The ultimate Chicago to Springfield road trip
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Photo: Courtesy of Illinois Office of Tourism
Corndogs, fried Oreos, horse shows and a glorious butter cow await at the Illinois State Fair in Springfield.
- But there are plenty of things to eat, see and do between Chicago and the state capitol.
The big picture: The Illinois Office of Tourism has compiled "Illinois Made," a guide to small businesses stretching across the state, from unique finds in Chicago to local wineries and nature in Southern Illinois
Zoom in: The drive from Chicago to Springfield is a pretty straight shot southwest on I-55, through Joliet, Pontiac, Bloomington, and many quaint towns and retail treats scattered along the way.
🏺 Get crafty at Fine Field Pottery Company in Streator before grabbing some fresh fruits and veggies at Boggio's Orchard and Produce.
🥂 Relax with a glass of wine from Illinois Sparkling Co. in Utica or a brew at Tangled Roots Brewing in Ottawa.
🛣️ Route 66 turned 100 this year, so no road trip would be complete without a stop at the Illinois Route 66 Hall of Fame & Museum in Pontiac before checking out the work of local artists at Murals on Main Street.
🧀 Cheese curds aren't just for Wisconsin. Sample some at Ropp Jersey Cheese Farm in Normal before eating "farm to fork" at Epiphany Farms Restaurant in Bloomington.
The destination: Of course, the state capitol offers more beyond the Fair, including the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum.
What's next: Dig into the itineraries, share them or print them and hit the road!