Points of Interest between Chicago, Illinois to Buffalo Grove, Illinois

picture of Chicago, Illinois

Best Museums, Parks, and Landmarks to Visit on a Roadtrip from Chicago to Buffalo Grove

If you’re embarking on a road trip from Chicago, Illinois to Buffalo Grove, Illinois, get ready for a fascinating journey rich with history, beauty, and culture. This road trip is perfect for families or solo travelers looking to explore the beauty and diversity of Illinois. The drive is easy to navigate, and there are many parks, museums, and landmarks to visit en route.

Interesting Fact: Did you know that Route 21, which you will take for a portion of this trip, was originally known as the Milwaukee-Waukegan Road when it was built in the 1920s? It was constructed in three separate phases and has undergone many changes over the years.

Halfway Point: Glenview, IL

Glenview, IL, is the perfect halfway point for this road trip. If you’re looking for a place to stretch your legs, head over to the Gallery Park, where you’ll find a lake, walking trails, a playground, and picnic facilities. There are even paddleboats and kayaks available for rent if you want to take to the water.

Length of the Trip

The total distance between Chicago and Buffalo Grove is approximately 40 miles, and the trip should take you around an hour or so, depending on traffic. This stretch of road is one of the best scenic drives in the Midwest, with remarkable architecture, stunning scenery, and cultural landmarks dotted along the way.

Top Five Places to Visit

  1. Chicago Botanic Garden: Nestled in the suburb of Glencoe, just north of Chicago, this 385-acre garden is a must-see for nature lovers. With over 26 display gardens and four natural areas, it’s the perfect place to get lost in the beauty of nature. Don’t miss the Japanese Garden, English Walled Garden, Bonsai Collection, and the Model Railroad Garden. There are also plenty of seasonal events and activities to enjoy.

Point of Interest: The Chicago Botanic Garden features a scenic 15-minute tram ride that takes you through the gardens, offering panoramic views of waterfalls, ponds, and prairies.

  1. Writers Theatre: Located in Glencoe, the Writers Theatre is a hidden gem that showcases some of the best theatrical performances in the country. With two stages and a seating capacity of just 250, the Writers Theatre offers an intimate and unique experience that’s hard to come by. With a repertoire ranging from classic to contemporary productions, there’s sure to be something to suit your taste.

Point of Interest: The theater is housed in a stunning, award-winning building designed by internationally renowned architect Jeanne Gang.

  1. The Grove National Historic Landmark: This 145-acre forested preserve is located in Glenview and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Grove is one of the few remaining examples of flatwoods topography left in the Midwest. Home to several historic buildings, including a schoolhouse, farm, and chapel, The Grove offers visitors a glimpse into Illinois’ past.

Point of Interest: The Grove hosts a variety of cultural events throughout the year, including musical performances, craft fairs, and historical re-enactments.

  1. Raupp Museum: Located in Buffalo Grove, the Raupp Museum is a small but fascinating museum that explores the history of Buffalo Grove and the surrounding area. The museum’s exhibits cover topics such as agriculture, transportation, and industry, and artifacts from the area’s past are on display.

Point of Interest: The museum is housed in a former water tower, which dates back to 1895, and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

  1. Buffalo Creek Forest Preserve: This 1,000-acre preserve in Long Grove is a haven for nature lovers. With more than 6 miles of hiking and biking trails, a fishing lake, and picnic areas, it’s a perfect spot for a day of outdoor fun. Keep your eyes peeled for the preserve’s resident wildlife, including deer, foxes, and birds.

Point of Interest: Buffalo Creek Forest Preserve is home to the popular Buffalo Grove Farmers Market, which is held every Sunday between June and October.

In Conclusion

This road trip is the perfect way to explore the hidden gems of Illinois. With plenty of parks, museums, and landmarks to visit along the way, you’ll have no shortage of things to do. The journey takes just over an hour, but we recommend taking your time to enjoy the scenery and stopping off at some of the many attractions along the route. Have fun exploring!