The Ultimate Road Trip: Top Places to See When Driving From Bourbonnais, Illinois to Portage, Indiana
Looking for the perfect road trip to take this summer? Look no further than the route from Bourbonnais, Illinois to Portage, Indiana. Not only is this a picturesque drive, but there are also plenty of interesting sights to see along the way. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or just looking for a fun day trip, there’s something for everyone on this journey. In this post, we will explore the top places to see when driving from Bourbonnais to Portage.
#1. Kankakee River State Park
The first stop on our road trip is the Kankakee River State Park. Located just outside of Bourbonnais, this state park is a beautiful spot for outdoor recreation. Hiking trails wind through the park’s 4,000 acres of woods and prairies, and the Kankakee River provides a perfect spot for fishing, boating, and canoeing. Be sure to check out the park’s famous limestone cliffs, which rise up to 80 feet above the river and offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
#2. Starved Rock State Park
The next stop on our trip is Starved Rock State Park, located about an hour north of Bourbonnais. This park is a must-see for anyone who loves the great outdoors. With 13 miles of hiking trails, breathtaking waterfalls, and stunning views of the Illinois River, Starved Rock is a hiker’s paradise. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including bald eagles, white-tailed deer, and red foxes. Be sure to check out the park’s namesake, Starved Rock, a towering sandstone butte that rises 125 feet above the river.
#3. Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore
As we cross over into Indiana, our next stop is the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore. This stunning area is a natural oasis on the shores of Lake Michigan. With miles of sandy beaches, towering sand dunes, and diverse ecosystems, the Indiana Dunes is a great place to explore. Take a hike through the dunes, go for a swim in the lake, or simply relax on the beach and take in the stunning scenery.
#4. Taltree Arboretum & Gardens
About 20 miles west of Portage lies the Taltree Arboretum & Gardens. This beautiful arboretum features 330 acres of woodlands, wetlands, and prairies, as well as a variety of gardens, including a Japanese garden, a prairie garden, and a children’s garden. The arboretum also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including concerts, art fairs, and gardening classes.
#5. Portage Lakefront and Riverwalk
Our final destination is the Portage Lakefront and Riverwalk, a beautiful spot on the shores of Lake Michigan. This newly developed area includes a beach, a fishing pier, and a riverwalk that winds along the Portage River. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the lake and the Chicago skyline in the distance, as well as explore the area’s history at the Portage Lakefront and Riverwalk Pavilion. The pavilion houses exhibits on the natural and cultural history of the area, as well as a theater that shows films about the dunes and lake.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the drive from Bourbonnais, Illinois to Portage, Indiana is a road trip that you don’t want to miss. With a variety of natural areas, historic sites, and cultural attractions, there is something for everyone along this route. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventure or simply a relaxing day trip, the places on this list offer plenty of opportunities to explore and enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Midwest. So pack up your car, hit the road, and get ready to experience the best of Illinois and Indiana.