Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Brookfield, Wisconsin and Lombard, Illinois
Are you looking for a fun and spontaneous road trip in the Midwest? Look no further than a drive from Brookfield, Wisconsin, to Lombard, Illinois. This 275-mile trip takes approximately 4 hours and includes scenic routes, small towns, and big surprises along the way. Here are five unexpected places that you should consider visiting on this route.
Halfway Point: Wadsworth, IL
Before we dive into the must-see spots, we must mention the halfway point of this trip: Wadsworth, IL. This quiet village is home to a charming, family-owned restaurant, The Silo, which serves delicious and hearty breakfasts. The Silo is a perfect place to stop, refuel, and get ready for the next adventure. Their homemade biscuits with country gravy are sure to wake you up and start your day off right.
1. Mars Cheese Castle
Located in Pleasant Prairie, WI, Mars Cheese Castle is a whimsical and delicious stop for cheese connoisseurs. This family-owned business has been around since 1947 and features a wide variety of Wisconsin cheeses, sausages, and other local products. The Castle is not only a cheese shop, but also a restaurant, tavern, and bakery. Visitors can enjoy a cheese sampler platter or a beer flight while sitting at the castle-themed bar. It is a perfect place for tourists to get a taste of Wisconsin.
2. Jelly Belly Center
Two words: free samples. The Jelly Belly Center in Pleasant Prairie, WI, offers free samples of their famous jelly beans in over 50 flavors. Visitors can take a tour of the factory and see how the jelly beans are made. The Center also includes a candy store, where visitors can purchase unique sweets, and a café that serves jelly bean-themed treats. This colorful and tasty stop is perfect for the whole family.
3. Wildwood Park and Nature Center
Located in Kenosha, WI, Wildwood Park and Nature Center is a hidden gem for nature-lovers. The park features hiking trails, a butterfly garden, and a nature center full of informative displays about the local flora and fauna. Visitors can also rent paddle boats to explore the small lake and observe the wildlife. It is a perfect place to step out of the car and enjoy the great outdoors.
4. Des Plaines River Trail
For the more active road trippers, Des Plaines River Trail offers a scenic and challenging adventure. The trail stretches 56 miles from the Wisconsin state border to Cook County, IL, and offers excellent opportunities for hiking, biking, or running. The trail runs through several forest preserves, providing gorgeous views of the river and a chance to spot some wildlife. The Trail is a perfect place to take a break from driving and get some exercise.
5. Lilacia Park
After all the driving and hiking, it is time to slow down and smell the flowers. Lilacia Park in Lombard, IL, is a public park that features more than 700 lilacs and 25,000 tulips. The park is a true paradise for flower-lovers, especially during the annual Lilac Time Festival in May. In addition to the flowers, the park also features a gazebo, fountains, and plenty of benches to relax and enjoy the scenery. It is a perfect place to end the road trip and take some beautiful pictures.
In conclusion, this road trip from Brookfield, WI, to Lombard, IL, is full of surprises, small towns, and beautiful nature spots. From the cheesy Mars Cheese Castle to the flowery Lilacia Park, there is something for everyone. So, pack your bags, hit the road, and enjoy the Midwest charm and hospitality. Happy travels!