Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Bangor, Wisconsin and Joliet, Illinois

Have you ever taken a road trip and felt like the only thing to look forward to is reaching your final destination? Well, a drive from Bangor, Wisconsin to Joliet, Illinois doesn't have to be boring! There are several unexpected places to stop along the way that will make you want to add more stops to your itinerary. The drive will take approximately five hours and 30 minutes, roughly 300 miles. Here are five surprising places to stop at on this quintessential Midwestern drive.

Halfway Point: Milton, WI

Before we begin with the list, it's important to highlight the halfway point for this drive - Milton, WI. This charming small town is seven miles north of Janesville and has a population of roughly 5,500 residents. It's filled with historical charm; the North Goodrich Park features an 1800's log cabin that's been restored and can be toured. Visit the downtown area for locally-owned shops, restaurants, and beautiful architecture.

1. The House on the Rock, Spring Green, WI

The House on the Rock is a caravan of oddities and wonders that is divided into multiple exhibits. The attraction features the world's largest carousel and the world's longest indoor whale sculpture, to name just a few. Its unique collections of automated music machines, dollhouses, and furnishings, as well as art, sculptures, and stained glass, will leave you in awe. The House on the Rock is like nothing you have ever seen before. Visitors recommend trying the grilled cheese sandwich with crispy bacon at the on-site cafe.

2. Cowboys and Astronauts, Chicago, IL

Cowboys and Astronauts is a modern, design-conscious boutique in the heart of Chicago's Andersonville neighborhood. They curate men's clothing, accessories, and home goods that are American-made or made by independent brands based in the U.S. or abroad. The store's style is an elegant mix of minimalist vibes with a touch of the Wild West, hence the name Cowboys and Astronauts. Visitors should take a peek inside the boutique for unique souvenirs to take back home.

3. Starved Rock State Park, Oglesby, IL

Starved Rock State Park is the crown jewel of the Illinois State Park System. The park is named after the 125-foot bluff which overlooks the Illinois River, providing picturesque views. The park is full of natural beauty, with 13 miles of well-marked trails, waterfalls, canyons, and wildlife. The park offers boat tours, camping, and fishing. The park's Lodge Restaurant offers classic American cuisine in a cozy dining atmosphere. The buffalo chicken sandwich is a fan favorite.

4. Maple Leaf Cheese & Chocolate Haus, New Glarus, WI

Maple Leaf Cheese & Chocolate Haus is a must-stop destination located in the quaint Swiss town of New Glarus. The shop has been in business since 1970 and offers over 200 varieties of Wisconsin cheese to choose from. Sample everything from squeaky cheese curds to aged cheddar. In-house fudge is hand-crafted in copper pots, and the result is nothing short of incredible. Visitors recommend the Cow Pie candy, a mixture of caramel, nuts, and chocolate, and the White Chocolate Blueberry Cheesecake fudge.

5. Anderson Japanese Gardens, Rockford, IL

The Anderson Japanese Gardens is a 12-acre garden full of Japanese-style landscaping, serene waterfalls, and koi ponds. The gardens are known for the traditional Japanese Tea House, which was designed to provide a peaceful retreat for those who visit. Visitors can also browse through the on-site garden store to buy Japanese household goods, art, and decorations. For those hungry after a peaceful afternoon, visitors recommend the ginger pork or pot stickers at the on-site restaurant.

Conclusion

The road trip from Bangor, Wisconsin to Joliet, Illinois is not just a drive to a final destination. With unique stops such as The House on the Rock and Anderson Japanese Gardens, visitors can make their journey the destination. From cheese to candy, to beautiful gardens and waterfalls, to fashion and design, the drive is full of unexpected enthusiasm and excitement. So, rev up the car and hit the road for an unforgettable journey full of adventure and Midwestern charm.