Top Places to See When Driving from Bellwood, Illinois to Riverdale, Illinois
Are you planning a road trip from Bellwood, Illinois to Riverdale, Illinois and wondering what places you should visit during your journey? Look no further! This guide will provide you with the best places to see on your trip, from historic sites to natural wonders, and everything in between.
First, let me introduce you to the starting point of our journey: Bellwood, Illinois. Bellwood is a small village located in Cook County and is known for its friendly community and close proximity to many popular attractions in the Chicagoland area. From Bellwood, our journey will take us through various towns before we finally reach Riverdale, a scenic village sitting at the junction of the Calumet River and Little Calumet River.
Are you ready for an adventure? Buckle up and let's go!
1. The Art Institute of Chicago in Chicago, Illinois
The journey from Bellwood to Riverdale takes you through Chicago. As one of the largest cities in the United States, Chicago has no shortage of attractions to offer. One of the most prominent cultural institutions in the city is the Art Institute of Chicago. If you're an art lover, this is a must-visit destination.
The museum houses an extensive collection of artwork from around the world, including American, European, and Asian art. The Art Institute's collection includes iconic pieces like Grant Wood's American Gothic and Georges Seurat's A Sunday on La Grande Jatte. The building itself is an architectural marvel, with multiple wings and courtyards that make exploring the museum a treat. Spend some time wandering the galleries and take in some of the world's most famous works of art.
2. Indiana Dunes National Park in Porter, Indiana
As we leave Chicago, we head towards Porter, Indiana, home of Indiana Dunes National Park. The park is located on the southern shores of Lake Michigan and boasts incredible natural resources that make it a unique and beautiful place to visit. With more than 15 miles of pristine beaches, sand dunes that tower up to 200 feet high, and over 45 miles of trails, Indiana Dunes has something for everyone.
If you're looking for a day at the beach, West Beach, located within the park, is a great option. The beach offers stunning views of Lake Michigan and is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. For more adventurous visitors, a hike up the 200-foot Mount Baldy dune is an absolute must. Once at the top, the panoramic views of the surrounding park and Lake Michigan make the climb well worth it.
3. Horseshoe Hammond Casino in Hammond, Indiana
Continuing on our journey towards Riverdale, we make a stop in Hammond, Indiana. Hammond is home to the Horseshoe Hammond Casino, which is one of the largest casinos in the United States. The casino features more than 3,000 slot machines, over 100 gaming tables, and a sportsbook.
Beyond the gambling, the casino also offers several fine dining options, such as Jack Binion's Steakhouse and the Village Square Buffet, both of which offer a wide variety of culinary delights. If you aren't into gambling, catch a live show at The Venue, where nationally known acts regularly perform.
4. Flossmoor Station Brewery in Flossmoor, Illinois
As we near our final destination, we make a stop in Flossmoor, Illinois. Flossmoor is a small town known for its charming downtown area and unique artisanal shops. One of the town's most popular destinations is the Flossmoor Station Brewery.
Located in the town's historic train station, Flossmoor Station Brewery was voted the best brewery in Illinois by craft beer website ratebeer.com. The brewery features a rotating selection of beers, including their famous Pullman Brown Ale. The restaurant also offers a full menu of delicious food, ranging from pub favorites like burgers and fries to vegan and vegetarian options.
5. Riverdale Nature Preserve in Riverdale, Illinois
Our final stop on the journey is Riverdale, Illinois, where we visit the Riverdale Nature Preserve. The preserve is a 160-acre site that provides a natural oasis within the urban environment. The conservation area is home to over 50 bird species and a wide variety of plant life.
One of the preserve's most popular features is the 1.3-mile walking trail that winds through the woods and offers opportunities to observe nature up close. The trail is well maintained and offers beautiful views of the forest, making it the perfect place to unwind and connect with nature after a long journey.
Conclusion
Driving from Bellwood to Riverdale is an adventure full of history, culture, and natural beauty. From the Art Institute of Chicago to Riverdale Nature Preserve, there is something to delight every traveler. So pack your bags, hop in the car, and get ready to explore the best of what Illinois and Indiana have to offer.