The Best Stops for a Scenic Drive from Bartlett, IL to Crystal Lake, IL
Are you looking for a quick day trip from Bartlett, IL? Crystal Lake, IL is a great destination for those looking for small-town charm, beautiful scenery, and outdoor activities. If you're planning to drive from Bartlett to Crystal Lake, you'll be rewarded with some stunning sights along the way. Here are some of the best stops to make on your drive, and what you can expect to find at each location.
1. Tekakwitha Woods Nature Preserve
Your trip from Bartlett to Crystal Lake is about 16 miles, so you'll want to start with a stop to stretch your legs. Tekakwitha Woods Nature Preserve is a great place for a quick nature walk. This 230-acre property is owned by the Catholic Diocese of Rockford and maintains native woodlands and prairies. There are several walking trails here that offer visitors the chance to see native wildlife, birds, and plants. You'll even get to walk across a boardwalk over Hogtrough Creek. On your walk, you might spot some wildflowers like lupines, black-eyed susans, and spiderwort.
2. Sears Centre Arena
The Sears Centre Arena is a must-see for sports fans. Located right off the highway, this arena is home to the Windy City Bulls G-League basketball team. You can also catch concerts and other events here, such as comic conventions and pop-up markets. The arena also houses the Chicago Mustangs, an indoor soccer team. If you're lucky, you may even see the team practicing on the field. This is a great stop for those who want a break to catch some live entertainment.
3. JourneyCare, Barrington
JourneyCare in Barrington is a unique and fascinating stop on your drive. This facility offers hospice care, home health care, and palliative care for patients. But it's also home to a beautiful garden that's open to the public. The garden is called the Healing Garden, and it features a reflecting pool, seating areas, and walking paths. Visitors can meditate, view art, or just take in the tranquil surroundings. Plus, the garden is open all year long, so you can enjoy it no matter what season you're driving through.
4. Three Oaks Recreation Area
If you're a fan of the great outdoors, you'll definitely want to make a stop at the Three Oaks Recreation Area. This park features a 300-acre lake that's perfect for boating, fishing, and swimming. There's also a beach area with picnic tables, grills, and changing rooms. If you're feeling adventurous, you can rent a paddleboard, kayak, or canoe. The park also has over seven miles of hiking and biking trails for those who prefer to stay on land. Three Oaks is a great spot for a mid-day break to enjoy the fresh air and natural scenery.
5. Crystal Lake Main Beach
When you've made it to Crystal Lake, you can't miss out on the Main Beach. This sandy beach stretches along the shoreline of Crystal Lake and is a popular destination for locals and visitors alike. There are lifeguards on duty during the summer months, so it's a safe place to swim. You can also rent paddleboats, rowboats, and kayaks if you want to explore the lake. For a change of pace, explore the playgrounds, tennis courts, and volleyball nets on the beach. This is the perfect way to end your drive with a relaxing afternoon by the lake.
Conclusion
There are plenty of great stops you can make on your drive from Bartlett to Crystal Lake. Whether you're interested in nature, sports, or just relaxing by the lake, there's something for everyone on this trip. Make sure to take your time and explore as much as you can. You never know what you might discover on your drive. Whether you're taking a day trip or just passing through, these five stops are sure to make your journey one to remember.