Best Things to Do on a Road Trip from Carpentersville, IL to Tinley Park, IL

Carpentersville, IL and Tinley Park, IL are two cities in Illinois that are roughly 60 miles apart from each other. Taking a road trip from Carpentersville to Tinley Park can be exciting, not just because of the destinations themselves but also because of the journey. With many attractions to visit and sites to see, you will need to plan your journey carefully if you wish to enjoy the best experiences along the way. Downers Grove, IL is the halfway point of the journey, and it’s worth a stop for refreshments and a change of scenery. Here are the top five things to do on your road trip.

The Art Institute of Chicago

Located in Downtown Chicago, The Art Institute of Chicago is one of the best art museums in the United States. The Art Institute has an extensive collection of artifacts spanning many centuries and featuring works from artists such as Pablo Picasso, Georges Seurat, and Vincent Van Gogh. With a broad range of exhibitions and works of art to experience, this museum is an excellent place to visit for any art lovers and history enthusiasts. Interesting fact: The building was constructed in 1893 for the Chicago World's Fair.

Starved Rock State Park

Located in Utica, IL, Starved Rock State Park is a national park that is filled with waterfalls, hiking trails, and breathtaking views. With 13 miles of trails, visitors can take in the natural beauty of the park, including impressive sandstone canyons and seasonal waterfalls. In the winter, Eagles can be seen soaring in the skies, making it a destination worth visiting all year round. Interesting fact: The first white man to visit the area was French explorer Louis Jolliet in 1673.

Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio

Located in Oak Park, IL, Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio was once the home of the famous architect who designed buildings such as the Guggenheim Museum in New York. With a guided tour of the home and studio, visitors can gain insight into the life and work of the famous architect. The tour also covers Wright’s unique design philosophy, his working process, and his family life. Interesting fact: The home and studio are set up as they were nearly 100 years ago when Wright designed them.

Brookfield Zoo

Located in Brookfield, IL, the Brookfield Zoo is an experience that caters to all ages. With over 216 acres of animal exhibits, there is plenty of excitement to be had for animal lovers big and small. The zoo is home to a vast number of animal species, including bears, big cats, primates, and aquatic life. Visitors can also participate in behind-the-scenes tours, talks, and outreach programs for an even more immersive experience. Interesting fact: The zoo has been open to the public since 1934.

Haunted Trails Family Amusement Park

Located in Joliet, IL, the Haunted Trails Family Amusement Park is a family-friendly destination that offers miniature golf, go-kart racing, laser tag, and other activities. The park also features a children's area with rides that are designed for younger kids, making it an excellent destination for families with children of all ages. With an arcade of games and a snack bar, this is the perfect place to take a break from the road trip and have some fun. Interesting fact: The park has over 150 video and redemption games for participants to enjoy.

Conclusion

The road trip from Carpentersville to Tinley Park offers plenty of opportunities to take in the sights and experiences that Illinois has to offer. With stops in Chicago, Utica, Oak Park, Brookfield, and Joliet, there’s a little something for everyone. It took approximately two hours to make it to Tinley Park, including the stops along the way, making the trip route perfect for a day-long excursion. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a nature lover, a zoology fan, or a thrill-seeker, there's something that will pique your interest on this road trip.