Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Arlington Heights, Illinois and Wonder Lake, Illinois

The road trip from Arlington Heights to Wonder Lake is a scenic journey that offers a plethora of activities, making it perfect for families or solo adventurers. With a distance of approximately 40 miles, it takes just over an hour to complete one way. The route is dotted with attractions, with McHenry, IL, serving as the midway point. Each point of interest offers something unique and exciting, from hiking trails to fascinating museums. Here are the top five things to do on a road trip from Arlington Heights, Illinois, to Wonder Lake, Illinois.

1. Moraine Hills State Park

Moraine Hills State Park is an excellent destination for nature enthusiasts. The park is popular for hiking, fishing, boating on Lake Defiance, and picnicking. The park has over ten miles of hiking trails, winding through woodlands, wetlands, and prairie. Visitors can also kayak or canoe on the lake with their equipment or rent one at the concessionaires. Moraine Hills State Park is ideal for outdoor lovers and anyone seeking to connect with nature.

Interesting fact: The park spans over 800 acres of land and is home to a diverse wildlife population, including deer, beavers, and bald eagles.

2. Volo Auto Museum

Car enthusiasts and history buffs should take a trip to Volo Auto Museum. The museum houses over 33 exhibits, including classic cars, military vehicles, and Hollywood movie cars such as the Batmobile and the DeLorean time machine from the Back to the Future trilogy. Visitors can also watch a classic car show or a live antique mechanical music performance. The Volo Auto Museum is a great place to indulge in some nostalgia and learn about America's automotive history.

Interesting fact: The museum houses one of the largest collections of presidential limousines and company cars, including John F. Kennedy's 1961 Lincoln Continental X-100.

3. McHenry Outdoor Theater

The McHenry Outdoor Theater is a classic drive-in theater experience, showcasing the latest blockbuster films under the stars. In operation since 1949, the McHenry Outdoor Theater is one of the last drive-ins still standing in Illinois. Visitors can cozy up in their cars, tune in to the movie's audio through their car radios, and grab some popcorn from the snack bar. The McHenry Outdoor Theater is the perfect spot for an evening of old-school entertainment.

Interesting fact: The McHenry Outdoor Theater accommodates over 1,000 cars, making it one of the biggest outdoor theaters in the country.

4. Illinois Railway Museum

The Illinois Railway Museum is a fascinating attraction for train lovers. The museum boasts of over 450 pieces of rolling stock, including steam locomotives, diesel locomotives, and passenger cars, among others. Visitors can take a ride on one of the historic trains or trolleys. The museum also offers guided tours and educational programs for people of all ages, making it an educational and entertaining experience.

Interesting fact: The Illinois Railway Museum houses the largest collection of historic railway equipment in North America.

5. Richardson Adventure Farm

The Richardson Adventure Farm is an attraction that promises a fun-filled day for families and outdoor enthusiasts. The farm boasts of the World's Largest Corn Maze, measuring over 33 acres, and visitors can try navigating the maze. The farm also has ziplines, a jumping pillow, slide mountain, and pedal carts, among other activities. During the fall season, visitors can pick their pumpkins or take a wagon ride to the apple orchard. The Richardson Adventure Farm is a must-visit attraction for a day of adventure.

Interesting fact: The World's Largest Corn Maze design changes every year and can take up to 4-5 months of planning and carving.

In conclusion, embarking on a road trip from Arlington Heights to Wonder Lake is a fantastic way to spend a weekend. The 89-mile drive round trip takes just over two hours and immerses you in natural beauty and fascinating attractions. Whether it's a family trip or a solo adventure, the route offers something for everyone. From the World's Largest Corn Maze to presidential limousines to classic drive-in theaters, the road trip from Arlington Heights, Illinois, to Wonder Lake, Illinois, is an adventure worth taking.