Best Ways to Travel Between Brookfield and Downers Grove, Illinois

Brookfield and Downers Grove are two charming suburbs located in the western region of Illinois. Whether you are commuting for work or planning a leisurely road trip, there are numerous travel routes to explore between these two destinations. Here are the best ways to travel between Brookfield and Downers Grove and some places you should stop while on the road.

Route 1: Brookfield Avenue and 31st Street

Driving along Brookfield Avenue and 31st Street is the most straightforward route between Brookfield and Downers Grove. The distance between the two destinations is approximately 6 miles, which translates to a driving time of 15 minutes during moderate traffic hours. You can enjoy convenient access to major roads, including Ogden Avenue and the I-294 Tollway.

Along the way, you may want to make a stop at the Brookfield Zoo, a renowned wildlife sanctuary that is home to over 2,000 animals across 216 acres. Alternatively, you can visit the Salt Creek Forest Preserve, which boasts of diverse habitats and natural scenery, such as hiking trails, fishing ponds, picnic areas, and campgrounds.

Route 2: Riverside, La Grange, and Western Springs

If you want to take a scenic route to Downers Grove, we recommend driving through the towns of Riverside, La Grange, and Western Springs. The distance covered along this route is approximately 8 miles, but you will enjoy the diverse architecture, history, and culture of each town. On average, it takes around 25 minutes to navigate this route at moderate driving speeds.

We suggest making a pit stop at the historic La Grange Theater, which was established in 1925 and still plays a mix of first-run and arthouse films. Alternatively, you can stop at the Tisch Family Zoological Gardens, a small and cozy petting zoo located in Riverside that has farm animals and educational exhibits for children.

Route 3: I-290 and I-88 Tollway

For a faster commute between Brookfield and Downers Grove, the I-290 and I-88 Tollway is the best route to take. This path covers around 10 miles and takes approximately 20 minutes to drive at moderate speeds, but it guarantees you a swift and direct drive.

Along the way, we recommend stopping at the Elmhurst Art Museum, a modernist architecture that hosts rotating exhibits, artist talks, and educational programs. Another great pit stop is the Oakbrook Center, an upscale multi-level shopping mall with over 170 stores, restaurants, and entertainment venues.

Conclusion

The travel time between Brookfield, Illinois, and Downers Grove, Illinois, is relatively short, making it easy to travel between these two charming suburbs. Whether you choose to take a direct route or a more scenic route, there are numerous attractions, restaurants, and outdoor spaces you can stop along the way. With this article's help, choose the best route depending on your preferences and experience a delightful commute between Brookfield and Downers Grove.