5 cozy houses perfect for an escape from Chicago

 Let’s face it: Chicago can get bit a bleak during the winter months. From the slushy streets, salty sidewalks, and skyscraper-aided wind tunnels that blast you with cold air, to the chilly social vibes that come with the infamous tradition of parking “dibs”—sometimes you need an escape.

Thankfully, there are plenty of charming houses tucked away in the woods or quiet rural areas a short distance away that are perfect for quick hibernations or weekend getaways. Here’s a roundup of several cabins or hideaways for rent in Wisconsin, Michigan, Indiana that are within a few-hour drive of the city.

#1 Seth Peterson Cottage in Mirror Lake State Park in Lake Delton, Wisconsin

There’s a long tale behind this secluded cottage at the edge of Mirror Lake near the Wisconsin Dells. But the short of it is—yes—you can actually rent a Frank Lloyd Wright-designed home for the weekend. The 900-square-foot might be the iconic architect’s smallest residential design, but it’s no less impressive (“It contained more architecture per square foot than any building Wright ever built,” said Wright’s assistant William Wesley Peters). Sleeps up to four for $300 a night.

#2 Pere Marquette Riverfront Cabin near Baldwin, Michigan

Winter isn’t ideal fishing or canoeing weather, but this is still a fine time to visit this rustic Michigan cabin. The craftsmen-style home is perched on a secluded wooded lot in the Huron-Manistee National Forest with the rear overlooking the Pere Marquette River. You can unplug and enjoy the view of the National Scenic River from inside the confines of the cabin or try your hand at outdoor cooking at the firepit. Sleeps four for $150 a night.

 It doesn’t get much cozier than this rustic loft built on top of a garage in the country between Milwaukee and Madison. Get toasty in front of the fireplace on a hand-crafted couch bed or climb a ladder and lounge on the king-size bed suspended from the ceiling. You also have access to the rest of the property, a farm whose barn and silo double as a separate event space and there are hiking and cross-country skiing trails nearby. Sleeps two for $75 a night.

#3 Modern Estate in Michigan City, IN with huge backyard and a lot of privacy for big groups, or family. This one is an Editor's choice! 

Located just 1.5 hour drive from Chicago this modern house is a perfect match for big groups, family reunions and corporate retreats. This amazing house was recently remodeled and has everything that you need for a big group stay. 8 bedrooms, 6.5 bath can accommodate up to 22 people. In the OFF peak season, which is usually October  through May the rent price is more than reasonable for this size of a house - only $399/night. 

Lake Michigan Beach, boating, and BBQ are all right there! Historic New Carlisle, Parks, antique shops, groceries, shopping in Michigan City - also there. Bowling alley & great places to eat are also nearby. 3,9 miles to the Long Beach, shops, and restaurants and Blue Chip Casino. 14 miles to artsy Three Oaks, Michigan, and its art galleries, theater, and an independent movie theater. 

This house is a real gem!

#4 Beautiful Farm Style Lake House "NaSeli" in La Porte, Indiana

This one is also a good fit for a big group as well as just for a few people. 

You can celebrate special occasions, such as unforgettable birthday parties, weddings, family reunions and much more. Less than an hour away from Chicago, , but far from city life, perfect to relax and take a break from a busy work schedule and have a good time while enjoying different on-property activities

Fishing pond, Firepit area, Private volleyball field, Sandy area near a pond, Badminton field, Ping pong table.

# 5 Grandpa’s Cabin near Savanna, Illinois

It’s called Grandpa’s Cabin, but this snug log cabin in the rolling hills of western Illinois just minutes from the Mississippi River feels more like great-grandpa. Originally built in 1837, it was recently restored and filled with early 20th century antiques and oddities. It sleeps four for $150 a night.