Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Chicago, IL to Shorewood, IL
Chicago and Shorewood are two of the most beautiful cities in Illinois and offer a wide range of activity options for travelers interested in road trips. If you are looking to embark on a memorable journey, consider the route from Chicago to Shorewood. Along this route, you will not only get to see amazing sceneries but also enjoy some unique experiences. The journey is approximately 46 miles long and takes about an hour and ten minutes to complete. Burr Ridge, which is the halfway point, offers some fascinating sights that are worth checking out.
Top Five Things to Do
1. Visit the Brookfield Zoo
One of the best places to stop over on this route is the Brookfield Zoo. Located just outside of Chicago, this is a world-renowned zoo famous for its commitment to animal welfare, research, and conservation. The zoo offers a wide array of animal species such as lions, giraffes, zebras, and giant pandas. Visitors can also enjoy various exhibits such as the Tropic World, Regenstein Wolf Woods, and the Great Bear Wilderness. Make sure you stop here and enjoy an exciting experience with these spectacular animals.
Interesting fact:
Did you know that the Brookfield Zoo was the first zoo in the world to have a Giant Panda cub born and survive in captivity?
2. Experience the Willis Tower Skydeck
The Willis Tower Skydeck is a must-see attraction in Chicago. Being the tallest skyscraper in the city, visitors can get some incredible views of the Chicago skyline from the 103rd floor. If you are brave enough, you can venture onto the Ledge, which has glass floors that allow sightseers to look directly beneath their toes. You can also skip the queue and go to the express lanes to make the most out of your time.
Interesting fact:
The Willis Tower Skydeck is so high that visitors can see over four different U.S. States.
3. Tour the Rialto Square Theatre
The Rialto Square Theatre is a beautiful historic theater in Joliet, Illinois, and one of the best places to experience live shows. The theater features stunning architecture, including a symmetrical grand staircase, bronze-domed ceilings, and a 60-foot stage. With a variety of performances from Broadway productions, dance performances and concerts, there are always events going on throughout the year. The Rialto Square Theatre is a great place to take in some art while on your road trip.
Interesting fact:
Did you know that the Rialto Square Theatre can accommodate over 1200 visitors?
4. Taste Wine at the Round Barn Winery
The Round Barn Winery is a perfect stop for wine lovers. Located in Countryside, Illinois, the winery boasts a unique and impressive round barn that welcomes visitors to taste its wines. With over 30 wines, a delightful selection of beers and spirits, there is something for everyone. Guests can also enjoy live music, delicious food, and beautiful countryside sceneries. Stop here and enjoy some of the best wines that Illinois has to offer.
Interesting fact:
The Round Barn Winery's historic round barn was built in 1911 and is a historically protected building.
5. Go Hiking in the Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie
The Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie is located in Wilmington, Illinois, and is one of the largest protected prairies in the country. The park is an excellent destination for hiking enthusiasts who enjoy nature walks, leisurely strolls, and outdoor recreation. With over 20 miles of trails, visitors can enjoy sights of diverse wildlife, wildflowers, and grasses. With a variety of areas to explore, stop here and reconnect with nature while on your road trip.
Interesting fact:
Miedwin National Tallgrass Prairie once an ammunition depot operated by the U.S. army during World War II.
Conclusion
In conclusion, hitting the road to explore some of the best sights that Illinois has to offer can be an unforgettable experience. This route from Chicago to Shorewood offers a variety of attractions ranging from historic theaters to wine tours to natural parks. The trip from Chicago to Shorewood is approximately an hour and ten minutes long, giving you enough time to stop at any of these locations and enjoy what they have to offer. Whatever your preference, make sure you indulge in these top five activities and enjoy a memorable experience on your road trip.