Points of Interest between Champaign, Illinois to Lincolnshire, Illinois

picture of Champaign, Illinois

Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Champaign to Lincolnshire

Are you in the mood for a long drive with unexpected stopovers? If so, you are in for a treat because the drive from Champaign to Lincolnshire has some hidden gems that you might not have known about. The route to Lincolnshire from Champaign is approximately 132 miles, and it takes around two hours (depending on traffic). The trip begins with a scenic drive through rural Illinois and ends in a quaint and charming little town near Chicago.

The halfway point of this road trip is Bradley, IL - a small village located in Kankakee County. It's the perfect location to take a break and stretch your legs before continuing on your journey. Make sure to visit the Harvest Square Park and check out the mosaic wall that depicts the history of the Bradley-Bourbonnais community. Additionally, grab a quick bite at Delicieux Bakery, which offers spectacular pastries and sandwiches.

  1. Kankakee River State Park – This is one of the must-visit places on your drive to Lincolnshire. The park boasts of 4,000 acres of natural land, including picturesque canyons, waterfalls, and rugged bluffs that offer breathtaking views. If you are feeling adventurous, you can try your hand at hiking, fishing, or canoeing. Make sure to take a leisurely stroll along the park's trails, and don't forget to bring your camera! You can stop at Parkside Cabin Rentals and grab a tasty cinnamon bun.

  2. Route 66 Visitor Center – This unique visitor center is located on the Illinois Route 66, on the Chatham Road in Springfield. It's located about 72 miles from Bradley, IL, and roughly two hours from Lincolnshire. You can learn about the history of one of the most famous highways and take a walk through an early 20th-century filling station. You can also buy some souvenirs to remember your visit to Route 66. Don't forget to try out Cozy Dog Drive-In, a staple on Route 66, and feast on their famous hotdogs and homemade root beer!

  3. Anderson Japanese Gardens – Located in Rockford, IL, Anderson Japanese Gardens is a peaceful and calming oasis that will make you forget your worries. You can stroll around the lush gardens, watch koi fish swim in the ponds, and explore the pagodas and waterfalls. The gardens are open from May to October, so make sure to check their schedules to plan your visit accordingly. You can also grab some delicious sushi from Tien Tsin Restaurant, located near the gardens.

  4. Kenosha HarborMarket – Kenosha is a charming little city located on the coast of Lake Michigan. Kenosha HarborMarket is one of the largest and most vibrant farmer's markets in the Midwest and is open from May till October. You can explore over 150 local vendors selling everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts. You can also enjoy some live music, street performances or grab some delicious cheese curds from Sandy's Poppers.

  5. Volo Auto Museum – One of the highlights of this road trip is the Volo Auto Museum, located in Volo. If you are a car enthusiast, this is the perfect place for you. The museum houses over 33 exhibits and features everything from classic cars to military vehicles and Hollywood movie cars. You can also indulge in some ice cream from the in-house Creamery.

If you are looking for some adventure and exploring, this road trip from Champaign to Lincolnshire won't disappoint. You can enjoy the stunning scenery, learn about history, and get a taste of local cuisine. Remember to take your time and enjoy the journey – it's not just the destination that matters! So, pack your bags, hit the road, and enjoy an unforgettable road trip.