Sometimes the best way to reset is to pack up the car, roll down the windows, and drive toward someplace quiet. Lucky for us in northern Illinois, the state is filled with small towns that know how to do “relaxation” right. Whether you’re into river views, historic charm, or just a good cup of coffee with no rush to be anywhere, these Illinois destinations deliver.

A Scenic Stop in Grafton, Illinois

Perched where the Illinois and Mississippi Rivers meet, Grafton is a year-round escape for outdoor lovers. From bald-eagle watching in winter to kayaking and hiking at Pere Marquette State Park , it’s the kind of place that reminds you to slow down and breathe in that river air.

Step Back in Time in Bishop Hill, Illinois

Founded by Swedish settlers in the 1840s, Bishop Hill is all a

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