My mother and I are planning a short 3 or 4 day trip for this summer when I get done with summer school (Late July Early August). I am 20, about to be 21 and my mother is in her 40's. We like shopping, historic homes, theater, museums, art, culture, pretty much anything! We live in St. Louis and we do not want to drive more than 5 hours away and we have limited funds for the trip. Any suggestions would be appreciated!
How about Galena, Ill or Lexington Ky? by: tripdiva
Galena, in northern Illinois, near the Misissipi River, is a charming old town with lots of older homes, a winery, and LOTS of antique shops. It's a great place for a weekend, and I think especially good for a mother-daughter "walking/browsing/catching up on life" weekend. There are a couple of spas, too, so a relaxing massage or facial would be a nice addition to your weekend.
If you and your mother are horse lovers, Lexington, Kentucky is a great place to visit. The rolling hills are just lovely, and Lexington is a nice town. There are art/craft shows in the area during the summer, you can visit a bourbon factory, and the Mary Todd Lincoln House is there for history buffs.
Of course, if you want a city getaway, Chicago has everything you're looking for - theater, historic homes, museums, parks, a great lakefront, shopping - anything you might like to do! Hotels downtown are expensive (although they are a little less if you don't need a pool). The Palmer House is a charming old hotel conveniently located near the theater district, the Art Institute, and Millenium Park. But if you're driving, stay in the suburbs, near a metro train station. You'll save on your hotel and you can hop the train into the city.
