The coziest Airbnbs near Chicago

Looking to unplug in nature for a couple of days? Ditch the city and drive this sweet farmhouse cottage in Sawyer, Michigan. The 14-acre premises features pastures dotted with farm animals, woods and a barn. Inside the cottage, an elegant, modern kitchen—equipped with wooden butcher block counters and a bounty of cooking tools—offers an opportunity for whipping up a hot meal after a long day of hiking and exploring.

Rooms? One. Sleeps two.
Mood? Contemporary farmhouse vibes.
Location perks? Just under an hour and a half drive from downtown Chicago, with beaches, breweries and wineries nearby.
Budget range? Very affordable couple's getaway.

Nothing is cozier than the soft glow of fairy lights twinkling around you. This whimsical cottage in the heart of Michigan's Great Lakes region is quaint, cute and steeped in history. The Airbnb sleeps up to four guests in twin trundle beds, but we think it's perfect on your own or with your other half. The vibes are enchanting and romantic, and it has everything you'll need for a cozy stay, including a fully-equipped kitchen, bathroom with shower, and an enclosed backyard with outdoor dining and a firepit. A small but homely space.

Rooms? One, but with room to sleep four.
Mood? Year-round wintery Christmas vibes.
Location perks? Easy access to the Southwest Michigan Wine Trail and the Fruit Belt.
Budget range? Affordable.

Enjoy the bustle of Lake Geneva at this peaceful cabin—billed as a "chalet" thanks to its ski resort vibes—tucked into the woods (even though it's only a two-minute drive to Williams Bay beach and other attractions). Cuddle up indoors under a furry blanket or endeavor to build a roaring fire in the pit in the backyard; either way, you're in for a restful weekend.

Rooms? Two. Sleeps eight.
Mood? Lumberjack, but make it fashion.
Location perks? With Geneva Lake and Williams Bay Beach so close, there is plenty of watersports fun to be had.
Budget range? Mid-range for two, budget for more.

This stunning Airbnb in Stevensville has you—and 15 other guests—fully covered across five bedrooms and 14 beds. Unwind across the two acres of fenced land, featuring a fire pit, hot tub and wraparound porch for all of your outdoor endeavors. Cook up a storm in the open-plan kitchen before chilling by the indoor fireplace and giant flatscreen TV.

Rooms? Five. Sleeps 16+. Wowser.
Mood? Upmarket pine lodge.
Location perks? Stevensville is very much wine country. Look up the Grape & Grain tours, which offer complimentary transport.
Budget range? Eminently affordable if there are upwards of five/six guests.

This southwest Michigan rental is the home of your cottagecore dreams, complete with eccentric decor, wood floors and a Jacuzzi in the master bathroom. Sit down with a good book in a rocking chair on the wraparound porch or cozy up beside the wood-burning stove. There are windows everywhere too, so it's wonderfully light-filled throughout.

Rooms? Two. Sleeps six.
Mood? Eclectic woodland hideout.
Location perks? Super close proximity to Lake Michigan—perfect for walks on the beach.
Budget range? Affordable for a couple.

Who would have thought a garden unit could look so much like a Wisconsin lodge? This Rogers Park rental somehow manages to pull the effect off, utilizing soft carpet, fish-themed decor and wood-paneled walls to transport guests to the boreal environs of the Northwoods (minus the six-hour drive). Crack open a can of Schlitz in front of the fireplace and it'll be just like the real deal.

Rooms? One. Sleeps two.
Mood? Epitome of cozy.
Location perks? Walking distance to the red L-line, Loyola University is a few blocks away, and there are plenty of restaurants, coffeeshops and Lake Michigan beaches in the local area.
Budget range? Very affordable for two.

Steal away from Chicago to this 1858 historic abode in Racine, Wisconsin, that's full of homey character. A couple of deep leather couches and some board games will make for lovely evenings spent by the hearth, while a two-story sunroom allows you to make the most out of winter light. Don't forget to read up on the history of the home before you leave!

