Looking to get out and explore? There are so many unique places to visit that are just a car ride away! From quaint small towns to interesting cities to exciting outdoor adventure and everything in between, here are the best road trips from Chicago.
Afterward, you may also be interested in reading
Fun Spring Break Trips from Chicago.
The Best Road Trips from Chicago
Starting with quick weekend getaways, this list is ordered by distance and ends with long road trips from Chicago.
HERITAGE TRAIL, INDIANA
This 90-mile scenic route will take you through northern Indiana's off-the-beaten-path towns where time slows down. The loop rambles through the communities of Goshen, Elkhart, Middlebury, Nappanee, Bristol, Wakarusa, and Shipshewana.
You'll discover winding country roads, talented artists, old-fashioned entertainment, recreational areas, blossoming gardens, and delicious treats.
From mid-May to mid-September, the trail coincides with the colorful Quilt Gardens project. 16 gigantic gardens and 23 painted murals embellish the trail with dazzling flowers in unique designs.
Drive Time: 2 hours to Elkhart Visitor Center
On the Way: University of Notre Dame, The Oliver Mansion, and Bonnie Doon Drive-In.
What to Do: Quilt Gardens, Wellfield Botanical Gardens, RV/MH Hall of Fame & Museum, Pumpkinvine Bike Trail, Ruthmere Mansion, Old Bag Factory, Linton's Enchanted Gardens, Bonneyville Mill County Park, and Menno-Hof.
Where to Eat & Drink: Rise N' Roll, Blue Gate Restaurant & Bakery, Iechyd Da Brewing, Das Dutchman Essenhaus, and Dutch Country Market.
Where to Stay: Excellent Hotel with a Great Location and Free Buffet Breakfast
SOUTH HAVEN, MICHIGAN
If you're looking for a relaxing destination with beach access, good restaurants, and a bike trail, South Haven is it. With its close proximity, southwest Michigan is amongst the top one day road trips from Chicago.
The walkable idyllic small town is right down the street from the Lake Michigan waterfront where you can see some of the best sunsets in the Midwest. There's plenty of opportunities to get out on the water: charter a fishing boat, take a sailing excursion or rent a jet ski.
If you'd like to do more than hit the beach then check out the Kal-Haven Trail, a former railroad route, that runs 33.5 miles from South Haven to Kalamazoo. It's a quiet and easy ride through blueberry fields, tree tunnels, and across a few bridges.
Drive Time: 2 hours, 15 minutes
On the Way: Four Winds Casino
What to Do: Kal-Haven Trail, DeGrandchamp Farms, Michigan Maritime Museum, Friends Good Will Tall Ship, and the Farmers Market.
Where to Eat & Drink: Golden Brown Bakery, Harbor Light Brewery, Chomp Gourmet Hot Dogs, Captain Nemo's, Phoenix Street Cafe, Idler Riverboat, Clementine's, and 12 Corners Vineyards.
Where to Stay: Historic Hotel in the Heart of Town walking distance to the Beach
GALENA, ILLINOIS
Galena is a must-experience destination in the Midwest especially if you live in Illinois. It is one of the unforgettable places to visit near Chicago with rolling hills, historic landmarks, and a super charming Main Street that will make you feel like you stepped into a Hallmark movie.
Start your visit at the historic Old Market House built in 1845 and now serves as Galena's Welcome Center. You'll learn about the fascinating history of the area and find information for your visit.
From springtime through fall, bike the River Trail, hike at Casper Bluff Preserve, or paddle the Galena River. The Alpine Slide, a 2,050-foot outdoor track, is a unique 2-minute adventure on the banks of the Mississippi River.
When the snow starts to fall, hit the slopes at Chestnut Mountain, one of the most popular ski destinations in the Midwest, or ice skate, sled or snowshoe at The Nordic Center at Eagle Ridge Resort.
While in town, hop on a trolley for a tour, visit wineries, and browse all the specialty and boutique shops.
Galena is on the Great River Road in Illinois along with some other special stops that make the scenic byway a unique Midwest road trip. Click on the link to read all about it!
Drive Time: 2 hours, 45 minutes
On the Way: Rafters Restaurant, Apple River Fort State Historic Site, Highway 20 Brewing Company, Horseshoe Mound Preserve, and Long Hollow Scenic Overlook.
