Shorewood, Illinois: A Hidden Gem in the Midwest

Shorewood, Illinois may not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking of travel destinations in the Midwest, but this small town has plenty to offer for visitors seeking outdoor adventures and a glimpse into local history. Located just 50 miles southwest of Chicago, Shorewood is easily accessible by car. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Shorewood:

Parks and Recreation

Shorewood is home to several parks and nature preserves that offer opportunities for hiking, biking, picnicking, and more. Cene's Four Seasons Park is a popular spot for families with children, featuring playgrounds, sports fields, and a splash pad (URL: vil.shorewood.il.us/departm...). Shorewood Park is another option for outdoor recreation, with amenities such as walking trails, tennis and basketball courts, and a fishing pond (URL: vil.shorewood.il.us/departm...).

For those seeking a more immersive nature experience, Hammel Woods is a must-visit destination. This 445-acre preserve includes wetlands, forests, and a former milling site, with access points for hiking and fishing (URL: www.reconnectwithnature.org...). Other parks in Shorewood include Turtle Hill Park, White Tail Park, Seil Road Park, and Atwater Park (URL: www.villageofshorewood.org/...).

Historical Sites

Shorewood and the surrounding area have a rich history dating back to Native American settlements and the early days of European colonization. The Joliet Area Historical Museum in nearby Joliet offers a glimpse into the region's past with interactive exhibits and a gift shop (URL: www.jolietmuseum.org/). The museum also hosts events and programming throughout the year.

Another historical attraction in the area is the Old Joliet Prison, which was built in 1858 and operated until 2002. The prison has been used as a filming location for movies and TV shows, including The Blues Brothers (URL: www.jolietprison.org/). Visitors can take guided tours of the prison and learn about its fascinating history.

The Joliet Iron Works Historic Site is another site worth exploring for those interested in industrial history. The site features the remnants of an iron and steel factory that operated from the late 1800s to the mid-1900s (URL: www.reconnectwithnature.org...).

Outdoor Adventures

In addition to the parks and nature preserves mentioned earlier, there are other opportunities for outdoor adventures in the Shorewood area. Lower Rock Run Preserve offers access to the Illinois & Michigan Canal and features hiking and biking trails (URL: www.reconnectwithnature.org...).

Lake Chaminwood Preserve is another option for hiking and birdwatching, with a variety of habitats including prairies, wetlands, and forests (URL: www.reconnectwithnature.org...).

Route 66 Attractions

Shorewood is located near historic Route 66, and visitors can explore some of the roadside attractions that still exist along the route. Route 66 Park in Joliet features an old-fashioned ice cream stand and pays homage to the Blues Brothers (URL: cityofjoliet.info/governmen...).

Dining and Lodging

Shorewood may be a small town, but there are still plenty of options for dining and lodging. Hubbard Park Lodge offers a fine dining experience with a view of the Des Plaines River (URL: www.hubbardparklodge.com/). Other local restaurants include Chrogem Garden and Inwood Park Restaurant (URL: jolietpark.org/location/inw...).

For overnight stays, visitors can choose from hotels such as the Hampton Inn Joliet I-80 and the Comfort Inn North in Joliet. Alternatively, camping is available at Hammel Woods and other nearby preserves (URL: www.reconnectwithnature.org...).

Conclusion

Shorewood may not be a well-known travel destination, but it has plenty to offer for those seeking outdoor adventures, history, and a taste of small-town Midwest charm. With its proximity to Chicago and nearby attractions such as Route 66, the Joliet Area Historical Museum, and the Old Joliet Prison, it's well worth a visit.