Skip to main content
Shedd Aquarium
A lake

Lake Hop Adventure in Decatur Area

From Local Experts

3 Days 82 Miles

Highlights

Decatur, Shelbyville

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?

  • Adventure in the Fox River Valley

    On the western outskirts of Chicago, between the cities of Elgin and Aurora, is a scenic stretch of Fox River that might be one of the best-kept secrets in Illinois. Read more about Adventure in the Fox River Valley
  • 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
  • DeKalb County is Calling All Couples

    More than just a sandwich in Sandwich... from golfing to award-winning whiskey tasting, the south end of DeKalb County is a great couples destination. Read more about DeKalb County is Calling All Couples
  • Road Trip To Rosemont

    Road trip ideas in Rosemont! Recommendations from the local experts of Rosemont to ensure you have the best experience. Read more about Road Trip To Rosemont
  • Fun in Bloomington-Normal

    Beyond the bustling breweries and cozy coffee shops, Bloomington-Normal is an experience that will suit the tastes of every visitor. Our charming communities are both historic and modern, celebrated by... Read more about Fun in Bloomington-Normal

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

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