Top Places to See When Driving From Bartonville, Illinois to Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin

If you plan on taking a road trip from Bartonville, Illinois, to Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin, you’re in for a treat. The drive is around 230 miles and takes about four hours with plenty of things to see and do along the way.

In this post, we’ll take you on a virtual tour of the top places to see when driving from Bartonville to Wisconsin Dells. From nature parks to museums, quirky roadside attractions, and historical sites, there’s something for everyone.

So, buckle up, and let’s hit the road!

Discover Nature’s Grandeur at Mississippi Palisades State Park

Located about two hours and a half drive from Bartonville, Mississippi Palisades State Park in Savanna, Illinois, is a beautiful place to start your road trip. The park spans 2,500 acres and has numerous trails that wind up and down its rocky crags and rugged terrain.

Hiking enthusiasts will love this park for its scenic overlooks of the Mississippi River and the chance to see unique rock formations such as Twin Sisters and Indian Head. For those who prefer to relax, there’s a chance to fish, picnic or rent a canoe and paddle down the river.

Explore the History and Culture of Galena

After spending time at the Mississippi Palisades State Park, we recommend taking a 30-minute drive to Galena, Illinois. The city is a charming and historical western town that has retained its nineteenth-century charm and architecture.

With over 1,000 historic buildings, Galena has something for everyone. Visit the Ulysses S. Grant Home to learn about the life of the Civil War General and the 18th President of the United States. Tour the Elihu B. Washburne House, built-in 1845, which showcases the life and times of the Washburnes, a prominent Galena family. And, if you’re a die-hard Fitzgerald fan, the Green Street Historic District is home to several houses that inspired F. Scott Fitzgerald's "The Great Gatsby."

Discover Quirky Roadside Attractions in Wisconsin

Heading north into Wisconsin, you’ll be pleasantly surprised to find quirky roadside attractions that make perfect photo opportunities. Here are a few of our favorites:

The Forevertron

Located near the town of Baraboo, the Forevertron is a gigantic metal sculpture that is considered to be the largest scrap metal sculpture in the world. The sculpture was created by Dr. Evermor, also known as Tom Every, an eccentric inventor and artist. Dr. Evermor has created other large sculptures, including the Bird Band that plays music.

The House on the Rock

Located in Spring Green, the House on the Rock is an unusual mansion built atop a 60-foot chimney of rock. The mansion contains a vast collection of oddities, such as a giant squid, a replica of the Roman Colosseum, and a 2,000-pound chandelier.

The World’s Largest Round Barn

The World's Largest Round Barn is a must-see when passing through Wisconsin. This barn, located in Spring Green, was built in 1914 by Michael Ringling, one of the famous Ringling Brothers.

Explore Wisconsin Dells

Last but not least, we’ve made it to Wisconsin Dells. This family-friendly tourist destination is known for its waterparks, amusement parks, and outdoor recreational activities. Here are a few of our favorite things to do:

Noah’s Ark Waterpark

Noah’s Ark Waterpark is the largest outdoor water park in America, covering more than 70 acres. The park has plenty of fun and thrilling rides, including the Black Anaconda, America's only near-vertical looping waterslide.

Tommy Bartlett Show

If you love entertainment, check out the Tommy Bartlett Show, located on the scenic Wisconsin Dells Strip. The show features daring water-ski acts, death-defying acrobatics, and plenty of humor.

Visit the Lost Canyon Tours

If you’re looking for a relaxing activity, visit the Lost Canyon Tours. Here, you’ll enjoy a scenic tour of Wisconsin Dells' ravines and canyons.

Conclusion

Driving from Bartonville, Illinois to Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin, offers a pleasurable road trip with plenty of activities and attractions en route. From exploring historical towns to visiting nature parks and enjoying quirky roadside attractions, Wisconsin Dells has something for everyone. So, pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready for an unforgettable experience!