Best Things to Do on a Road Trip from Carol Stream and Batavia, Illinois

West Chicago, Illinois - The halfway point of the road trip from Carol Stream and Batavia, Illinois. Without stopping, it takes approximately forty-five minutes to an hour to reach this charming suburb.

The Midwest is dotted with many hidden gems and historical sites, perfect for a road trip. Starting from Carol Stream, IL, and ending in Batavia, IL, this route offers travelers a mix of adventure, history, scenic vistas, and delicious bites. Here are the top five things to do on this road trip:

1. Explore Cantigny Park and Gardens

Located in Wheaton, a quick ten-minute drive from Carol Stream, Cantigny Park and Gardens is a 500-acre park that offers something for everyone. The park includes over 30 themed gardens, two museums, a golf course, and four-mile trails for hiking. Visitors are sure to leave feeling relaxed and rejuvenated.

Interesting fact: The park is named in honor of the First Division's battle at Cantigny, France, during World War I.

2. Visit the Fabyan Villa Museum

Fabyan Villa Museum, in Geneva, was once the home of George Fabyan, an eccentric millionaire. Today, visitors can tour the villa and enjoy the beautiful estate. Among the many attractions is a working Dutch windmill and a Japanese garden.

Interesting fact: Fabyan was known for his love of cryptology, and it is said that he employed Nobel Laureate physicist Robert Millikan to work for him in secret.

3. Go Bowling at Fox Bowl

A few blocks away from the Fabyan Villa Museum, Fox Bowl in Wheaton is an excellent place to have fun with family and friends. The alley features 48 lanes with automatic scorers, a game room, and a bar.

Interesting fact: The bowling alley has been entertaining visitors since 1959.

4. Walk along the Fox River Trail

Running through the heart of Batavia, the Fox River Trail is a picturesque path that winds alongside the Fox River. Visitors can hike, bike or walk the trail and enjoy the scenic vistas.

Interesting fact: The trail stretches over 43 miles through the Fox Valley area and connects with other trails in the area.

5. Visit the Batavia Depot Museum

The Batavia Depot Museum is a restored 1854 Chicago, Burlington & Quincy Railroad Depot. Visitors can learn about the history of Batavia and its railroad beginnings.

Interesting fact: The Depot Museum was featured on an episode of the "Ghost Hunters" TV show.

In conclusion, this road trip is approximately 22 miles long and would take an hour without stops, but it can be stretched to a full-day adventure. Along the way, visitors will discover Midwest treasures, from hidden parks to eclectic historical sites. Whether the goal is to explore history, dine, or have some fun outdoors, this car ride offers something for all travelers.