied terrain. Plan your return around the train schedule—service frequency and times vary by day and season.
- Best for: beach time, walking dune trails, birdwatching
- Transit option: South Shore Line from Millennium Station (70–90 minutes)
- What to check: South Shore Line schedules and seasonal beach amenities before you go
| Tip | Why it helps |
|---|---|
| Leave early | Maximize daylight on trails and beaches |
| Check train times | South Shore Line schedules vary; allow time for connections |
| Bring layers | Lake breezes can be cool even on warm days |
Milwaukee: city, lakefront and museums
Milwaukee is reachable by Amtrak Hiawatha from Chicago; published schedules show the trip at roughly 1 hour 29 minutes on the train. Visitors go for the lakefront, breweries and the Milwaukee Art Museum among other sights.
If you prefer to drive or take a car service instead of the train, that is a common option. Confirm Amtrak schedules and availability for a same‑day round trip before you plan your day.
- Best for: museum visits, brewery tours, lakefront walking
- Train option: Amtrak Hiawatha (check current schedules)
- Plan: book return tickets early—weekend trains can fill
| How to spend 1 day | Sample activities |
|---|---|
| Morning | Milwaukee Art Museum or lakefront walk |
| Afternoon | Lunch and brewery/beermaker tour |
| Late afternoon | Explore Third Ward shops or return train |
Starved Rock State Park: canyons and short hikes
Starved Rock State Park is a popular nature day trip located roughly 1.5 hours southwest of downtown Chicago. It’s known for canyon trails and seasonal waterfalls; trail conditions vary by weather.
This trip is typically done by car or organized tour. If you rely on transit, check for shuttle or tour operators that run between Chicago and the park—public transit options are limited for a straightforward same‑day return.
- Best for: hiking, waterfalls (seasonal), family outings
- Travel note: most visitors go by car or prearranged tour
- Trail tip: choose shorter canyon loops if you have limited time
| Season | What to expect |
|---|---|
| Spring | Waterfalls are more likely; muddy trails |
| Summer | Warmer, busier; good for longer hikes |
| Fall | Foliage colors; popular season for day trippers |
Practical transit tips from River North
Millennium Station and the Metra/South Shore Line access points are the usual starting points for rail day trips such as Indiana Dunes. Aloft Chicago Downtown River North is within easy reach of downtown transit nodes; ask the front desk for walking directions to the closest station.
For Amtrak to Milwaukee, check departure times and station locations in advance. If you plan to drive, the hotel offers valet parking services (valet details and daily rates are available from the property) and there are nearby off-site self-parking options.
- Ask the front desk to confirm the latest train or tour schedules before you leave
- Bring printed or mobile copies of return tickets—some services have limited same-day seats
- Allow extra time for peak downtown traffic or transit delays when booking return travel
| From the hotel | Typical first step |
|---|---|
| Indiana Dunes | Walk or taxi to Millennium Station for South Shore Line |
| Milwaukee | Arrive at Amtrak station (check which downtown station serves Hiawatha) |
| Starved Rock | Drive or join a guided tour from downtown |
Timing, packing and what to expect
Choose the season based on your activity: beaches and dunes are best May–September; Starved Rock’s waterfalls and fall foliage draw crowds in spring and autumn; Milwaukee is year‑round for museums and brewery visits. Chicago weather can change quickly—layers are helpful.
For all three day trips bring water, sun protection for summer outings, comfortable shoes for trails, and a small daypack. If you’re using trains, pack light and keep valuables close; confirm baggage rules for Amtrak or the South Shore Line.
- Essentials: water, snacks, sun protection, comfortable walking shoes
- Train travelers: bring a charged phone, printed or mobile tickets, and a small lockable bag
- Hotel tip: store larger luggage in your room (Room, Room, City View and other room types are available) if you plan a same-day return
| Quick checklist | Why |
|---|---|
| Layered clothing | Lake breezes and canyon shade can be cooler |
| Train schedule saved | Avoid missing the last return train |
| Cash or card | Some small vendors or tour operators prefer card or cash |
