The Ultimate Road Trip: Top Places to See When Driving From Arlington Heights to Park Ridge, Illinois
Have you ever wanted to hit the open road and explore a new part of your state? Well, there’s no better way to do it than to take a road trip. Exploring the hidden gems of Illinois is sure to be a rewarding experience, and driving to Park Ridge from Arlington Heights is a perfect place to start.
From charming towns to scenic outdoor escapes, here are the top places to see when driving from Arlington Heights, Illinois to Park Ridge, Illinois.
Exploring Des Plaines
Des Plaines is a charming town to visit when on your way to Park Ridge. It is known for its lovely downtown area with restaurants, local shops and parks. One of the must-visit place in Des Plaines is the Lake Park. It features a beautiful lakefront view, perfect for a picnic and fishing. The park is surrounded by a running and walking path that is ideal for nature lovers. Apart from Lake Park, you can head to the Des Plaines History Center and visit its museum to learn more about the history of this town.
The Gorgeous Garden of Morton Arboretum
Morton Arboretum is a top-rated botanical garden in Lisle, Illinois. It offers various activities such as hiking, biking, bird watching and garden explorations. One of the biggest attractions of Morton Arboretum is the Children's Garden. The Children's Garden provides a whole new level of fun and learning experiences that kids and kids-at-heart will surely enjoy. It features interactive exhibits and tree houses that are sure to bring smiles to everyone’s face. You can also take a stroll around its 16 miles of hiking and biking trails while admiring more than 222,000 plants from all over the world.
Shopping at Oakbrook Center
Oak Brook Center is a shopping mall located in Oak Brook, Illinois. The upscale shopping center features more than 150 shops, including high-end stores like Neiman Marcus, Tiffany & Co. and Louis Vuitton. But apart from shopping, the mall also offers unique dining experience and entertainment that will keep you busy for hours. Their outdoor cafes and restaurants add to the mall's beauty, with open-air settings that provide a relaxing ambiance.
Marveling at The BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir
The BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir is a Hindu temple in Bartlett, Illinois. It is the largest traditional Hindu temple in the United States and features intricate carvings and architecture that is sure to leave you awestruck. The mandir is open to visitors daily, and guided tours are available to learn more about the temple and Hinduism. Visiting the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir is like taking a trip to India without leaving Illinois.
Hiking at the Emily Oaks Nature Center
The Emily Oaks Nature Center is a peaceful oasis located in Skokie, Illinois. The center houses wildlife exhibits, nature trails, and interactive exhibits that promote environmental education. It is a great place for hiking, bird watching, and nature photography. The Emily Oaks Nature Center also features a sensory garden, which is perfect for families with young children. It’s a haven for nature lovers who want to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
Conclusion
Driving from Arlington Heights to Park Ridge, Illinois, offers more than just a way to get from point A to point B. With so many unique places to visit and things to do, your road trip is sure to be a unique and memorable experience. From the lovely town of Des Plaines to the stunning BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, there's something for everyone. So, put on your seatbelt, hit the road, and start discovering the beautiful state of Illinois.