Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Chicago to West Chicago

Are you tired of the same old boring drive through Illinois? Do you want to add some excitement to your journey? Well, look no further! In this article, we will highlight five unexpected places to stop on a drive from Chicago, Illinois, to West Chicago, Illinois.

Starting in Chicago, take the I-290 West for approximately 25 miles until you reach West Chicago. The entire drive should take around one hour. Of course, this timeframe may vary depending on traffic, so it’s important to plan accordingly.

Halfway Point: Schaumburg, IL

Before we dive into our list of unexpected stops, we must highlight the halfway point between Chicago and West Chicago: Schaumburg, IL. This bustling town is home to the Woodfield Mall, one of the largest shopping destinations in the country. However, there’s more to Schaumburg than just shopping. Visit the Schaumburg Boomers Stadium for a baseball game during the summer season or take a stroll through the beautiful Spring Valley Nature Center. Don’t forget to grab a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants in the area.

Now, let’s jump into our list of five unexpected places to stop on your drive from Chicago to West Chicago.

1. Fabyan Villa Museum & Japanese Garden

Located in Geneva, IL, the Fabyan Villa Museum & Japanese Garden is a beautiful historic landmark that offers a glimpse into the past. Built in 1907, the villa was home to George and Nelle Fabyan, wealthy Chicago landowners. The 18-room villa is filled with unique artifacts and antique furnishings. In addition to touring the villa, visitors can explore the stunning Japanese Garden, complete with cherry blossom trees and a tranquil pond. Don’t leave without indulging in a sweet treat from the on-site ice cream shop.

2. Illinois Railway Museum

Train enthusiasts and history buffs alike will love the Illinois Railway Museum in Union, IL. This impressive museum is the largest railway museum in the United States and boasts an extensive collection of vintage locomotives and railcars. Visitors can take a ride on one of the many restored trains or explore the museum’s vast collection of railroad memorabilia. Be sure to stop by the gift shop before you leave, where you can find everything from railroad-themed souvenirs to model trains.

3. Volo Auto Museum

If you’re a fan of classic cars, the Volo Auto Museum is a must-visit destination. Located in Volo, IL, this museum features over 300 vintage and rare automobiles, including iconic models like the DeLorean from Back to the Future. In addition to cars, the museum showcases an impressive collection of Hollywood memorabilia, including movie props and costumes. Hungry? Grab a bite to eat at the museum’s on-site restaurant, which serves up classic American fare.

4. The Mousetrap

For a quirky roadside attraction, make a stop at The Mousetrap in Marengo, IL. This sculpture garden features over 500 bizarre and whimsical sculptures created by retired artist Richard Hammer. Visitors can stroll through the garden and admire the unique artwork, which ranges from playful to eerie. If you’re lucky, you might even catch Hammer himself working on a new sculpture. Be sure to bring cash, as there is a small admission fee to enter the garden.

5. The Milk House

Last but not least, make a final stop at The Milk House in Pingree Grove, IL. This charming market sells a variety of fresh dairy products, including milk, cheese, and ice cream. All of the milk is sourced from the farm’s own cows, ensuring quality and freshness. Visitors can also pick up farm-fresh eggs and produce, as well as hand-crafted soaps and candles. Don’t leave without trying the famous chocolate milk!

Conclusion

As you can see, there’s more to Illinois than meets the eye. These five unexpected stops will add a bit of excitement and adventure to your drive from Chicago to West Chicago. Whether you’re interested in history, trains, or just some great ice cream, there’s something for everyone. So pack up the car and hit the road – you won’t be disappointed!