What to Do: Galena Cellars Vineyard, Ulysses S. Grant Home, Galena Trolley Tour, and Grant Park
Where to Eat & Drink: Frank O'Dowd's Irish Pub & Grill, Durty Gurt's, The Log Cabin Steakhouse, Fried Green Tomatoes, Otto's Place, and Gobby's Sports Pub & Eatery.
Where to Stay: Cozy Hotel with an Indoor Pool & Spa and Cool Bar
PARKE COUNTY, INDIANA
Indiana has 98 historic covered bridges and Parke County is home to 31 of them. The central west area is also home to Indiana's largest festival, The Parke County Covered Bridge Festival, held every October in honor of the famous crossings.
Here, you'll also find quaint towns among rolling hills and two state parks to hike with deep gorges, wooden ladders, rocky hollows, and natural arches making the area one of the best fall road trips from Chicago.
Drive Time: 3 hours
On the Way: Kankakee Sands Bison Viewing
What to Do: Bridgeton Mill, Turkey Run State Park, Mansfield Roller Mill and Covered Bridge, Narrows Covered Bridge, Rockville Lake Park, Roseville Covered Bridge and downtown Rockville.
Where to Eat & Drink: Wheel House Donuts, Cross at Walk Winery, Thirty-Six Saloon, Big Berry, and Drunk Tank Winery.
Where to Stay: Cabin or Hotel Stay with an Indoor Pool
HAMILTON COUNTY, INDIANA
Under 200 miles away from Chicago and just 23 miles north of Indianapolis, Hamilton County is a fantastic option for a weekend getaway.
With lively communities bursting with arts and entertainment districts, outdoor activities, historic squares, boutique shopping, and diverse restaurants, Hamilton County deserves its own place on the list.
If you like to eat and drink, you can dedicate an entire weekend chasing giant pork tenderloins, local donut shops, and/or craft breweries. Make sure to spread your time evenly within the cities of Westfield, Carmel, Noblesville, and Fishers.
Drive Time: 3 hours
On the Way: Fair Oaks Farm, Cairo Skywatch Tower, Wildcreek Winery, and Jerry E. Botanic Gardens.
What to Do: Monon Bike Trail, Carmel Arts and Design District, Strawtown Koteewi Park, Hamilton County Courthouse & Old Sheriff's Residence and County Jail, Center of the Performing Arts,
Where to Eat & Drink: Urban Vines Winery and Brewery, Wolfies Grill, Rosie's Place, Cafe Patachou, Books & Brews, and Divvy Restaurant.
Where to Stay: Upscale Boutique Hotel in a Great Location
INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA
Home to the state capitol, the world's oldest continuously operated racecourse, and the world's largest children's museum, Indianapolis has endless vacation potential.
Kick off your visit at Monument Circle, an impressive centerpiece circling the 284- foot tall Soldiers' and Sailors' Monument. The spectacular views from the observation deck will get you pumped to explore the city.
Once back on the ground, don't miss The Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum, home of the Indy 500, for a chance to learn all about the history of racing, fast cars, and to see the track up close and personal.
For those looking for outdoor adventure, the Central Canal and White River State Park offer quiet respites from the bustling urban atmosphere with biking, pedal boat rentals, kayaking and segway tours.
If traveling with kids, spend an entire day at the gigantic Children's Museum of Indianapolis. Each exhibit will entertain the whole family.
Drive Time: 3 hours
On the Way: Fair Oaks Farm, Cairo Skywatch Tower, Wildcreek Winery, and Jerry E. Botanic Gardens.
What to Do: Indianapolis Motor Speedway, The Children's Museum, Monument Circle, Connor Prairie Interactive History Park, Canal Walk, Indiana State House, White River State Park, and Indianapolis Zoo.
Where to Eat & Drink: St. Joseph Brewery, Cafe Patachou, BRU Burger Bar, The Rathskeller, St. Elmo Steak House, and Slippery Noodle Inn.
Where to Stay: Hotel with Ideal Downtown Location & Indoor Swimming Pool
LAKE ERIE OHIO COASTAL TRAIL & CEDAR POINT
It's time to ditch Lake Michigan and discover another one of the Great Lakes. You can pick up the Lake Erie Ohio Coastal Trail in Toledo and follow the shoreline to Conneaut.
