Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Road Trip from Chicago, Illinois to Westmont, Illinois

Chicago, Illinois to Westmont, Illinois is a relatively short drive, stretching for around 20 miles from the heart of Chicago to the quiet suburbs of Westmont. The drive takes approximately 40 minutes, depending on the traffic, and the route takes travelers through some of the notable suburbs of Chicago. With so much history and sightseeing opportunities available, it can be hard to know where to make pit stops on the way. This article aims to provide a guide for five unexpected places to stop on a drive from Chicago, Illinois to Westmont, Illinois, and make the journey more exciting.

The Halfway Point: Berwyn, IL

Before exploring the rest of the options, it is important to stop at the halfway point during the drive - Berwyn, IL. This quaint suburb of Chicago is rich in art and architecture and serves as an excellent spot to stretch your legs and take in the view. There are numerous art galleries, murals, and sculptures to discover in Berwyn.

1. Cermak Fresh Market, North Riverside, IL

Located a few miles after Berwyn, Cermak Fresh Market is worth stopping by for its vast selection of groceries, produce, and exotic ingredients. Cermak Fresh Market makes grocery shopping an interesting experience as you get to browse through the impressive variety of products from around the world. The market has a vast selection of spices, oils, and sauces, which are hard to come by in other grocery stores. Once you are done with shopping, indulge in their deli counter, which has a large selection of meats and cheese, perfect for an on-the-go snack.

2. Fitzgerald's Nightclub, Berwyn, IL

Fitzgerald's Nightclub offers a unique night-out experience to travelers. In its rich history, the club has hosted several iconic music concerts, including Bob Dylan and U2. Today, the venue has regular live music performances, which you can enjoy while sipping on drinks. Fitzgerald's features both outdoor and indoor seating, so you can choose to sit inside or outside depending on the season. Savor the evening, listen to music, and enjoy an array of drinks offered at the venue.

3. 12 Street Beach, Chicago, IL

Located in the Burnham Park area near Lake Shore Drive is 12 Street Beach, one of Chicago's least crowded beaches. This hidden gem boasts a clean beach, a refreshing swim, and a picturesque view of Lake Michigan. Located away from the congestion of Chicago beaches, the 12 Street Beach is an excellent spot to unwind and admire the beauty of Lake Michigan. After a dip in the lake, head over to La Colombe Coffee Roastery & Cafe for a cup of coffee and something to eat from their pastry selection.

4. Miller's Ale House, Lombard, IL

Miller's Ale House is an excellent restaurant to dine and relax midway through your trip. Located 10 miles before Westmont, the restaurant offers a vast selection of beer and cocktails paired with an extensive menu of food items. If you are craving American pub-style food, Miller's Ale House is the place to visit. The restaurant is known for its handcrafted burgers, seafood, salads, and steaks.

5. Lilacia Park, Lombard, IL

Located about three miles from Westmont, Lilacia Park is an unexpected delight in the urban setting of Lombard. The park features 8.5 acres of land filled with thousands of lilacs displayed in a lakefront setting. Lilacia Park is a great place to have a picnic while admiring the lilacs, trees, and water features. The natural beauty of Lilacia Park makes it an incredible place to be immersed in nature and forget about your worries.

In conclusion, driving from Chicago, Illinois to Westmont, Illinois can be an enriching experience with various unexpected sightseeing opportunities available along the way. From the Cermak Fresh Market to Lilacia Park, each of these five recommended stops has something unique to offer. Take some time to explore these places and make the most of your next road trip on the beautiful route between Chicago, Illinois and Westmont, Illinois.