The Ultimate Road Trip from Addison, Illinois to Chicago, Illinois

Are you ready for the ultimate road trip from Addison, Illinois to Chicago, Illinois? This scenic drive is packed with amazing attractions and sights that are sure to excite your senses. You'll enjoy the beautiful countryside and gain an appreciation for the unique charm of each town. This drive is perfect for a day trip, packed with stops that will make you feel like you took a week break.

With so many attractions on this road trip, we’ve compiled a list of the must-see places for you to visit. Read on to discover our top picks!

The Route

Before we get started on the top places to see, let’s take a look at the route you'll be taking.

First, you'll head north and take the I-290 Express towards Chicago. Along the way, you'll pass through the towns of Elmhurst, Hillside, and Melrose Park, among others. Once you get into Chicago, you'll have plenty of options on how to proceed, depending on the specific attractions you want to see.

With the route in mind, we've compiled a list of locations that will provide a memorable experience on your trip.

The Top Places to See

1. Brookfield Zoo

The first stop on our road trip is Brookfield Zoo, located in Brookfield, Illinois just off of I-290. This is a must-visit attraction on your drive down to Chicago, especially for animal lovers. It boasts over 450 species of animals, including some endangered species like the Amur leopard and the Mexican gray wolf. Additionally, there's an incredible array of exhibits, and the zoo is home to some beautiful gardens, including the Fragrance Garden, which is accessible to guests with visual impairments.

2. Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio

The second stop on our journey is Oak Park, Illinois, which is home to the birthplace of one of America’s greatest architects, Frank Lloyd Wright. Wright’s home and studio were built in the late 19th century, and this was where Wright lived and worked for many years. Here, you can take a guided tour and learn about Wright's life and his architectural philosophy, and also see some of his early work. The tour includes the home and studio, but you can also opt to take their walking tour of the neighbourhood to see some of his many homes and buildings created in the area.

3. Navy Pier

Once you reach downtown Chicago, our next stop is Navy Pier. This is a classic Chicago attraction that is part of the city’s rich history. The pier has been around since 1916 and has been a venue for concerts, exhibitions, and other events. A few of the key attractions you'll find at Navy Pier include the famous Ferris wheel, some unique shopping and dining opportunities and a vast amount of parkland to relax and walk. The vibe at Navy Pier is electric, and it's only a short walk away from the Magnificent Mile, which is worth exploring after your visit.

4. Wrigley Field

Chicago is a city of sports fans, and no sports fan’s trip could be complete without visiting Wrigley Field, home of the famous Chicago Cubs. Wrigley Field is an iconic landmark, hosting some historic games since opening more than 100 years ago. It’s worth taking a guided tour of the stadium to see the visiting team's dugout, media room, and more. Just taking a moment to sit in the stands and appreciate the history of the ballpark might make your trip unforgettable!

5. Art Institute of Chicago

Last but not least, any art lover should stop in the Art Institute of Chicago. The museum has one of the vastest collections of art in the country, including works by some of the world's most famous artists like Monet, Van Gogh, and Picasso. There are several exhibits that cover different styles and periods, with a collection of collections covering everything from ancient times, western art past, modern and contemporary works. You can easily spend a day wandering through the exhibits and admiring masterpieces.

Conclusion

There you have it – the ultimate road trip from Addison, Illinois, to Chicago, Illinois. Not only is the drive breathtaking, but our selection of attractions is sure to enhance your experience and make it unforgettable. Don't forget to pack your essentials, stay energized, and plan ahead, so you get the best out of the drive. Whether you're a local on a family outing or taking a quick road trip for fun, these few locations will make your stopover worth your while, So buckle up, and let's hit the ground running – happy trails!