Along the 293-mile route, you'll discover the second-oldest operating amusement park in the United States (which happens to also be the best in the Midwest), old-time lighthouses, water parks an underrated cool city, swimming beaches, coastal towns, and beautiful state parks.
Being along the lake, there are numerous outdoor activities to choose from, plus historical and entertaining options on the drive. You'll have a newfound love and appreciation for Lake Erie after this sensational road trip.
Drive Time: 4 Hours to Toledo
On the Way: University of Notre Dame, Shipshewana, RV/MH Hall of Fame & Museum
What to Do: Marblehead Lighthouse State Park, Cedar Point Amusement Park, Rock n' Roll Hall of Fame, and Fairport Harbor Marine Museum and Lighthouse.
Where to Eat & Drink: Dock's Beach House Restaurant in Port Clinton, New Sandusky Fish Company, Mary's Kitchen in Geneva-on-the-Lake, Old Prague in Vermilion, Madsen Donuts in Geneva, and White Turkey Drive-in.
Where to Stay: Waterfront Property near Cedar Point
BLOOMINGTON, INDIANA
Bloomington tops the list of coolest college towns in the Midwest. There's always something going on between outdoor festivals, sports games, and music events.
Take a tour of one of the most beautiful campuses in the nation, go brewery hopping, or explore the area's natural beauty.
There's a reason Bloomington is referred to as the "Gateway to Scenic Southern Indiana," just twenty minutes away is the beautiful Lake Monroe and the Hoosier National Forest.
Drive Time: 4 hours
What to Do: Hickory Ridge Fire Tower, B-Line Trail, Indiana University Tour, and Tibetan Mongolian Buddhist Cultural Center.
Where to Eat & Drink: Nick's English Hut on Kirkwood, Laughing Planet Cafe, Oliver Winery, Crazy Horse, Cardinal Spirits, Upland Brewing Company, and Switchyard Brewing.
Where to Stay: Nice Hotel Walking Distance to University with Free Breakfast
HANNIBAL, MISSOURI
The river town of Hannibal is all about Mr. Samuel Clemens, aka Mark Twain. The prolific American writer grew up in this charming small town and many of his tales were inspired here.
Take a ride on the Mississippi, tour Twain's boyhood home and climb in the caves he played in and helped shape his imagination.
If you want to make your trip extra memorable, visit Memorial Day Weekend when the family-friendly Twain on Main Festival takes place featuring an arts and craft event, live music, Mark Twain performers, and a wine & beer garden with local favorites.
Drive Time: 4 1/2 hours
On the Way: Route 66 (see below for stops) to Springfield (Lincoln attractions)
What to Do: Mark Twain Boyhood Home & Museum, Mark Twain Cave, Lovers Leap, Mississippi Riverboat, Memorial Lighthouse, and Cave Hollow West Winery.
Where to Eat & Drink: Fiddlesticks Food & Spirits Company, Mark Twain Brewery, Becky's Old Fashioned Ice Cream Parlor and Emporium, Becky Thatcher's Diner.
Where to Stay: No-frills Chain with Indoor Pool and Free Breakfast
ROUTE 66: CHICAGO TO SPRINGFIELD, ILLINOIS
Route 66 is the most popular road in the United States and it begins in Chicago! For a fun weekend getaway, take a ride to the state capital of Illinois.
On the way, you'll find quirky roadside attractions along with interesting small towns. There are a ton of fun photo opportunities, colorful murals, and historical places along the route.
Once you arrive in Springfield, learn about one of America's most beloved presidents, Abe Lincoln, and see where he lived and worked.
Read here for a complete Springfield Itinerary to make the most of your time in the city.
Drive Time: 5 hours
On the Way: Old Joliet Prison, Gemini Giant, Launching Pad, Funks Grove Pure Maple Sirup, Route 66 Hall of Fame, World's Largest Covered Wagon, and Paul Bunyan Statue.
What to Do: Lincoln Home, Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum, Lincoln Tomb, Ergadoozy Creative Play Center (kids under 12), Henson Robinson Zoo, Illinois State Capitol, and Knight’s Action Park.
