The Top Five Best Places to Visit on a Trip Between Belvidere, Illinois and Naperville, Illinois

If you find yourself planning a trip between Belvidere and Naperville in Illinois, you’re in for a treat! There are plenty of amazing attractions and stops along the way. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or an art lover, we’ve got you covered. Check out our top five best places to visit on your road trip through Illinois.

The Route and Halfway Point: East Dundee, IL

Starting in Belvidere, you’ll head south on the I-90 E for around an hour before you hit the halfway point in East Dundee. East Dundee is a charming village filled with plenty of small-town charm and history. Take a stroll through the downtown area, replete with historic architecture, quaint boutiques, and fantastic restaurants. Be sure to visit the Depot building, which dates back to 1890 and houses a fantastic local history museum.

Stop 1: Fabyan Forest Preserve

Enjoy Nature and History at Fabyan Forest Preserve

Just 20 minutes from East Dundee, you’ll find the beautiful Fabyan Forest Preserve. This 235-acre forest preserve is nestled on the banks of the Fox River and offers plenty of walking trails, picnic areas, and fishing spots. The preserve is also home to several historic buildings, including the Fabyan Villa Museum and the Japanese Garden.

Stop 2: The Hemmens Cultural Center

Get Your Culture Fix at the Hemmens Cultural Center

About 15 minutes from Fabyan Forest Preserve, you’ll find the Hemmens Cultural Center in Elgin. This beautiful performing arts venue hosts plenty of fantastic shows, performances, and events throughout the year. From symphony concerts to stand-up comedy to Broadway musicals, there’s something for everyone at the Hemmens Cultural Center.

Stop 3: Naperville Riverwalk

Stroll Along the Scenic Naperville Riverwalk

As you get closer to Naperville, be sure to take a walk along the picturesque Naperville Riverwalk. This iconic landmark stretches over 1.75 miles along the DuPage River and offers plenty of beautiful parks, fountains, and public art installations. Whether you’re looking for a quiet spot to read a book or a lively spot to people-watch, the Naperville Riverwalk has something for everyone.

Stop 4: DuPage Children’s Museum

Play and Learn at the DuPage Children’s Museum

If you’re traveling with kids, you won’t want to miss the DuPage Children’s Museum, just a short drive from the Naperville Riverwalk. This hands-on museum offers plenty of interactive exhibits and activities designed to help kids learn as they play. From a giant bubble machine to a water room to a mini-grocery store, there’s no shortage of fun at the DuPage Children’s Museum.

Stop 5: Naper Settlement

Step Back in Time at Naper Settlement

Finally, be sure to visit the historic Naper Settlement, also located in Naperville. This outdoor history museum offers a glimpse into life in 19th-century Illinois. The site includes dozens of historic buildings, including a blacksmith shop, a one-room schoolhouse, and a beautiful chapel. You’ll also find plenty of costumed interpreters and reenactors ready to answer your questions and share their knowledge of the past.

As you can see, there’s no shortage of fantastic stops to make on your trip from Belvidere to Naperville. Whether you’re interested in nature, history, culture, or just having a good time, there’s something for everyone on this road trip through Illinois. So pack your bags, grab some snacks, and hit the road – we can’t wait to hear about all your adventures!