#Exploring the Best Museums, Parks, and Landmarks on a Road Trip from Chicago Ridge to Elk Grove Village
Are you planning a road trip from Chicago Ridge to Elk Grove Village and wondering what places are worth a visit? This article lists the top five places that you should consider stopping by during your journey. Get ready to explore a blend of historical sites, natural beauty, and unparalleled attractions.
Did you know that Chicago Ridge is a village located in Cook County, Illinois, United States? The village has a population of 14,135, and the community is known for its excellent schools, parks, and recreational facilities. Elk Grove Village is a city located in northeastern Illinois, adjacent to O'Hare International Airport and the city of Chicago.
If you take this route from Chicago Ridge to Elk Grove Village, you will pass through Lombard, IL, the halfway point on the journey. Lombard is known for being the Lilac Village and hosts the annual Lilac Festival. The festival takes place in May and boasts a parade, live music, flowers, and carnival rides.
The road trip from Chicago Ridge to Elk Grove Village is about 20 miles in length and takes approximately 30 minutes by car. However, this time can vary depending on the traffic and stops you make along the way.
Here are the top five places that you should consider visiting during your road trip:
1. Brookfield Zoo, Brookfield, IL
Brookfield Zoo is a world-famous zoo that houses around 450 different species of animals. The zoo offers visitors a chance to connect with nature, educate themselves about animals, and provides entertainment for the whole family. Some must-visit sections in the zoo include the Tropic World, Habitat Africa, and Seven Seas. One of the most popular attractions is The Carousel, which offers hand-painted animals and figures that have been delighting visitors for generations.
Point of interest recommendation: Take your time strolling through the zoo and attending some of the engaging and informative daily animal encounters.
2. The Morton Arboretum, Lisle, IL
The Morton Arboretum is a living museum of trees, with more than 222,000 live plants, including 60,000 trees. The Arboretum is an ideal place for families, nature enthusiasts, and anyone looking for an escape from the city's hustle and bustle. The arboretum features several trails for visitors to hike, bike, or jog, and also offers several guided tours. Moreover, the Children's Garden is a must-visit for families, where kids can explore nature, climb trees, and learn about the environment.
Point of interest recommendation: Make sure to visit during the fall when the trees turn vibrant shades of gold, red, and orange.
3. Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio, Oak Park, IL
The Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio is a historic site and museum that portrays the life and work of the great American architect of the early 20th century. The home is where Frank Lloyd Wright spent the first 20 years of his career and is considered the birthplace of modern architecture. Visitors can take guided tours to learn about Wright's design philosophy and see the various stages of his work. The covered bridge and soaring rooflines are iconic parts of the tour.
Point of interest recommendation: Take a walk around the neighborhood after the tour to see the other houses Frank Lloyd Wright designed in the area.
4. Cantigny Park, Wheaton, IL
Cantigny Park is an ideal destination for history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts. The park comprises a sprawling 500 acres of immaculate gardens, historic museums, and walking trails. The First Division Museum immerses visitors in the history of the 1st Infantry Division through innovative and interactive exhibits, including exhibits on the Korean War and the Gulf War. Another must-see attraction is Colonel Robert R. McCormick’s mansion, a historical home converted to a museum showcasing the life of the newspaper publisher.
Point of interest recommendation: Take a stroll around the gardens and experience a sense of tranquility amidst the beautifully manicured trees and flowers.
5. Legoland Discovery Center, Schaumburg, IL
The Legoland Discovery Center is an indoor kids' paradise with over ten LEGO-themed attractions that include several rides, areas for building their own Lego creations, and indoor play areas. The center is suitable for children of all ages and is an exciting way to spend a few hours. Some of the most popular attractions in the center include the Lego Racers, Kingdom Quest, and 4D cinema.
Point of interest recommendation: Challenge yourself to build the tallest Lego tower and take a photo with the Center’s giant Lego models.
In conclusion, the route between Chicago Ridge and Elk Grove Village is a short and scenic drive that offers several beautiful and incredible places to stop along the way. From historical landmarks to natural beauty, there are various attractions that will interest people of all ages. This trip will take you around 30 minutes, and you can visit all the places mentioned above in one day or choose to spread them out over a few days. So pack your car, pick your stops, and get ready to embark on a fun-filled journey.