Where to Eat & Drink: Cozy Dog Drive-In, Obed and Isaac's Brewery, Incredibly Delicious, Engrained Brewery & Restaurant, Mel-O-Cream Donuts, and Route 66 Motorheads.
Where to Stay: Downtown Hotel with Indoor Pool
ST. LOUIS, MISSOURI
Saint Louis has it all - good food, unique museums, craft breweries, and outdoor activities.
This Midwest destination is easy on the pocketbook too with most of the attractions and museums being free.
Don't miss the Gateway Arch; one of our newest national parks with a new state-of-the-art visitor center, the City Museum; the wackiest "museum" I've ever been to, and Anheuser Busch Brewery; a tour where you can also see the famous Clydesdales.
St. Louis is a great destination for couples, families, and solo travelers with an array of vacation activities to choose from.
Drive Time: 5 hours
On the Way: For a delightful lunch on the way down, stop halfway in Bloomington at Rosie's Pub. It's a popular restaurant serving up delicious sandwiches and burgers in one of the oldest buildings in town.
What to Do: St. Louis Zoo, The Arch, City Museum, Anheuser-Busch Brewery, Forest Park, Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis, Ballpark Village, and the Missouri Botanical Garden.
Where to Eat & Drink: Bogart's Barbecue, The Fountain on Locust, Crown Candy Kitchen, Hodak's Restaurant and Bar, Civil Life Brewery, and 360 rooftop bar.
Where to Stay: Well Reviewed Hotel near the Arch with a Free Hot Breakfast & Swimming Pool
CLEVELAND, OHIO
Cleveland provides an array of attractions from action-packed sporting events to interesting museums and even a few quirky stops like Ralphie's house in A Christmas Story.
Progressive Field, the Cleveland Indians' turf, is right near the pedestrian-friendly East 4th street which is the entertainment district downtown lined with restaurants and pubs. Down the street, take your chances with Lady Luck at a casino which also happens to be in the department store where the infamous 1983 Christmas movie was filmed.
And no visit to Cleveland would be complete without the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame experience. The museum launches visitors through the evolution of the shake-rattle-and-roll era that exploded in America.
And lastly, only 20 miles south is a national park to check off your list, Cuyahoga Valley. You can explore the park on a side trip from Cleveland or Akron.
Drive Time: 5 hours 20 minutes
On the Way: Cedar Point Amusement Park
What to Do: James A Garfield Memorial, Cleveland Botanical Garden, Cultural Gardens, Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, and A Christmas Story House.
Where to Eat & Drink: Collision Bend Brewery, West Side Market, Mabel's BBQ, Great Lakes Brewery, Lindey's Lake House, Alley Cat Oyster Bar, and Fat Cats.
Where to Stay: Reasonably priced 4-star hotel with indoor pool and lake views
SHAWNEE NATIONAL FOREST, ILLINOIS
You won't believe you're still in the Prairie State once you arrive in Shawnee National Forest. It is one of the best-kept secrets in Illinois.
It's a great destination to unplug and get back to nature. Start with the 1.7 mile Rim Rock Trail which will guide you through 300-year-old oak trees and narrow crevices to a beautiful canyon.
Explore the Cave-in-Rock overlooking the Ohio River, the historic cavern provided a safe haven for frontier outlaws back in the day. Take the Cave in Rock Ferry across the river to the small Amish village in Marion.
Don't miss a sunset at Garden of the Gods and a hike up Triggs Tower for more beautiful views.
Drive Time: 5 hours 20 minutes
What to Do: Rim Rock Recreation Trail, Burden Falls, Triggs Tower, Bell Smith Springs Recreation Area, Cave-in-Rock, Inspiration Point, and Garden of the Gods.
Where to Eat & Drink: The Diver Down, Garden of the Gods Outpost, E'Town River Restaurant, and Hogg Hollow Winery.
Where to Stay: A Beautiful Cabin with Private Bathroom and Deck
PATOKA LAKE, INDIANA
One of the best road trips from Chicago during Covid we took was to Patoka Lake. It is a destination that offers outdoor activities, that isn't very busy especially midweek, and where you can get out on a lovely lake.
Combine the trip with visiting the small towns of French Lick, known for its historic mineral springs, and Jasper, home to the Indiana Hall of Fame.
