Exploring Illinois by Car: Key Destinations and Travel Advice for Road Trips
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Illinois offers more than just iconic tourist spots like the Willis Tower. Small, charming towns, like Grafton, are wonderful places to explore. You’ll meet friendly locals, have the chance to visit small festivals, and enjoy tasty fare from the many local diners.
Whether you’re looking for a change of scenery or want to take a dive back in time, Illinois is the perfect destination for a classic American road trip. This midwestern state offers a little bit of everything, whether you feel like cruising through the city streets of Chicago, kicking back on Route 66 or traveling somewhere off the beaten path. There are plenty of sights and roadside stops to keep you and your entire family entertained.
Here are a few of our favorite destinations and some helpful travel tips.
Must-See Scenic Routes and Hidden Gems for Illinois Road Trips
The Ohio River Scenic Byway combines history with beautiful landscapes as it follows the banks of the mighty Ohio River. The Illinois portion of this byway runs 188 miles along the southern edge from where the Ohio and Mississippi rivers meet. Along the way, you’ll be treated to stunning views, access to the Shawnee National Forest and a variety of hiking, camping and water activities.
The Historic National Road, America’s first federally sponsored highway, was once a critical route for pioneers venturing out west. Today, it’s known for its Americana charm, vital historical landmarks and fun roadside attractions. Make sure to visit the Vandalia State House, the oldest state capitol building in Illinois, where Abraham Lincoln made his first public speech against slavery.
Planning Your Road Trip: Essential Tips for Cross-Country Car Shipping and Travel Logistics
To ship your car to Illinois and make sure everything goes smoothly, you’ll want to start your prep work fairly early. Reputable cross-country car shipping companies will offer several types of shipping packages and options to match your preferences and budget. While open transport options are usually more cost-effective, it does leave your car exposed to the elements. If you’d like extra protection against the weather and road debris, enclosed transport is also available. This option might be more expensive, but it may be worth considering for luxury, classic or specialty vehicles.
Before shipping, be sure to clean your vehicle inside and out. When your car is clean, it’s much easier to see and record any damage that is (or isn’t) already there. Take plenty of pictures and videos from different angles, with the time and date on them. This helps confirm its condition and is useful for any claims after delivery.
Car shipping insurance does not cover your personal belongings, so don’t leave anything inside your vehicle on shipping day. Conduct routine maintenance, like checking your fluids and tire pressure. This way, your car will be ready for your road trip on the day it’s delivered to you.
Family-Friendly Destinations and Activities Along Illinois Highways
As you drive across Illinois, you’ll discover family-friendly attractions scattered throughout the state. From historic hotspot to outdoor fun, you’re sure to find plenty of activities for everyone in your family to enjoy.
If you’re traveling along I-55, a short detour towards Atlanta (Illinois) will lead you to the American Giants Museum. This little museum is free to enter and takes you back in time with a restored Texaco station and several artifacts and roadside figures from the 1960s.
Illinois Route 66 spans nearly 300 miles across the state and begins in Chicago. If the Windy City is your starting point, check out Lincoln Park Zoo. As one of the nation’s oldest zoos, it’s one of the only ones that also offers free admission. It’s also a great location for checking out the city skyline.
For nature enthusiasts (or a great picnic spot for a lunch break), Starved Rock State Park is just off I-80 and offers some of the most breathtaking scenery in the area. It’s the perfect spot for active families and offers over 13 miles of trails ranging in skill level. If you feel like spending a night under the stars, they also have campgrounds available.
Exploring Illinois History and Culture Through Iconic Roadside Attractions
If you’re in the mood for an unforgettable and scenic drive, travel down the Great River Road. This 550-mile scenic byway runs along the western border and follows the Mississippi River from Galena to Cairo. It’s the perfect route to take if you want to explore the natural beauty of the area. The river towns (like Galena and Alton) feature well-preserved 19th-century downtown areas as well as unique shops, art galleries and restaurants.
Sections of the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail run south along the border. As you drive this route, be sure to visit Camp River Dubois in Hartford, Illinois. This historic site includes six galleries that cover the history and background of the expedition. There’s also a reconstructed outdoor camp that offers visitors a sense of what life was like for members of the expedition during their stay.
Seasonal Travel Advice: Navigating Illinois Roads Year-Round
Drivers in Illinois must be ready for all types of weather conditions. While spring brings thunderstorms and severe weather, blizzards and icy road conditions are common in the wintertime. Check the weather forecast for your route well ahead of your road trip so you’ll know what to expect.
For the most accurate and up-to-date weather and travel information, visit the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) website for road conditions before you set out. It’s always a good idea to have a well-stocked emergency kit on hand, too. Also, be sure to stay aware of your surroundings, especially when traveling down unfamiliar highways.
With so many historic and scenic options to explore, Illinois is a great spot to plan an unforgettable road trip itinerary. Whatever your adventure holds, it’s sure to be a vacation for the memory books.
