Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Chicago, IL to Princeton, IL

If you're looking to explore the beauty of Illinois, you must take a road trip from Chicago to Princeton. From big city charm to small town hospitality, this trip has everything a wanderlust traveler could want. The distance between Chicago and Princeton is around 100 miles and takes approximately two hours to complete, but we recommend taking your time to enjoy the hidden gems along the way.

Halfway Point: Morris, IL

Before diving into the hidden gems, we must highlight the halfway point of this road trip - Morris, IL. This small town in Grundy County will surprise you with its rich history and cozy atmosphere. Morris is known for its downtown area lined with quaint shops, boutiques, and restaurants. It is also home to the historic Morris Theatre Guild, where you can catch live performances, musicals, and plays. If you're looking for a quick stop to stretch your legs and grab a bite, Morris is the perfect place.

1. Starved Rock State Park (Oglesby, IL)

After leaving Morris, your next stop should be Starved Rock State Park. This stunning state park covers over 2,600 acres and provides a range of outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, fishing, and boating. It has 13 miles of marked trails that lead to scenic canyons with waterfalls tumbling down towering sandstone walls. It’s a great place for nature lovers and photographers to capture the beauty of Illinois. The Lodge at Starved Rock is a few miles from the park and serves some excellent dishes, but their famous beef brisket sandwich is a must-try.

2. LaSalle, IL

LaSalle is a charming town located on the banks of the Illinois River. It has fascinating historical sites such as the Hegeler Carus Mansion, which was completed in 1876 and now serves as a museum. This stunning mansion has been preserved and still reflects its original beauty. In downtown LaSalle, you'll find several unique shops and restaurants. J’s Buffalo Wings is an excellent spot for hot wings and draft beer.

3. Peru Mall (Peru, IL)

If you're looking for some shopping therapy, your next stop should be the Peru Mall. This indoor mall offers a wide range of shopping options for all budgets. From clothing, shoes to electronics, and home decor, you'll find it all here. The Chicago Dough Company, located inside the mall, serves some of the best thin-crust pizzas in Illinois, which is a must-try after a long shopping spree.

4. Hennepin Canal Parkway State Park (Sheffield, IL)

The Hennepin Canal Parkway State Park is a hidden gem that not many people know about. This beautiful park covers over 104 miles and offers a range of outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, biking, and hiking. The park follows the historic Hennepin Canal and has several beautiful scenic views to explore. Tucked away in this charming park is the charming Uptown Grill, which serves delicious American cuisine and mouth-watering cocktails.

5. Reddick Mansion (Ottawa, IL)

The Reddick Mansion is located in the charming town of Ottawa, IL. This historic mansion was built in 1855 and is now a museum that provides guided tours, educational programs, and events. This stunning mansion has been restored to its original grandeur, and every piece of furniture and artwork reflects the magnificence of the decade. The surrounding area is home to several unique restaurants and cafes. One such place is the Tangled Roots brewery, which serves a range of locally brewed beers and is a great place to relax with friends.

Conclusion

Illinois offers much more than just cornfields and flatlands. This road trip from Chicago to Princeton is a testament to that. From the stunning canyons of Starved Rock State Park to the small-town charm of Morris, this trip will give you unforgettable memories. So, pack your bags, hop in your car, and explore these hidden gems that the Land of Lincoln has to offer.