The Driftless Area: Scenic Bluffs and Winding Rivers

Heading northwest from Joliet toward Galena, IL, takes you into the 'Driftless Area,' a geographic marvel that was bypassed by the last glacial retreat. The result is a landscape unlike any other in Illinois—steep limestone bluffs, deep valleys, and winding two-lane roads that feel more like the foothills of the Appalachians than the prairie state. This trip is a masterclass in scenic driving, particularly if you take the Great River Road along the Mississippi. Galena itself is a step back in time, with 85% of its buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places. You can spend hours wandering Main Street, exploring boutique shops, and dining in converted 19th-century storefronts. For the outdoor enthusiast, the hilly terrain offers some of the best hiking and cycling in the region. Why a Subaru? The Driftless Area is famous for its elevation changes and tight switchbacks. This is where Subaru’s Symmetrical AWD truly shines, providing the grip and confidence needed for steep ascents and downhill braking, especially if Spring rains have made the rural roads slick. If your current ride isn't up for the climb, you might want to Value Your Trade-In and see how much equity you have toward a more capable adventure vehicle.

The Shore Path One of the most unique attractions in the Midwest is the Lake Geneva Shore Path. This 21-mile public walkway circles the entire lake, taking you literally through the backyards of some of the most opulent historic mansions in the country. It is a fantastic way to see the architecture and gardens up close while enjoying the breeze off the water.

Water Activities Whether you’re booking a mail-boat tour or renting a pontoon, the water is the heart of the experience. During the spring, the lake comes alive with seasonal festivals and farmers markets in the town center. The drive from Joliet is a comfortable 90-minute cruise, making it the perfect 'first road trip' of the season for families with small children.

SUV Versatility A weekend in Lake Geneva usually means a lot of gear—coolers for the boat, strollers for the path, and perhaps a set of golf clubs. The spacious cargo hold of a Subaru Ascent or Outback makes packing seamless. With fold-flat seating and hands-free power gates, you can transition from city life to lakeside luxury without breaking a sweat.

Adventure Awaits: Starved Rock and Matthiessen State Parks

You don't have to drive for hours to find world-class hiking. Less than an hour southwest of Joliet, Starved Rock State Park and its quieter neighbor, Matthiessen State Park, offer dramatic sandstone canyons and seasonal waterfalls that defy the flat reputation of Illinois. For a pro-tip: start your day at Matthiessen. The 'Dells' area features incredible rock formations and lower crowds than the main lodge area at Starved Rock. If you're visiting in May, keep an eye out for the wild sunflowers and lush mosses that cover the canyon walls. Off-Road Readiness: While the parks are accessible by paved roads, the overflow parking lots and access roads to certain trailheads can be unpaved and rutted, especially after Spring thaws. Having the 8.7 to 9.5 inches of ground clearance found on many Subaru models ensures you can park with confidence while others are worried about their undercarriages. Ready to upgrade? Browse New Inventory to find your trail-ready partner.

The North Shore Circle: Door County, Wisconsin

Often referred to as the 'Cape Cod of the Midwest,' Door County is a peninsula that offers a mix of rugged shoreline, quaint villages, and agricultural charm. The drive from Joliet takes roughly 4 hours, heading north through Milwaukee and Green Bay. Once you cross the Sturgeon Bay canal, the pace of life slows down immediately. Spring is a magical time to visit as the famous cherry and apple orchards begin to bloom. Don't miss a traditional Scandinavian Fish Boil in Fish Creek, or a hike through Peninsula State Park. The drive up Highway 42 features the iconic 'Curvy Road' designed by landscape architect Jensen to force drivers to slow down and appreciate the scenery. Efficiency Matters: On a 500-mile round trip, fuel economy becomes a priority. Subaru’s line of BOXER engines is designed to provide the perfect balance of power for interstate merging and efficiency for long stretches of Wisconsin highway. If you are planning to make this an annual tradition, Browse Used Inventory for a certified pre-owned Forester that offers great value for long-distance cruising.

Speed & History No trip to Indy is complete without a visit to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Even if there isn't a race, the museum and track tours are a must for any automotive enthusiast. It’s a great way to appreciate the engineering that goes into modern vehicles.

The Cultural Trail Indy has one of the best urban trail systems in the world. Park your car and explore the city by bike or foot. The trail connects five downtown 'Cultural Districts,' featuring local breweries, world-class art installations, and the vibrant food scene of Mass Ave.

Safe Interstates The drive down I-65 can be heavy with truck traffic. This is where Subaru EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology proves its worth. Adaptive Cruise Control and Lane Keep Assist help reduce driver fatigue, keeping you fresh and alert until you arrive at the Circle City.

Holland, Michigan: A Coastal Retreat Just around the southern tip of Lake Michigan lies Holland, a city that feels like a European getaway. Famous for its Dutch heritage, the city explodes with color during the Tulip Time Festival in May. Millions of tulips bloom across the city, making for incredible photos and a festive atmosphere. Beyond the flowers, Holland State Park is home to 'Big Red,' the most photographed lighthouse in Michigan. The sandy beaches and dunes offer a perfect place to relax or launch a kayak. Equipping for the Coast: Planning to bring your bikes or paddleboards? Subaru’s integrated roof rails and available Thule® accessories from our Parts Center make it easy to carry all your coastal gear. Whether you're hauling a kayak to Macatawa or bikes for the city trails, we have the genuine parts to make it happen.

Hidden Gem: The Shawnee National Forest

For those willing to drive a bit further, the Southern tip of Illinois holds a secret: the Shawnee National Forest. It is roughly a 5-hour drive from Joliet, but the destination feels like another planet. The Garden of the Gods wilderness area features ancient rock formations that provide panoramic views of the surrounding forest. This is a true outdoor adventurer’s destination. From the Rim Rock Trail to the Iron Furnace, the history and geology are deeply immersive. Because of the distance and the remote nature of the forest, vehicle comfort and cargo capacity are paramount. Subaru models are built for this. With StarTex® water-repellent upholstery available on Wilderness trims, you don't have to worry about tracking mud back into the car after a day of exploring. If you're ready to make the trek, ensure your vehicle is in top shape by visiting our team. Get Directions to Hawk Subaru and let us help you prep for the long haul.

Stay Connected Utilize Subaru STARLINK® Multimedia with Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ integration. Map your route, stream your favorite podcasts for the drive, and use voice commands to find the nearest gas station without taking your eyes off the road.

Emergency Kit Always carry a road trip emergency kit. Include jumper cables, a first-aid kit, a flashlight, extra water, and a physical map. Even though Subaru Navigation is excellent, it's always smart to have a backup in remote areas like Shawnee.

STARLINK Safety With STARLINK Safety and Security, you have peace of mind with Automatic Collision Notification and Enhanced Roadside Assistance. It’s like having a co-pilot who is always looking out for you, no matter how far from Joliet you wander.

The Quad Cities: A Riverfront Revival

Just a straight shot west on I-80, the Quad Cities (Moline, Rock Island, Davenport, and Bettendorf) offer a fantastic riverfront experience. Visit the John Deere Pavilion to see massive farm machinery up close, or take a river cruise on the Celebration Belle. The area has seen a massive revival in its downtown districts, with new breweries and galleries popping up in historic warehouses. The drive is easy and highlights the smooth ride quality of the Subaru global platform. If you're looking for a smooth, quiet ride for the family, come see us or Call us at (815) 725-3789 to talk about the latest comfort features in our new models.