Escape the City: 10 Hour Road Trips from Chicago

Introduction:
If you’re tired of city life and looking for a quick escape, there are plenty of road trips you can take from Chicago that will take your breath away. Whether you’re looking for a scenic route, adventure, or just a peaceful getaway, there’s a trip for everyone. In this article, we’ll take a look at the best 10-hour road trips you can take from Chicago.

1. Door County, Wisconsin

Just three and a half hours away from Chicago, Door County in Wisconsin offers an amazing getaway. Bordered by Lake Michigan on the east and Green Bay on the west, the area is known for its charming towns, lighthouses, cherry orchards, and stunning scenery. Take a stroll through the beautiful countryside, cycle down rural lanes, go sailing, or simply relax on the beach. The highlight of the trip could be the scenic route through Cherry Blossom Drive, which offers a view of the stunning cherry orchards.

2. Michigan’s Gold Coast

This trip takes you to a 250-mile stretch of beaches along the shores of beautiful Lake Michigan in Michigan. The journey begins with a drive through the rolling countryside around the town of Saugatuck. The drive passes quaint towns like New Buffalo, which will give you a nostalgic feel of the olden days. You’ll also come across several wineries and vineyards along the way. This is a perfect trip for nature lovers.

3. Mammoth Cave National Park, Kentucky

If you’re a spelunker and you’ve been waiting to explore the underground world of caves, this is your opportunity. Mammoth Cave National Park is situated about 6 hours from Chicago and boasts over 400 miles of cave systems and underground rivers. You can take a guided tour with certified park rangers or an adventure tour where you can get down and dirty with the caves. Remember to carry a headlamp – it’s going to be dark down there!

4. Historic Galena, Illinois

Just three hours from Chicago, the town of Galena is the perfect destination for a fun-filled weekend getaway. The town is home to Grant’s Home, where the Civil War general lived after his presidency. Take a tour of the beautifully preserved historic home and learn a little bit of history. You can also stroll around on Main Street and enjoy the town’s unique architecture, quaint shops, and cafes. Be sure to also check out the scenic drives around Galena, which offer beautiful views of the surrounding hills.

5. Scenic Drive to Nashville, Indiana

Nashville in Indiana is known for its Brown County State Park, a vast area of rolling hills and dense forests. The drive to Nashville is a visual feast, with miles of winding roads that take you through picturesque towns, rolling farmland, and quaint farmhouses. You’ll also come across several antique shops, artist’s studios, and galleries. Once you reach Nashville, there’s plenty to do, including hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding.

6. Chicago to Lake Geneva, Wisconsin

Lush greenery, pristine beaches, and a relaxed atmosphere make Lake Geneva a great road trip destination. The journey offers a serene drive through beautiful countryside, and the highlight of the trip is the stunning Geneva Lake. You can take a boat ride around the lake or just sit and relax by the shore. You’ll also find several spas and resorts in the area if you’re looking to unwind.

7. A Route to the Indiana Dunes

The Indiana Dunes National Park covers 15 miles of the southern shore of Lake Michigan and offers some of the most stunning landscapes you’ll ever see. The drive to the dunes is exhilarating, with miles of scenic roads filled with undulating hills, patches of thick woods, and quaint little towns. You can explore over 50 miles of hiking trails around the park, take a dip in Lake Michigan, or simply soak in the sun on the beach.

8. Mammoth Cave National Park, Kentucky

If you’re a spelunker and you’ve been waiting to explore the underground world of caves, this is your opportunity. Mammoth Cave National Park is situated about 6 hours from Chicago and boasts over 400 miles of cave systems and underground rivers. You can take a guided tour with certified park rangers or an adventure tour where you can get down and dirty with the caves. Remember to carry a headlamp – it’s going to be dark down there!

9. Starved Rock State Park, Illinois

Just 90 minutes from Chicago, Starved Rock State Park is a perfect destination for a day trip. The park offers plenty of outdoor activities, including hiking, trail running, and kayaking. You can also take a guided tour to explore the park’s fascinating history and unusual rock formations. Be sure to check out the waterfalls, bluffs, and canyons, which are stunning all year round.

10. The Kentucky Bourbon Trail

If you’re a whiskey lover, you’ll love the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, which takes you through 16 historic distilleries in Kentucky. The closest one is about 5 hours from Chicago, so you’ll need to plan for a weekend trip. With the smell of bourbon in the air, you can take a tour of the distilleries and learn about the whiskey-making process. You can also try some samples and pick your favorite brand.

Conclusion:
No matter what your preferences may be, there’s a perfect road trip for you just a few hours away from Chicago. The trips mentioned above offer plenty of adventure, fun, and relaxation. So pack your bags, hit the road, and enjoy the beauty of the road and the stunning destinations awaiting you.