Top Places to See When Driving From Bloomington, Illinois to Streamwood, Illinois

Illinois is a state filled with hidden gems that many people might not know about. The state has an exciting variety of landscapes, including rolling hills, farmland, and natural wonders that everyone should see at least once in their lifetime. Our trip from Bloomington, Illinois to Streamwood, Illinois, is no exception. In this blog post, we will share our favorite picks for the top places to see when driving this route. So pack your bags, grab a map, and let's start exploring!

Stunning State Parks

Our first stop is the state parks. Illinois state parks are some of the best in the country and offer a great place to unwind and escape the city life. Here are two top picks:

Starved Rock State Park

Starved Rock State Park is an Illinois classic. The park features 18 canyons, scenic waterfalls, and incredible views of the Illinois River. Visitors can take guided tours or explore the 13 miles of trails on their own time. Wildlife, such as white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and bald eagles, can be seen at Starved Rock's nature centers.

Chain O'Lakes State Park

Chain O'Lakes State Park is another nature lover's paradise. The park is located on the shores of seven interconnected lakes and offers a range of activities, including fishing, boating, and hiking. The lakes have a wide variety of fish species, including channel catfish, walleye, and northern pike.

Rich History

Illinois is also home to significant historical sites. Here are two must-sees:

Lincoln Home National Historic Site

Visit Abraham Lincoln's home in Springfield, Illinois. This 12-room, Greek Revival-style residence is where Lincoln and his family lived from 1844 until his inauguration in 1861. The home has been restored to its 1860 appearance, and visitors get a chance to see the home through guided tours.

Ulysses S. Grant Home

Located in Galena, Illinois, this national historic site is the former residence of Ulysses S. Grant, the Civil War hero, and 18th president of the United States. The home has been restored to its 1860 appearance, and visitors can tour the property, which includes the main house, the schoolhouse where Grant's children attended, and several other buildings.

Unique City Attractions

Along your route, you'll also pass through some of Illinois's unique and exciting cities. Here are two top city attractions:

Miller Park Zoo

Located in the heart of Bloomington, Miller Park Zoo is one of the best family-oriented attractions in the city. The 28-acre zoo features more than 150 animals from around the world, including zebras, giraffes, and kangaroos. Visitors can also see exotic birds, reptiles, and marine life.

Grand Victoria Casino

Twenty-five miles east of Streamwood, you'll find the Grand Victoria Casino in Elgin. The casino features more than 1,000 slot machines, and 29 table games, including blackjack, craps, roulette, and baccarat. Enjoy a drink at one of the five bars, or dine at one of the restaurants.

Picturesque Towns

Finally, driving through Illinois can be a very scenic experience. Be sure to check out these two picture-perfect towns:

Galena

One of the most picturesque towns in Illinois is Galena. Located in the northwest corner of the state, Galena is known for its rolling hills, historic architecture, and quaint small-town charm. Visitors can stroll through the open-air markets, or visit the charming shops and boutiques in the downtown area.

Geneva

Geneva is home to some of the most beautiful historic homes and landmarks in Illinois, as well as picturesque storefronts and unique boutiques and galleries. Geneva's shopping district alone attracts visitors from around the country, offering a unique blend of design, art and culture.

Conclusion

Illinois has so much to offer, and this road trip from Bloomington to Streamwood is just the tip of the iceberg. From state parks to historic sites, unique city attractions, and picturesque towns, there is something for everyone in Illinois. So, pack your bags, grab some snacks, and get ready to experience the great things the state has to offer.