Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Aurora, Illinois and Downers Grove, Illinois

Aurora and Downers Grove are two beautiful towns in Illinois that can be the starting point for a long and scenic road trip. The journey will take you through some of the most charming locations in the state, offering spectacular views and endless entertainment options. The halfway point of the trip is Naperville, IL, a vibrant hub of culture, history, and natural beauty. Here are the top five things to do on a road trip from Aurora and Downers Grove, IL.

1. Visit the Morton Arboretum

The Morton Arboretum is a must-visit location for anyone who loves nature and outdoor adventures. This massive, 1,700-acre park is home to thousands of different trees, shrubs, and plants, making it one of the most diverse botanical gardens in the country. Visitors can walk or bike through the park's many trails, explore its many gardens and collections, or go on a guided tour to learn more about the Arboretum's history and significance.

Interesting Fact: The Morton Arboretum is home to some of the oldest and rarest trees in the world, with some specimens dating back over 200 years.

2. Take a Tour of the Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio

Architecture enthusiasts will love the chance to explore the Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio in Oak Park, IL. Here, visitors can see the place where Wright lived and worked for 20 years, designing some of his most famous buildings. The tour includes a look at Wright's architectural achievements, as well as some of his personal belongings and artifacts. Wright's unique vision and style are on full display, making this attraction a must-visit for anyone interested in design and aesthetics.

Interesting Fact: The Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio is where Wright developed his famous "Prairie Style" of architecture, characterized by low-slung roofs, open floor plans, and natural materials.

3. Discover the Art at the Milwaukee Art Museum

The Milwaukee Art Museum is a gem of the Midwest, offering visitors a chance to explore some of the finest artworks from around the world. The museum's collection includes more than 30,000 works of art, ranging from ancient artifacts to contemporary masterpieces. Visitors can take a guided tour or explore the galleries on their own, admiring such works as the museum's collection of German Expressionist paintings, its vast holdings of Decorative Arts, or the contemporary art showcased in the Quadracci Pavilion.

Interesting Fact: The Milwaukee Art Museum is home to one of the largest collections of Haitian art in the world, with hundreds of paintings, sculptures, and other objects on display.

4. Drive on the Great River Road

Those looking for a scenic drive need look no further than the Great River Road, a 3,000-mile-long stretch of highway that runs along the Mississippi River from Minnesota to Louisiana. The Illinois portion of the road is particularly stunning, offering views of bluff-top vistas, charming river towns, and natural marshes and wetlands. The Great River Road is perfect for a leisurely drive or a multi-day road trip, and there are plenty of attractions and landmarks to explore along the way.

Interesting Fact: The Great River Road is the only National Scenic Byway that follows a river for its entire length, giving visitors a unique perspective on the Mississippi's beauty and power.

5. Visit the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum

History buffs will love the chance to explore the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum in Springfield, IL. This state-of-the-art facility offers visitors a chance to learn about Lincoln's life, career, and legacy through a variety of interactive exhibits and displays. Highlights include a replica of Lincoln's boyhood home, an immersive Civil War experience, and a chance to see the actual Gettysburg Address on display.

Interesting Fact: The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library is home to a collection of more than 52,000 books, manuscripts, and other artifacts related to the life and times of the 16th U.S. President.

In conclusion, this road trip from Aurora and Downers Grove, IL, is a perfect way to explore some of the Midwest's most beautiful and historic locations. Visitors can enjoy nature, art, history, and culture, all while taking in some of the most breathtaking views in the country. The trip can be completed in just a few days or stretched out over a longer period, depending on your pace and preference. No matter how you choose to experience this itinerary, one thing is certain: it's a journey you won't forget.