Make sure to rent a pontoon for a day on the lake and to take a walk through the stunning French Lick Resort and West Baden Springs Hotel for a glimpse into the past.
Drive Time: 5 1/2 hours
On the Way: Stop for lunch in a booming college town - either Lafayette or Bloomington.
What to Do: French Lick Casino, French Lick Scenic Railway, and Patoka Lake State Park.
Where to Eat & Drink: Patoka Lake Winery, 33 Brick Street, German Cafe, and French Licks Ice Cream.
Where to Stay: A 3-bedroom Country Cabin on the Lake
SANTA CLAUS, INDIANA
If you are looking for a fun wholesome summer trip for the family, head over to Santa Claus, Indiana.
With free soft drinks, free parking, free sunscreen, and free Wi-Fi, you can't go wrong with a visit to Holiday World and Splashin' Safari.
Home to the world's longest water coaster and America's only launched wing coaster, both amusement parks will keep the whole family entertained.
In between, make sure to track down all the festive spots that'll have you celebrating Christmas in July.
Drive Time: 5 1/2 hours
On the Way: Lincoln Boyhood National Memorial
What to Do: Holiday World Amusement Park, Splashin’ Safari Water Park, Lincoln State Park, Santa Claus Christmas Store, Santa’s Candy Castle, Santa’s Stables, Santa Claus Museum, and Holiday Drive-In.
Where to Eat & Drink: Frosty's Fun Center
Where to Stay: Santa's Lodge just not far from the Amusement Park
PUT-IN-BAY, OHIO
Where should I go for a weekend getaway from Chicago? Let me introduce you to South Bass Island in Ohio that is home to the small charming village of Put-in-Bay.
Even though there's plenty to do for families, this Midwest must-experience destination is best for couples or friend getaways. It's where golf carts roam and drinks flow with over 25 bars, breweries, and wineries.
From boating to paddle boarding, water activities are one of the best things to do when visiting. Along with catching a sunset at South Bass Island State Park, touring the wineries, and eating and drinking your way through town.
Drive Time: 5 1/2 Hours
On the Way: Shipshewana, Indiana's cutest Amish town.
What to Do: Observation Deck at Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial, island tour by tram, bike, or golf cart, Heineman’s Winery and Cave Tour, the monument view from Oak Point State Park, swimming at The Sand Bar, and the Massie Cliffside Preserve.
Where to Eat & Drink: Put-in-Bay Brewery, Chocolate Cafe & Museum, The Forge, Put-in-Bay Winery, Biergarten at the Boathouse, The Boardwalk, and Topsy Turvey's Bar & Grill.
Where to Stay: A Private Guesthouse with Free Bikes and a Fabulous Breakfast
AKRON, OHIO
Where can I go 6 hours from Chicago? Akron, Ohio that's where!
This is a city that surprised us in so many ways, not to mention, it's right next door to one of the few national parks in the Midwest.
Catch a minor league baseball game, tour an incredible historic mansion, chase waterfalls in Cuyahoga National Park, and visit an impressive art museum.
Drive Time: 6 hours
What to Do: Akron Art Museum, Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Akron Rubber Ducks, Stan Hywet Hall, and Akron Civic Theatre.
Where to Eat & Drink: The Peanut Shoppe, Mr. Zub's Deli & Bar, Lock 15 Brewing Company, and El Patron Tequileria & Cuisine.
Where to Stay: Modern Hotel with Lounge and Indoor Pool
TWIN CITIES, MINNESOTA
Saint Paul and Minneapolis, commonly called the Twin Cities, have a lot to offer for a vacation.
St. Paul is a little quieter with the state capitol and more daylife. While Minneapolis is where you go for art, theater, and nightlife. Both have a ton of breweries and great food options.
Discover the area through fun attractions like the Mall of America, the Science Museum of Minnesota, Como Zoo, Can Can Wonderland, and the Walker Art Sculpture Garden.
And do not miss the most beautiful places like the Cathedral of Saint Paul, the Minnesota State Capital, Como Conservatory, the historic homes of Summit Avenue, Lake Phalen, and Minnehaha Falls.
Drive Time: 6 hours
On the Way: Eau Claire, an Underrated Wisconsin Destination.
