The Ultimate Road Trip: Top Places to See When Driving From Bourbonnais, Illinois to Mount Zion, Illinois

Road trips are my favorite mode of travel. There’s just something about exploring new places by car that makes it feel more adventurous and thrilling. In this blog post, I’m going to share with you the top places to see when driving from Bourbonnais, Illinois to Mount Zion, Illinois. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or a foodie, this road trip has something for everyone.

Starting in Bourbonnais, Illinois, a suburb of Chicago, you’ll travel through the heart of Illinois, passing through charming small towns and rolling countryside before reaching Mount Zion, a suburb of Decatur. So, buckle up, put on your favorite tunes, and let’s hit the road!

Historic Route 66

No road trip through Illinois is complete without a visit to Historic Route 66. The Mother Road, as it’s lovingly called, stretches for more than 300 miles through the state and is a nostalgic reminder of a bygone era. You’ll want to pick up the route in Springfield, Illinois, and follow it all the way to your final destination, Mount Zion.

Along the way, you’ll pass through classic Route 66 small towns like Pontiac, where you’ll find the Route 66 Association Hall of Fame & Museum. There’s also the world-famous Ariston Café in Litchfield and the iconic Luna Café in Mitchell. And don’t forget the countless roadside attractions like the Gemini Giant in Wilmington and the murals in Lincoln.

Lincoln’s New Salem State Historic Site

History buffs won’t want to miss the chance to visit Lincoln’s New Salem State Historic Site. Located just outside of Petersburg, Illinois, this site is a reconstruction of the village where Abraham Lincoln spent his young adulthood. You can explore the cabins, meet costumed interpreters, and learn about life on the frontier in the early 1800s.

While you’re in the area, be sure to stop at the Lincoln Tomb State Historic Site in Springfield. This is the final resting place of Abraham Lincoln and his family, and it’s a powerful reminder of the impact he had on our nation.

Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site

Located just across the Mississippi River from St. Louis, Missouri, Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site is a fascinating glimpse into the lives of Native Americans who lived in the area more than 1,000 years ago. The site includes the remains of an ancient city, including huge mounds that were used for religious and social ceremonies.

You can take a self-guided tour of the site, and there’s also a visitor center with exhibits and a movie that explains the history of the area. While you’re there, be sure to check out the reconstructed Monks Mound, the largest earthen structure in North America.

Starved Rock State Park

Nature lovers will want to make a detour to Starved Rock State Park, located near Utica, Illinois. This park is home to 13 miles of hiking trails, scenic overlooks, and waterfalls, all set amid stunning sandstone bluffs.

Among the top trails you can hike at Starved Rock include the St. Louis Canyon Trail, the French Canyon Trail, and the Wildcat Canyon Trail. And if you’re into birdwatching, be sure to bring your binoculars as there are more than 200 species of birds that call the park home.

Mackinaw Valley Vineyard

Finally, no road trip through Illinois is complete without sampling some of the state’s famous wines. One of the most picturesque wineries in the state is Mackinaw Valley Vineyard, located just north of Mackinaw, Illinois.

The winery is nestled amid rolling hills and overlooks a small lake. You can sample a variety of wines, including popular varietals like Cabernet Franc and Chardonnay. And if you’re hungry, the winery also has a restaurant that serves up delicious food that pairs perfectly with their wines.

Conclusion

This road trip through Illinois has something for everyone, from history and nature to wine and food. So, what are you waiting for? Get in the car and hit the road. Who knows what adventures you’ll find along the way.