Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Chicago, Illinois and Winfield, Illinois

Driving from Chicago, Illinois to Winfield, Illinois is a breathtaking experience. The route takes you through historic towns, scenic backroads, and quaint communities nestled amidst rolling hills. The drive is approximately 45 miles, and it takes around 1 hour without traffic. In this article, we’ll show you five unexpected places to stop on the way, each with its unique charm.

Halfway point: La Grange, IL

Before we delve into our top 5 destinations, we'd like to highlight La Grange, IL, which is located at the halfway point on our route. La Grange is a vibrant village located 13 miles west of Chicago. This lovely town boasts an excellent selection of cafes, restaurants, and boutiques. Its tree-lined streets and historic architecture make for a picture-perfect backdrop, perfect for a short stroll to break up your drive. Be sure to check out Mimi's Cafe, which serves delicious French-inspired breakfast and lunch dishes, or Wilder Mansion, an exquisite venue for weddings and special events.

1. Lemont, IL - Secret Victorian Charm

Lemont, IL, is a small town located along the Des Plaines River that features Victorian-style architecture. The town features long-forgotten storefronts, widow walks, and hidden gardens, making it an idyllic, quiet place to stretch your legs and explore on foot. Amidst the 19th-century homes, you'll find Casanova's Italian Restaurant. Make sure you try their roasted eggplant appetizer; truly divine!

2. Batavia, IL -The Windmill City

Batavia is a cozy, midwestern town located on the Fox River. The town's foundation can be traced to a mill established on the river in the early 1800s. Today, the town is affectionately referred to as the "Windmill City" thanks to the impressive, fully-functioning Dutch windmill located in the heart of the city. When in Batavia, check out the gorgeous Batavia Depot Museum and catch a glimpse of the vibrant past of one of the Fox River Valley's great towns. For lunch, visit Pal Joey's, where you can enjoy a delicious Italian sandwich.

3. Geneva, IL - Scenic Streetscape

Nestled on the western bank of the Fox River, Geneva is a beautiful town characterized by its charming storefronts, picturesque waterways, and scenic streetscape. The town's most prominent landmark is the Geneva Courthouse, which sets the tone for the tranquil community. Other notable hotspots in Geneva include the James J. Couzens House, preserved and maintained as an historical landmark by the Geneva Historical Society, and the Williamsburg Inn, an adorable bed and breakfast that's been welcoming guests for over 60 years. If you're feeling peckish in Geneva, don't miss out on the peanut butter cup ice cream at the Little Red Barn Ice Cream Café.

4. St. Charles, IL - A Vibrant Downtown

St. Charles is an excellent destination for travelers who appreciate "old world" architecture, picturesque downtowns, and scenic riverside views. When in St. Charles, visit the St. Charles History Museum and the new Water Street studios, which offers space for working artists and galleries to showcase their work. St. Charles also features many restaurants and cafes, some of the most popular being Arcedium Coffeehouse and Acquaviva Ristorante. Don't leave without trying Au Sable's famous homemade pie; it's best enjoyed by the fireplace.

5. Wheaton, IL - The Heart of DuPage County

Wheaton is the county seat of DuPage County and boasts an impressive collection of large parks, festivals, and events such as the Wheaton Wine Walk and the annual Festival of Cultures. The centerpiece of Wheaton's downtown is the historic wheaton theatre. The theater is beloved for its neon marquee and the fact that ticket prices are still affordable, making it a lovely entertainment destination. If you're feeling hungry in Wheaton, make sure to visit Gia Mia; their homemade lasagna is exceptional!

Take the Trip

In conclusion, taking a drive from Chicago to Winfield is one for the books. With so much to see, this 45-mile journey provides ample opportunities to explore, discover, and relax in unexpected places. Each stop along the way offers a unique and diverse set of experiences that will make it hard to choose which one is your favorite. The drive can be completed within a day, making it an excellent choice for a weekend getaway or day trip. If you're eager to hit the open road, get behind the wheel and embark on an adventure that you will cherish for years to come.