Road Trip from Brookfield to Wilmette: A Guide to Museums, Parks, and Landmarks

Are you looking for a road trip that is full of excitement and adventure? Then pack your bags and hit the road because we've planned a trip from Brookfield to Wilmette that will leave you in awe. This trip is perfect for families or couples looking to explore the beauty of Illinois.

Did you know that Brookfield is home to the Brookfield Zoo, which is spread across 216 acres and has over 450 species of animals? Wilmette, on the other hand, has the Baha'i House of Worship, which is one of only eight Baha'i Temples in the world.

Halfway between Brookfield and Wilmette is none other than the Windy City itself, Chicago. This city of skyscrapers and deep-dish pizza is a perfect place to take a break and soak up the big-city vibes.

The drive from Brookfield to Wilmette takes around 40 minutes and is a distance of roughly 20 miles. However, this road trip isn't just about the destination, it's also about the journey. So without further ado, here are the top five places to visit on this road trip:

1. Brookfield Zoo

The Brookfield Zoo is a must-visit destination for animal lovers. The zoo has over 200 acres of lush greenery, making it a great place to spend a day exploring. The zoo is home to over 450 species of animals, including polar bears, giraffes, and lions. With 16 different exhibits and numerous animal shows, the Brookfield Zoo is sure to capture your attention.

Point of Interest: The Tropic World exhibit at the Brookfield Zoo is the largest of its kind in the world. It includes a vast range of exotic animals from around the world.

2. Cantigny Park

Cantigny Park is a beautiful public park located in Wheaton, Illinois. The park features a wide range of outdoor activities and attractions, including gardens, hiking trails, and a golf course. The park also has a museum that is dedicated to the First Division of the United States Army.

Point of Interest: The gardens at Cantigny Park are stunning, with over 160,000 flowers and plants. The gardens also have a variety of birds and butterflies that are attracted to the area.

3. Chicago Botanic Garden

Located in Glencoe, Illinois, the Chicago Botanic Garden is a beautiful destination that will take your breath away. The garden has over 27 different gardens and four natural habitats spread across 385 acres of rolling hills. Visitors can enjoy the peacefulness of the Japanese Garden, the vibrant colors of the Waterfall Garden and the fragrance of the Rose Garden.

Point of Interest: The Chicago Botanic Garden offers numerous seasonal events, including summer concerts and a winter holiday lights display.

4. Baha'i House of Worship

Wilmette is home to the Baha'i House of Worship, also known as the "Bahai Temple." This beautiful building is one of only eight Baha'i Temples in the world and is the only one in North America. The temple is a unique architectural masterpiece that represents the oneness of humanity.

Point of Interest: The nine gardens that surround the Baha'i Temple feature plants and flowers from around the world. Each garden is unique, offering a different set of flowers and an atmosphere that is designed to enhance the spiritual experience.

5. Gillson Park

Located in Wilmette, Illinois, Gillson Park is a beautiful beachside park that is perfect for families looking to relax and enjoy the outdoors. The park has numerous amenities, including a swimming beach, playgrounds, tennis courts, and a picnic area. The park also has a paved path that overlooks Lake Michigan, which is perfect for walkers, runners, and cyclists.

Point of Interest: The beach at Gillson Park is an ideal spot for swimming and sunbathing. Visitors can also rent kayaks, paddleboards, and sailboats from the nearby beach house.

In conclusion, this road trip from Brookfield to Wilmette has something for everyone. Whether you're an animal lover, a nature enthusiast, or a fan of architecture and history, this trip is sure to leave you captivated. With a distance of only 20 miles, the journey is short, but the memories will last a lifetime. So pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime.