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from the local experts at Jacksonville Area Convention & Visitors Bureau

We all know it can be challenging to take care of ourselves, mind, body and spirit. Bond with your significant other as you take advantage of this Jacksonville itinerary designed to allow you to step away from day-to-day challenges, make healthy choices, relax, and have fun! Self-care is not selfish, and who better to refocus with than your partner.

Make sure to check with attractions ahead of time for up-to-date operating hours, travel policies and health and safety information.

  • Jacksonville
  • Blessings on State
  • Water Edge Winery
  • The Links
  • Elm City Roastery and Juice Bar

Explore the Highlights

  • Day 1: Jacksonville

Blessings on State Bed & Breakfast

Downtown Jacksonville Walldog Murals

Open the door to your healthy weekend getaway as you check into your luxurious guest suites at Blessings on State Bed & Breakfast. This award- winning bed and breakfast is located in a magnificently restored vintage mansion in the heart of the historic district, and the architectural details are amazing! With only two guest suites, you’re assured peace and quiet. You’ll enjoy a full breakfast each morning and 24/7 complimentary beverages and snacks.

Settle into your suite, then grab a beverage and hang out on the front porch. Put your feet up and relax as you unwind with each other and chill. Once you are rested and are ready to explore, head toward the Downtown Plaza and seek out the Wall Dog Murals that are displayed on historic buildings around the square. They show off what the buildings would have looked like long ago or represent historical moments.

When finished, stop for a photo op in a Ferris Wheel bench centered in the Downtown that was made locally by the Big-Eli Bridge Company. Afterwards, catch an afternoon movie in the historic Illinois Times Theater, and then enjoy a nice meal from one of many local flavors in the Downtown Area that is sure to please any palate.

Did you know that music can be a stress reliever? The new Waters Edge Winery and Bistro is a great choice for a light dinner and if you time it right, they’ll have live music. After dinner, head downtown for one of Jacksonville Mainstreet’s Friday night outdoor concerts, or go to KJB’s or another local bar hosting a live band. You’ll find healthy bedtime snacks waiting for you upon your return to the inn. Guests rave about how comfortable the beds are, so you are sure to get a good night’s sleep.

  • Day 2: Jacksonville

The Links

Lake Jacksonville

Start your day by taking an early walk or run (or bring your bikes) around Blessings on State’s historic neighborhood, where you’ll see historic homes and buildings with examples of many architectural styles. Return to the inn for your healthy breakfast. The innkeeper specializes in tailoring the menu to meet her guests’ needs, and if you prefer to indulge in some of the inn’s more decadent specialties, so be it!

After breakfast, you can choose to take advantage of this B&B’s complimentary guest passes to Fitness World, or you can bike or hike together on the timbered Crimson and Rocket Trails at Lake Jacksonville. If you’re golfers, you can get some exercise as you golf one of Jacksonville’s scenic courses. Depending on your skill level, choose from Nichols Park, The Links or K’s Creek. No matter which course you choose, spending more time outdoors together will help you relax and sleep better when it’s time to turn in for the night.

Looking for something a little less active? Just go fishing! Lake Jacksonville is known as one of the top bass-fishing lakes in the state. Feel the sun on your backs as you and your partner drop a line and unwind. If you prefer to stay closer to town, you may fish in Lake Mauvaisterre (fishing licenses are required). 

Make healthy food choices at some of our locally-owned eateries while you’re in town. Elm City Roastery and Juice Bar offers everything from coffee and tea to smoothies, sandwiches and healthy sweets.

If you two really want to wind down and relax on your trip, schedule an en suite therapeutic massage with Hannah Pate, the inn’s licensed and certified massage therapist, from Juniper by Hannah Pate (advance reservations required).

Enjoy your last evening in Jacksonville relaxing in the front parlor, on the front porch, in the lighted gazebo, or by the fire pit to wind down for the day. Share a few more hugs, and spend time together before it’s time to leave.

  • Day 3: Jacksonville

Just Good Trade

Our Town Books

Wake up to another amazing breakfast before taking one last stroll around the historic neighborhood. Pick up a memento at one of the locally-owned stores in town, such as Our Town Books, which offers new and used books. Just Good Trade sells fairly traded gift items, clothing and foods from all over the world. Jacksonville’s Sports Zone carries logo jerseys and other promotional items. Other downtown stores include Antiquarius, a bakery, clothing boutiques, a home decor store and more. Market House Antiques offers furniture, glassware and other unique finds. 

Don’t let too much time pass before you visit again – you can even book your next stay before you leave the inn.

Next: save the trip for later and add your own ideas

Download this itinerary, save it to your favorites to revisit it later, and make the trip your own by choosing some more things to do along the way.

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