Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Bloomington, IL to Lincoln, IL
Have you ever taken a drive through the heart of Illinois? If not, you should consider embarking on a scenic road trip from Bloomington to Lincoln, as there are many unexpected places to stop along the way. This road trip will take approximately 45 minutes to an hour, and the distance between Bloomington and Lincoln is 33 miles.
The halfway point of this road trip is McLean, a small village in McLean County, Illinois. McLean is a picturesque town nestled in between these two cities and is home to several antique shops and restaurants. As you explore the village and its surroundings, you'll find several distinctive places that are worth a stop on your journey.
1. Chenoa Museum & Train Depot
One of the first places you might want to visit is the Chenoa Museum & Train Depot. It is located in downtown Chenoa and is dedicated to preserving the town's railroad and local history. Visitors can view collections of historic artifacts, photographs, documents, and other unique exhibits. The museum is open every Saturday from 1 pm to 4 pm, or by appointment.
Make sure to try the fresh, homemade bread, scones, and cinnamon rolls at the Chenoa Bakery, located just a few steps away from the museum.
2. Historic Route 66
As you travel to the next destination, you can't miss the iconic Historic Route 66, which stretches across Illinois and was once America's main highway. This road passes right through the village of Atlanta, Illinois, giving travelers a chance to experience classic Route 66 sights, such as neon signs, historic gas stations, and classic cars.
Stop by the J.H. Hawes Grain Elevator Museum in Atlanta, which is a 130-year-old building that used to serve as a local grain elevator and now serves as a museum showcasing farming history and artifacts. While you are in town, don't forget to try some all-American favorites like burgers and fries at the Palms Grill Cafe.
3. Lincoln Heritage Museum
The Lincoln Heritage Museum in Lincoln, Illinois, is a must-visit for history buffs. The museum has exhibits that cover the life and legacy of Abraham Lincoln, including his early life, presidency, and assassination. The exhibits feature interactive displays, rare artifacts, and multimedia presentations.
The museum also features an art gallery that showcases works of art inspired by Abraham Lincoln's life and times. Don't leave the museum without trying some of the famous deep-dish pizza at Sir Renna Tea House, just a few minutes' drive from the museum.
4. Kickapoo Creek Winery
If you fancy some wine-tasting, stop by Kickapoo Creek Winery in Edwards, Illinois, which is only a few miles away from Lincoln. This family-owned winery offers a wide range of wines that are made from grapes grown in their own vineyards. The place offers wine-tasting tours, winery tours, and picnic opportunities for visitors.
Before you leave, make sure to sample some of their exquisite wines and grab a bottle or two to take home. Pair your favorite bottle of wine with some of the delicious fresh-baked bread or homemade pizza at their on-site restaurant.
5. The Mill Museum
The Mill Museum in Lincoln, Illinois, is located in the historic Union Hall, an 1860s building that used to be the gathering place for the local community. The museum displays the history of the town's industrial heritage, with exhibits that feature photographs, artifacts, and vintage machinery.
Not too far from the museum, you can stop by the Guzzardo's Italian Villa, a locally-run Italian restaurant that serves up some of the most scrumptious Italian dishes in the region. Try their Chicken Parmesan or their Linguine and White Clam Sauce, complemented by a glass of wine.
Conclusion
A road trip from Bloomington to Lincoln, Illinois, offers a great opportunity to discover some of the most exciting and hidden cultural treasures of the Midwest. The above-listed places are just a few of the many that you can visit on this journey, and each carries its unique historical significance. Whether you are interested in art, history, culinary experiences, or simply enjoy being on the open road, these hidden gems have something for everyone. We recommend taking time for a relaxing and leisurely drive on Illinois' highways and extending your stay, so you have ample time to enjoy all the stops along the way.