Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Niagara Falls, New York to Winfield, Illinois
Are you planning a road trip from Niagara Falls, New York to Winfield, Illinois, and looking for some noteworthy places to stop along the way? Look no further! Here are five unexpected locations that you should consider adding to your itinerary.
This scenic drive will take you through parts of Pennsylvania, Ohio, and Indiana, covering approximately 650 miles. If you are driving nonstop, the journey can take anywhere from 11 to 12 hours, but why rush it when you can make stops and create memories?
Halfway Point: Fremont, OH
Before we dive into the five locations, it is important to mention the perfect midway point for your trip: Fremont, OH. This city, situated between Cleveland and Toledo, offers various amenities for travelers, including hotels, restaurants, and recreational activities, making it the best place to take a break and recharge before continuing on your journey.
Now let us explore the five unexpected locations:
1. Lancaster, PA - Amish Country (298 miles from Niagara Falls)
Lancaster, PA, is the place to go if you want to experience Amish culture. This city is situated in the heart of Pennsylvania Dutch Country and offers a wide range of unique experiences, including buggy rides, farm tours, and Amish-themed attractions. You can learn about the Amish way of life, taste homemade goodies, and buy unique souvenirs.
Foodies will appreciate the abundant options of Amish cuisine, including mouth-watering shoofly pie, soft pretzels, and savory scrapple. Don't miss out on trying some classic Amish-style whoopie pies, which are two soft, cake-like cookies sandwiched together with a creamy filling. The filling is made with marshmallow fluff, which delivers a unique taste that you will not forget any time soon.
2. Toledo, OH - National Museum of the Great Lakes (70 miles from Fremont)
Toledo, Ohio, located on the shores of Lake Erie, has a rich maritime history that you can explore at the National Museum of the Great Lakes. The museum showcases the significance of the Great Lakes in shaping the region's history and economy, with interactive exhibits, displays of historic vessels and shipwrecks, and interactive experiences.
After spending time at the museum, it is time to grab some lunch at Tony Packo's, a beloved local establishment that has been serving up their iconic Hungarian hot dogs since 1932. These hot dogs are famous for their spicy and tangy chili sauce, which you can purchase by the jar and take home as a souvenir.
3. Auburn, IN - Auburn Cord Duesenberg Automobile Museum (102 miles from Toledo)
If you are a car enthusiast, make a stop at the Auburn Cord Duesenberg Automobile Museum in Auburn, Indiana. The museum showcases the history of the Auburn Cord Duesenberg company and displays over 120 antique and classic cars, including the famous Auburn Boattail Speedster.
After touring the museum, head to Mad Anthony Brewing Company, a local brewery located in downtown Auburn. The brewery offers a variety of house-made beers, including their award-winning Mad Anthony IPA, which perfectly complements their delicious pub-style food.
4. Bloomington, IL - David Davis Mansion State Historic Site (154 miles from Auburn)
The David Davis Mansion State Historic Site in Bloomington, Illinois, is a must-see for history buffs. This 19th-century mansion was once home to David Davis, a US Supreme Court Justice, and close friend of Abraham Lincoln. The stunning mansion is a National Historic Landmark and offers guided tours that provide insight into the life of David Davis and the historical context of the time.
After touring the mansion, make sure to stop by The Garlic Press, a specialty kitchen store that offers unique gadgets and culinary delights. Their lemon curd and raspberry jalapeno jam are particularly popular, and you can grab a bottle of wine from their vast selection to go with them.
5. Joliet, IL - Rialto Square Theatre (104 miles from Bloomington)
The Rialto Square Theatre in Joliet, Illinois, is a beautifully restored 1920s theater that offers a wide range of performances and events, including concerts, comedy shows, and musicals. The opulent throne room, complete with ornate decorations and chandeliers, is a must-see for anyone interested in art and architecture.
After a show, head over to Chicken-N-Spice, a local fast-food restaurant that has been serving up their famous fried chicken since the 1950s. Their seasoned chicken and hot sauce are worth the stop alone.
Conclusion
This road trip from Niagara Falls, New York, to Winfield, Illinois, is a journey of over 600 miles and can take up to 12 hours. However, with these five unexpected stops, your trip can be much more memorable. Amish Country in Lancaster, PA, the National Museum of the Great Lakes in Toledo, OH, the Auburn Cord Duesenberg Automobile Museum in Auburn, IN, the David Davis Mansion State Historic Site in Bloomington, IL, and the Rialto Square Theatre in Joliet, IL, all offer unique experiences, from tasting homemade Amish pie to learning about US Supreme Court Justice David Davis. Pack your bags and embark on a road trip full of history, culture, and delicious food.