Roadside Distractions

Chicago must-see spots

Start your time in Chicago with some of the top must-see spots. Head to Millennium Park to snap a selfie with the iconic Cloud Gate (aka “The Bean”), then head over to Crown Fountain — an interactive video sculpture showing the faces of 1,000 everyday Chicagoans. Catch a glimpse of some unusual museum sights -- like an actual World War II submarine inside at the Museum of Science and Industry. Or, check out the Museum of Surgical Science for an up-close look at all things medicinal. At the McCormick Bridgehouse Museum, you can learn the fascinating history of the Chicago River’s bridges. For some quirky eats, try Recess Chicago.

Your epic journey begins

Time to hit the road for an epic journey through Illinois. As you head toward Pontiac, pull over for a pic with the Gemini Giant, a 30-foot-tall statue named after the Gemini space program. Once you get to Pontiac, visit the Museum of Gilding Arts to learn about the use of gold and silver leaf in architecture and decoration throughout history. As you head towards Springfield, make sure you stop in Lincoln where you can see the World’s Largest Covered Wagon, standing 24 feet tall! There are plenty of Lincoln-related activities to choose from in Springfield, and don’t forget to stop by the Lincoln Tomb to rub his nose for good luck.

Spinach cans & superman

Start your day amongst Popeye memorabilia at the Spinach Can Collectible Store & Museum in Chester. Onward to Alto Pass and you can pull over to admire the Bald Knob Cross of Peace overlooking Shawnee National Forest. 

Now it’s “up, up and away” to Metropolis! In this real-life namesake of the superhero’s city, you can strike a pose next to a two-ton Superman Statue. Finish your day by snapping a pic with Sassy the Bigfoot near Garden of the Gods.

Big things

Today the quirk continues in Olney where you can catch a glimpse of the famous White Squirrels of Olney, a unique spectacle that the town has come to embrace. In Casey, you’ll marvel at the Twelve Largest Things, which includes the world’s largest mailbox, wind chime and rocking chair. In Effingham, you can cross off another giant structure — America’s Largest Cross.

The North Pole has moved to Rantoul! At Hardy’s Reindeer Ranch, there’s a 6-acre corn maze, the Grand Prix-style race track, a gift shop and, of course, you can’t miss the reindeer.

Monkeying around

Go big with a trip to Manilow Sculpture Park. Enjoy the fresh air as you stroll amongst 30 large sculptures situated on 100 acres of prairie landscape. Onward to Rockford. Check out the stony sentinels at the Rockmen Guardians then head to the most unique museum you’ll probably ever enter: the Sock Monkey Museum. See charming displays and learn the history of the iconic Sock Monkey, then browse through the gift shop for a unique souvenir to remember your trip.