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

Chicago, the Windy City, is the third most populous city in America and an iconic stop for tourists coming from all over the world. But, sometimes it's hard to appreciate the city life when you are stuck in traffic, or when you are craving some fresh air and, most importantly, some stunning scenery. The good news is that there is an excellent trip that will take you only an hour and 20 minutes away from the urban noise and put you in the heart of Illinois' natural beauty.

First, you will take Interstate 290 W from Chicago to Downers Grove, IL, only 30 minutes away. The real beauty starts after you pass Downers Grove, and if you are in doubt about where to go, we've got you covered. Below are the top five things you should do on your road trip and the bonus for our fellow animal lovers.

Starved Rock State Park

Starved Rock State Park is an 80-mile trip from Chicago's Loop and only a 50-minute drive from North Aurora. It is the most visited state park in Illinois, and its stunning canyons, unique geological formations, and seasonal waterfalls make it a must-see spot.

The park's name comes from the Native American tribe, Illiniwek, who were believed to gather on a rock on the Illinois River's south bank called “Starved Rock”. They used the natural cliff formation as a lookout point to locate potential threats and new resources.

Farnsworth House

A trip to the Farnsworth House is a must-visit place for all architecture enthusiasts. It is an hour and 20 minutes away from Chicago, and only a 12-minute drive away from North Aurora. The Farnsworth House is a single-story steel and glass house, designed and built by the German-American architect Mies van der Rohe.

The house's setting gives visitors the impression of being in the middle of a secluded wood, while it is precisely the opposite. It is nested on a four-acre estate along the Fox River in Plano, Illinois.

Raging Waves Waterpark

If you are visiting North Aurora in the summer, make sure to stop by Illinois' largest waterpark. Raging Waves Waterpark is a 45-acre park located just 2.5 miles away from North Aurora and filled with wave pools, slides, and other fun attractions.

The park's opening was a big deal for the town's residents, who wanted to provide their children with a fun place nearby. The waterpark was first proposed in 1998, but due to financial difficulties, it took eight years until it finally opened its doors in 2008.

Silver Springs State Park

Silver Springs State Park is a 45-minute drive from North Aurora and offers a tranquil escape from the city buzz. The park's most popular feature is the clear, cool water springs that feed into the Fox River.

The crystal clear water isn't the only thing visitors can enjoy. The park also features a large trail system for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, as well as fishing and boating opportunities for water enthusiasts.

Batavia Riverwalk

Batavia Riverwalk is a one-of-a-kind attraction situated alongside the Fox River, only six minutes away from North Aurora. The three-quarter-mile path connecting several parks allows visitors to experience the beauty of the Fox River's natural surroundings while enjoying a stroll or a bike ride.

The Batavia Riverwalk is a result of a collaboration between local community groups who joined forces to create a comprehensive public park system. The project was completed in 2003, and it offers spectacular vistas of the city and the water.

Bonus: Cosley Zoo

For animal lovers who can't resist cute little creatures, Cosley Zoo is just the place for them. Cosley Zoo is an AZA-accredited zoo located in Wheaton, less than 45 minutes away from North Aurora.

The zoo features domestic farm animals and native Illinois wildlife, including bobcats, deer, and owls. It is also an educational center that provides classes, workshops, and camps for children, making it a perfect destination for a fun and educational family adventure.

Conclusion

Whether you crave natural beauty or fun attractions, the drive from Chicago to North Aurora is packed with both. With five diverse destinations and a bonus for anyone who loves and appreciates animals, it is hard not to have a great time. It takes about an hour and 20 minutes to reach North Aurora from Chicago, but with breathtaking scenery and diverse attractions, the drive is sure to be memorable.