The Ultimate Road Trip: Top Places to See When Driving From Algonquin, Illinois to Mount Lebanon, Pennsylvania
Getting on the road is always exciting, but when you are planning to visit new gorgeous places, the thrill just multiplies. Driving from Algonquin, Illinois to Mount Lebanon, Pennsylvania, is an excellent road trip that you can’t miss. The route is abundant with countless scenic roads, small towns, state parks, and historical sites that will leave you in awe.
In this blog post, we are going to break down the best places to visit in this scenic drive. Let's get started!
First Stop: Rockford, Illinois
Rockford is the largest city in the Illinois region, and it's just an hour away from Algonquin. It is the perfect first stop on your road trip, and there are a few things you need to see here.
Anderson Japanese Gardens - If you want a peaceful and serene environment, head to Anderson Japanese gardens, a tranquil oasis within the city. The spot is a fusion of authentic Japanese landscaping elements and inspirations from other cultures worldwide.
Nicholas Conservatory and Gardens - Another fantastic spot in Rockford is the Nicholas Conservatory and Gardens. The place features various species of plants in several state-of-the-art display gardens and exhibits with free entry for kids under the age of 5.
Second Stop: South Bend, Indiana
South Bend is a famous college town that's home to the University of Notre Dame. It's about 140 miles from Rockford. This charming city is home to various landmarks and must-see highlights.
Notre Dame Basilica - This iconic Basilica is arguably the most beautiful college church in America. The Basilica features a remarkable chapel with 44 stained glass windows, gorgeous paintings, and countless Catholic relic collections.
South Bend Chocolate Company - The South Bend Chocolate Company should be your go-to spot for a yummy road trip snack. The establishment is known for its premium dark, milk, and white chocolate treats. Visitors can also have a good time at the store's museum or learn how to make their chocolate.
Third Stop: Marblehead, Ohio
Marblehead, an unincorporated community in Ohio's Ottawa County, is appropriately named, as it has incredible lakeshore marble cliffs. The town is approximately 260 miles from South Bend. If you love breathtaking natural scenery, Marblehead won't disappoint you.
Marblehead Lighthouse -This lighthouse, which is built from Indiana limestone, is situated on a rocky plateau and extends over the rough edges of Lake Erie. It was the first lighthouse built on the Great Lakes and, it has stood the test of time.
Kelleys Island - Kelleys Island is one of the sailing destinations location in the Great Lakes region, and it's only a short ferry ride from Marblehead. Tourists may hike trails, rent bikes, swim, or fish in the lake.
Fourth Stop: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Pittsburgh is the last stop before Mount Lebanon, and it's worth visiting when driving through Pennsylvania. Pittsburgh is known for its bridges, relaxed vibe, and steel industry legacy.
Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens - It's an attraction you must not miss in Pittsburgh. The place has 14 unique rooms filled with local and exotic flora, and the picturesque glass dome greenhouse is worth a visit.
Mount Washington - Mount Washington offers a stunning view of the Pittsburgh skyline and is a must-see spot in the city. You can easily access Mount Washington by car or taking an old fashioned incline railway ride to reach the summit.
Final Stop: Mount Lebanon, Pennsylvania!
Mount Lebanon is a borough located in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, and is our final stop on this road trip. It's one of the best suburbs in the US, with walkable tree-lined streets and a friendly, community-driven vibe.
- The Galleria of Mt Lebanon - The galleria mall is a great place to grab some souvenirs before heading out. It has over 60 stores in different sizes and specialty, ranging from fashion, artworks, and toys.
In conclusion, this road trip will provide you with unforgettable experiences and make the memories that will last a lifetime. You will explore different unique destinations, from natural wonders to famous landmarks, making this journey worth your time and effort. Don’t hesitate to plan your trip today, it’s a unique opportunity to discover the beauty of the Middle East and all the wonderful places that come along!