Points of Interest between Crystal Lake, Illinois to Glen Ellyn, Illinois

picture of Crystal Lake, Illinois

Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Crystal Lake, Illinois to Glen Ellyn, Illinois

Crystal Lake and Glen Ellyn are two picturesque suburbs located in northern Illinois, only about an hour's drive apart. The journey between the two towns takes travelers through a diverse landscape of rural fields, dense woodlands, and charming small towns. The drive itself is a pleasure, and along the way, there are numerous unexpected places to stop and explore. The trip in total takes just under two hours, not including stops, making it the perfect day trip for anyone looking to get to know the heart of Illinois.

The halfway point on this road trip is Barrington, IL, a quaint village with a historic downtown area and plenty of local shops and restaurants to explore. Travelers will want to take some time to stroll through the downtown area to admire the 19th-century architecture and visit the unique boutiques.

  1. Long Grove, IL Just a short detour from the main route lies Long Grove, a charming historic village known for its quaint shops, art galleries, and festivals. Visitors can indulge in a wide variety of confections at the Long Grove Confectionery, a local staple for over 40 years. Don't leave without trying their famous Long Grove Apple Cider Donuts, a perfect sweet treat for the road ahead.

  2. Opportunity Knocks, St. Charles, IL A hidden gem in the St. Charles area, Opportunity Knocks is a resale shop featuring a wide assortment of antiques, collectibles, and unique finds. Travelers will delight in uncovering vintage treasures and one-of-a-kind souvenirs to remember their trip by. After a satisfying shopping experience, stop by the nearby Blue Goose Market for their delectable homemade sandwiches and fresh deli items.

  3. Fabyan Forest Preserve, Geneva, IL Located just off the Fox River, the Fabyan Forest Preserve offers a peaceful retreat into nature. Visitors can explore the beautiful Japanese-style garden, visit the historic Fabyan Villa Museum, and even take a stroll along the riverside trails. For a truly refreshing experience, pack a picnic and enjoy a leisurely lunch in the scenic surroundings.

  4. Wheaton, IL As the route nears its end, travelers will find themselves in Wheaton, a vibrant city brimming with cultural attractions and eateries. One cannot miss a visit to the renowned Suzette's Creperie, where guests can savor an array of mouthwatering sweet and savory crepes made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. A stop at Suzette's is the perfect way to conclude this scenic road trip.

In conclusion, a drive from Crystal Lake to Glen Ellyn, Illinois offers an array of unexpected and delightful places to explore. Whether it's indulging in artisanal donuts in Long Grove, hunting for vintage treasures at Opportunity Knocks, reveling in the natural beauty of Fabyan Forest Preserve, or savoring gourmet crepes in Wheaton, there is plenty to discover on this route. Travelers are encouraged to take the time to embark on this scenic journey and make the most of these unexpected gems that lie just off the beaten path.