Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Chicago, Illinois to Eagle Lake, Wisconsin
If you're looking for an exciting and scenic road trip, look no further than a drive from Chicago, Illinois to Eagle Lake, Wisconsin. This drive is approximately 140 miles and takes around three hours, depending on the traffic. This route includes some of the most picturesque and charming small towns in the Midwest, making it a perfect weekend trip. Here are five unexpected places to stop on your journey.
1. Libertyville, IL
Libertyville, IL is the ideal halfway point of this road trip, and an excellent place to take a break. This town offers a cozy, friendly atmosphere, with numerous shops and restaurants. It's also home to the beautiful Butler Lake, where you can go fishing, kayaking, or simply sit back and enjoy the view. Its charming downtown main street has numerous boutiques, coffee shops, and restaurants, where you can get a taste of local cuisine. Don't miss out on the pizza from Bo-Bo's Authentic Italian Pizzeria, their famous dumplings or the Fried Wisconsin Cheese Curds at O'Toole's.
2. Lake Geneva, WI
Lake Geneva, WI, is known for its stunning resort town, luxurious mansions, and charming downtown area. Its picturesque lakefront is home to many restaurants, boutiques, and museums. It's an excellent place to go for a stroll and take in the scenery. Visitors should take a scenic boat tour to learn more about the town's storied past and see the beautiful mansions. When in town, try a slice of pie from Simple Cafe, or enjoy a cold beer from Geneva Lake Brewing Company.
3. Burlington, WI
Burlington, WI, is a quaint town that's filled with history and charm. Its famous for having one of the largest chocolate factories in the country, but the town has much more to offer visitors. You can visit the Chocolate Experience Museum to get a glimpse of the town's rich chocolate-making history. When in town, make sure you try the iconic Kringle pastry pastry at Lehmann's Bakery.
4. Yerkes Observatory
The Yerkes Observatory, located in Williams Bay, WI, is an unexpected treasure. Yerkes was founded in 1897 and is the world's largest refracting telescope. The observatory offers tours, and visitors can observe sunspots, stars, and other celestial objects. Whether you’re a curious observer of the night sky or a seasoned astronomer, you won't want to miss the opportunity to visit this impressive and historic facility.
5. Old World Wisconsin
A visit to the Old World Wisconsin gives visitors a glimpse of Wisconsin's early heritage. This living history museum showcases Wisconsin's evolution during the 19th and 20th centuries. Visitors can see costumed interpreters perform day to day activities of American life, on 11 recreated ethnic farms. There are hands-on demonstrations, guided tours, and special events throughout the year. While touring the grounds, make sure to stop by the 1897 Clausing Barn Cafe to try a mouth-watering German Bratwurst.
Conclusion
A drive from Chicago, Illinois to Eagle Lake, Wisconsin on this route is a picturesque and enjoyable journey. The five stops mentioned above provide plenty of exciting and quirky opportunities for visitors of all ages. So, whether you're a history buff, nature enthusiast, or just looking for a weekend away, this road trip has something for everyone. Don't hesitate to make the trip and enjoy the stunning Midwest views and rich cultural experiences waiting for you along the way.