Skip to main content
Shedd Aquarium

Things To Do

Places To Go in Illinois

Plan Your Trip

Accessibility in Illinois

A lake

Lake Hop Adventure in Decatur Area

From Local Experts

3 Days 82 Miles

Highlights

Decatur, Shelbyville

View Map Download Itinerary

from the local experts at Shelby County Office of Tourism & Decatur Area Convention and Visitor Bureaus

Double your fun when you escape to Lake Decatur and Lake Shelbyville - hike, bike, boat, fish, swim, and so much more.

Four breweries, three wineries, a brandy distillery, along with area attractions and restaurants are also here for you to enjoy, or just a great lake view with a picnic!

Day 1:

Decatur

  • A car museum

    Enjoy a day of checking out amazing Chevys, both old and new at the Chevrolet Hall of Fame Museum. After that quench your thirst and your taste buds with a stop at one of our three breweries, Decatur Brew-works, Door 4 Brewing or Golden Fox Brewing. A couple of the breweries have on site food trucks and the other has multiple dinner options within walking distance!

    Stay:

    Dining:

    Day 2:

    Decatur

      Gear up for a day of fishing on beautiful Lake Decatur, with 32 miles of shoreline. While down at the lakefront be sure to check out our 9/11 memorial made with an actual piece from the 9/11 disaster. Finish with a hearty dinner downtown at Doherty's. Choose from options such as authentic Shepherd's pie and/or Corned Beef & Cabbage or a delish burger!

      Day 3:

      Shelbyville

      • Bikes and lake

        As you make your way to Shelbyville, enjoy a stop at Willow Ridge, an award winning winery in a picturesque centennial farm setting, one of three wineries in Shelby County. Keep your camera handy -- you might catch an eagle soaring, wildlife surprises and other scenic treats (stunning sunsets) at Lake Shelbyville! 65 miles of trails to hike or bike, and three marinas offer rentals of kayaks, fishing, pontoon and houseboats. Longbranch Grill, located on Main Street, is the perfect lunch or dinner stop, with a full menu and bar service. While downtown, stroll our shops and maybe enjoy a four buck movie at the restored Boarman's Roxy Theater or perhaps relax lakeside and snap that amazing sunset! 

        Stay:

        Other nearby attractions:

        Back to Road Trip Itineraries

        More recommendations

        Where to next?

        • A Romantic Galena Getaway

          Enjoy a romantic getaway in Galena, Illinois with this 3-day downloadable itinerary from the experts at Galena Tourism. Read more about A Romantic Galena Getaway

        • Experience Geneva, IL

          Adorned in historic charm, this scenic community offers an array of unique attractions, quality entertainment and affordable accommodations. Located 45 miles west of Chicago, Geneva is a quick getaway from... Read more about Experience Geneva, IL

        • Cozy Couples Getaway in Carbondale

          Carbondale is the perfect destination for couples to enjoy a weekend getaway. Dine in one of our local restaurants that utilize fresh, regional produce; or explore our international culinary scene.... Read more about Cozy Couples Getaway in Carbondale

        • Cache River Wetlands – Illinois’ Hidden Bayou

          Hidden away in Southern Illinois is one of nature's masterpieces. Stroll the boardwalks, hike or paddle the mysterious Cache River Wetlands, one of only 15 "Wetlands of International Importance." Read more about Cache River Wetlands – Illinois’ Hidden Bayou

        • Five Illinois Made Trip Ideas

          These itineraries feature artisans and makers throughout Illinois, highlighting the truly local experiences you can’t find anywhere else. Read more about Five Illinois Made Trip Ideas

          Share your Moments

          #EnjoyIllinois

          Subscribe to Our Newsletter

          Get inspired by top travel stories, gain access to exclusive promotions and contests, and discover even more reasons to #EnjoyIllinois.