The Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Chicago, Illinois and Crawfordsville, Indiana

If you're looking for an adventure, a road trip from Chicago, Illinois to Crawfordsville, Indiana is a great way to explore the Midwest. This route spans over 200 miles and takes approximately three and a half hours to complete. Along the way, travelers will have the opportunity to explore charming small towns, natural wonders, and historical landmarks. One of the highlights of the trip is the small, agricultural town of Fair Oaks, IN, the halfway point where visitors can enjoy a delicious glass of milk.

The Top Five Things to Do:

1. Indiana Dunes National Park

Located approximately an hour away from Chicago, this national park is a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts. With over 15 miles of shoreline along Lake Michigan, visitors can hike, swim, or simply soak up the sun. The park is also home to a diverse array of wildlife, from songbirds to black bears.

Interesting Fact: Indiana Dunes National Park is one of the few places in the world where visitors can find both prickly pear cactus and arctic plants.

2. Fair Oaks Farms

As previously mentioned, Fair Oaks, IN is the perfect place to stop halfway through this road trip. But it's not just a pit stop: the town is home to Fair Oaks Farms, a unique attraction where visitors can learn about the dairy industry and even see cows being milked. The farm also features a restaurant where visitors can enjoy fresh cheese and ice cream.

Interesting Fact: Fair Oaks Farms has five different barns, each home to over 600 cows.

3. Exploration Acres

This family-owned farm spans over 200 acres and offers visitors a unique corn maze experience. With over eight miles of trails, visitors can explore the maze by day and even at night under the stars. The farm also features other activities such as pumpkin patches, hayrides, and a petting zoo.

Interesting Fact: The corn maze at Exploration Acres has been used to raise money for charities such as the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.

4. Turkey Run State Park

Located in the heart of Indiana, Turkey Run State Park is known for its hiking trails, rugged canyons, and sandstone cliffs. Visitors can marvel at the natural beauty of Indiana's wilderness by hiking through trails that lead to suspension bridges and natural caves. The park is also perfect for camping and picnics.

Interesting Fact: Turkey Run State Park gets its name from the wild turkeys that can be found in the area.

5. The Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site

For history buffs, the Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site in Indianapolis is a must-visit destination. This 10,000 square foot museum is home to one of the largest collections of artifacts and documents related to the 23rd President of the United States. Visitors can take a guided tour of the site and learn about Harrison's life and legacy.

Interesting Fact: Benjamin Harrison was the first President of the United States to use electric lights in the White House.

After completing the road trip from Chicago to Crawfordsville, travelers will have experienced the best that the Midwest has to offer. From natural wonders and small-town charm to fascinating museums, this trip has something for every type of traveler. The total drive time of approximately three and a half hours is the perfect amount of time to see and do it all.