Where to Eat & Drink: Band Box, Summit Brewing Company, Keg and Case Market, Bad Weather Brewing, The Anchor Fish & Chips, and The Nook.
Where to Stay: Hotel with a Free Shuttle and Modern Rooms
CLEAR LAKE, IOWA
Clear Lake is a little hidden gem in the state of Iowa and it's another destination only 6 hours away from Chicago.
Cruise the Lady of the Lake, an authentic paddlewheel boat, while taking in the sights and learning some fun facts about the area.
Take in a show and tour The Surf Ballroom, where Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, and JP “The Big Bopper” Richardson played their last concert. Frozen in time, it'll transport you right back to 1959.
Eat, drink, and shop along Main Avenue, the hub of this friendly lakefront community.
And before you leave, drive north to Buddy Holly's Crash Site, you can't miss the giant Holly's iconic black eyeglasses.
Drive Time: 6 hours
On the Way: Galena's Helluva Half Mile Main Street
What to Do: Lady of the Lake Cruise, The Surf Ballroom & Museum, Clear Lake State Park, and Central Gardens of North Iowa.
Where to Eat & Drink: Cabin Coffee, Starboard Market, PM Park, South Shore Donuts, Lake Time Brewery, and Sevens Steak House.
Where to Stay: Adorable Rental with Free Bicycles walking distance to the Surf & Downtown
PORCUPINE MOUNTAIN STATE PARK, MICHIGAN
Michigan's Upper Peninsula is pleasant in the spring and summer, but it is also one of the best fall road trips from Chicago. And no trip there is complete without a visit to the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park.
With 60,000 acres of old-growth forest, meandering rivers, jaw-dropping vistas, and flowing waterfalls, the “Porkies” will impress any traveler. It's kind of hard to believe you can find these views in the Midwest!
Drive Time: 6 hours 40 minutes
On the Way: Oshkosh, Wisconsin.
What to Do: Bond Falls, Lake of the Clouds, Escarpment Trail, Presque Isle Falls, Summit Peak Observation Tower, Big Carp River Trail, Union Spring Trail, and Porcupine Mountains Chairlift.
Where to Eat & Drink: White Pine's Yooper Diner, Antonio's Restaurant, and Hoop'n Holler Tavern.
Where to Stay: Chain Hotel only 15 minutes from the Park
RED RIVER GORGE, KENTUCKY
Listed on the National Register of Historic Places and a National Natural Landmark and National Archaeological District, Red River Gorge is a place that should not be overlooked as a road trip from Chicago.
Located in the Daniel Boone National Forest, there are over 100 natural sandstone archways, waterfalls, dense woodlands, exposed limestone ledges, tunnels, and bridges.
Red River Gorge is an outdoor enthusiast's dream destination.
Drive Time: 7 hours
On the Way: Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington
What to Do: Nada Tunnel, Sheltowee Trace National Recreation Trail, Gladie Historic Site and Visitor Center, Sky Bridge Trail, Angel Windows Trail, Chimney Top Rock Trail, Cliff Trail, and Hidden Arch.
Where to Eat & Drink: Sky Bridge Station, Red River Rockhouse, Thatcher Barbecue Company, and Miguels Pizza.
Where to Stay: Great Resort surrounded by Natural Beauty
KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI
We are moving onto longer drive times so anything below here are my recommended best road trips from Chicago for a week or more.
Kansas City has culturally rich areas, bold and modern architecture mixed with distinguished historic buildings, a flourishing arts scene, and finger-licking-good barbecue.
If that doesn't convince you, it is also home to the best World War I Museum in the country and a highly rated art museum admired by all that visit.
Drive Time: 7 hours 45 min
On the Way: Springfield, Illinois.
What to Do: Crossroads Art District, National World War I Museum, Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, City Market, Rose Garden at Loose Park, and Country Club Plaza.
Where to Eat & Drink: Arthur Bryant's, Cinder Block Brewing Company, Gillis Cafe and Hangout, Pigwich, Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Que, and Boulevard Brewing Company.
Where to Stay: Hotel with Ideal Location and Free Breakfast
BRANSON, MISSOURI
Branson is probably one of the most underrated road trips from Chicago for families.
It's not just cheesy musicals and religious shows, there's a lot of natural beauty, fun attractions, and cool things to do for kids and adults alike.
