Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Bridgeport, Illinois to Roselle, Illinois
If you're looking for a road trip that takes you on a journey through the heart of Illinois, look no further than the drive from Bridgeport to Roselle. This route, which covers 214 miles, takes you through small towns, vast fields, and beautiful countryside. The drive takes approximately four hours, but it's worth taking your time and exploring some of the unexpected places that you'll find along the way.
Rantoul, IL
The halfway point of this drive is the town of Rantoul, which is located about 107 miles from both Bridgeport and Roselle. This small town might not be on most people's radars, but it has a lot to offer visitors. One of the town's biggest draws is the Chanute Air Museum, which is dedicated to the history of aviation and the former Chanute Air Force Base. The museum has a collection of over 40 aircraft and features exhibits on the history of aviation, space travel, and military aviation.
1. Octave Chanute Aerospace Museum (Rantoul, IL)
The Octave Chanute Aerospace Museum is a must-visit destination for aviation enthusiasts. The museum is named after Octave Chanute, a pioneer of aviation who lived in the area during the late 1800s and early 1900s. The museum features a collection of over 40 aircraft, including military planes from World War II and the Korean and Vietnam wars. Visitors can also explore exhibits on the history of aviation and view artifacts from the former Chanute Air Force Base.
Favorite food to eat: Hot dog at Kozy Korner.
2. Tuscola Outlet Mall (Tuscola, IL)
For those who enjoy shopping, the Tuscola Outlet Mall is a great place to stop. This outdoor mall features over 40 stores, including big-name brands like Nike, Adidas, and Levi's. Visitors can find great deals on clothing, shoes, and accessories.
Favorite food to eat: Italian beef at Big Dawgs.
3. Arthur Amish Community (Arthur, IL)
The town of Arthur is located in the heart of Illinois Amish country and is home to a large Amish population. Visitors can explore the town's Amish community and learn about their way of life. The town is known for its handmade furniture, quilts, and baked goods, which can be purchased at local shops and markets.
Favorite food to eat: Fried chicken at The Country Kitchen.
4. Lincoln Log Cabin State Historic Site (Lerna, IL)
For history buffs, the Lincoln Log Cabin State Historic Site is a fascinating destination that explores the life of Abraham Lincoln and his family during their time in Illinois. The site includes an authentically restored log cabin that Lincoln's father, Thomas, built and lived in with his family. Visitors can explore the cabin and learn about Lincoln's early years in Illinois.
Favorite food to eat: Homemade pie at The Homestead Bakery.
5. Jonamac Orchard (Malta, IL)
The Jonamac Orchard is a great place to stop if you're visiting during the fall season. This family-owned orchard features over 50 acres of apple trees and offers a variety of apple-based products, including cider, donuts, and pies. Visitors can also take a hayride through the orchard and pick their own apples.
Favorite food to eat: Apple cider donuts at the Jonamac Orchard Bakery.
In conclusion, the drive from Bridgeport to Roselle is a journey through some of the most beautiful and historic parts of Illinois. By taking your time and exploring some of the unexpected destinations along the way, you'll get a deeper appreciation of the state's rich history and culture. Whether you're interested in aviation, shopping, history, or just enjoying some good food and drink, there's something for everyone on this drive. So, pack up the car, hit the open road, and embark on an adventure that you'll never forget.