Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Chillicothe to Ransom, Illinois
If you're looking for a scenic road trip in Illinois, look no further than the drive from Chillicothe to Ransom. This route takes you through lush farmland, historic towns, and unexpected sights that are sure to impress. The drive takes approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes, covering 72 miles.
As you set off from Chillicothe, you'll pass through Hopewell, Dana, and El Paso, before reaching the halfway point of your journey: Wenona, IL. From there, you'll continue through scenic valleys, rolling hills, and small towns before reaching your final destination, Ransom. Along the way, there are several unique stops to check out.
1. Roanoke, IL: A Quaint Village with a Big Heart
Roanoke is a charming village that may seem small at first glance but is big on community spirit and flavor. Its downtown has several shops, a bakery, coffee house, and restaurants. These places make it the perfect stop to enjoy lunch or coffee while stretching your legs.
The best food to try in Roanoke is a slice of gourmet pizza from the renowned Eureka Pizza Company. Their pies come in an array of unique flavor combinations. You can't go wrong with the Allegro, which features garlic sauce, spinach, and artichoke hearts.
2. Metamora, IL: A Step Back in Time
If you're a history buff, Metamora is the perfect place for you. This small town is home to several historical buildings, including the Metamora Courthouse State Historic Site. You'll feel like you've stepped back in time to the 19th century as you stroll through the courthouse and the town's historic district.
After taking a historic tour, stop at The Germantown Grille for lunch, where they serve mouth-watering burgers and fresh-cut fries. Their homemade Thousand Island dressing is a must-try on your burger.
3. Washburn, IL: A Nature Lovers' Retreat
Washburn is a small town that's big on nature. The North Point Conservation Area is a beautiful, 715-acre park that offers hiking trails, fishing lakes, and picnic areas. It's the perfect spot to stop and stretch your legs while enjoying the great outdoors.
If you're in the mood for a quick bite to eat, stop at the Washburn Cafe. Don't let its small size fool you – this restaurant serves up big taste. Try their famous breakfast sandwich, featuring eggs, cheese, and bacon or sausage on a homemade biscuit.
4. Granville, IL: A Hidden Gem
Granville is a hidden gem that many Illinois residents have yet to discover. This small town is home to several antique shops, art galleries, and a charming theater. You'll feel like you've stumbled upon a secret treasure trove of eclectic finds.
When hunger strikes, stop by Sommer's Farm Market, where they serve up delicious sandwiches with a side of homemade chips. Try the Reuben, which features tender corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Thousand Island dressing on rye bread.
5. LaSalle, IL: A Riverfront Oasis
LaSalle is a riverfront oasis that's sure to impress. This town is home to the Hegeler Carus Mansion, one of Illinois' best-preserved examples of 19th-century architecture. You can take a tour of the mansion to learn more about its fascinating history.
After exploring the mansion, take a stroll along the Illinois and Michigan Canal, where you can see boats traveling down the locks. Stop by Social Kitchen for lunch, where they serve up delicious barbecue sandwiches with a side of coleslaw.
Conclusion
If you're looking for a scenic drive through Illinois' heartland, the route from Chillicothe to Ransom is a must-see. Along the way, make sure to check out Roanoke's flavorful pizza, Metamora's historic courthouse, Washburn's stunning conservation area, Granville's hidden treasures, and LaSalle's riverfront beauty. With so much to see and do, it's a road trip that's definitely worth taking.