Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Chicago, Illinois and South Elgin, Illinois
Most people think that the only way to truly experience the beauty of a place is by embarking on a long and laborious journey, but sometimes the best moments are found on a road trip. A road trip from Chicago, Illinois to South Elgin, Illinois is a perfect example of this. The journey is only 43 miles long, and it takes about an hour to reach the destination. However, if you take the time to explore the many sites and sounds along the way, you will be surprised at just how much there is to see.
Halfway Point: Glen Ellyn, IL
Before we dive into the five unexpected places to visit, we have to mention something important. The halfway point of the journey from Chicago, Illinois to South Elgin, Illinois is Glen Ellyn, IL. This sleepy little town is located in DuPage County and is the perfect place to stop for a bit, stretch your legs, and explore a bit.
1. Morton Arboretum
The Morton Arboretum is a botanical garden and outdoor museum that is located in Lisle, Illinois, about 20 miles southwest of Chicago, off Interstate 88. It covers a whopping 1,700 acres and is home to more than 222,000 plants from all over the world. It is an excellent place to go for a stroll, learn about new plants, and get some fresh air. The highlight of the Arboretum is the Children's Garden, which is a place that every kid will love. There's even a maze to get lost in!
Favorite food to eat: Picnic-style lunch baskets with locally sourced ingredients.
2. Geneva, Illinois
Geneva, Illinois is a quaint town that is often overlooked amidst the more popular destinations in the area. However, it is a hidden gem that should not be missed. Geneva is situated on the Fox River, and it is a beautiful place to stroll around and take in the scenery. The town has a wonderful downtown area where you can find unique shops, antique stores, and local restaurants. Plus, they offer a wide variety of coffee shops where you can satisfy your caffeine cravings.
Favorite food to eat: Sandwiches from the Little Owl Restaurant, with locally sourced ingredients.
3. Batavia Depot Museum
The Batavia Depot Museum is located in Batavia, Illinois, about 10 miles west of Geneva. This museum is a historic railroad station built in 1854 and is one of the oldest surviving depots in the United States. Here, you can learn about the history of the railroad in the United States. It is an excellent place to visit if you are interested in the history of transportation or love trains.
Favorite food to eat: Homemade fudge from the museum shop.
4. Batavia Main Street
The Batavia Main Street is a historic block of buildings that are steeped in history, dating back to the late 1800s. Here, you can find a diverse range of shops, restaurants, and other businesses. It is an excellent place to go if you are looking for unique souvenirs and gifts. Plus, the architecture is reminiscent of the olden days, making it the perfect place to snap a few photos.
Favorite food to eat: Handcrafted donuts from the Batavia Creamery.
5. Fabyan Villa Museum & Japanese Garden
The Fabyan Villa Museum and Japanese Garden is located in Geneva, Illinois, and is a unique destination for those interested in architecture and history. The villa was built in 1907 and is a testament to the historic architecture of the Gilded Age. The Japanese garden is located behind the villa and is a beautiful and serene place to take a walk and meditate.
Favorite food to eat: Grilled burgers and sweet potato fries from the Villa Restaurant.
Conclusion
A drive from Chicago, Illinois, to South Elgin, Illinois, may seem like a quick and easy trip, but it can be so much more with these five unexpected places to visit. Whether you are interested in history, nature, or just exploring, these destinations offer something for everyone. So, pack a picnic and hit the road because you won't want to miss out on what these places have to offer.