The Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Chicago, IL to Itasca, IL

Chicago, Illinois, is a bustling city known for its skyscrapers, museums, and deep-dish pizza. But just outside of the city lies the quaint village of Itasca, Illinois, which offers a more relaxed atmosphere with its parks and scenic drives. A road trip between the two highlights the best of both worlds. Along the way, don't miss the halfway point, Hinsdale, IL, a charming town with beautiful homes and a bustling downtown.

Top Five Things to Do

1. Visit the Brookfield Zoo

The Brookfield Zoo is home to over 2,000 animals, including lions, tigers, and bears. Visitors can watch sea lions perform tricks, take a ride on the carousel, and stroll through beautifully landscaped grounds. Children can get hands-on at the Hamill Family Play Zoo, where they can pet goats and sheep and even milk a cow.

Interesting Fact: The Brookfield Zoo was the first zoo in the world to have a giant panda born in captivity.

2. Explore Starved Rock State Park

Located about an hour and a half from Chicago, Starved Rock State Park is a nature lover's paradise. Visitors can hike the park's many trails, which lead to scenic waterfalls and breathtaking views of the Illinois River. The park is also home to several canyons, including the stunning St. Louis Canyon.

Interesting Fact: Starved Rock is named after a Native American legend about a group of Illinois tribe members who died on the rock.

3. Take a Cruise on Lake Michigan

Chicago's Navy Pier is the perfect place to embark on a cruise of Lake Michigan. Visitors can choose from several boat tours, including architecture cruises and dinner cruises. The views of the Chicago skyline from the water are truly breathtaking.

Interesting Fact: Lake Michigan is the fifth-largest lake in the world and the largest lake entirely within one country.

4. Visit the Museum of Science and Industry

The Museum of Science and Industry is one of the largest science museums in the world. Visitors can explore exhibits on space exploration, automotive technology, and even a working coal mine. Children will love the hands-on exhibits in the Idea Factory.

Interesting Fact: The museum's building was originally built for the 1893 World's Columbian Exposition and is one of the few remaining buildings from the fair.

5. Drive the Elgin-O'Hare Expressway

The Elgin-O'Hare Expressway is a scenic drive that connects the western suburbs of Chicago to Itasca. Along the way, visitors will pass through the forest preserves of DuPage County and see the prairies that once dominated the area. The road also offers great views of the nearby airports, including O'Hare International Airport.

Interesting Fact: The Elgin-O'Hare Expressway was completed in 2013 and is the newest highway in the Chicago area.

In conclusion, a road trip from Chicago to Itasca offers a diverse range of experiences, from the excitement of the city to the tranquility of nature. The trip takes about an hour and a half, making it perfect for a day trip or a weekend getaway. No matter what your interests, there's something for everyone along this route.