The Best Things to Do on a Road Trip from Chicago, Illinois, to Elmhurst, Illinois

Chicago, Illinois, is known for its beautiful city and amazing architecture, while Elmhurst, Illinois, offers a small-town feel with many parks and outdoor activities. A road trip from Chicago to Elmhurst provides an opportunity to enjoy the best of both worlds. This route takes around 30 minutes, and halfway through the trip, you'll find Berwyn, where you can visit many distinct attractions, including restaurants, museums, and parks. Along the way, you'll come across several exciting destinations worth visiting.

Top Five Things to Do

1. The Brookfield Zoo

Brookfield, a suburb of Chicago, is home to the Brookfield Zoo, which is widely known for its extensive animal collection and conservation efforts. With over 216 acres of land, visitors get to see different animal species, from the big cats to primates, and birds. The zoo is open from 9:30 am to 6 pm every day from May through September and features many events and activities throughout the year.

Interesting Fact: The Brookfield Zoo was once called the Chicago Zoological Park.

2. Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio

Frank Lloyd Wright is one of the pioneers of modern architecture, and the Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio is an excellent place to explore his life and architectural work. The tour showcases Wright's designs and how he blurs the line between indoors and outdoors. The building is located in Oak Park, which is about a 30-minute drive from Chicago.

Interesting Fact: The Frank Lloyd Wright House was designed by the architect himself.

3. Cantigny Park

Cantigny Park is one of the largest in northern Illinois spanning over 500 acres. This peaceful park offers vast open spaces, walking trails, flower gardens, educational programs, and a museum. It is located in Wheaton, Illinois, and features playgrounds for children, picnic areas, and even an 18-hole golf course.

Interesting Fact: The entire park was given to Robert McCormick on his wedding day in 1896 as a gift from his grandfather.

4. Go Ape Zip Line and Treetop Adventure

Go Ape Zip Line and Treetop Adventure is located in Western Springs, Illinois. It's a perfect place to experience an outdoor adventure, and it's great for kids and adults. Visitors are harnessed into high ropes courses, obstacles, and zip lines, which offers a thrilling experience in the treetops. The park is open from 9 am to dusk (weather permitting).

Interesting Fact: Go Ape Zip Line and Treetop Adventure has multiple locations across the United States.

5. The Elmhurst Art Museum

The Elmhurst Art Museum contains modern art collections that date back to the 20th century. The museum features indoor and outdoor exhibits that showcase different artists and various mediums, including sculptures and painting. The museum's location is adjacent to Wilder Park in Elmhurst, and the museum's hours vary, so it's recommended to check the museum's website for current exhibits and hours.

Interesting Fact: The museum frequently hosts art workshops and lectures with artists.

Conclusion

The road trip from Chicago, Illinois, to Elmhurst, Illinois, offers a range of beautiful attractions and outdoor activities. Exploring the Brookfield Zoo, Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio, Cantigny Park, Go Ape Zip Line and Treetop Adventure, and The Elmhurst Art Museum provides a perfect opportunity to enjoy the beautiful suburban area of Illinois. And best of all, this road trip can be done in under an hour!