Five unexpected places to stop on a drive from Cary, Illinois and Janesville, Wisconsin
If you are looking for a fun and adventurous road trip, head from Cary, Illinois to Janesville, Wisconsin. This 80-mile journey on I-90 and US-14 can be done in just over an hour, but you should plan on spending at least a full day exploring the area. Stay away from the standard tourist traps and use this guide to discover five unexpected places to visit along the way.
The halfway point: Belvidere, IL
To break up the trip, plan a stop in Belvidere, IL, which is right around the halfway point of the journey. Belvidere is a small town with a rich history and a lot of charm. It is the county seat of Boone County and has a population of around 25,000. Spend some time walking around downtown Belvidere, which has many historic buildings and a friendly atmosphere.
1. Swiss Maid Fudge
Swiss Maid Fudge is not your typical candy store. Since 1962, this hometown shop has been making small-batch fudge using only the finest ingredients. Swiss Maid Fudge offers an impressive variety of fudge flavors, from traditional chocolate to unique flavors like blueberry cheesecake, coconut cream, and maple bacon. Visitors can watch the fudge-making process and can sample the candy before they buy. Be sure to pick up some of the shop's signature chocolate-covered potato chips before you leave.
Favorite food: Chocolate fudge
2. Cow-A-Bunga Creamery
Cow-A-Bunga Creamery is Belvidere's favorite ice cream shop. The store offers a wide selection of delicious hand-dipped ice cream and frozen yogurt flavors. Visitors can choose to get their ice cream in a traditional cone, a sundae, or a shake. The staff is friendly, and the prices are reasonable. Cow-A-Bunga is a great place to take a break from driving and enjoy a sweet treat.
Favorite food: Chocolate chip cookie dough ice cream
3. Angelic Organics Learning Center
The Angelic Organics Learning Center is a non-profit organization that has been working to support and educate communities about organic farming and healthy food since 1999. The center has a beautiful farm with animals, gardens, and greenhouses. Visitors can take a tour of the farm or participate in a variety of workshops and classes related to organic farming and cooking. The center also has a farm store that sells fresh produce, eggs, and meat.
Favorite food: Fresh eggs
4. Ye Olde Hotel
Ye Olde Hotel is a unique bed and breakfast located in the heart of downtown Harvard, IL. The building was originally built in the 1860s and has been fully renovated for modern comfort while still maintaining its original charm. The hotel features five guest rooms, each with its own private bath. Breakfast is served in the hotel's antique-filled dining room, and there are many restaurants and shops within walking distance of the hotel.
Favorite food: Blueberry pancakes
5. Rotary Botanical Gardens
The Rotary Botanical Gardens in Janesville, WI, is a 20-acre botanical garden that includes many different gardens and collections. The gardens are maintained by a team of dedicated volunteers who work to keep the gardens beautiful year-round. Visitors can stroll through the gardens and enjoy the many plants, flowers, and sculptures on display. The gardens also offer a wide range of educational programs and events for all ages.
Favorite food: None, but grab a picnic lunch and enjoy it on the grounds
Conclusion
Traveling between Cary, Illinois, and Janesville, Wisconsin, can be an exciting and unique road trip experience. Instead of taking the standard route and stopping at the same old tourist traps, make time to explore some of the less-known gems along the way, including Swiss Maid Fudge, Cow-A-Bunga Creamery, the Angelic Organics Learning Center, Ye Olde Hotel, and the Rotary Botanical Gardens. Be sure to take in all the town's hidden charm, friendly people, and delicious food. So, plan your trip and hit the road!