Top Five Places to Visit Between Carol Stream and Dwight
If you're looking for a fun road trip between Carol Stream and Dwight, we've compiled a list of the top five places to visit along the way. From breathtaking nature preserves to fascinating museums, there's something for everyone to enjoy. So gas up your car, grab some snacks, and get ready to hit the road!
The Route and Halfway Point: Crest Hills, IL
Before we dive into our top five places to visit, let's talk about the route itself. Carol Stream and Dwight are separated by about 82 miles of road, so you'll have plenty of opportunities to explore the towns and attractions in between. About halfway through your journey, you'll reach Crest Hills, a bustling suburb with plenty of restaurants, shops, and entertainment options. Take a break here to stretch your legs, grab a bite to eat, or catch a movie at the local theater.
Now, let's get into our top five picks for places to visit on your trip.
Stop 1: Morton Arboretum
Title: Get Lost in Nature at Morton Arboretum
One of the Best Outdoor Spaces in Chicagoland
Nestled in the town of Lisle, the Morton Arboretum is a sprawling 1,700-acre oasis that showcases the beauty and diversity of trees and other plants. Walk along one of the many trails, or join a guided tour to learn more about the arboretum's history and unique features. With more than 222,000 cataloged plants in its collection, Morton Arboretum offers a stunning variety of flora and fauna to explore. Don't forget to snap some photos of the incredible scenery!
Stop 2: Farnsworth House
Title: Marvel at Modernist Architecture at Farnsworth House
A One-of-a-Kind Design in Plano, IL
Designed by famed architect Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, the Farnsworth House is a masterpiece of modernist architecture. Situated along the Fox River in Plano, this stunning glass and steel structure is a must-see for design lovers and architecture enthusiasts. Take a tour of the house and learn about its history and unique features, or attend a special event like a concert or lecture. Even if you're not a design buff, the Farnsworth House is a fascinating site to visit.
Stop 3: Rialto Square Theatre
Title: Catch a Show at the Historic Rialto Square Theatre
A Gorgeous Venue in Joliet, IL
Opened in 1926, the Rialto Square Theatre is a stunning example of the golden age of movie palaces. With ornate decor and seating for nearly 2,000 people, the theater has hosted everyone from Frank Sinatra to Pink Floyd. Catch a movie, a concert, or a live theater performance and soak in the history and grandeur of the space. Be sure to take a guided tour of the theater, which includes backstage access and a chance to see the Mighty Wurlitzer Organ up close.
Stop 4: Route 66 Museum
Title: Step Back in Time at the Route 66 Museum
A Nostalgic Trip Down the Mother Road
For a taste of Americana and a glimpse of the past, visit the Route 66 Museum in Pontiac. This small but fascinating museum is filled with artifacts, memorabilia, and stories from the heyday of the Mother Road. Learn about the people and places that made Route 66 a cultural icon, and take a moment to appreciate the quirky charm and kitschy appeal of the road. The museum is open year-round, and admission is free.
Stop 5: Polk-a-Dot Drive-In
Title: Grab Some Classic Eats at Polk-a-Dot Drive-In
A Vintage Spot for Delicious Burgers and Shakes
No road trip would be complete without a stop at a classic diner, and the Polk-a-Dot Drive-In in Braidwood is the perfect spot for a delicious meal. Established in 1956, this old-school drive-in is famous for its burgers, onion rings, and shakes. Pull up to a parking spot, order through the intercom, and wait for a carhop to deliver your food. Don't forget to take a photo with the iconic polka-dot mural on the side of the building!
Conclusion
There you have it - our top five picks for places to visit on a road trip between Carol Stream and Dwight. From natural beauty to man-made marvels, there's so much to discover along the way. We hope this list inspires you to hit the road and explore all that Illinois has to offer. Happy travels!