The Best Things to Do on a Road Trip from Antioch, Illinois and Londonderry, Vermont

Antioch, Illinois, and Londonderry, Vermont might seem like they're worlds apart, but a road trip between the two can be an amazing adventure. Whether you're traveling with family or friends, the journey offers an array of breathtaking sights, fascinating attractions, and diverse cultures. The trip is approximately 1,000 miles and can take approximately 16 hours, depending on traffic, rest breaks, and detours. If you need a midway stop, Girard, PA, is an excellent option. Known for its wineries, Girard is a quaint town nestled in the heart of Pennsylvania that offers a wide range of experiences.

Top Five Things to Do

1. Go on a Brewery Tour

If you're a beer aficionado, you should take a brewery tour in Rochester, New York. From beer gardens to microbreweries, Rochester has something for every beer lover. The Genesee Brewing Company, for example, has been brewing beer for over 140 years, and visitors can take guided tours of their historic brewery. Visitors can explore the entire property, taste different beers, and learn about the history and process of brewing. Plus, if you're lucky, you might get a sneak peek of the infamous Genesee Brew House.

Interesting Fact: Rochester has a long history in the beer industry and was once home to 22 breweries.

2. Visit Niagara Falls

A visit to Niagara Falls is a must-do on any road trip. Located within driving distance of Rochester, Niagara Falls is a breathtakingly beautiful park filled with natural wonders. The falls are divided into three sections: Horseshoe Falls, American Falls, and the smallest, Bridal Veil Falls. You can visit all three on the same day by taking a boat tour, or you can stroll the park at your leisure. Niagara Falls is also an excellent place to enjoy a picnic with family and friends.

Interesting Fact: Niagara Falls is the collective name for three different waterfalls: Horseshoe Falls, American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls.

3. Explore the White Mountains

New Hampshire's White Mountains is an outdoor enthusiast's paradise. The scenery, wildlife, and adventure opportunities are unmatched in the northeastern part of the country. From hiking trails and alpine slides to waterfalls and wildlife sightings, the White Mountains have it all. The Kancamagus Highway, which cuts through the heart of the White Mountains, is a must-see attraction. This 34.5-mile scenic roadway offers a breathtaking view of the mountains, with several stops along the way to take photos, hike, or just enjoy the natural beauty.

Interesting Fact: The highest peak in the White Mountain is Mount Washington, which is over 6,000 feet above sea level.

4. Visit Ben & Jerry's Factory

No road trip through Vermont would be complete without visiting the iconic Ben & Jerry's factory. The ice cream company was founded in 1978 in a renovated gas station in Vermont by Ben Cohen and Jerry Greenfield. Today, the factory is one of the top tourist destinations in the state. Visitors can take a 30-minute guided tour that includes a brief history of the company, the manufacturing process, and a sample of their mouth-watering ice cream. Don't forget to stop at the scoop shop afterward to savor more flavors!

Interesting Fact: Ben & Jerry's is known for its unusual flavors, such as Liz Lemon, Americone Dream, and Half Baked.

5. Explore Shelburne Museum

Located in Shelburne, Vermont, the Shelburne Museum is worth a stop on any road trip. The museum encompasses 45 acres and includes over 39 buildings that showcase American folk art and design. The collection includes paintings, sculptures, furniture, and quilts, among other artifacts. Visitors can stroll through lovely gardens, ride the historic carousel, or take a horse-drawn carriage ride. With such a diverse collection, the museum is perfect for families who enjoy art, history, and culture.

Interesting Fact: The museum's founder, Electra Havemeyer Webb, began collecting antiques as a hobby and kept collecting until she had amassed over 22,000 objects.

Conclusion

A road trip between Antioch, Illinois, and Londonderry, Vermont, offers an exciting journey filled with stunning scenery, history, and fun experiences. Whether you're into hiking, art, food, or beer, there is always something to enjoy. The journey is around 1,000 miles and can take approximately 16 hours, but the memories created will last a lifetime. Girard, PA, makes an excellent midway stop for travelers who want to stretch their legs and sample some wine. So, pack your bags, grab some snacks, and hit the road for the trip of a lifetime!