Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Cicero, Illinois to Schaumburg, Illinois

Cicero and Schaumburg are two cities that are located in Illinois, United States. Cicero is a city in Cook County while Schaumburg is in the northwestern Cook County. The distance between Cicero and Schaumburg is approximately 22 miles, which can be driven in about 30 minutes without traffic. However, there are a few places along this route that people often overlook. In this article, we will take you on a drive along this route and introduce you to five unexpected places to stop.

The Halfway Point: Elmhurst, IL

Before we start exploring the unexpected places to stop along this route, we must first talk about the halfway point, which is Elmhurst, IL. Elmhurst is a city in DuPage and Cook County and it is 11 miles from Cicero and 11 miles from Schaumburg. This city is home to several attractions that are worth stopping for. One of them is the Lizzadro Museum of Lapidary Art, where you can take a look at a wide range of gems, minerals, and fossils. Another attraction is the Wilder Park Conservatory, where you can explore a wide variety of exotic plants and flowers from around the world.

1. Sagawau Environmental Learning Center

The Sagawau Environmental Learning Center is located in Lemont, IL, which is about 10 miles west of Cicero. This center is the perfect spot for people who enjoy hiking and wildlife. It has several hiking trails that take you through the woods and wetlands, where you can spot a wide range of animals such as deer, coyotes, and owls. There is also a visitor center that offers educational programs about the environment and how to preserve it.

Must-try food: The cafe at Sagawau offers delicious wraps and sandwiches that are perfect for a quick bite.

2. The Mount Greenwood Cemetery

The Mount Greenwood Cemetery is located in Chicago, which is about five miles south of Cicero. This cemetery is more than a century old and is the final resting place for many notable figures, including politicians, athletes, and artists. One of the most famous residents of this cemetery is John Dillinger, the infamous bank robber, who was buried here after he was killed by the FBI in 1934.

Must-try food: Stop by Johnny O's Hot Dogs, located on 111th Street in Chicago, for the best Chicago-style hotdogs in town.

3. The Illinois Prairie Path

The Illinois Prairie Path is a nature trail that stretches over 61 miles from Wheaton, IL to Aurora, IL. This trail is perfect for people who enjoy cycling, hiking or running and offers breathtaking views of the Illinois countryside. The trail takes you through several small towns and forests that are famous for their picturesque landscapes and rich history.

Must-try food: Kimmer's Ice Cream, located in downtown Wheaton, is the perfect spot to stop for a cool treat on a hot day.

4. The Baháʼí Temple

The Baháʼí Temple is located in Wilmette, IL, which is about 12 miles north of Cicero. This temple is often referred to as the "lotus temple" due to its unique shape and design. It is the only Baháʼí temple in North America and one of only seven in the world. The temple's interior is decorated with intricate details and artwork that represent the Baháʼí faith's core teachings and values.

Must-try food: The Wilmette Wings, located just a few blocks from the temple, offers some of the best chicken wings in Wilmette.

5. The Forest Preserve District of Cook County

The Forest Preserve District of Cook County stretches over 69,000 acres and is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna. This preserve has over 300 miles of trails that take you through forests, prairies, and wetlands. It is the perfect place for people who enjoy bird watching, nature walks, fishing, or camping.

Must-try food: Big Apple Pancake House, located in nearby Norridge, is known for its delicious crepes and pancakes.

Conclusion

The drive from Cicero to Schaumburg might seem like a short and uneventful trip, but these unexpected places offer up some exciting surprises along the way. Whether you're interested in nature, history, or just looking for a quiet place to relax, there's something for everyone along this route. So, the next time you're planning a weekend drive, be sure to include these spots in your journey. You won't regret it!