Top Places to See When Driving From Batavia, Illinois to DeKalb, Illinois

Driving from Batavia, Illinois to DeKalb, Illinois is a great experience that takes you through some very scenic routes in the state. The drive takes about 45 minutes and covers around 33 miles of beautiful countryside and small towns. Along the way, there are many places to see and things to do. In this blog post, we will outline the top places you should see while making this drive.

Are you ready for a road trip? Let's go!

1. Geneva, Illinois

Start your trip off by driving through the charming town of Geneva, located only 6 miles south of Batavia. Geneva is famous for its historic downtown, which is lined with unique shops, restaurants, and boutiques. One must-visit spot is the Little Traveler, a Victorian-style mansion known for its charming holiday decorations and upscale shopping. Geneva also has several parks with stunning views of the Fox River, including Island Park, where visitors can enjoy hiking trails, picnic areas, and scenic vistas.

2. NIU Art Museum

Located in DeKalb, the Northern Illinois University Art Museum is a hidden gem that's well worth a visit. The museum houses a diverse collection of over 4,000 works of art, including contemporary art, ceramics, paintings, and sculptures. The museum also hosts several rotating exhibitions throughout the year, so there is always something new to see.

3. Glacial Park Conservation Area

Just a short drive from DeKalb, the Glacial Park Conservation Area is a stunning place to visit for nature lovers. The park features 3,400 acres of rolling hills, meandering streams, and wildlife habitats. The park is home to several rare species of plants and animals, including sandhill cranes, bald eagles, and gray wolves. Visitors can enjoy hiking and biking trails, fishing areas, and stunning views of the park's landscapes.

4. Egyptian Theatre

Located in downtown DeKalb, the Egyptian Theatre is a historic landmark known for its stunning architecture and world-class entertainment. The theatre first opened in 1929 and has hosted some of the biggest names in entertainment, including Duke Ellington, Abbott and Costello, and Louis Armstrong. The theatre still hosts a variety of live performances today, including plays, concerts, and movie screenings.

5. Ellwood House Museum

Nestled in the heart of DeKalb, the Ellwood House Museum is a beautiful historic home that has been restored to its original glory. The house was built in 1879 and was home to the Ellwood family for several generations. Today, visitors can take a guided tour of the house, which is filled with stunning period furniture, intricate woodwork, and beautiful artwork. The museum also has several galleries that showcase the history of DeKalb and the surrounding area.

Conclusion

Driving from Batavia to DeKalb is a great way to enjoy some beautiful scenery and explore some historic towns in Illinois. With so many great places to visit along the way, you're sure to find something that suits your interests and takes your breath away. Whether you're a nature lover, history buff, or art enthusiast, there's something for everyone on this drive. We hope this blog post inspires you to hit the road and explore all the great things this region has to offer!