"Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Batavia, IL and Fond du Lac, WI"
Are you planning a road trip from Batavia, Illinois to Fond du Lac, Wisconsin? If so, get ready to embark on a scenic journey, enjoying the best of the Midwest countryside. This route is full of must-see spots, as well as some hidden gems that will make your trip unforgettable. The journey takes around three and a half hours one way, so it’s ideal for a weekend getaway, but you can extend it to a week-long adventure by exploring each destination in detail. The midpoint of the route is Kenosha, WI, a picturesque town on the Lake Michigan shore known for its beaches, museums, and harbor.
Top five things to do
See the Stars: Yerkes Observatory, Williams Bay, WI
About an hour’s drive from Kenosha, Yerkes Observatory is a paradise for stargazing enthusiasts. Located in Williams Bay, WI, it’s home to the world's largest refracting telescope, which has been used for groundbreaking scientific discoveries. The observatory also offers public tours and programs, with hands-on activities for people of all ages. The observatory closed to visitors in 2018 for major renovations, which include the restoration of the telescopes and the dome.
Fun Fact: John J. Watson, the donor who made the telescope possible, suffered from “telescope envy” after observing less powerful telescopes. His wife gifted him $300,000 for his birthday, enough to build the world’s largest refracting telescope.
Get Cultured: Anderson Arts Center, Kenosha, WI
Whether you’re an art aficionado or a casual admirer, the Anderson Arts Center in Kenosha, WI, is a must-visit destination. Housed in a historic mansion that dates back to 1888, the center features rotating exhibits focusing on local artists and themes. The house itself is worth the trip: it's included in the National Register of Historic Places and showcases the work of architects who designed landmarks like the Chicago Cultural Center.
Fun Fact: Anderson Arts Center's founder, Mary L. Anderson, was an early champion of children's art education in Kenosha. Lawrence Schmitz, a local artist and art teacher, helped to bring her dream of opening an arts center to life.
Go Wild: Racine Zoo, Racine, WI
Animals from all over the world await you at the Racine Zoo. Located in Racine, WI, the zoo spans 32 acres and has over 1000 animals representing 100 species. Visitors can take a safari tram tour or explore on foot, getting up close and personal with amazing creatures such as giraffes, penguins, and lemurs. The zoo also offers a special experience, where guests can become a zookeeper for a day.
Fun Fact: The Racine Zoo is the only AZA-accredited zoo in Southeastern Wisconsin and was awarded first place for its animal-care practices by the American Zoo and Aquarium Association.
Taste the Juicy Fruit: Apple Holler, Sturtevant, WI
Apple Holler in Sturtevant, WI, is a perfect destination for those who love fresh fruits and home-cooked meals. The farm offers pick-your-own apples in late August through October, as well as other local-sourced produce. You can also dine at the farm's restaurant or bakery, which serves mouth-watering pies, apple cider donuts, and more. Visitors can tour the orchards on a hayride or participate in a corn maze challenge.
Fun Fact: Apple Holler's founder, Dave Flannery, began the farm in 1987 with a single apple tree. Today, the farm has over 7,500 trees on 78 acres and welcomes tens of thousands of visitors each year.
Take a Hike: Kettle Moraine State Forest, Plymouth, WI
Kettle Moraine State Forest is one of the most beautiful natural wonders of the Midwest. It is a vast, rolling landscape that was formed during the last ice age, about 10,000 years ago. The forest covers over 30,000 acres and offers visitors a range of recreational opportunities, including hiking, fishing, camping, and horseback riding. Visitors can also take a scenic drive through the forest, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
Fun Fact: Kettle Moraine State Forest is divided into Northern and Southern Units, and both feature unique geologic formations such as eskers, kames, and drumlins. The forest is also home to a diverse array of wildlife, including black bears, white-tailed deer, and coyotes.
Conclusion
The road trip from Batavia, Illinois to Fond du Lac, Wisconsin is a journey that offers something for everyone. Yerkes Observatory, Racine Zoo, Anderson Arts Center, Apple Holler, and Kettle Moraine State Forest are just a few of the amazing places you can visit along the route. Whether you’re a stargazer, an art lover, a foodie, or a nature enthusiast, the trip has plenty to offer. The journey takes around three and a half hours one way, but with so much to see and do, you might want to extend your stay and make it a week-long adventure.