Top Places to See When Driving From Aurora, Illinois to Bloomington, Indiana

Are you planning a road trip from Aurora, Illinois to Bloomington, Indiana? If you are, you're in for a treat! Along the way, you'll find picturesque landscapes, charming towns, and exciting attractions. Whether you're traveling for pleasure or business, this route offers plenty of opportunities to explore. Here are some of the top places to see on your drive.

Beautiful State Parks

One of the highlights of this road trip is the natural beauty of the state parks along the way. Here are two worth visiting:

Starved Rock State Park

Located in Utica, Illinois, Starved Rock State Park is a stunning natural wonder. The park features towering bluffs that offer breathtaking views of the Illinois River, along with more than 13 miles of hiking trails through scenic canyons. Be sure to stop at the Visitor Center for information on the park's geology and wildlife.

Turkey Run State Park

Indiana's Turkey Run State Park is another must-see on this drive. This park is known for its rugged sandstone gorges, covered bridges, and shaded trails. If you're feeling adventurous, take on the suspension bridge that spans Sugar Creek. It's a thrilling way to experience the park's natural splendor.

Quaint Towns and Villages

Along the way, you'll also find some charming small towns and picturesque villages. These are great places to stop and stretch your legs, grab a bite to eat, or explore local shops and attractions. Here are three of the best:

Galena, Illinois

Galena is a historic town located on the banks of the Mississippi River. The town's downtown area is home to more than 100 specialty shops, art galleries, and restaurants. Don't miss the chance to tour the Ulysses S. Grant Home, where the Civil War general and former president lived with his family from 1865 to 1880.

Lafayette, Indiana

Lafayette is a bustling college town that offers a mix of cultural and historical attractions. Visit the Tippecanoe County Courthouse, a stunning example of Beaux-Arts architecture, or explore the Purdue University campus. If you're looking for a unique shopping experience, check out the Lafayette Farmers Market, which is open year-round.

Nashville, Indiana

Nashville is a quaint village known for its scenic beauty and artist community. The village is home to more than 200 specialty shops, art galleries, and restaurants. Be sure to check out the Brown County State Park, one of Indiana's most popular parks. The park offers miles of hiking trails, fishing, and horseback riding.

Exciting Attractions

Finally, there are plenty of exciting attractions along the way to keep you entertained. Here are two of the best:

Indianapolis Motor Speedway

If you're a racing fan, the Indianapolis Motor Speedway is a must-see. The speedway hosts the famous Indianapolis 500 race, as well as NASCAR and other motorsport events. Take a tour of the track, visit the Hall of Fame Museum, or catch a race if you're lucky enough to be there during race season.

Children's Museum of Indianapolis

The Children's Museum of Indianapolis is one of the largest and most visited children's museums in the world. The museum features interactive exhibits on science, history, culture, and more. Be sure to check out the Dinosphere exhibit, which showcases the museum's extensive collection of dinosaur fossils and replicas.

Conclusion

As you can see, there are plenty of top places to see when driving from Aurora, Illinois, to Bloomington, Indiana. From natural wonders to charming towns and exciting attractions, this road trip offers something for everyone. So, pack your bags, hit the road, and be prepared for an unforgettable adventure.