Where to make a couple's weekend getaway special

For many suburban parents, a weekend - or even a night - away from home and the kids is an event too rare and precious to be wasted.

So, with the children staying over at grandmas or a friends' place, where can mom and dad go within a reasonable driving distance that'll make the occasion special?

Here are some ideas:

Galena, Illinois

Two and a half hours from most suburbs, couples can indulge in hours of golf, wine-tasting and relaxing in this quaint community set among the hills of northwestern Illinois. Enjoy the history and small-town charm in a place where more than 80 percent of the buildings from the 19th century are listed on the National Register of Historic Places, including the former home of 18th U.S. President Ulysses S. Grant, which is open for tours. The town is full of romantic bed and breakfast spots, wineries, breweries, spas and golf courses to unwind and pamper yourselves before heading home.

Starved Rock State Park

For adventurous couples, Starved Rock State Park is the place to find beautiful landscapes and fun activities, all only 90 minutes from the suburbs near Utica, Illinois. Options include hiking and biking through miles of trails, taking in canyons and waterfalls that can be seen year round, or just relaxing at the lodge on the park grounds. Five miles from the main park travelers will find Starved Rock Adventures, a water resort where visitors can rent houseboats, speedboats and personal watercraft for fun on the Illinois River.

Saugatuck, Michigan

Just two and a half hours from the suburbs, couples can find a mecca of arts, food and beachfront activity in Saugatuck. A stretch of white sandy beach is a great way to relax and take in Lake Michigan from the opposite shore. When you need a break from the sun, check out one of several art galleries that make up the local art scene or wine tasting at one of the vineyards, such as Fenn Valley Vineyards and Wine Cellar.

Lake Geneva, Wisconsin

Just over an hour from the suburbs, Lake Geneva is hugely popular with Chicago-area residents for good reason. A walk through the downtown lets visitors take in the small-town shops and boutiques, while strolling along the Shore Path gives views of some of the largest lake homes around. The lake is open for boating activities all summer, but there's plenty to do in Lake Geneva year round. During the winter months visitors can sled or snowboard at Big Foot Beach State Park or ski at a number of resorts in the area.

Amish Country in Elkhart, Indiana

For parents looking to completely disconnect and travel back to a simpler era, a two-hour drive can land you in the middle of Amish Country. Drive along a self-guided tour of the Heritage Trail and stop at Amish furniture shops or jewelry stores along the way. Or take a buggy ride through Shipshewana and experience another way of life, from the one-room schoolhouses to the flea markets and antique shops.