The Best of Barrington, Illinois to Gurnee, Illinois: Top Places to Visit When Driving

Are you looking for a road trip filled with excitement and adventure? Then pack up your car, grab your map, and join us on a ride from Barrington, Illinois to Gurnee, Illinois. This route is a favorite for locals and tourists alike, passing through some of the most beautiful countryside in the Midwest. Along the way, you'll discover a plethora of attractions, ranging from natural wonders to historical monuments, that will appeal to any taste. Without further ado, let's hit the road and explore the top places to see when driving from Barrington, Illinois to Gurnee, Illinois.

The Welcoming Town of Long Grove, Illinois

Our first stop on this adventure through the Midwest is the charming little town of Long Grove, Illinois. Known for its historic architecture, locally-owned boutiques, and unique events, this cute town is an art lover's paradise. Guests can browse in old-fashioned candy shops, explore an extensive range of antique shops, or indulge in the famous sweet custard of Ma & Pa's Candy. One cannot miss the significance of the Long Grove Covered Bridge, built-in 1906, it is the only covered bridge in Illinois open to vehicular traffic.

Relax and Refresh at The Lake County Forest Preserve

Next, take a moment to appreciate the natural beauty of the Lake County Forest Preserve. This pristine space offers an extensive network of hiking, biking, and horseback riding paths, as well as enchanting landscapes for fishing and boating. The Lakewood Forest Preserve is the largest in Lake County and is home to the world-famous Edward L. Ryerson Conservation Trail. Here, the visitors can catch glimpses of wildlife, including deer and a great variety of bird species. For some entertainment, witness the annual Lake County Forest Preserve food truck festival that attracts a great gathering of locals and visitors alike.

A Trip to the Historic Waukegan, Illinois

Up next, we have the historic town of Waukegan, Illinois. Apart from being the birthplace of entertainer Jack Benny, Waukegan is steeped in history, including the Waukegan Historical Society and Museum. Visitors can explore the Waukegan Public Library and its unique collections, including early American glass and artifacts. Also, the annual Waukegan Harbor Day attracts some of the biggest crowds in the summer season, featuring live music, food, and a craft fair.

The Enchanting Six Flags Great America

No trip to Gurnee, Illinois, is complete without a visit to the iconic Six Flags Great America theme park. This destination is ideal for families seeking thrills or just a break from the mundane. The park is home to America's largest water park, Hurricane Harbor, with plenty of attractions for all ages, including the lazy river and Riptide Bay, giving the visitors a chance to beat the summer heat. The Six Flags Carnival Games is also a popular attraction, apart from the classic coasters, with prize-winning tables available to test the visitor's skills.

A Shopper's Paradise: Gurnee Mills

Last but not least, on our route to Gurnee, don't forget to stop by Gurnee Mills. This shopping destination offers a unique shopping experience with over 200 enticing stores and retailers, including Nike, Macy's, and Bass Pro Shops. Shoppers can spend the day browsing trendy stores and boutiques and refueling with delicious food options, such as Rainforest Cafe and Buffalo Wild Wings. This popular shopping destination also hosts great seasonal events, such as Halloween festivities and the Annual Santa Arrival.

Conclusion

Our journey from Barrington, Illinois to Gurnee, Illinois, was filled with fun activities, historic landmarks, natural wonders, and much more. Between the charming town of Long Grove, the tranquil Lake County Forest Preserve, the historic Waukegan, the thrilling Six Flags Great America, and the ever-enticing Gurnee Mill Mall, this road trip has it all. So, gear up, and prepare yourself to have a memorable time filled with entertainment, relaxation, and adventure. Illinois is waiting for you.