Uploaded August 2026 | Updated September 2026, 1 hour ago
Looking for one of the most unique stops along Historic Route 66 in Illinois? Just an hour outside Chicago, Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie is home to a growing herd of American bison, reintroduced as part of an ambitious prairie restoration project.
Jon Travels with Darley's Darley Newman as ecologist Bill Glass explains how bison are helping restore one of North America's most endangered ecosystems. Learn why these incredible animals disappeared from Illinois, how they returned after nearly 200 years, and the important role they play in supporting native grasses, wildflowers, birds, and other wildlife.
Male bison can weigh up to 2,000 pounds, stand 6 feet tall, and run at speeds of 35 mph, making them one of the most impressive animals to see in the Midwest.
If you're planning a Route 66 road trip, exploring Illinois, or looking for a memorable day trip from Chicago, Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie is a must-visit destination.
📍 Location: Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie, Wilmington, Illinois (about 1 hour from Chicago)
In this video:
🦬 Where to see bison in Illinois
🌾 How bison help restore native prairie
🦅 Wildlife and conservation at Midewin
🚗 A unique stop along Historic Route 66
🌎 Why prairie restoration matters
Subscribe for more road trips, national parks, wildlife, history, and hidden gems across the USA and beyond!
#Route66 #Illinois #Bison #Midewin #Chicago #TallgrassPrairie #Wildlife #Conservation #RoadTrip #Travel #NationalGrassland
Looking for one of the most unique stops along Historic Route 66 in Illinois? Just an hour outside Chicago, Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie is home to a growing herd of American bison, reintroduced as part of an ambitious prairie restoration project.
Jon Travels with Darley's Darley Newman as ecologist Bill Glass explains how bison are helping restore one of North America's most endangered ecosystems. Learn why these incredible animals disappeared from Illinois, how they returned after nearly 200 years, and the important role they play in supporting native grasses, wildflowers, birds, and other wildlife.
Male bison can weigh up to 2,000 pounds, stand 6 feet tall, and run at speeds of 35 mph, making them one of the most impressive animals to see in the Midwest.
If you're planning a Route 66 road trip, exploring Illinois, or looking for a memorable day trip from Chicago, Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie is a must-visit destination.
📍 Location: Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie, Wilmington, Illinois (about 1 hour from Chicago)
In this video:
🦬 Where to see bison in Illinois
🌾 How bison help restore native prairie
🦅 Wildlife and conservation at Midewin
🚗 A unique stop along Historic Route 66
🌎 Why prairie restoration matters
Subscribe for more road trips, national parks, wildlife, history, and hidden gems across the USA and beyond!
#Route66 #Illinois #Bison #Midewin #Chicago #TallgrassPrairie #Wildlife #Conservation #RoadTrip #Travel #NationalGrassland
