Five unexpected places to stop on a drive from Cary, Illinois and Des Plaines, Illinois

If you live in Illinois and are looking for a scenic route to take from Cary to Des Plaines, you might want to consider taking Route 14 - a beautiful stretch of countryside road that offers plenty of picturesque views that help to make the trip enjoyable. With a total driving time of about one hour and twenty minutes, depending on traffic, it is an excellent way to relax and unwind while still making it to your destination in a reasonable amount of time.

One great spot to stop at is Barrington, the halfway point along Route 14, where you'll find plenty of restaurants, shops, and recreational activities. This charming town has a cozy small-town feel and is a perfect location to stretch your legs, grab some grub, and explore.

1. Long Grove, IL

Long Grove is a delightful suburb located north of Des Plaines and is a great spot to visit while on this route. The town's main street is lined with historic buildings that are home to a variety of specialty shops and cafes that are worth exploring. A few must-visit places include the Long Grove Confectionery and the Chatterbox of Long Grove, where you can browse their extensive collection of antiques and vintage items.

Favorite food: Long Grove Confectionery's handmade chocolates.

2. Palatine, IL

Another village worth checking out along the Route 14 is Palatine, located a few miles south of Barrington. Palatine is a versatile town that offers an array of activities such as a farmer's market, art festivals, and various other events throughout the year. The town is also home to the Cook Street Coffee and Tap, where you can grab a refreshing drink and some mouth-watering bites.

Favorite food: Cook Street Coffee and Tap's Cubano Sandwich.

3. Wheeling, IL

The village of Wheeling is located in Cook County, just a few miles from Des Plaines, and is home to many restaurants, shops, and bustling nightlife. Wheeling is known for being a hub of cultural diversity, so visitors can expect to find a variety of cuisines to choose from while exploring this village.

Favorite food: Tandoori Indian Restaurant's fragrant Indian curries.

4. Northbrook, IL

The village of Northbrook is located south of Wheeling and boasts a ton of family-friendly activities. Bring the kids to the Techny Prairie Park and Fields for some outdoor fun, or check out the multitude of indoor recreational facilities such as the Northbrook Sports Center. Northbrook also offers an excellent shopping experience at the Northbrook Court, where you'll find high-end fashion stores and several restaurants.

Favorite food: Northbrook Court's Seasons 52's flatbreads and mini desserts.

5. Buffalo Grove, IL

Buffalo Grove is the last stop along the route before reaching Des Plaines, and it's worth the detour. The village is known for its natural preserves, including the Buffalo Creek Forest Preserve, where visitors can walk, hike and bike on the trails lined with an abundance of flora and fauna.

Favorite food: Sankalp's South Indian specialized drinks and dosas.

In conclusion, taking Route 14 from Cary to Des Plaines offers a remarkably scenic drive with numerous things to see and do along the way. From cozy small towns to bustling villages with plenty of activities, it is a trip worth considering. So why not grab a friend, or pack up the family and go on a fun adventure, even if only for an afternoon?