Museums, Parks, and Landmarks to Visit on a Road Trip from Aurora, Illinois to Quincy, Michigan
Are you planning a road trip from Aurora, Illinois to Quincy, Michigan? Here are some museums, parks, and landmarks to visit along the way.
Did you know that the distance between Aurora, Illinois and Quincy, Michigan is approximately 290 miles?
At the halfway point, you will reach New Carlisle, IN, a charming town with a population of just over 1,800 residents. Known for its historic downtown district, you can visit the New Carlisle Downtown Historic District and marvel at the architecture of the buildings from the late 1800s and early 1900s.
The estimated time of travel for this trip is about 4 hours, considering stops along the way. This is a perfect route for a weekend getaway or a short vacation.
Top Five Places to Visit
- Morton Arboretum (Lisle, IL)
If you're a nature lover, Morton Arboretum is the place to visit. This beautifully manicured 1,700-acre outdoor museum showcases collections of trees from around the world. The highlight of this stop is the Illumination exhibit where the trees are lit up with colored lights.
Point of Interest: Don't forget to stop by the Visitor Center to pick up a map and learn more about the Arboretum's history.
- John Deere Pavilion (Moline, IL)
The John Deere Pavilion is a must-see for anyone who loves tractors or agriculture. This 14,000-square-foot exhibit showcases the history of John Deere, from plows to combines. You can see tractors from the 1800s up to modern-day equipment.
Point of Interest: Take a selfie with the 38-ton 9600 Combine Harvester and make your Instagram followers envious.
- Indiana Dunes National Park (Porter, IN)
The Indiana Dunes National Park is the perfect stop for hiking and outdoor enthusiasts. With over 15 miles of sandy beaches and 50 miles of trails, there is something for everyone. You can go hiking, bird-watching, beachcombing, or just relax on the beach.
Point of Interest: Check out the incredible sand dunes that give the park its name. Some are over 200 feet tall.
- Silver Beach Carousel (St. Joseph, MI)
The Silver Beach Carousel is a restored 1910 carousel that features 44 hand-carved horses. This ride is perfect for families with young children or anyone who loves nostalgia.
Point of Interest: After your ride, visit the Curious Kids' Museum and the Discovery Zone for an interactive learning experience for kids.
- Fort Custer State Recreation Area (Augusta, MI)
Fort Custer is a 3,033-acre park with three lakes, four campgrounds, and over 25 miles of trails. You can fish, swim, boat, bike, hike, or just relax in nature. This park is perfect for anyone who loves the outdoors.
Point of Interest: Don't miss the Kalamazoo River Overlook, which provides a breathtaking view of the river.
Conclusion
A road trip from Aurora, Illinois to Quincy, Michigan is a great way to spend a weekend or short vacation. Along the way, you can visit museums, parks, and landmarks that are sure to keep you entertained and educated. This 290-mile trip takes about four hours, not counting stops along the way. So pack your bags, grab your maps, and hit the road!