Best Things to Do on a Road Trip from Carol Stream, Illinois to Peoria, Illinois
Carol Stream to Peoria road trip offers amazing attractions for tourists and local travelers. The drive takes roughly two hours and 45 minutes without traffic, and along the way, drivers will have a chance to experience both the rural and urban settings of Illinois. One of the midway points with rest areas is found in Odell, IL.
Top Five Things to Do
1. Experience Nature at Starved Rock State Park
This 2,630-acre park is just an hour away from Peoria and is an excellent destination for nature and hiking enthusiasts. The park is set in the deep canyons and sandstone bluffs along the Illinois River. After a long hike at the park, visitors can enjoy meals at the lodge or picnic areas.
Interesting Fact
The park was named for a Native American legend about a group of Illiniwek who died of starvation on a rock formation located in the park.
2. Explore Science at Peoria Riverfront Museum
Peoria Riverfront Museum is an excellent destination for families. This science center holds numerous interactive exhibitions, planetarium shows, and live demonstrations. Visitors can also check out the on-site giant screen theater for documentaries, Hollywood movies, and classic films.
Interesting Fact
Peoria Riverfront Museum has the Illinois’ largest planetarium.
3. Visit the Spirit of Peoria
The Spirit of Peoria is a 160-ft riverboat that offers a variety of cruises throughout the year, including sightseeing cruises, dinner and music cruises. Along the Illinois River, visitors can see historic landmarks and take in scenic views.
Interesting Fact
The Spirit of Peoria was built-in 1988 and is a replica of the steamboats that traveled the Mississippi River in the late 19th century.
4. Admire the Art at Peoria Art Guild
The Peoria Art Guild is a nonprofit organization that offers a wide range of art classes for children and adults. Visitors can enjoy and purchase original artwork made by local artists in their exhibition gallery.
Interesting Fact
Peoria Art Guild has been in operation for over 140 years, making it one of the oldest art organizations in the country.
5. Learn about History at Caterpillar Visitors Center
The Caterpillar Visitors Center is a museum dedicated to telling the story of Caterpillar, Inc. Visitors can watch videos, check out excavators and other Caterpillar equipment on display, and learn about the history of the company.
Interesting Fact
The Peoria-based Caterpillar, Inc. has been in operation for over 90 years as a global leader in the manufacturing and distribution of equipment, engines, and more.
Conclusion
The road trip from Carol Stream to Peoria is an adventure-filled journey that offers a chance to experience natural beauty, art, history, and science. Travelers can begin their journey in Carol Stream and make their way down south through Interstate 55 until they arrive at Peoria, Illinois. The trip takes roughly two and a half hours, but it is a worthwhile one for individuals and families looking to explore new and exciting travel destinations in Illinois.