Drive Time: 8 hours
On the Way: St Louis and the quirky stop of Uranus.
What to Do: Titanic Museum, Silver Dollar City Amusement Park, Table Rock Lake Trail, Dick’s 5 & 10 Store, Top of the Rock, Shepherd of the Hills Fish Hatchery, and Branson Landing.
Where to Eat & Drink: Danna’s BBQ & Burger Shop, White River Fish House, Andy’s Frozen Custard, The Paddlewheel, Clockers Cafe, and Mel's Hard Luck Diner.
Where to Stay: Modern Hotel on the Branson Landing
FINGER LAKES, NEW YORK
If you are interested in 10 hour road trips from Chicago, Finger Lakes is the place to go especially if you enjoy hiking, lakes, and drinking.
The region is renowned for its wine trail but it also has more than 75 craft breweries! Don't miss the wonderful state parks and the interesting towns of Hammondsport and Corning.
Drive Time: 10 1/2 hours
On the Way: Rock n Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland.
What to Do: Watkins Glen State Park, Corning Glass Museum, Hammondsport, Robert H. Treman State Park, and Mark Twain's Study and Burial Site.
Where to Eat & Drink: Market Street Brewing Company and Restaurant, Glenora Wine Cellars, Rooster Fish Brewing Tasting Room, Nickel's Pit BBQ, and Wagner Vineyards Estate Winery.
Where to Stay: Inn with a Beautiful Grounds & a Free Breakfast
BLACK HILLS, SOUTH DAKOTA
If you're planning a 2 week road trip from Chicago, head to the beautiful Black Hills of South Dakota.
You'll find scenic drives, history, wildlife, and natural beauty throughout the entire region. And, some goofy roadside attractions on the way!
Drive Time: 14 hours
On the Way: Austin, Minnesota
What to Do: Wildlife Loop in Custer State Park, Mount Rushmore, Wind Cave National Park, Evans Plunge Hot Springs, Crazy Horse Memorial, and Badlands National Park.
Where to Eat & Drink: Chuck Wagon Dinner Show, Baker’s Bakery & Cafe, Black Hills Burger & Bun Co, Wall Drug, and Legion Lake Lodge.
Where to Stay: Bavarian Inn with an Outdoor Pool
THEODORE ROOSEVELT NATIONAL PARK, NORTH DAKOTA
If you like cool roadside attractions, quirky vibes, outdoor adventure, and getting off the beaten path then this is one of the best long road trips from Chicago.
Don't put off North Dakota as your last state because it has a lot going for it. The Theodore Roosevelt National Park has sprawling natural beauty with winding waterways and painted canyons along with free-roaming bison and wild horses.
The neighboring town of Medora is one of my favorite small towns in the U.S. with an authentic Western energy. Visit the Cowboy Hall of Fame to learn about cowboy culture, catch a show at the famous Medora Musical, an outdoor extravaganza with the real badlands as its backdrop, and stroll the streets of this tiny charming town.
Drive Time: 14 hours
On the Way: Fargo-Moorhead Visitors Center, Fargo Air Museum, Frontier Village, World's Largest Buffalo, Lewis and Clark Riverboat, Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park, North Dakota Heritage Center and State Museum, North Dakota State Capitol, and the Enchanted Highway.
What to Do: The Medora Musical, Chateau de Mores State Historic Site, Pitchfork Steak Fondue, ND Cowboy Hall of Fame, South Unit 36-mile Loop Drive, Sunset at Wind Canyon, Painted Canyon Visitor Center Overlook, Ridgeline Nature Trail, Roosevelt’s Maltese Cross Ranch Cabin, Boicourt Trail, Buck Hill Trail, Oxbow Overlook, River Bend Overlook, Cannonball Concretions Pullout, and 14-mile North Unit Scenic Byway at the Theodore Roosevelt National Park.
Where to Eat & Drink: Sandy's Donuts, Drekker Brewery, Tower Travel Center, Little Missouri Saloon & Dining Room, Medora Uncork'd, and Hidden Springs Java.
Where to Stay: Ranch Cabin in the Heart of Medora
One of the most beautiful Midwest states is just a short drive from Chicago, here are fun day trips in Michigan to help you plan.
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