The Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Cary, IL to Park Ridge, IL

Cary, IL – Planning a road trip can be exciting and overwhelming at the same time, especially when you want to make the most of your adventure. Luckily, there are many attractions and scenic routes that you can explore between Cary, IL and Park Ridge, IL. This trip will take you on a journey through several charming towns and cities, and provide an opportunity to witness the beauty of nature.

The halfway point between these two cities is Schaumburg, IL, a bustling city that offers plenty of attractions such as the Woodfield Mall, Legoland Discover Center, and the Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament.

Top Five Things to Do

1. Starved Rock State Park – This park is a hidden gem located in Utica, IL. It's a nature lover's paradise with miles of hiking trails and more than ten waterfalls that cascade down the sandstone bluffs. The park is also known for its beautiful canyons and mesmerizing river views. Visitors can camp, hike, bike, fish, and explore the many wonders of this park.

Interesting Fact – The park's name comes from a Native American legend about a group of Illiniwek Indians, who were trapped on the top of a rock formation by their enemies and died of starvation.

2. Anderson Japanese Gardens – Regarded as one of the most beautiful Japanese gardens in North America, Anderson Japanese Gardens is located in Rockford, IL. The garden spans over twelve acres and features traditional Japanese architecture, serene waterfalls, and a koi pond. Visitors can relax and appreciate the tranquility of the garden while embracing the essence of Japanese culture.

Interesting Fact – The garden was designed by world-renowned landscape architect Hoichi Kurisu, who also designed the Portland Japanese Garden and the Chicago Botanic Garden.

3. The Morton Arboretum – Covering 1,700 acres of land, the Morton Arboretum in Lisle, IL, is home to over 4,000 different species of plants and trees from around the world. Visitors can explore various gardens and collections such as the Children's Garden, Conifer Collection, and the Fragrance Garden. The arboretum also has hiking trails, concerts, and other events throughout the year.

Interesting Fact – The Arboretum is named after Joy Morton, who founded the Morton Salt Company.

4. Milwaukee Public Museum – Located in downtown Milwaukee, WI, the Milwaukee Public Museum is a natural and human history museum that has been a cultural destination since 1884. The museum has many exhibits, including a replica of a Costa Rican rainforest, a North American Indian village, and a cross-section of a beaver dam. Visitors can also watch a movie in the six-story Dome Theater and Planetarium.

Interesting Fact – The museum's Butterfly Vivarium has over 30 species of butterflies and is one of the largest butterfly exhibits in North America.

5. The Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio – Located in Oak Park, IL, the Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio is a national historic landmark that was the residence and workplace of the famous architect. Visitors can take guided tours of the house and studio to learn about Wright's life and work and see many of his original designs and furniture.

Interesting Fact – The studio was designed by Wright at the age of 22 and was his first independent commission.

Conclusion

This 266-mile road trip from Cary to Park Ridge offers many attractions that suit all ages and interests. From the natural beauty of Starved Rock State Park to the cultural heritage of the Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio, this trip has something for everyone. With stops in vibrant cities such as Schaumburg, IL, this road trip takes approximately five hours, depending on traffic and stops along the way. So, pack your bags, fill the tank, and get ready for a memorable adventure.