Top Five Places to Visit on a Trip Between Champaign and Elgin

Looking for a fun road trip from Champaign to Elgin? Here are five must-visit places along the way that will make your journey unforgettable.

Bourbonnais, IL - Halfway Point

This small town is the perfect spot to take a break and stretch your legs. Stop at the local brewery, Brickstone Brewery, and enjoy some of their signature beers paired with their delicious brick oven pizzas. Alternatively, head over to Olivet Nazarene University's campus and take a stroll through their beautiful grounds. Don't forget to snap a picture of their iconic crimson-orange towers!

Starved Rock State Park - Utica, IL

Only an extra 30 minute drive from the route, but completely worth it. Starved Rock State Park offers beautiful forest canyons and incredible views of the Illinois River. Take a hike and enjoy the beauty of the park, or hop on one of their trolley tours and relax while learning about the local history. Don't forget to stop by their gift shop and grab a souvenir!

Fabyan Windmill and Japanese Garden - Geneva, IL

The Fabyan Windmill in Geneva, IL, is a gorgeous monument from the early 1900s. Enjoy the scenic walk along the Fox River and take a tour of the windmill to learn about its rich history. After that, head down to the Japanese Garden and enjoy the beauty of the blooming flowers and calming waterfalls. This peaceful spot is perfect for a quick picnic or a meditative stroll.

Arcada Theatre - St. Charles, IL

For music and theatre buffs, St. Charles' Arcada Theatre is a must-visit gem. With a beautiful 1920s-inspired interior, the theatre is home to frequent live events featuring a variety of artists and performers. Enjoy a cocktail at the bar and take in the ambiance before heading to your show. Make sure to check out their upcoming events and purchase tickets in advance for the best seats.

Gail Borden Public Library - Elgin, IL

A library may not be the first destination that comes to mind on a road trip, but the Gail Borden Public Library in Elgin is a must-visit. With a stunning modern architecture and interior design, this library is a sight to see. Wandering through the stacks and overlooking the Fox River from the building's balcony, you'll feel at peace even if you're not a reader. Make sure to stop by their café and enjoy a delicious pastry with a cup of coffee or tea.

Take this journey and you'll discover beautiful parks, historical monuments, music venues, and more. Don't miss out on this opportunity to explore what Illinois has to offer. Hit the road today!