Top Five Popular Attractions between Chicago and Willow Springs

Are you planning a road trip between Chicago and Willow Springs, Illinois? If so, you might be interested in discovering the top five popular attractions along the way! From historical landmarks to natural wonders, you'll find plenty of reasons to pause, take some pictures, and stretch your legs. Let's embark on a journey of fun and discovery!

Exploring the Route and the Halfway Point: Chicago, IL

Before we dive into the must-see attractions, let's take a moment to appreciate the route itself. Driving from Chicago to Willow Springs, you'll cover a distance of about 20 miles, heading south on I-55. Depending on your starting point and traffic conditions, it should take you around 30 minutes to reach the halfway point: Chicago, IL.

Known as the Windy City, Chicago is a vibrant metropolis with a rich cultural heritage and iconic skyline. If you have some time to spare, we recommend checking out the Navy Pier, the Willis Tower (formerly known as Sears Tower), the Art Institute of Chicago, and the Magnificent Mile. You can also take a stroll in Millennium Park, see the famous Bean sculpture, or attend a show at the Chicago Theatre. As for food, don't miss the deep-dish pizza, the Italian beef sandwich, and the Chicago-style hot dog!

Top Five Places to See List

Now, let's get to the main topic of this article: the top five popular attractions to see on a trip between Chicago, IL, and Willow Springs, IL. These places are listed in no particular order, as they offer different experiences and appeal to different interests. However, all of them are worth a visit and will add some excitement to your journey.

The Route 66 Mother Road Museum in Berwyn, IL

The first attraction on our list is the Route 66 Mother Road Museum, located in Berwyn, IL, just a few miles west of Chicago. If you're a fan of classic cars, road trips, and Americana, you'll love this museum, which showcases the history and culture of Route 66, the legendary highway that spanned from Chicago to Santa Monica, CA, and inspired countless songs, movies, and stories.

The museum is housed in a restored gas station and features a collection of vintage cars, motorcycles, signage, and memorabilia from the golden era of Route 66. You can learn about the different landmarks and attractions along the route, the people who traveled it, and the impact of the highway on American culture. You can also buy souvenirs and meet other Route 66 enthusiasts.

The Little Red Schoolhouse Nature Center in Willow Springs, IL

Our second attraction is the Little Red Schoolhouse Nature Center, nestled in the heart of Cook County Forest Preserves, just a few miles southwest of the halfway point. This nature center is a hidden gem that offers a peaceful and educational retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city.

The Little Red Schoolhouse was built in 1886 and served as a one-room schoolhouse for decades. Nowadays, it's a visitor center that showcases the flora and fauna of the region, including butterflies, reptiles, birds, and mammals. You can explore the nature trails, observe wildlife from the bird blind, attend a nature program or workshop, or simply relax and enjoy the scenery. It's a great place for families, nature lovers, and anyone who wants to reconnect with the natural world.

The Cernan Earth and Space Center in River Grove, IL

If you're into astronomy and space exploration, you'll appreciate our third attraction, the Cernan Earth and Space Center, located on the campus of Triton College, in River Grove, IL, just a few miles east of Willow Springs. This planetarium and observatory offers a fascinating glimpse into the universe and the wonders of science.

Named in honor of Eugene Cernan, the last astronaut who walked on the moon, the Cernan Earth and Space Center features a state-of-the-art digital dome theater and a variety of exhibits and programs that cover topics such as astronomy, geology, meteorology, and space technology. You can attend a planetarium show, stargaze with the telescopes, or participate in a workshop or lecture. It's a must-see for anyone who loves space and wants to learn more about the cosmos.

The Brookfield Zoo in Brookfield, IL

Our fourth attraction is the Brookfield Zoo, located in Brookfield, IL, just a few miles north of Willow Springs. This zoo is a world-class destination that showcases over 3,000 animals from around the globe, as well as plants, artwork, and educational exhibits.

Founded in 1934, the Brookfield Zoo is one of the oldest and largest zoos in the country, and it's committed to conserving wildlife and educating the public about animal care and conservation. You can see big cats, primates, birds, reptiles, marine life, and many other species, as well as visit the Children's Zoo, the Butterfly House, or the Tropic World exhibit. You can also attend a zoo chat, a zookeeper talk, or a special event, such as Boo at the Zoo or Summer Nights. It's a must-visit for families, animal lovers, and anyone who wants to have a wild adventure.

The Argonne National Laboratory in Lemont, IL

Our fifth and final attraction is the Argonne National Laboratory, located in Lemont, IL, just a few miles south of the halfway point. This research center is a mecca of science and technology, and it's at the forefront of cutting-edge discoveries and innovations.

Founded in 1946, the Argonne National Laboratory is one of the oldest and largest U.S. Department of Energy labs, and it's dedicated to advancing science and engineering in various fields, such as energy, materials, environment, and national security. You can take a tour of the laboratory, visit the Advanced Photon Source, the Materials Science Division, or the Nuclear Science and Engineering division, or attend a seminar or workshop. It's a unique opportunity to see science in action and learn from world-renowned experts.

Conclusion

Congratulations, you've reached the end of our top five popular attractions to see on a trip between Chicago, IL, and Willow Springs, IL! We hope this list has inspired you to explore the wonders of the region and discover new things along the way. Whether you're a history buff, a nature enthusiast, a science geek, or an animal lover, there's something for everyone in this route.

If you're wondering about the best route to take, we recommend sticking to I-55 for the most part, as it's a well-maintained and scenic highway with plenty of rest areas and amenities. However, you might also want to consider taking some detours or side trips to see other points of interest, depending on your time and interests. Some options could include the Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio in Oak Park, IL, the Lemont Quarries Adventure Park in Lemont, IL, or the Indiana Dunes National Park in Porter, IN.

Whatever route you choose, remember to drive safely, respect the environment and the communities you visit, and have a great time! Happy travels!