Top Places to See When Driving From Big Bend, Wisconsin to Ringwood, Illinois
Are you planning on taking a road trip from Big Bend, Wisconsin, to Ringwood, Illinois? With so many places to explore along the way, it can be challenging to decide which ones to visit. From charming towns to historic landmarks, stunning nature, and delicious food, we have made a list of the top places to see on your journey. So, buckle up and get ready to explore some of the best sites Wisconsin and Illinois have to offer.
Enjoying the Journey
Before we start our journey, let's have a quick chat about the scenery you'll encounter on this trip. The 90-mile route from Big Bend to Ringwood is scenic, with green fields, small towns, and historic sites along the way. You'll pass through the Wisconsin countryside and a few small towns before hitting the Illinois state line.
Once you cross into Illinois, you'll notice that the landscape changes. The terrain is rolling and marked by small lakes and green expanses of farmland. Along the way, you'll find plenty of places to stop and stretch your legs. With that being said, let’s dive into the top places to see on this scenic journey.
1. Horicon Marsh Wildlife Area
Start your journey by visiting the Horicon Marsh Wildlife Area in Wisconsin, where you can experience the beauty of nature through hiking, boating, bird watching, and more. The wildlife area covers over 30,000 acres and is home to over 300 species of birds. The Marsh is also a habitat for other animals, such as deer, otters, and muskrats.
This destination is a great spot for nature lovers, and there are plenty of hiking trails and boardwalks where you can explore the vastness of the marsh. You can also take a boat tour, rent a kayak, or go fishing. The Marsh has something for everyone, from solo travelers to families and groups of friends.
2. Lake Geneva
As you cross into Illinois, make sure to visit Lake Geneva, a delightful resort town by the lake's same name. This charming town is famous for its lakefront mansions, boutique shops, and unique restaurants. You can take a stroll on the lakeside path, rent a bike for the day, or take a boat tour to explore the beautiful scenery further.
If you're feeling a bit adventurous, you can try parasailing, water skiing, or renting a paddleboard. There are also plenty of golf courses and local breweries to enjoy while in town.
3. Illinois Beach State Park
Illinois Beach State Park is a beautiful and expansive park located on the shores of Lake Michigan. The park has hiking trails, biking paths, and sand dunes to explore. The long, sandy beach with crystal clear waters is an excellent spot for swimming, sunbathing, and building sandcastles.
If you're lucky, you may spot some wildlife such as deer, foxes, and sandhill cranes. However, the real draw of this park is the beautiful views of Lake Michigan. Illinois Beach State Park is an excellent spot to rest and relax after a long road trip.
4. Six Flags Great America
If you're looking for a bit of excitement, stop in at Six Flags Great America, located near Gurnee, Illinois. This amusement park has something for everyone, from thrilling roller coasters to gentle kiddie rides. Six Flags Great America is perfect for all ages, so bring the family along.
Apart from the rides, Six Flags Great America has a water park attached, Hurricane Harbor. You can splash around in the wave pool or slide down some of the most thrilling water slides in the region.
5. McHenry County Historical Society & Museum
Last but not least, stop at the McHenry County Historical Society & Museum. Located in sleepy, but charming downtown Union, Illinois, the museum preserves the region's history from prehistoric times to the present. The museum is home to several exhibits, including toys, photos, and clothing from past eras. You can learn more about the area's history and participate in a few hands-on activities as well.
The museum's beautifully landscaped ground is also the perfect area to relax and walk around after a long trip. In the same area, you'll also find the McHenry County Courthouse, a lovely symbolic building worth a glance.
Conclusion
There you have it- our top picks for the best places to see when driving from Big Bend, Wisconsin, to Ringwood, Illinois. Whether you're a nature lover, adventure seeker, or a history buff, this route will offer you something unique and special. Remember, the journey is just as important as the destination, so take your time and enjoy the scenery along the way. Safe travels!