Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Chicago, Illinois and Downers Grove, Illinois

Chicago to Downers Grove is a beautiful drive with scenic views and exciting attractions to see and explore. The journey is approximately 23 miles long and can take around 30 minutes to reach. The halfway point would be Oak Brook, IL, which is a beautiful, suburban village that is home to upscale shopping, scenic gardens, and numerous trails for hiking.

Top 5 Things to Do

1. Brookfield Zoo

Brookfield Zoo is a massive outdoor space and one of the most exciting places in Chicago. The zoo is home to over 2,000 animals that represent over 400 species, making it an amazing place to see animals of all kinds. It's an ideal place for families with children, as it has a children's zoo and a playground. Moreover, the zoo is located in a picturesque setting, making it an ideal spot for an Instagram-worthy moment.

Interesting fact: Founded in 1934, Brookfield Zoo was the first zoo in the world to exhibit Giant Pandas, and the zoo has been a leader in conservation efforts across the globe.

2. Cantigny Park

Cantigny Park is a beautiful park with a wealth of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy. It's located in Wheaton, IL, and it is particularly significant because it was once the former estate of Colonel Robert R. McCormick, who was a member of the famous McCormick family that founded the Chicago Tribune. There are several things to do in the park, including visiting the formal gardens, biking, and exploring the mansion. Several restaurants are also present in the park to provide refreshments and meals.

Interesting fact: The estate was named "Cantigny" by Colonel McCormick to honor the valor of the First Division in their first significant battle of World War I in Cantigny, France.

3. Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio

Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio is a world-renowned attraction located in Oak Park, IL, near Downers Grove. This home served as Wright's primary residence and studio for over 20 years. Visitors can take guided tours of the house and the studio to see firsthand Wright's mastery of architecture. Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio offers a unique opportunity to see a masterpiece in the work of an artist.

Interesting fact: Wright designed over 50 structures in Oak Park, and the majority of them are still standing. The architects who worked with him during this time became known as the "Oak Park School."

4. Graue Mill and Museum

The Graue Mill and Museum are located in Oak Brook, IL, near Downers Grove, and it's a great stop to learn about local history. The mill was originally established in 1852, and it's one of the few surviving waterwheel gristmills of its kind in the state. Visitors can experience the history of the mill through guided tours and exhibits that highlight the importance of milling to the early communities of Illinois.

Interesting fact: In the 1860s, the Graue Mill was a vital stop for slaves escaping to freedom on the Underground Railroad, and the mill eventually became an official Underground Railroad site.

5. Morton Arboretum

Morton Arboretum is a magnificent 1700-acre garden located in Lisle, IL, near Downers Grove, which features a wide variety of trees and plants from different geographical areas. The garden offers several trails for hiking and biking, and the facility offers several educational classes and events throughout the year. Morton Arboretum is a must-see spot for nature lovers.

Interesting fact: The Sterling Morton Library at the Arboretum holds one of the world’s most extensive collections of preserved plant specimens, with an estimated 200,000-accessible records.

Conclusion

The trip from Chicago, IL, to Downers Grove, IL, and back can be both fun and enlightening. Visitors can explore several beautiful tourist attractions and enjoy all the amenities that the sites have to offer. The journey offers a unique opportunity to learn about local history, art, and culture. Moreover, the travel route provides scenic views, including a visit to Oak Brook, which is a picturesque suburban village. The entire journey lasts between 30 to 45 minutes, but visitors will find that it's extremely worthwhile.