Points of Interest between Chesterton, Indiana to Elmhurst, Illinois

picture of Chesterton, Indiana

Roadtrip from Chesterton, Indiana to Elmhurst, Illinois: Discover the Best Museums, Parks, and Landmarks

If you're planning to hit the road and explore the Midwest, you definitely don't want to miss the scenic route from Chesterton, Indiana to Elmhurst, Illinois. This road trip will not only take you past breathtaking landscapes, but it's packed with opportunities to discover the region's rich history and culture.

Interesting fact: Did you know that Chesterton, Indiana, is home to the Indiana Dunes National Park, which spans 15,000 acres of sandy beaches, rolling hills, and diverse ecosystems?

Halfway point: Before we jump into the top spots to visit, let's give a shout-out to Glenwood, IL - the halfway point between Chesterton and Elmhurst. While it's a small town, it's got a fascinating history - it was once a stop on the Underground Railroad and was home to many Black settlers who came to the area post-Civil War.

Length of the trip: The distance between Chesterton and Elmhurst is around 75 miles, which takes about an hour and a half to drive. However, you'll want to leave time to stop and explore the various landmarks and museums along the way.

Here are the top five places to visit on this road trip:

  1. Indiana Dunes National Park - This is an obvious must-see for nature lovers, as it offers a unique blend of forests, wetlands, prairies, and beaches. Whether you want to swim, hike, bike, or just soak in the views, the park has something for everyone.

Point of interest: Check out the Bailly Homestead and Chellberg Farm, which offer a glimpse into the lives of early European settlers and farmers in the region.

  1. Chicago Portage National Historic Site - This site marks the historic connection between the Great Lakes and Mississippi River watersheds, and its significance goes back centuries as a strategic trading and transportation location for Native American tribes. Today, you can visit the site and learn more about its natural and cultural history.

Point of interest: Take a walk along the Des Plaines River Trail, which runs through the site and features scenic views and opportunities for birdwatching.

  1. Oak Park - This suburb of Chicago is known for its charming architecture, most notably the works of Frank Lloyd Wright, who lived and worked in Oak Park for many years. You can take a tour of his home and studio, as well as other houses he designed in the area.

Point of interest: Make sure to visit the Ernest Hemingway Birthplace and Museum, which showcases the famous author's early life and works.

  1. Brookfield Zoo - This expansive zoo is home to over 2,000 animals from all over the world, making it a great family-friendly stop. You can stroll through different habitats and exhibits, such as the Tropic World Rainforest and the Australia House.

Point of interest: Check out the Hamill Family Wild Encounters exhibit, which lets you get up close and personal with various animals, from red pandas to sloths.

  1. Cantigny Park - This sprawling park and museum complex is a unique blend of history, art, and nature. You can tour the Robert R. McCormick House, which was once home to the influential newspaper publisher, and then explore the park's gardens, walking paths, and picnic areas.

Point of interest: Don't miss the First Division Museum, which offers an immersive look into the history of the US Army's first infantry division and the various conflicts they've served in.

Overall, this road trip from Chesterton to Elmhurst offers a diverse array of experiences, from natural wonders to man-made creations. And while it's only about an hour and a half drive, there's enough to see and do that you could easily make a weekend out of it. Happy travels!