Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Catlin, Illinois and Naperville, Illinois
The midwestern region of the United States offers a plethora of road trip opportunities for travelers to experience the beauty of small-town America. A road trip starting from Catlin, Illinois, and ending in Naperville, Illinois, covers a distance of approximately 130 miles and takes around 2 hours and 15 minutes. This route is perfect for those who seek a mix of history, natural beauty, and small-town charm. The halfway point is Clifton, a small town in Illinois known for its historic buildings and rich culture.
Top 5 Things to Do:
1. Exploring Kickapoo State Park
Located just 20 miles west of Catlin, Kickapoo State Park is a natural wonderland that is worth visiting. It boasts of an array of outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, boating, and camping. The park is also home to a 22-acre deep clear water lake that offers excellent boating and swimming opportunities.
Interesting Fact: Kickapoo State Park is named after the Kickapoo tribe that once inhabited this region.
2. Touring the Vermilion County Museum
The Vermilion County Museum is located in Danville, a vibrant city located 15 miles southeast of Catlin. It houses a collection of artifacts, exhibits, and artworks that showcase the rich history of Vermilion County. Visitors can explore the galleries and learn about the region's past, including the coal mining industry and Abraham Lincoln's association with the area.
Interesting Fact: The Vermilion County Museum is housed in the former U.S. Post Office and Courthouse, which was built in 1901 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
3. Visiting the Allerton Park and Retreat Center
Located 20 miles northwest of Champaign, the Allerton Park and Retreat Center is a picturesque estate that features formal gardens, sculptures, hiking trails, and woodlands. Visitors can take a guided tour of the mansion or explore the gardens' beauty.
Interesting Fact: The Allerton Park and Retreat Center was once the private residence of Robert Allerton, a wealthy art collector and philanthropist.
4. Discovering Kankakee River State Park
Kankakee River State Park is located near Bourbonnais, a small town situated 25 miles northeast of Clifton. The park features rugged canyons, sand dunes, forests, and a 9,000-year-old Native-American rock art site. Visitors can enjoy hiking, fishing, camping, or canoeing.
Interesting Fact: Kankakee River State Park is home to over 200 species of birds, including the bald eagle, osprey, and peregrine falcon.
5. Preserving History at The Naper Settlement
The Naper Settlement is a 12-acre living history museum located in Naperville. It showcases the daily life of early settlers in Northern Illinois during the 19th century. The museum includes 30 historic buildings, exhibits, special events, and educational programs that bring history to life.
Interesting Fact: The Naper Settlement's Martin Mitchell Mansion is known for being one of the best preserved and most architecturally significant homes of its time in northern Illinois.
In conclusion, the road trip from Catlin to Naperville offers an unforgettable journey through small-town America. Travelers can explore geological wonders, visit museums, and learn about the region's rich history. The route covers a distance of around 130 miles and the journey takes around 2 hours and 15 minutes. Whether you are a history buff, outdoor enthusiast, or culture lover, this road trip is sure to leave you with beautiful memories that last a lifetime.