Museums, Parks, and Landmarks on a Roadtrip from Bolingbrook to Peru
Are you planning a road trip from Bolingbrook to Peru, Illinois but not sure where to stop on the way? Fear not! Here are five top places to visit that will make your journey worth every mile.
Fun Fact: Did you know the distance between Bolingbrook and Peru is only around 90 miles, taking just over 1.5 hours by car? It’s perfect for a day trip or a weekend getaway without having to spend too much time on the road.
Halfway Point: Joliet, IL
The midway point between Bolingbrook and Peru is Joliet. It's a city with a lot of history, located in the southwest suburbs of Chicago. Joliet is famous for its prominent role as one of the main settings of the Blues Brothers movie and its former state prison, which held prolific criminals like John Wayne Gacy. A stop in Joliet is an excellent opportunity to explore its significant landmarks, such as the Joliet Area Historical Museum or the iconic Harrah's Joliet Casino.
Trip Length and Route
The drive from Bolingbrook to Peru takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes, covering about 90 miles of beautiful countryside. It’s a short drive if you want to take a break from city life and enjoy some fresh air. The route takes you down IL-47 S, passing through the quiet towns of Morris and Marseilles before you reach Peru.
Top Places to Visit
- The Illinois & Michigan Canal State Trail
The Illinois & Michigan Canal State Trail is one of the top destinations for outdoor enthusiasts. The trail runs for 61.5 miles from LaSalle north to Joliet, following the historic path of the Illinois and Michigan Canal. Here, you can hike, bike, or even take a horse-drawn canal boat ride. The scenery along the trail is beautiful, and there are plenty of opportunities for picnic stops or taking a dip in the river.
Point of Interest Recommendation: The I&M Canal Visitor Center provides an excellent introduction to the canal's history and the lock system that made it all possible.
- Buffalo Rock State Park
Buffalo Rock State Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The park spans over 300 acres in LaSalle County and boasts scenic bluffs along the Illinois River. At the park's center stands a massive rock that commemorates the area's Native American history and is believed to be the birthplace of the Pottawatomie Indian tribe. The park has a range of hiking trails to explore, campgrounds, and picnic spots.
Point of Interest Recommendation: While at Buffalo Rock, visit the Starved Rock State Park nearby, famous for its majestic waterfalls, canyons, and striking rock formations.
- Hegeler Carus Mansion
The Hegeler Carus Mansion is a historical gem located in LaSalle, Illinois. It was home to the prominent Hegeler and Carus families in the late 19th century and boasts 57 rooms across three floors. The mansion retains its original furniture, artwork, and books, giving visitors a glimpse of what life was like in the late 1800s. Guided tours are available to take you through the mansion's different rooms, like the lavish library or the grand dining room.
Point of Interest Recommendation: The Hegeler Carus Mansion is close to the I&M Canal State Trail, making it a perfect stop if you want to combine a bit of hiking with culture.
- Reddick Mansion
Located in Ottawa, Illinois, the Reddick Mansion is one of the oldest standing homes in the city. It was built in the Italianate architectural style in 1858 by William Reddick, one of Ottawa's founding fathers. Today, the mansion is a museum that showcases its unique design and collection of period furniture and decor. Visitors can take a guided tour of the mansion and its lovely gardens, which were restored to their original state.
Point of Interest Recommendation: Ottawa, Illinois, is also home to the Fox River Park, popular for fishing and boating.
- Illinois Valley Regional Airport Museum
If you're a fan of aviation, then the Illinois Valley Regional Airport Museum in Peru is a must-see attraction. The museum exhibits a collection of vintage and modern aircraft, including airplanes, helicopters, and engines. Visitors can also explore the Milestones of Flight exhibit, which showcases the history and development of aviation technology over the years.
Point of Interest Recommendation: The museum is a few miles from the Matthiessen State Park, characterized by its unique geological formations, such as a waterfall and canyons.
Conclusion
In conclusion, driving from Bolingbrook to Peru, Illinois, is a short and scenic journey, perfect for a quick getaway or a weekend trip. With a midway point in Joliet, there's plenty of opportunities to explore Illinois's fascinating history and landmarks.
On this route, the top five places to visit are the Illinois & Michigan Canal State Trail, Buffalo Rock State Park, Hegeler Carus Mansion, Reddick Mansion, and Illinois Valley Regional Airport Museum. Each stop offers a unique perspective on Illinois’s culture, history, and natural beauty, with nearby points of interest you won't want to miss. So pack your bags, get into your car, and hit the road—it's time to explore the Land of Lincoln!