Roadtrip from Carpentersville, IL to DeKalb, IL

Summer is finally here and the perfect time to embark on a road trip to explore some amazing museums, parks, and landmarks that are perfect for family and friends. Let's hit the road from Carpentersville, Illinois, to DeKalb, Illinois, and discover the hidden gems that will make the journey truly memorable.

Did you know that the historic "route 66" starts in Illinois and passes through both Carpentersville and DeKalb? The route was one of the first federal highways in the US and famed as “Main Street of America,” which was the perfect travel road for vacationers because of the recognizable signposts marking their path.

Midway to our destination, we will be passing through the lovely town of Hampshire, IL, which is known for its quaint charm, small-town hospitality, and rich history. Hampshire is home to several festivals and celebrations throughout the year, including the Coon Creek Country Days and the Hampshire Pumpkin Fest.

The road trip from Carpentersville to DeKalb will be approximately 33 miles, and it will take approximately 45 minutes of a peaceful and scenic drive to reach our destination. Let's dive into the top five places that you should visit on this road trip.

1. The Illinois Railway Museum

The first stop is the Illinois Railway Museum located in Union, Illinois. This is the largest railroad museum in the country, which is home to the biggest collection of historic trains that are open to the public. Guests can take an inspiring tour of the museum with informative exhibits, train rides, and an interactive experience. The museum's various events and festival-like atmosphere make it a must-see stop on your road trip.

Point of interest recommendation: Don't miss the chance to ride the famous trolley car "Green Hornet" that was featured in the 1960s TV show "Green Hornet."

2. Riverfront Park

The next stop is the Riverfront Park located in Elgin, Illinois. This beautiful park boasts a stunning view of the Fox River and provides ample facilities for picnicking, boating, and hiking. This Park is perfect for families with children because it features playgrounds, a walking trail, an amphitheater for music and performances, and stunning views of the riverfront.

Point of interest recommendation: Try a boat ride on the river, which provides a unique perspective of the city's skyline.

3. Ellwood House Museum

The Ellwood House Museum situated in DeKalb, Illinois, is a historical home that has been turned into a museum showcasing the rich history of the Ellwood family. This museum features exhibits of original furniture, decor, and a vast collection of written documents that are more than 100 years old.

Point of interest recommendation: Take an hour-long guided tour of the mansion and learn about one of the notable American families who have left a lasting impact on the American history through their business adventures.

4. Shabbona Lake State Park

Shabbona Lake State Park located in Shabbona, Illinois, is an excellent spot for outdoor enthusiasts. The park offers plenty of opportunities for fishing, boating, and hiking, as well as camping facilities for those who want to stay longer. The park's beautiful landscapes, serene waterside, and pristine picnic areas create a perfect atmosphere for a relaxing day trip.

Point of interest recommendation: Engage in camping activities, daytime fishing or explore the lake's trails on your rented bicycle.

5. Hopkins Park

The Hopkins Park located in DeKalb, Illinois, has everything that you need for a family picnic outing or a group excursion. The park's facilities include a playground, walking trails, picnic areas, duck ponds, and a famous public pool. The park also hosts various events like a wine festival, food and music festival annually.

Point of interest recommendation: Check out the art installations, and sculptures that are peppered throughout the park.

In conclusion, the road trip from Carpentersville, Illinois, to DeKalb, Illinois, was a memorable journey through history, nature and getting immersed into different cultures. The journey took approximately 2 hours and was filled with awe-inspiring views, rich history, and endless fun. Overall, it was a journey that you won't forget anytime soon.