Exploring the best road trip from Chicago, IL to Berwyn, IL

Traveling across Illinois by road has never been better as you discover the hidden gems of the region with a road trip that will take you from Chicago, IL to Berwyn, IL. This route not only offers you the chance to witness the scenic landscapes of rural Illinois but also treats you to unique and unforgettable experiences. Whether you are a seasoned traveler or a newbie, this road trip is worth trying. The journey covers a total distance of 11.6 miles, making it easy for a day trip.

Top 5 Things To Do

Visit Navy Pier

The first recommended stop on this road trip is the famous Navy Pier located in Chicago, IL. Navy Pier is a 50-acre playground that juts out into the stunning Lake Michigan and boasts gigantic Ferris wheels, amusement park rides, restaurants, live music, theaters, and endless entertainment options for all ages. It's worth noting that Navy Pier holds the record for being the state's most significant tourist attraction. An absolute must-visit place when in Chicago.

(Interesting fact: When it was first built in 1916, the pier was intended for industrial shipping and storage. It was named Navy Pier in 1927 as a tribute to the Navy's personnel who fought in World War 1.)

Visit the Art Institute of Chicago

The Art Institute of Chicago is a world-renowned museum that houses more than 300,000 works of art, including American Art, European Art, Contemporary Art, and the most extensive collection of Impressionists and Post-Impressionists painting outside of France. Some of the notable works of art you'll get to see at the Art Institute of Chicago include Grant Wood's "American Gothic" and Georges Seurat's "A Sunday on La Grande Jatte." It's an excellent spot for art lovers to admire and appreciate some of the world's most cherished works.

(Interesting fact: The Art Institute of Chicago has known to be a pioneer in the field of art preservation for more than a century. It was among the first museums to use synthetic adhesives to repair and stabilize torn or damaged works of art.)

Stop by Millennium Park

Millennium Park is truly an urban escape located in downtown Chicago, IL. This 25-acre park features outdoor art installations, beautiful gardens, and stunning fountains. It's the perfect place to relax and unwind from the urban bustle, soak in some sunshine, and enjoy the serene greenery surroundings. When in the park, don't miss the chance to see the Bean, the iconic shiny sculpture that reflects Chicago's city skyline.

(Interesting fact: The Bean, officially named Cloud Gate, is composed of 168 stainless steel plates welded together seamlessly, and it is highly polished to a mirror finish that makes it shine like a mirror. Its original cost of production was about $23 million.)

Take in the beauty of Brookfield Zoo

Brookfield Zoo is one of America's leading zoos, located in Brookfield, IL - a suburban area just outside Chicago. The zoo spans 216 acres, has over 2300 animals of about 450 species, and is devoted to the scientific study and conservation of wildlife species and habitats. It's one of the few institutions that has made successful attempts to breed Okapi in captivity. Brookfield zoo features beautiful gardens, naturalistic animal habitats, fun-filled attractions, and lots of educational programs suitable for all ages.

(Interesting fact: Brookfield Zoo is a histroical landmark that has been around since 1934, when it opened as the Chicago Zoological Park. It is regarded as one of the first zoos to pioneer the concept of open-air, naturally-vegetated exhibits instead of cage enclosures.)

Explore Fitzgerald's Nightclub

Fitzgerald's Nightclub is a historic blues venue that first opened in 1980 in Berwyn, IL. Over the years, it has grown to become a revered spot for live music, and it has hosted world-famous blues acts and other genres such as rock, jazz, and country music. The nightclub has a long-standing reputation for providing an intimate atmosphere perfect for listening to live music, with unbeatable acoustics, and an unbeatable mix of big names and up-and-comers.

(Interesting fact: The nightclub is named after Berwyn's legendary mayor, John Fitzgerald, who passed away in 1960. Fitzgerald was generally known for his love of Jazz, and his name has lent an enduring legacy to the music scene in Berwyn ever since)

Conclusion

Without a doubt, this road trip that takes you from Chicago, IL to Berwyn, IL, on a remarkable journey filled with fun, excitement, and unique experiences worth exploring. It takes around 30 minutes to cover the route, and it's fully-packed with scenic landscapes, world-famous attractions, music, and art venues, and outstanding animal encounters. Whether you prefer outdoor adventures or urban escapes, or you're looking for a road trip that caters to all, taking the route from Chicago, IL, to Berwyn, IL should be top on your travel bucket list.