3 Beautiful Small Towns in Illinois Perfect for a Relaxing Visit

If you're looking looking for that picturesque small-town charm, these three destinations will not disappoint. Get in the car, drive, arrive, relax, and enjoy.

I've spent the last four months recovering from some surgeries so my life was forced into a much slower pace. The kind of pace that's needed to relax and heal, physically, mentally, and spiritually. I think these small Illinois towns are well-suited for the traveler who is in need of a slower, more enjoyable pace.

A slower pace, great places to sip and shop, great food with gorgeous spaces to eat outside. Riverwalks and hikes, ice cream stops and old-fashioned candy shops, and romantic places to stay the night.

3 Beautiful Small Towns in Illinois Perfect for a Relaxing Visit

Geneva

Before my wife and I were married, we took our first overnight trip to Geneva, Illinois. We had no idea that we'd booked our stay at such a perfect Illinois riverfront resort for a romantic getaway. The town of Geneva, and the resort, sit on the Fox River. We booked a spacious suite with a balcony overlooking the riverfront courtyard.

Situated on the Fox River, Geneva offers scenic views year-round. The crown jewel of the city, downtown Geneva offers more than 160 specialty and antique shops, boutiques, casual cafes, coffee shops, gourmet chocolate retailers, and restaurants.

Galena

There's a tremendous feeling I get every time I make the drive to Galena, and I think it's time to do it again. Whether it's a day trip, an overnight, or an entire weekend, you'll be grateful for every minute you spend in one of America's Coolest Small Towns to Visit.

RELATED: 50+ Reasons To Love Galena, Illinois

Galena is like that friend who can wear any kind of outfit and look amazing in it, There is no season that isn't picturesque in the home of our nation's 18th president, Ulysses S. Grant.

Galena is filled with great shops and restaurants. The legendary Vinnie Vanucchi's for great Italian food

If you find yourself in Galena for breakfast, you MUST visit Otto's Place.

And you MUST have the French toast.

Oglesby

Oglesby is home to the famed Starved Rock State Park. The park spreads along the Illinois River with 13 miles of hiking trails, bluffs, waterfalls, and several scenic river overlooks.

RELATED: 10 Most Thrilling Adventures at Illinois’ Starved Rock State Park

Starved Rock isn't the only park in the area, Matthiessen State Park, offers 5 miles of hikes and relaxing walks.

If you're looking for a truly unique way to spend some relaxing time in Oglesby, you should book a night (or two) at the adult campground that was voted one of the most unique hotels in the US.

Where do you like to go to 'escape' with your partner? I'm always looking for new places to visit, so please share your favorite places.