Museums, Parks, and Landmarks to Visit on a Road Trip from Arlington Heights, IL to Greenwood, IN
Are you in need of a fun and educational road trip? Look no further than a journey from Arlington Heights, Illinois to Greenwood, Indiana. This route is full of rich history and exciting destinations that are sure to make for a memorable trip.
Fun fact: Did you know that Illinois and Indiana are two of only four states in the United States that meet at a common point? This means that on this road trip, you can stand in two states at once!
At the halfway point in Rensselaer, Indiana, make sure to check out the Jasper County Historical Society. Here, you can learn about the town's history and see artifacts from the past, including genealogical records, military items, and more.
This road trip is approximately 250 miles and takes about four and a half hours to complete. Along the way, there are numerous museums, parks, and landmarks to stop and visit. Here are the top five places to check out:
- Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum - Springfield, IL At this museum, you can learn about the life and times of Abraham Lincoln. There are exhibits featuring artifacts and documents from his presidency and personal life, as well as a replica of the White House. Don't miss the opportunity to see the iconic stovepipe hat worn by Lincoln himself.
Point of interest recommendation: Grab a bite to eat at Cozy Dog Drive-In, a Route 66 landmark that serves up hot dogs on sticks.
- Indiana Dunes National Park - Porter, IN This park boasts over 15,000 acres of beaches, forests, and sand dunes along Lake Michigan's southern shore. Visitors can swim in the lake, hike through the dunes, and even take a birdwatching tour. It's no wonder this park attracts over 2 million visitors each year.
Point of interest recommendation: Stop by the nearby Barker Mansion, an opulent 19th-century home that was owned by a wealthy industrialist.
- John Dillinger Museum - Crown Point, IN For true crime fans, this museum is a must-visit. It contains artifacts and exhibits detailing the life and crimes of notorious bank robber John Dillinger, who was once held in the Crown Point Jail. See the actual wooden gun he used to escape from prison, among other intriguing items.
Point of interest recommendation: Take a stroll around the charming downtown Crown Point square, where there are shops, cafes, and even a farmers market in the summer.
- Eiteljorg Museum - Indianapolis, IN The Eiteljorg Museum features Western and Native American art and artifacts, including works by famous artists like Georgia O'Keeffe and Remington. There are also exhibits about the lifestyles and cultures of Native American tribes and pioneer settlers.
Point of interest recommendation: Check out the Indianapolis Zoo, which is just a few miles away and has over 3,800 animals on display.
- Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum - Indianapolis, IN Even if you're not a racing enthusiast, this museum is worth a stop due to its fascinating history. Learn about the Indy 500 race and see cars from different eras of the race's history, including the winning car from the very first race in 1911.
Point of interest recommendation: Head downtown to the Canal Walk, a scenic urban waterway that's perfect for a stroll or bike ride.
In conclusion, this road trip from Arlington Heights, Illinois to Greenwood, Indiana is jam-packed with interesting and educational stops. Whether you're a history buff, nature lover, or just looking for a fun excursion, there's something for everyone along this route. So get in the car and hit the road for an adventure you won't soon forget.