The Ultimate Road Trip: Exploring The Best Of Illinois By Car
Driving from Arlington Heights, Illinois to Bloomington, Illinois promises to be a thrilling and breathtaking experience. The breathtaking scenery, fascinating landmarks, and numerous must-visit attractions en route make this drive more than just a mere trip. There's no need to rush as you drive through the state's heartland - taking it slow, stopping at a few quaint towns, and enjoying its hidden gems should form part of the itinerary. Arm yourself with comfortable shoes and soak in the ultimate road trip adventure. Here are the top places to see while driving from Arlington Heights, Illinois to Bloomington, Illinois:
1. Stop By Peoria's River Front
The drive from Arlington Heights to Peoria will take about two hours and cover 140 miles. The journey to Peoria promises to be a fun and exciting experience. Peoria's Riverfront district located along the Illinois River is undoubtedly the crown jewel of Peoria. It features acres of parkland, several restaurants, breweries, and cafes, all set against the backdrop of the iconic Murray Baker Bridge. If you are looking for an adrenaline rush, take a scenic cruise on the Spirit of Peoria riverboat or soar high above the river on a Peoria Segway tour. Also, you could grab the opportunity to explore the city's thriving arts and cultural scene by attending a show at the Peoria Civic Center or visiting the Peoria Riverfront Museum.
2. Visit The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum in Springfield
The road trip from Peoria to Springfield covers a distance of about 72 miles, and the drive takes approximately one hour. Springfield is the birthplace of Abraham Lincoln, and it's widely considered the most important city in Illinois history. A trip to Springfield is not complete without a visit to the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum. The museum has several fascinating galleries with exhibits that showcase Lincoln's presidency and his personal life.
3. Explore The Scenic Drive on Route 66
From Springfield, take a detour to the iconic Route 66, which will lead you through the heart of Illinois. The stretch between Springfield and Bloomington is an approximately 56 miles road trip that promises breathtaking scenery. Take time to stop at the quirky towns of Atlanta and Lincoln, and enjoy the ultimate Route 66 vibe. Step back in time and snap a few pictures of the vintage Route 66 architecture along the way.
4. Experience The Unforgettable Bloomington–Normal Area
The final leg of the road trip towards Bloomington – Normal area is a short 20-minute drive from Lincoln and covers a distance of 29 miles. Bloomington – Normal area not only boasts fantastic shopping, dining, and recreation but also is home to diverse parks, lakes, and natural areas. Some must-visit attractions include the Miller Park Zoo, a 33-acre zoo that is home to over 200 animals representing about 90 species; Anderson Japanese Gardens, a serene and tranquil space featuring an impressive collection of Japanese stone lanterns, waterfalls, and streams; David Davis Mansion State Historic Site, a beautifully restored and preserved mansion belonged to the Supreme Court justice, David Davis.
5. Tour The Champaign County, Urbana-Champaign, and Danville Area
After exploring the Bloomington-Normal area, take a 40-minute journey to Champaign County. It covers 52 miles of scenic drive promenade. The Champaign County, Urbana-Champaign, and Danville Area is full of historical sites, stimulating museums, unique shops, and a variety of dining experiences that are sure to satisfy your appetite. Make sure to visit Downtown Champaign that offers an array of delightful shops and boutiques. The University of Illinois campus displays commanding architecture, the perfect opportunity to snap some photographs. If you love history, the Vermilion County Museum would catch your attention, as it has an impressive collection of artifacts that tell the story of the county's past with a glimpse of Abraham Lincoln's life.
Conclusion
Driving from Arlington Heights, Illinois to Bloomington, Illinois promises to be an unforgettable experience, with so much to see and do in between. This road trip would provide a perfect opportunity to disconnect from everyday life, recharge, and reconnect with nature, explore history and culture. Grab your keys and embark on this fantastic adventure today.