Embrace Adventure, Capture Moments, Celebrate Life – For Hip Women Over 50
Typically, I travel solo. But this time, I knew my name would be mud if I headed off to a cozy little fishing cabin in the heart of Michigan’s Lower Peninsula without inviting my husband and our almost-grown 18-year-old son. …
I’ve kind of accidentally fallen in love with scouring Northern Illinois’ back roads and looking for Roadside attractions. They give me a reason to hop out of the car, stretch my legs, and chat with fellow travelers. If you see me setting up my tripod for a selfie, wave hello! Illinois never disappoints when it comes to quirky stops and friendly faces.
Roadside attractions in Northern Indiana have a funny way of making me tap my brakes. And it’s not usually because I planned to stop, but because something unexpected popped up on my map at just the right time.
This statewide guide is built from firsthand visits and organized by region to make planning your next road trip easier. I keep track of locations, notes, and photo ideas as I go
Turns out this part of the Hoosier State wins for culture, charm, and breathing room, but without huge crowds or chaos. Think walkable towns, welcoming locals, and enough fresh air to remind you that travel doesn’t have to be exhausting. Even trips that start or end in downtown Indianapolis (the heart of Central Indiana) feel more relaxed when you branch out into the smaller towns nearby.
I discovered how fun it is to explore new towns like Mason City and Clear Lake. This corner of north Iowa had everything I didn’t know I needed. Walkable downtowns, a beautiful lake with pontoons (and a riverboat), peaceful public gardens, and a legendary music venue that tells a powerful slice of American history. It felt like a place where you could slow down, breathe a little deeper, and actually enjoy your surroundings.
The whole town looks like someone with too many extension cords had the time of their life, and Santa always makes an appearance. This year, I finally got to experience it myself with a visit to McHenry County for Christmas in Illinois during the most wonderful time of the year.
Southern Illinois doesn’t wait until you reach the deep South to bring the charm. Right along I-70, you’ll find a whole lineup of quirky roadside surprises worth tapping the brakes for. Pack a sunscreen stick if you’re traveling during sunny weather – all this hopping in and out of the car for selfies can lead to a powerful (and surprise) burn.
People love to call Iowa a flyover state, but I have never understood that. Iowa is full of wide open spaces, golden fields, historic sites, and small towns full of personality. There are 11 Frank Lloyd Wright properties scattered across the state.
Good news! Central Illinois is full of quirky roadside finds! In fact, this part of the state of Illinois is where historic sites, small towns, and cheerful roadside weirdness all mingle together in a way that makes my heart happy!