Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Burlington, Ontario to Rosemont, Illinois

The drive from Burlington, Ontario to Rosemont, Illinois is an approximately eight-hour journey, covering a distance of around 500 miles. The route takes drivers through some scenic Canadian and American landscapes, passing through busy cities and charming towns. Along the way, there are several unexpected stops worth making for those who want to break the monotony of the journey and explore something new. In this article, we'll highlight five unexpected places to stop on a drive from Burlington, Ontario, to Rosemont, Illinois.

Halfway Point: East Lansing, MI (Bolded)

Before we dive into the unexpected stops, let's first discuss the halfway point: East Lansing, MI. Located approximately four hours into the journey, East Lansing offers a perfect place to take a break and stretch your legs. Home to the Michigan State University and the Spartan Stadium, East Lansing is a vibrant city full of energy and history.

Visitors can check out the Eli and Edythe Broad Art Museum to view contemporary art in a striking building design by architect Zaha Hadid. The Abrams Planetarium is another stop worth checking out, with various shows featuring astronomical projections and laser displays for those interested in space and science. With plenty of restaurants, cafes, and shops, East Lansing is an unexpected gem in the heart of Michigan, perfect for taking a break on a long road trip.

1. Hanover, IN (Bolded)

Located about three hours and 30 minutes from Rosemont, Hanover is a quaint town that might seem easy to overlook. However, we encourage travelers to take a slight detour and visit this hidden gem. One of the most notable attractions in Hanover is the Hanover College Arboretum, which spans over 650 acres and features a variety of flora and fauna. Visitors can stroll through the gardens, ponds, and woods while enjoying the peaceful nature of the place.

Hanover is also home to The Point, a unique restaurant that offers a blend of Asian and American cuisine. Visitors can indulge in dishes such as tandoori chicken tacos, lemongrass pork sandwiches, or Korean fried chicken served with gravy fries.

2. Mount Vernon, IL (Bolded)

Mount Vernon is about four hours away from Rosemont and offers a great opportunity for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts. At the heart of the city stands the Jefferson County Courthouse, a magnificent structure designed by architect Henry Elliott. Built-in 1870, this courthouse was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2001. Visitors can take a look inside the courthouse, which features a grand staircase and impressive murals depicting the county's history.

For those craving a bite after taking a tour of the courthouse, DiMaggio's Pizza is a great place to stop and grab some food. The restaurant serves thin-crust pizza that Chicagoans will appreciate, as well as Italian beef sandwiches and pasta dishes.

3. Cave-In-Rock, IL (Bolded)

Located three hours away from Rosemont, Cave-In-Rock is a unique natural wonder that can often go unnoticed to passersby. The Cave-In-Rock State Park is home to a 55-foot-wide cave located on the Ohio River and is a significant historical site. During the early 1800s, this cave provided shelter for river pirates who preyed on flatboats carrying goods to New Orleans. Visitors can take a ferry ride across the Ohio River, explore the cave, and learn more about the fascinating history behind it.

After taking in the history, visitors can grab a bite at the Rainbow Cafe, which offers classic American fare and pizza. Don't forget to try their legendary homemade pies, which are made fresh daily.

4. Davenport, IA (Bolded)

As drivers near their destination, a stop in Davenport, IA may be unexpected, but it's worth making. Davenport's downtown area features the Figge Art Museum, which showcases a variety of modern and contemporary art in a striking building design by British architect David Chipperfield.

For a unique dining experience, check out Front Street Brewery, which serves craft beer and pub fare. The highlight of the place is their loaded beer cheese nachos and their beer-battered onion rings. Their beer list also features seasonal and limited edition brews that make it a great spot for beer enthusiasts.

5. Gurnee, IL (Bolded)

Located just over an hour away from Rosemont, Gurnee offers a fun way to end the drive with a visit to Six Flags Great America amusement park. With over 45 rides, including thrilling roller coasters, water attractions, and plenty of family-friendly options, Six Flags is a must-visit spot for all ages.

After a day of fun at Six Flags, head to Grandpa's Place for some traditional American fare. The restaurant features live music and a menu of classic dishes such as burgers, sandwiches, and fries, as well as local and craft beers.

With these five unexpected stops, drivers traveling from Burlington, Ontario to Rosemont, Illinois can break up the long journey and experience some unique and fascinating places. So, embark on a journey and explore the hidden gems and unexpected sights along the way. Happy travels!