Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Chicago, Illinois and Oakbrook Terrace, Illinois
Chicago, Illinois, and Oakbrook Terrace, Illinois, are two cities bustling with life. Whether someone is looking for an urban adventure or a quiet escape, both cities hold a variety of activities for any traveler. The two cities are located a mere 18.5 miles apart, making it a perfect day trip for anyone who does not have a lot of time but wants to experience both cities. Along the way, there is a halfway point in Berwyn, IL, that offers its share of excitement and adventure.
Top Five Things to Do
1. Visit the Shedd Aquarium
Located in Chicago, the Shedd Aquarium is the perfect destination for animal lovers. Home to over 32,000 animals, including beluga whales, sea otters, penguins, and dolphins, the aquarium offers a unique experience for visitors. The extensive collection of marine life and informative exhibits make it an educational experience for all ages. Interesting Fact: The Shedd Aquarium was the first inland aquarium to have a permanent saltwater fish collection.
2. Stroll the Chicago Riverwalk
Explore Chicago's beautiful architecture and enjoy the scenic river view with a walk along the Chicago Riverwalk. The walk offers beautiful views of the city skyline, and visitors can take a water taxi to different stops and explore the city's fascinating history. The riverwalk provides a relaxing escape from the bustle of the city. Interesting Fact: The riverwalk was initially designed as a way to mitigate flooding in the city.
3. Visit Medieval Times Castle
Medieval Times Castle, located in Schaumburg, IL, offers a trip back in time to the Middle Ages. The castle presents a live jousting tournament, horseback riding, and sword fighting, providing visitors with an unforgettable experience. Guests are served a feast, and the entire experience emulates the equestrian sport of the medieval period. Interesting Fact: The horses used at Medieval Times are trained for ten years.
4. Enjoy a day at Morton Arboretum
Morton Arboretum offers visitors an enchanting escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. The 1700-acre garden in Lisle, IL, is home to various trees and plants from across the world. It has over 20 miles of breathtaking hiking trails and a 1,7000' spiral ramp that overlooks the trees. There are plenty of family-friendly activities, including guided tours and an adventure course. Interesting Fact: The Morton Arboretum has over 222,000 plants.
5. Discover the Brookfield Zoo
Brookfield Zoo, located in Brookfield, IL, is a must-visit destination for any animal lover. It is home to over 2,000 animals, including lions, tigers, bears, and elephants, offers visitors the chance to get up close and personal with stunning exhibits. Brookfield's conservation efforts are evident in the habitat design, making it an educational and informative experience for all visitors. Interesting Fact: In the zoo's early years, it was home to a talking bird named Charlie.
This trip takes approximately two hours from Oakbrook Terrace to Chicago's city center, depending on traffic. Along the way, Berwyn offers plenty of interesting places to visit, such as the Cigars & Stripes bar or the Lavergne's Tavern. Visitors can also explore the Berwyn Route 66 Museum, which exhibits vintage cars and memorabilia from the iconic highway.
In conclusion, a road trip from Oakbrook Terrace and Chicago offers an array of activities, ranging from cultural to outdoor experiences. With fascinating places to visit en route, it's a perfect outing for families or a group of friends who want to create memories. With so much to see, the trip is well worth the time invested, making it one of the most entertaining experiences to be had in Illinois.