Drive To 7 Incredible Summer Spots Throughout Illinois On This Scenic Weekend Road Trip
By Melissa Mahoney|Published June 28, 2021
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Melissa Mahoney
Author
I'm an east coast girl living in a west coast world. I grew up in New England before moving to SoCal for several years. I then lived in NYC or a year before moving to AZ in 2009. I worked in the entertainment industry for many years of my adult life and have a deep love for photography, writing, and traveling around the U.S. as well as to far-flung locations around the world. Travel is my life and writing about it is a dream!
Looking for something fun to do this summer? How about an incredible road trip that will take you to several scenic spots around the Prairie State? Weekends in the summer are meant for outdoor fun and adventure, and road trips are the perfect way to experience several attractions in a short amount of time. This particular excursion starts in the northeast part of Illinois along the shores of Lake Michigan and ends with a scenic drive in the central part of the state. You can view the route here. Feel free to fully customize the itinerary by adding your own stops along the way!
We start this road trip at the Sunrise Park's beach, a place that's a perfect place to be on a summer day. Set along the shores of Lake Michigan, you'll find a protected cove that's perfect for swimming, but only when lifeguards are on duty. Park District visitors can enjoy this picturesque beach for free while non-residents can purchase a day pass, which is totally worth it! For more information, visit the Sunrise Park & Beach webpage.
With its crystal clear water and sandy beach, not to mention the numerous amenities and recreational activities at your disposal, Three Oaks Recreation Area is the perfect summertime destination. And it's worthy of a stop along the way on this road trip. Click here to read our full coverage.
This 12-acre Japanese garden is considered the best and most authentic of its kind in the United States and it's not to be missed especially in the summer. You'll be amazed at all the waterfalls, ponds, koi fish, gardens, pathways, bridges, and the tea house. Visit the Anderson Japanese Garden website to learn more.
The scenic Fox River is a tributary of the Illinois River and, with serene waters, it's the perfect lazy river for some tubing. Rent a tube from Fox Hollow Tubing Adventure and enjoy a relaxing float along the river as you watch the gorgeous scenery go by.
One of the most unique experiences you can have in Illinois is taking a mule-pulled boat ride along the I & M Canal. Board the 1840s replica boat 'The Volunteer' for a tour up and down the canal as you learn about the history of the area. For more information, read our previous coverage.
With fascinating rock formations, sandstone canyons, gorgeous waterfalls, incredible trails, plenty of wildlife, and an overlook with sweeping views, Starved Rock State Park is one of the most beautiful parts of the state. You will probably want to spend as much time as possible here so look into booking a room at Starved Rock Lodge for a night or two.
We end this weekend road trip on the 2.5-mile scenic Grand View Drive through Peoria along the Illinois River. Considered the most scenic road in the country and the "world's most beautiful drive" by Theodore Roosevelt, it is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Take this short roadway to see for yourself!
What other summer spots would you like to see added to this list? Please mention them in the comment section! And have a wonderful summer full of adventure!
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