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

Chicago and LaSalle are two amazing cities located in Illinois. Tourists from all over the world come to visit these magnificent places to experience the culture, history, and entertainment. A road trip from Chicago to LaSalle can be a great way to explore Illinois’s rich history, culture, and natural beauty. The road trip covers about 100 miles and takes approximately two hours. Shorewood, IL, marks the halfway point and has some great attractions that are worth exploring. Here are the top five things to do on a road trip from Chicago, Illinois, to LaSalle, Illinois.

Exploring The Chicago Riverwalk

The Chicago Riverwalk is a must-visit spot for tourists. It is a 1.25-mile-long path along the Chicago River downtown. The Chicago Riverwalk offers a stunning view of the beautiful architecture found along the river. Visitors can hire kayaks or take boat tours to explore the river better. Besides the water activities, visitors can walk along the Riverwalk and enjoy the variety of outdoor dining and shopping options. The Chicago Riverwalk has a vibrant atmosphere with street artists and musicians, creating an unforgettable experience.

Did you know that the riverwalk was developed as a beautification project that aimed to enhance Chicago’s image as one of America’s greatest cities?

Visiting the Willis Tower Skydeck

The Willis Tower is an iconic landmark in Chicago, known for its impressive skydeck view. The skydeck is situated on the 103rd floor and is a breathtaking experience for visitors. Tourists can look down at the stunning cityscape of Chicago and the surrounding suburbs from a height of 1,353 square feet above the street level. The elevator ride will take you up to 1,450 feet in the air in just 60 seconds. Visitors can take epic photographs at the skydeck and enjoy interactive exhibits and displays about the city of Chicago.

Did you know that the Willis Tower was once the tallest building globally and held the title of the world’s tallest building for over 23 years?

Checking Out the Starved Rock State Park

Starved Rock State Park is a beautiful park located in LaSalle County, Illinois, and is the main attraction in LaSalle. The park offers great hiking and walking trails, horseback riding, fishing, and boating in the Illinois River. The park is home to breathtaking waterfalls, canyons, rock formations, and wildlife, including wild turkeys and white-tailed deer. Tourists can explore the 13 miles of trails that cross the park and take photographs of the natural beauty.

Did you know that Starved Rock State Park is named after a Native American legend recalling a historic battle over food during a severe winter?

Discovering the Lock 16 Visitor Center and Museum

Located in LaSalle, the Lock 16 Visitor Center and Museum is a historic place that provides visitors with insights into the Illinois waterway system. The museum is inside a former canal warehouse that has been restored to its original appearance, showcasing the life and times of canal workers and their families. The museum houses the Canal Corridor Association, which promotes businesses and tourism along the historic Illinois & Michigan Canal. Visitors can see the impressive exhibits and displays that showcase the canal's history, culture, and natural importance.

Did you know that the Illinois & Michigan Canal was once a significant transportation route from the Great Lakes to the Mississippi River?

Enjoying the Hegeler Carus Mansion

The Hegeler Carus Mansion is a historic landmark located in LaSalle, Illinois. The mansion is an attraction for tourists because of its beauty and its connection to the past. The mansion was the former residence of the Hegeler family, and its construction dates back to 1874. Visitors can explore the mansion and admire the architecture and the stunning antique furniture. The mansion has a beautiful garden that provides an opportunity for a peaceful stroll and a relaxing break.

Did you know that the mansion was the home of a renowned social activist, suffragist, and author named Mary Hegeler Carus?

Conclusion

In conclusion, a road trip from Chicago to LaSalle is a fantastic idea for individuals looking to discover Illinois’s hidden gems. Shorewood, IL, marks the halfway point of the trip and has great things to do. Exploring The Chicago Riverwalk, visiting the Willis Tower Skydeck, checking out the Starved Rock State Park, discovering the Lock 16 Visitor Center and Museum, and enjoying the Hegeler Carus Mansion are the top five things to do on this road trip. It is an enjoyable and informative trip that takes about two hours to complete. Illinois has a lot more to offer, and these attractions are just a drop in the bucket.