Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Cedar Lake, Indiana to Plainfield, Illinois
Have you ever taken a road trip and found yourself wondering where to stop along the way? Look no further! From quaint historic towns to unique dining experiences, this drive from Cedar Lake, Indiana to Plainfield, Illinois has something for everyone. The 80-mile journey takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes on average, with beautiful Midwest scenery along the way.
The Halfway Point: Palos Heights, IL (bold)
About 40 miles into the drive, Palos Heights is the perfect halfway point to break up the trip. Visitors can take a stroll through Lake Katherine Nature Center and Botanic Gardens, a picturesque 85-acre park with walking trails, a waterfall, and a lake. The park also offers opportunities for bird watching and fishing. Visitors can also explore the history of the town with a visit to the iconic Old Plank Road Trail, a former railway converted into a biking and walking trail. Be sure to grab a bite to eat at Brown Bag Seafood Co., offering fresh, sustainably-sourced seafood and a casual dining experience.
1. Frankfort, IL (bold)
Located about 20 miles west of Palos Heights, Frankfort is a charming town with a historic downtown area featuring unique boutiques and local restaurants. Visitors can explore the Frankfort Historic Business District, which consists of over 20 buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Stop by the Trolley Barn, a historic building converted into an event space, or the Frankfort Area Historical Museum to learn more about the town's history. Grab a bite to eat at The Punch Bowl Social, a restaurant and entertainment venue with delicious American fare and games like bowling and table tennis.
2. Joliet, IL (bold)
Just a few miles northeast of Plainfield lies Joliet, a city with a rich history and diverse cultural offerings. Joliet is home to the Chicagoland Speedway, which hosts NASCAR races and other events throughout the year. Visitors can explore the historic Joliet Prison, which housed infamous criminals such as Al Capone. The prison has been converted into a museum, offering tours to visitors who want to learn more about its history. Looking for a bite to eat? Check out The Department, a gastropub featuring elevated bar bites and craft cocktails.
3. New Lenox, IL (bold)
Located about 15 miles west of Frankfort, New Lenox is a small town with big offerings. Visitors can take a stroll through the Hickory Creek Preserve, a 1,200-acre forest preserve with hiking trails and picnic areas. Sports fans can catch a game at the New Lenox Rebel's baseball stadium. The town also hosts the annual Proud American Days festival, featuring food vendors, live music, and carnival rides. Refuel at Charlie's Barbeque, a popular local spot with mouth-watering brisket and pulled pork.
4. Crown Point, IN (bold)
Just a few miles south of Cedar Lake lies Crown Point, a historic city with unique small-town charm. Visitors can tour the beautiful Lake County Courthouse, a stunning example of Beaux-Arts architecture. History buffs can explore the Old Sheriff's House and Jail, which housed prisoners from 1882 to 1973. The building has been converted into a museum, offering tours to visitors who want to learn more about its history. Grab a bite to eat at Lucrezia Italian Restaurant, offering traditional Italian dishes with a modern twist.
5. Tinley Park, IL (bold)
Located about 20 miles east of Palos Heights, Tinley Park is a bustling suburban town with plenty to offer. Music fans can catch a concert at the Hollywood Casino Amphitheatre, one of the largest outdoor music venues in the Chicago area. Visitors can also explore the Vogt Visual Arts Center, offering art classes and exhibitions. For a unique dining experience, check out Fatties Pub, offering creative pub fare and a wide selection of craft beers.
Conclusion
This road trip from Cedar Lake, Indiana to Plainfield, Illinois offers a diverse range of experiences, from outdoor adventures to historical museums and delicious dining. Whether you're a history buff, nature lover, or foodie, there's something for everyone along this 80-mile journey. So why not pack your bags, hit the road, and explore all that the Midwest has to offer?