Best Things to Do on a Road Trip from Chicago, Illinois and Oglesby, Illinois
Chicago to Oglesby is just over a two-hour drive. It seems like a short distance, but the route offers plenty of opportunity for fun and adventure. Some fantastic sights and exciting things to do lie midway in Minooka, IL. The trip will undoubtedly serve as a treat for the tourists, and they will have a good time exploring the beautiful towns and attractions that come in their way.
Top 5 Things to Do on the Road Trip
1. Visit Starved Rock State Park
One cannot plan a road trip from Chicago to Oglesby and not stop at Starved Rock State Park. The park offers remarkable hiking trails through the forests and gorges, picnicking areas, fishing, and camping facilities. One can relax in nature and witness beautiful rock formations, waterfalls and even spot an eagle. It is an ideal place to get away from the city life for a few hours and breathe in some fresh air.
Interesting fact:
Starved Rock State Park gets its name from a Native American legend about a group of Illiniwek who starved to death on top of the rock bluff.
2. Go Hiking at Buffalo Rock State Park
The trek to the top of Buffalo Rock is worth the effort. The park has excellent hiking trails and breath-taking views from the top of the rock. Tourists can enjoy the miles of hiking paths, picnic spots, and a playground for the kids. Buffalo Rock State Park serves as a perfect spot for families to experience nature at its finest.
Interesting fact:
Buffalo Rock is known for its effigy mounds constructed by the Hopewell culture that dates back to as early as 150 B.C.
3. Visit the Hegeler Carus Mansion
The Hegeler Carus Mansion provides a rare glimpse into the lives of the wealthy families of the 1800s. Tourists can experience the luxurious lifestyle of the Hegeler and Carus families who built the mansion over a century ago. Visitors can also see the artful handiwork of the people of the past. The Hegeler Carus Mansion is a must-visit destination on the road trip from Chicago to Oglesby.
Interesting fact:
The Hegeler Carus Mansion hosted famous celebrities like Albert Einstein, William Jennings Bryan and Nikola Tesla.
4. Discover Rialto Square Theatre
The Rialto Square Theatre in Joliet is a historical marvel. The stunning architecture of the theatre is eye-catching with its sweeping staircases, intricate designs, and beautiful murals. The theatre is still in use, and tourists can attend a local concert, musical or play. It is not just a theatre; it’s a fascinating cultural landmark that should not be missed.
Interesting fact:
The Rialto Square Theatre is referred to as the “Jewel of Joliet” and is featured in the National Register of Historic Places.
5. Visit the Haunted Ashmore Estates
Ashmore Estates is a former almshouse turned into a bizarre haunted destination. The place is well renowned for its creepy history of neglect, abuse and violence that has left behind a trail of residual haunting and paranormal activity. It is a perfect place for thrill-seekers and people who crave an adrenaline rush.
Interesting fact:
Ashmore Estates has been featured on Travel Channel’s Paranormal Challenge, making it nationally known as one of the most haunted locations in the country.
Taking this route gives a fresh insight into the beauty of Illinois. From hiking trails through the forests to haunted destinations in neglected buildings, this route has it all. For a perfect road trip from Chicago, one should aspire to travel to the destinations mentioned above.
This whole trip that spans across 100 miles takes approximately two hours, but it leaves the tourists with life-long experiences and memories.