Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Belleville, IL to Joliet, IL

Have you ever taken a spontaneous road trip where you drove aimlessly with no real plan or destination in mind? Sometimes, those kinds of journeys can lead to the most unexpected and delightful discoveries. If you're looking for a new adventure to embark on, consider driving from Belleville, Illinois to Joliet, Illinois. This route will take you through the heart of Illinois, and it's a scenic road trip that offers plenty of opportunities to stop and explore some hidden gems. It's a 200-mile drive that takes about three hours, without factoring in stops.

The Halfway Point: Lincoln, IL

As you're driving from Belleville to Joliet, the halfway point is Lincoln, Illinois, a charming little town with a population of just over 14,000 people. Lincoln is named after Abraham Lincoln, who served as a lawyer and legislator in the area in the 1800s, and it's known for its rich history and beautiful architecture.

1. The Mill on Route 66, Lincoln, IL

One of the must-visit places in Lincoln is The Mill on Route 66, a historic restaurant that serves up some of the best food in the area. The building itself is a sight to behold, with a giant windmill on top that has been a landmark in town for over 75 years. Inside, you'll find a cozy atmosphere with old-fashioned décor and a friendly staff. The menu features classic American dishes like burgers, sandwiches, and salads, as well as some local favorites like fried catfish and pork tenderloin. Be sure to try their famous horseshoe sandwich, a regional specialty made with Texas toast, a meat of your choice, crispy French fries, and a creamy cheese sauce.

2. Lincoln Heritage Museum, Lincoln, IL

If you're a history buff, you won't want to miss the Lincoln Heritage Museum in Lincoln. This museum is dedicated to the life and legacy of Abraham Lincoln and features a variety of exhibits and artifacts related to his presidency. You'll see everything from original campaign materials to personal items that belonged to Lincoln himself, and you'll learn about his role in shaping American history. It's a fascinating and educational experience that's perfect for adults and kids alike.

3. Route 66 Diner, Springfield, IL

If you're craving classic diner food, make a quick pit stop at Route 66 Diner in Springfield, Illinois (a bit off the beaten path, but well worth it). This retro-style restaurant serves up hearty breakfast dishes like pancakes, waffles, and omelets, as well as classic burgers and sandwiches for lunch. But the real star of the show is the homemade pie, which comes in a variety of flavors like cherry, apple, and pecan. Be sure to grab a slice (or a whole pie) to go!

4. Wildlife Prairie Park, Hanna City, IL

About 30 miles north of Joliet is Hanna City, Illinois, where you'll find the Wildlife Prairie Park. This 2,000-acre park is home to a wide variety of native animals, including bison, wolves, cougars, and bears. You can explore the park on foot or by bike, take a guided tram tour, or even zipline above the animal enclosures. It's a unique and memorable experience that's great for families or nature lovers.

5. Wilton Candy Kitchen, Wilton, IA

Ok, this one is actually over the border into Iowa, but it's so good that we had to include it. Wilton Candy Kitchen is a family-owned business that has been making homemade sweets since 1860, and it's the oldest operating soda fountain in the country. The shop is located in a historic building that's been preserved to look just as it did over 100 years ago, with vintage décor and original soda fountain equipment. You can enjoy classic treats like old-fashioned ice cream sodas, homemade fudge, and freshly baked cookies.

After all these wonderful stops, you must have built up an appetite. Treat yourself to some of the local flavors and specialties for a real taste of the area. For instance, you should try a Horseshoe sandwich at The Mill on Route 66, homemade pie at Route 66 Diner, and old-fashioned ice cream soda at Wilton Candy Kitchen.

Are you convinced yet? The drive from Belleville to Joliet offers a little bit of everything, from history and culture to nature and delicious food. It's a journey that's meant to be taken slowly, with plenty of stops along the way to truly appreciate all that the Midwest has to offer. So grab some friends, pack a bag, and hit the road for an adventure you won't soon forget.