Points of Interest between Buffalo Grove, Illinois to Roscoe, Illinois

picture of Buffalo Grove, Illinois

A Journey between Buffalo Grove and Roscoe

Welcome to a road trip through the beautiful state of Illinois. This journey takes us between two charming towns that offer a plethora of scenic stops for the traveler. So buckle up, turn up the radio, and let's embark on this adventure together!

Taking a Pit Stop in Hampshire

Located midway between Buffalo Grove and Roscoe is the quaint town of Hampshire. This village offers a perfect spot to pause our journey and relax for a bit. Take a stroll in the Hampshire Forest Preserve, a 604-acre natural area that offers walking trails, picnic areas, and a fishing pond. If you’re feeling peckish, grab a bite at The Lodge on 64, a cozy restaurant that serves comfort food like burgers and sandwiches.

  1. Anderson Japanese Gardens One of the most serene and beautiful jewels that Illinois has to offer is the Anderson Japanese Gardens. The name says it all; the scenery is breathtaking, with lush greenery and calm ponds that give a perfect retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. You’ll feel like you’ve been transported to Japan as you walk through the peaceful gardens. Take your time with the free-roaming koi fish, the lively waterfall, and admiring the various flowers, trees, and sculptures. The Gardens offer various events year-round, so make sure to check out the calendar to see if anything piques your interest.

  2. Starved Rock State Park If you want to get away from the hustle of the city and be engulfed in nature, make sure to visit Starved Rock State Park. The park offers 13 miles of well-groomed hiking trails, with stunning views of waterfalls and canyons. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or looking for a casual Saturday stroll, Starved Rock State Park has something for everyone. Aside from hiking trails, the park also has a visitor center, lodging facilities, and food options, including the famous Starved Rock Lodge.

  3. Lincoln Park Zoo If you love animals, then head north to one of Chicago's biggest attractions, the Lincoln Park Zoo. With over 230 different species, the zoo offers a vast array of animals, ranging from lions, elephants, and rhinos to birds, reptiles, amphibians, and mammals. The zoo is completely free, so you can bring the whole family without worrying about your budget. The zoo also offers various seasonal activities, from pumpkin patches to ice skating.

  4. Tilted Kilt Pub and Eatery A local hotspot situated in Rockford is the Tilted Kilt Pub, a place to enjoy a meal after an action-packed day of exploring. This Celtic-themed pub offers classic pub food with a unique twist. The menu is extensive, with everything from nachos and wings to Irish stew and shepherd's pie. Patrons rave about the “killer dessert menu” and the “delicious drinks”. The cozy atmosphere and friendly staff make this place a must-visit.

  5. The Village Tavern Our final attraction is located in the picturesque town of Long Grove. The Village Tavern is a casual bar and grill with an extensive beer and wine list. Make sure to stop here for lunch or dinner and grab one of their signature sandwiches or burgers. People rave about their famous fish and chips and the crispy wings. Make sure to ask about the daily specials, and check out their amazing happy hour deals.

So, What's the Best Route?

There are various ways to get to Roscoe from Buffalo Grove, but one of the most scenic routes is via IL-47 N and Il-90 W. Along the way, you'll be passing through charming towns, fields of corn and wheat, and rolling hills of forest. Take the opportunity to stop off at some of our recommended locations for a break, a bite, or a memory. This drive should take you roughly two hours and twenty minutes, so pack your camera, sunscreen, and comfortable clothing, and enjoy!