Best Places to See On A Road Trip from Bloomington, IL to Glenview, IL
Are you planning a road trip from Bloomington, Illinois to Glenview, Illinois? This scenic trip is approximately 130 miles, and it takes about 2.5 hours of driving time. The journey passes through fantastic locations that cater to different interests.
Fortunately, the drive won't be boring. There are several fascinating landmarks, tourist destinations, and fun activities that will keep you entertained throughout the journey. In this article, we've highlighted the best places to make a stop, stretch your limbs, and enjoy some views, ranging from magnificent nature parks to charming downtowns.
Magnificent Nature Parks
Starved Rock State Park
The first destination you shouldn't miss on your road trip is the Starved Rock State Park. Starved Rock is the most popular attraction in Illinois, and it is not difficult to see why. Its magnificent waterfalls, deep canyons, magnificent overlooks, and other fantastic natural beauty attract over two million visitors annually.
Visitors can go for hiking, backpacking, fishing, boating, or picnicking. The park has seventeen canyons, each of which has its unique features, and all of them offer scenic adventures. The park also has exceptional accommodations, including a luxurious lodge, cabins, and guest houses.
Matthiessen State Park
The Matthiessen State Park is an awe-inspiring geological wonder located just 10 miles from Starved Rock Park. The park features unique rock formations, a man-made lake, three large waterfalls, and the picturesque Vermilion River. It is an excellent location to explore, relax, and enjoy nature's tranquillity.
Visitors can go for a hike or relax at the massive rock formations. The park has multiple trails that pass through canyons, forests, and open prairie. Visitors can also go horseback riding, fishing, or camping.
Moraine Hills State Park
If you enjoy bird watching, hiking, or fishing, then the Moraine Hills State Park is the perfect stopover destination for you. The park has numerous beautiful hiking trails and four lakes ideal for boating, fishing, and other water activities.
Visitors can also participate in geocaching, bicycling, and ice skating. The park has a dedicated picnic area and a reservation-only group picnic shelter.
Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area
Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area is located 30 miles south of Moraine Hills Park and is perfect for a family-friendly stop. The park is situated around Shabbona Lake and features picturesque views, a designated swimming area, and multiple fishing piers.
The visitors can rent canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards, go hiking, or biking. It also has facilities for camping and picnicking.
Chain O'Lakes State Park
The Chain O'Lakes State Park offers a fantastic destination for boating and fishing enthusiasts. The park is located in one of the most pristine areas in Illinois, with ten lakes covering 7,100 acres of water and 488 miles of shoreline.
The park offers a wide range of water sports, including boating, fishing, jetskiing, and waterskiing. Visitors can also explore the ninety camping sites and over fifty picnic areas.
Iconic Buildings and Monuments
The Lincoln Home National Historic Site
Your trip wouldn't be complete without paying a visit to the Lincoln Home National Historic Site. The home is located in the city of Springfield and showcases the only house that Abraham Lincoln ever owned.
The site comprises of the Lincoln family home, a museum and visitor center, and several outbuildings. Visitors can learn about the Lincoln family's life, Springfield's community, and the United States' history. The site offers free admission, and visitors are welcomed to tour the site from 9 am to 5 pm daily.
Frank Lloyd Wright's Dana-Thomas House
Frank Lloyd Wright is one of the United States' most prominent architects, and his Dana-Thomas House in Springfield is renowned for its beauty and design. The house was constructed in 1902 and features 12,500 square feet of floor space and over 100 pieces of Wright-designed furniture.
Visitors can take a guided tour of the house and learn about Wright's ideals, philosophy and style. The house also includes a gift shop, an art gallery, and serene gardens and courtyard.
The Baha'i House of Worship
The Baha'i House of Worship in Wilmette is the first Baha'i Temple in the United States. The temple is an architectural marvel and a symbol of international peace and tranquillity. Its design has inspired world-class architects and designers throughout the world.
Visitors can explore the temple, its serene gardens, and the adjoining welcome center. The welcome center offers informative exhibits about the Baha'i faith, the temple's construction and architecture, and other topics.
Chicago Botanic Garden
The Chicago Botanic Garden is located in Glencoe and offers visitors 385 acres of gorgeous greenery and stunning flower displays. The garden features over 2.6 million plants arranged in twenty-six different gardens and four natural areas.
Visitors can take guided tours, explore the various gardens, attend outdoor concerts, or picnic with friends and family. The Botanic Garden also offers educational programs and workshops for visitors of all ages.
The Bahá'í House of Worship in Wilmette
The Bahá'í House of Worship in Wilmette is an excellent example of the beautiful architecture in Glenview. The temple is the only one of its kind in Illinois and is one of seven worldwide.
Visitors can take a guided tour of the temple and learn about the Baha'i faith's principles and history. The temple's design is inspiring, and the architectural marvel is a perfect stop for art and design enthusiasts.
Vibrant Downtowns
Bloomington Downtown
The Bloomington Downtown is a charming cityscape with numerous shops, restaurants, and entertainment destinations. The city boasts diverse cultural attractions, art galleries, and locavore dining experiences.
Visitors can explore the historic architecture, vibrant nightlife, and diverse entertainment options. It is an excellent place to learn about the local culture and mingle with the locals.
Galena Historic Downtown
Galena is a picturesque town with a charming downtown that offers visitors a glimpse of Illinois's history and heritage. The downtown has several art galleries, cafes, specialty shops, and stores selling local products.
Visitors can explore the historic architecture, try the various food options, and learn about the town's history. Galena's downtown is also home to the popular Galena Heritage Trail, which offers beautiful views of the Midwest landscape.
Evanston Downtown
Evanston Downtown is a college town with unique landmarks, restaurants, and shopping destinations. The city has been recognized as having one of the best downtowns and is famous for its culinary diversity and charming boutiques.
Visitors can explore the different art galleries, music venues, or relax at the beach. The downtown is also renowned for the independent bookstores and has several antique shops.
Glenview Downtown
The Glenview Downtown offers visitors a combination of history, culture, and modern amenities. The town has several boutique shops, restaurants, and landmarks offering something for everyone.
Visitors can explore the historic Frank Lloyd Wright-designed house, visit the Kohl's Children's Museum, or take the historic Lake Glenview boat tour. The town square also hosts various events and fairs, including the weekend farmers' market.
Highland Park Downtown
Highland Park Downtown is home to several retail shops and restaurants while providing a vibrant art scene. The town is famous for its Festival celebration,a two-month-long display of art and culture.
Visitors can explore the traditional brick-lined sidewalk shops or visit Ravinia Park amphitheater for outdoor concerts. The town is also home to several exotic antique dealers and unique shops, making it an excellent stopping destination for antique collectors.
Conclusion
The trip from Bloomington, Illinois to Glenview, Illinois, offers the perfect road trip setting with stunning natural scenery, iconic landmarks, and vibrant downtowns. Visitors can experience Illinois's most beautiful sites, structures, and communities, including the historical Lincoln Home National Historic Site, Frank Lloyd Wright's Dana-Thomas House, and the Baha'i House of Worship in Wilmette.
Our list of the top places to see on the journey ensures visitors hit the roads while guaranteed to enjoy each stopover. Each location offers unique scenery, culture, history, and entertainment that will make your trip enjoyable, memorable, and fulfilling.