Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Berwyn, Illinois and Appleton, Wisconsin

Berwyn, Illinois - Embarking on an exciting road trip from Berwyn, Illinois to Appleton, Wisconsin offers an array of captivating attractions and breathtaking vistas. Spanning approximately 250 miles, this scenic journey takes road trippers through the stunning landscapes of the Midwest, with the halfway point in Wauwatosa, WI adding a touch of charm to the adventure. From captivating national parks to fascinating museums, here are the top five things you cannot miss along this remarkable road trip:

1. Exploring the Magnificent Starved Rock State Park

Starved Rock State Park, located about 80 miles southwest of Berwyn, is a wonderland for nature enthusiasts. Featuring stunning canyons, waterfalls, and miles of hiking trails, this park never fails to impress visitors with its natural beauty. Whether it's a leisurely stroll along the Illinois River or a challenging hike up French Canyon, Starved Rock State Park offers an unforgettable experience for outdoor lovers.

Interesting Fact: Starved Rock State Park earned its name from a tragic Native American legend involving betrayal and death.

2. Delving into the Rich History of Milwaukee Art Museum

Situated on the shores of Lake Michigan in Milwaukee, about halfway between Berwyn and Appleton, the Milwaukee Art Museum perfectly blends art, architecture, and natural beauty. With its iconic wing-like structure designed by Santiago Calatrava, the museum is a masterpiece in itself. Inside, visitors can discover an extensive collection of art spanning over 40 centuries, including ancient artifacts, modern paintings, sculptures, and decorative art.

Interesting Fact: The movable wings of the Milwaukee Art Museum's Calatrava-designed Quadracci Pavilion take 3.5 minutes to fully open or close during performances.

3. Marveling at the Architectural Beauty of Taliesin

Approximately 170 miles northwest of Berwyn, in the picturesque town of Spring Green, Wisconsin, lies Taliesin - the home and architectural masterpiece of the renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright. Taliesin is a must-visit for design enthusiasts and history buffs alike. The estate showcases Wright's innovative vision, blending organic architecture with the surrounding natural landscapes. Visitors can take guided tours of the house, explore the stunning gardens, and gain insight into the life and work of one of America's most celebrated architects.

Interesting Fact: Taliesin has served as the home and design studio for Frank Lloyd Wright for nearly 50 years, from 1911 until his death in 1959.

4. Embracing Natural Serenity at Door County

Nestled on a peninsula jutting out into Lake Michigan, Door County offers a tranquil escape from city life. Located approximately 150 miles north of Berwyn, this scenic destination is famous for its charming coastal villages, picturesque lighthouses, and bountiful orchards. Visitors can relish stunning sunsets over the water, embark on boat tours to explore the islands, indulge in fresh local cuisine, or explore the numerous art galleries and boutiques scattered throughout the county.

Interesting Fact: Door County is home to around 250 miles of scenic coastline - more than any other county in the United States.

5. Discovering History at the National Railroad Museum

Just a short drive from Appleton, in Green Bay, lies the National Railroad Museum - an absolute treat for train enthusiasts. This museum showcases an impressive collection of historic locomotives and railroad artifacts that spans over a century of railway history. Visitors can explore vintage train cars, learn about the evolution of the railroad industry, and even take a ride on a century-old steam locomotive.

Interesting Fact: The National Railroad Museum houses the world's largest steam locomotive, known as Big Boy No. 4017, weighing over 1.2 million pounds.

Conclusion

This road trip from Berwyn, Illinois to Appleton, Wisconsin promises an unforgettable journey through captivating landscapes and engrossing attractions. The route encompasses approximately 250 miles of adventure, passing through the charming halfway point of Wauwatosa, WI. Whether immersing oneself in nature's wonders at Starved Rock State Park, appreciating art and culture at the Milwaukee Art Museum, marveling at Frank Lloyd Wright's architectural genius at Taliesin, embracing the tranquility of Door County, or discovering railway history at the National Railroad Museum, this road trip has something to enthrall every traveler.

The journey typically takes around 4-5 hours, depending on traffic and the length of time spent at each attraction. Road trippers can allocate several days or a long weekend to fully savor the experience. So, prepare for the open road, pack your sense of adventure, and set off to explore the remarkable destinations that await on this road trip from Berwyn to Appleton. Safe travels!