Romantic Getaways in the Midwest

Updated February 2025

Are you looking to sweep a loved one off their feet? Or for a bit of R&R away from life, just the two of you? Maybe for a special occasion, holiday, or just a romantic getaway? I’ve got you covered! The Midwest is packed with places to go that will make your heart flutter, tantalize your tastebuds, and take your breath away. Check out my suggestions for romantic getaways in the Midwest, specifically Indiana, Illinois, and Ohio (and maybe a few surrounding areas!).

Illinois Romantic Getaway

Effingham, Illinois

Effingham is for foodies! All the foodie couples will love this getaway to Illinois. Enjoy farm-to-table dining at the popular Firefly Grill, visit in the summer for the EffingHAM-JAM BBQ, go sightseeing, shop for antiques, and take an art tour around the city. Lake Sara provides lakeside activities and dining, and Tuscan Hills Winery adds a bit of old-world romance to your itinerary.

Shawnee Hills

The Shawnee National Forest provides ample outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, fishing, and boating with its 280,000 acres of diverse landscapes, including rolling hills, dense forests, canyons, bluffs, streams, and waterfalls.  Art and culture enthusiasts can explore the region’s museums, galleries, and theaters and enjoy various music festivals and cultural events. The Shawnee Hills Wine Trail and local eateries offering barbecue and comfort foods make Southern Illinois a haven for foodies and wine lovers.

Indiana Romantic Getaways

French Lick Resort

I’d call the West Baden Hotel one of Indiana’s most romantic places. From the nightly live piano music in the atrium to twilight horse-drawn carriage rides and luxury dining, it’s swoon-worthy on the romance scale. The best rooms are the atrium-view rooms with balconies. Take a behind-the-scenes history tour, ride the trolley to the French Lick Hotel, and take advantage of the many amenities without leaving the resort.

Kosciusko County

Get cozy in Kosciusko County with a weekend at Winona Lake. Rent an Airbnb to snuggle and chill, check out the local coffee shops, and stroll through the Village at Winona. Dine lakeside, brunch on a farm, ride Indiana’s oldest sternwheel tour boat, swim at the lakes, and check out the history museums.

Brown County

The Brown County Postcard Cabins offer a peaceful, intimate glamping experience, especially during the fall season.  I found it to be the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The cabin’s location in the woods provides a sense of seclusion, with cozy campfires and stargazing under the open sky.

Kentucky Romantic Getaway

Owensboro, Kentucky

Although Kentucky is technically not a Midwest state, Owensboro is here because it is just across the Indiana border. And it made a great getaway for us! Known for its Bar-B-Q, Bluegrass, and Bourbon, Owensboro is similar to Nashville without all the city hassle. You’ll enjoy great food, a fantastic riverfront, a lively night scene, and lots of music and art. Make reservations at the famous Miller House for a romantic dinner.

Ohio Romantic Getaways

Hocking Hills

Discover Hocking Hills‘ cascading falls, ravines, and forestry. It’s the perfect place for a couple who loves nature and hiking. Stroll through downtown Chillicothe for dining, coffee, and stargaze at the John Glenn Astronomy Park. Spend a night of luxury at the ultra-romantic GloGabin at Eco-Luxe Vacation Rentals.

Lakeside Chautauqua

This is your retreat for couples looking for a lakeside, historic getaway! Lakeside Chautauqua is quiet, restful, and nestled on Lake Erie. Stay in the Fountain Inn or the historic Hotel Lakeside and enjoy quiet nights in rockers on the front porch, swimming off the pier, strolling the neighborhood, dining, playing mini-golf, and napping the afternoon away. This gated community is something straight out of a Hallmark movie!

Ohio Islands

Take a ferry over to the Midwest islands. Escape to Kelley Island or Put-in-Bay for a weekend of water activities, nature, hiking, and waterfront dining. Stay overnight in a cottage or inn or at the Hotel Kilbourne in Sandusky. Take in a concert at Jackson Street Pier and wake up for brunch at a downtown eatery.

Other romantic destinations:

• The New Harmony Inn: A Unique and Charming Resort in Indiana
• Honeysuckle Hill Bee-stro & Cottage: A Staycation Destination
• Charming Indiana “Hallmark Movie” Towns
• Unique Lodging Experiences in Northeast Kansas: Wanderful Stays

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