Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Chicago, Illinois and Fortville, Indiana

If you're looking for a scenic and historic drive, a trip from Chicago, Illinois, to Fortville, Indiana, is an excellent choice. The distance is approximately 200 miles, which should take around three and half hours to drive. You'll pass through several beautiful small towns, rolling hills, and vast farmland.

The halfway point of this trip is Wolcott, Indiana, where you can take a rest, stretch your legs, and explore the town. Here are five unexpected places to stop on this drive and why they are worth visiting.

1. The Little Red Schoolhouse, Wilton Center, Illinois

This restored one-room schoolhouse serves as a museum and shows what school life was like for children in the early 20th century. The Little Red Schoolhouse is a fascinating and educational stop, especially for families traveling with children. They can experience a day in the life of a student and see how different education was compared to what it is today. The area around the schoolhouse is a nature preserve with trails, providing an ideal place for a picnic. Before you leave, try the blueberry muffins baked by the Amish store across the street.

2. The Fair Oaks Farms, Fair Oaks, Indiana

The Fair Oaks Farms is one of the largest farms in the United States and an excellent place to learn about modern farming techniques. You can take a guided tour around the farm either on foot or in a bus. The tour guides share their knowledge about the production of cheese, milk, ice cream, and other dairy products. Children can have a great time playing with the farm animals and making their ice cream at the farm's ice creamery. Before you leave, try the grilled cheese sandwich made using their gourmet cheddar cheese.

3. The Glessner House, Chicago, Illinois

The Glessner House is a historic dwelling designed by the famous architect Henry Hobson Richardson in the late 19th century. The house is an excellent example of the Richardsonian Romanesque style and is open for public tours. Visitors can explore the interior of the house, which contains many original furnishings and decorations. You can also take a stroll through the outdoor garden, which is an oasis in the middle of the bustling city. Before you leave, try the Chicago-style pizza at the nearby Giordano's pizzeria, which is undoubtedly one of the best in the city.

4. Camp Atterbury, Edinburgh, Indiana

The Camp Atterbury military base serves as a training center for the Indiana National Guard and other branches of the military. Although it is not open to the public, they have a museum that is accessible to everyone. The Camp Atterbury Museum displays artifacts, photographs, documents, and other memorabilia that preserve the history of the base since its establishment in 1942. Visitors can learn about the different stages of training, the evolution of weapons, and the significant events that occurred at the base. Before you leave, try the fried chicken at the KFC located on Highway 31, which is crispy, juicy, and a perfect road trip food.

5. The James Whitcomb Riley Museum Home, Greenfield, Indiana

The James Whitcomb Riley Museum Home is the former residence of the famous American poet James Whitcomb Riley. The house contains many artifacts and personal belongings that belonged to the poet. Visitors can learn about Riley's life and the significance of his works. The museum is also home to some of the most extensive collections of Riley's memorabilia, including photographs, letters, and rare first edition books. Before you leave, try the banana bread at the nearby Beck's Bakery, which has won several awards for its sweet baked goods.

This road trip is full of exciting and educational experiences for people of all ages. You'll never know what hidden gems you might come across. Take a break from your everyday life, pack your bags, and hit the road. This trip will provide you with lasting memories, fun stories, and a newfound appreciation for the incredible places that exist in the Midwest.