The Ultimate Road Trip: Top Places to See When Driving From Aurora, Illinois to Bourbonnais, Illinois

If you are looking for an incredible road trip destination, then look no further than Aurora, Illinois, and Bourbonnais, Illinois. These two cities, located in the heart of the Midwest, have plenty to offer visitors of all interests. The drive between the two cities is a scenic and exciting route that will take you through beautiful countryside and charming towns. In this blog post, we will cover the top places to see when driving from Aurora to Bourbonnais. So buckle up, and let's hit the road!

1. Phillips Park - Aurora, IL

The drive from Aurora to Bourbonnais is only about an hour, but the first stop you should make is Phillips Park. This sprawling park is located in the heart of Aurora and is one of the city's most popular attractions. The park offers plenty of activities, including fishing, boating, hiking, and picnicking, just to name a few.

One of the top attractions at Phillips Park is its zoo. Visitors can see a wide range of animals, including bald eagles, cougars, and white-tailed deer. There is also a petting zoo where you can interact with smaller animals like goats and lambs. The park also boasts a golf course and a skate park.

2. Raging Waves Waterpark - Yorkville, IL

After enjoying the scenery and fun at Phillips Park, head to Yorkville, IL, where you will find Raging Waves Waterpark. This incredible water park is the largest in Illinois and offers 45 acres of water fun. Raging Waves features over 15 waterslides, a wave pool, a lazy river, and an enormous children's area. The park is open from Memorial Day to Labor Day.

One of the top attractions at Raging Waves is their Boomerang ride. This slide will take you up one side and then send you down the other, giving you the feeling of riding a boomerang. There is also a seven-story drop slide called the Cyclone, which is perfect for thrill-seekers.

3. Starved Rock State Park - Oglesby, IL

As you continue your road trip towards Bourbonnais, take a detour to Starved Rock State Park in Oglesby, IL. This beautiful state park is one of Illinois's top tourist destinations for good reason. Starved Rock offers breathtaking views of the Illinois River and its many canyons, waterfalls, and sandstone formations.

Visitors to the park can enjoy hiking, picnicking, and fishing. The park also features a lodge where you can stay overnight and dine in the restaurant. If you are visiting during the winter months, be sure to check out the park's winter activities, including ice skating, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing.

4. Kankakee River State Park - Bourbonnais, IL

As you approach Bourbonnais, your final destination, be sure to stop at Kankakee River State Park. This state park features over 4,000 acres of forest, prairie, and wetlands. The Kankakee River runs through the park and offers plenty of opportunities for boating, fishing, and swimming.

One of the top attractions at Kankakee River State Park is the seven-mile trail that runs along the river. This trail is perfect for hiking, biking, and nature lovers. The park also features picnic areas, campsites, and cabins if you want to spend the night.

5. Exploration Station - Bourbonnais, IL

Last but not least, when you arrive in Bourbonnais, head to the Exploration Station. This children's museum features over 10,000 square feet of interactive exhibits that are both fun and educational. The museum's exhibits cover a wide range of topics, including science, history, and art.

One of the top attractions at the Exploration Station is the Kidzeum, which is designed specifically for younger children. Here, kids can learn about different professions, including piloting an airplane, working in a grocery store, and serving in a restaurant. There is also an Outdoor Science Park, where visitors can explore nature and learn about the environment.

Conclusion

In conclusion, driving from Aurora, Illinois to Bourbonnais, Illinois is an incredible road trip that offers a wide variety of activities and attractions. From beautiful parks and nature preserves to waterparks and children's museums, there is something for everyone along the way. Whether you're traveling with friends, family, or solo, this road trip is sure to be an unforgettable adventure.