The Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Chicago, Illinois and Calumet City, Illinois
Chicago, Illinois, is well known for its attractions such as the Navy Pier, the Willis Tower, and the Art Institute of Chicago. But there are also plenty of hidden gems in the surrounding area! A road trip starting from Chicago and ending in Calumet City, Illinois, passes through farmland, woods, and small villages.
Top Five Things to Do
1. Starved Rock State Park
Starved Rock State Park is a beautiful oasis about 85 miles from Chicago. The park offers visitors more than 13 miles of hiking trails, including a trail that leads to the top of the park's namesake sandstone bluff. On the way, walkers can see seasonal waterfalls and interesting limestone formations.
Interesting fact: The park is named after a Native American legend that tells of a group of Illiniwek warriors who were trapped atop the bluff and died of starvation.
2. Historic Town of Ottawa
Ottawa is a charming town located along the banks of the Illinois River. Visitors can stroll through the historic downtown, which has brick sidewalks and beautiful old buildings dating back to the 19th century. There are plenty of boutique shops, antique stores, and restaurants to explore.
Interesting fact: The first Lincoln and Douglas debate took place in Ottawa in 1858.
3. Hegeler Carus Mansion
The Hegeler Carus Mansion is a must-see for those interested in history and architecture. The mansion, which was built in the mid-1800s, has been restored to its original glory and gives visitors a glimpse into the lives of a wealthy 19th-century family. The home has a beautiful Italianate garden, and the basement has a unique underground tunnel system.
Interesting fact: The mansion was home to the Hegeler and Carus families for over 140 years.
4. Route 66
No road trip is complete without cruising down Route 66! A 2.5-mile stretch of the Mother Road still runs through downtown Pontiac. Visitors can stop by the Route 66 Museum and explore the many vintage signs and murals.
Interesting fact: Route 66 was established in 1926 and ran from Chicago to Santa Monica, California, spanning over 2,400 miles.
5. Calumet City, Illinois
The final stop on this road trip is Calumet City, Illinois. This small city on the border of Illinois and Indiana has a few interesting attractions, including the Veterans Memorial and the River Oaks Center Mall. Visitors can also stop by the River Oak Arts Center and see the works of local artists.
Interesting fact: Calumet City was originally a French fur trading outpost and later became a center for the steel industry.
Conclusion
This road trip covers approximately 150 miles and provides visitors with a diverse range of attractions to enjoy. From hiking and exploring historic towns to cruising down Route 66 and shopping at the mall, there is something for everyone. Depending on how much time visitors have, the trip can be completed in a day or stretched out over the weekend.