Points of Interest between Arlington Heights, Illinois to Lake Forest, Illinois

picture of Arlington Heights, Illinois

The Best Road Trip From Arlington Heights, Illinois to Lake Forest, Illinois

The journey from Arlington Heights, Illinois to Lake Forest, Illinois is nothing short of a fantastic road trip with numerous scenic routes, natural beauty, and historic landmarks. The best part of this road trip is discovering hidden gems that you may have never explored before. Whether you are planning to spend a day or few hours, you will discover something spectacular around every corner.

So, fasten your seat belts and let's explore the top places to visit when driving from Arlington Heights, Illinois to Lake Forest, Illinois.

Historical Sites

  1. Fort Sheridan Forest Preserve: Located in Highwood, this forest preserve is a treasure trove of historic military architecture, nature trails, and breathtaking views of Lake Michigan. The preserve also has a museum that showcases the history of Fort Sheridan, which was a military base that played a significant role in the Spanish-American War.
  2. Baha'i House of Worship: This temple, located in Wilmette, Illinois, is the largest Baha'i temple in the world and is a magnificent example of modern sacred architecture. Visitors will be awed by the intricate design and the serene views of Lake Michigan from the temple's balconies.
  3. Holocaust Memorial Foundation of Illinois: Located in Skokie, Illinois, this museum honors the memory of those who perished in the Holocaust and teaches visitors about Jewish heritage and culture. The museum features a permanent exhibit that focuses on the events that led to the Holocaust, eyewitness testimony, and personal narratives.

Outdoor Spaces

  1. Ravinia Festival: Located in Highland Park, the Ravinia Festival is the oldest outdoor music festival in the United States. The festival runs during the summer months and features a lineup of renowned classical and contemporary musicians, dancers and choreographers, and theatrical productions.
  2. The Chicago Botanic Garden: Located in Glencoe, the Chicago Botanic Garden spreads across 385 acres, and it's a paradise for nature lovers. Visitors can explore a wide variety of botanical gardens, including a Japanese Garden and a rose garden.
  3. Bristol Renaissance Faire: Located in Kenosha, Wisconsin, the Bristol Renaissance Faire is a family-friendly festival that offers a unique experience of the Renaissance era. Visitors can enjoy live performances, street vendors, artisan crafts, and period-themed games and rides.

Food And Drinks

  1. Union Ale House: Located in Prospect Heights, Union Ale House specializes in craft beers and a wide variety of pub-style food, including burgers, pizzas, and appetizers.
  2. Lou Malnati's Pizzeria: This legendary Chicago-style pizza restaurant, located in Buffalo Grove, is a must-visit. Try their famous "Deep Dish Pizza" which has been the talk of the town for decades.
  3. Inovasi: Located in Lake Bluff, Inovasi is a contemporary American restaurant featuring seasonal, locally sourced ingredients and an extensive wine list. The restaurant overlooks Market Square and provides a relaxed and sophisticated atmosphere to enjoy good food and drinks.

Art And Culture

  1. The Art Center Highland Park: Located in Highland Park, The Art Center Highland Park is an art gallery and educational organization that promotes visual arts through classes, exhibits, and workshops. Visitors can also shop for homemade art pieces in the gallery store.
  2. The Mitchell Museum of the American Indian: Located in Evanston, The Mitchell Museum of the American Indian is a museum dedicated to the art, history, and culture of Native American tribes and their contributions to modern society. The museum has an extensive collection of artifacts, including pottery, jewelry, and textiles.
  3. New Deal Cafe: Located in Lake Bluff, the New Deal Cafe is an Art Deco-styled cafe that pays tribute to the 1920s era. The cafe has a unique decor that will transport you back in time and is a great place to enjoy a cup of coffee and a dessert.

Conclusion

Traversing from Arlington Heights to Lake Forest is not only a fun road trip but also an opportunity to explore the rich culture, food, and natural beauty of the region. These are some of the top places that you should definitely include in your itinerary. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your car keys, and embark on this scenic journey that's sure to leave you with unforgettable memories!