Rooms? Three. Sleeps nine.
Mood? Classic meets contemporary in a historic building.
Location perks? Just five blocks away from the shores of Lake Michigan.
Budget range? Great value for money, even if you're traveling alone.

Hop on the Blue Line for a cozy escape to this luxe Forest Park loft located on the top floor of a renovated Masonic Temple. The apartment's exposed brick, leather, and burnished decor make for an almost speakeasy-type feel – but you'll also have access to a balcony if you'd like to take a break from the fireplace for crisp winter air and incredible views.

Rooms? Two. Sleeps four guests.
Mood? Minimalist design.
Location perks? Walking distance from the gorgeous Oak Park.
Budget range? Suuuuper affordable.

For a more rustic experience, head just over the border to this single-room cabin in Whitewater, Wisconsin, which is nestled on the premises of a 40-acre Christmas tree farm. You'll have to be comfortable with giving up certain conveniences (there's no running water, though fresh water in thermoses, an outhouse and an indoor bucket toilet are provided), but it's tough to beat the cabin's stone-walled charms: just imagine curling up in front of the toasty wood-burning stove after a long day of ice fishing.

Rooms? One. Sleeps four comfortably, more if you bring tents.
Mood? Back to basics.
Location perks? There's an indoor basketball court nearby, as well as wild swimming and fishing to be had in the pond (or skating in winter).
Budget range? Dirt cheap.

This farmhouse cabin just south of Madison is small and snug, making it a perfect getaway for a couple (and even a pet, as long as you ask ahead of time). Bring your binoculars to keep an eye out for birds – up to 46 species have been known to make an appearance on a good day. In the evening, soothe your tired muscles with a relaxing rest in the cabin's outdoor sauna.

Rooms? One. Sleeps two.
Mood? English country cottage.
Location perks? You can go cross-country skiing on the premises, they're so sprawling.
Budget range? Cheap for a couple.

Few styles of homes scream "cozy" more than a log cabin—and this rental, located in the popular weekend getaway of Geneva, is no exception. Settle in among the creekside spot in the Fox Valley and relax in front of the central fireplace, or bundle up for a spot of stargazing around the outdoor fire pit (all th better with a warm beverage in hand). The home has three bedrooms, two bathrooms and a laundry room in the basement.

Rooms? Three. Sleeps seven.
Mood? Rustic woodland living.
Location perks? Minutes from downtown Geneva, with its 8-square-mile lake, surrounded by a tree-lined Shore Path, and numerous unfussy eateries.
Budget range? Affordable if split between four, a bargain between six.

Nestled in a 70 acre farm lies a remote haven that will have you living in your own little world for the weekend (or longer, if you're lucky). Head to the village of Vandalia, approximately 11 miles north of the Indiana/Michigan state line, for a getaway in beautiful natural surrounds. The dramatic charcoal black structure sticks out like a saw thumb, and is unexpectedly bright and airy inside. The thoughtful interior design features plenty of wood and contemporary touches, and the backyard is just as idyllic; this is where you'll find the hot tub, BBQ grill and firepit for memorable nights spent under the stars.

Rooms? One room. Sleeps two.
Mood? Unique and stylish. 
Location perks? Natural beauty arounf every turn. 
Budget range? Not one for those on a budget. 

If you often dream of leaving it all behind, this woodland wonder in Indiana is the perfect place to test whether you're cut out for the simple life. With views from the window that feature nothing but towering trees and shurbbery, prepare to forget about civilisation take it slow for a couple days. Each area of the cabin is adorably petite, from the small kitchenette to bedroom nook upstairs. The style and amenities are tastefully up-to-date, but if you want to try your hand at roughing it, there's always the outdoor shower to humble you. The rockers on the porch are also a nice touch. 

Rooms? One. Sleeps two. 
Mood? Rustic and modern? A cabin that can do both. 
Location perks? There are trails through the woods to explore (but only if you're confident you won't get lost...). 
Budget range? Cheap for a couples weekend away.