spring break road trips from chicago

an excellent location as well as an indoor swimming pool, complimentary cook-to-order breakfast, and a complimentary reception every night with snacks and beverages. I am sharing a few of my favorites within a range of distances. On the Way: Galena's Helluva Half Mile Main Street. Nashville is a great place to party, and with live music and warm weather likely to feature, it's perfect for a short spring break road trip from Chicago. Allow plenty of time for your journey if you're using your car to get around the city. Sometimes spending time with kids can metaphorically drive you up a wall, but at Climb Kalamazoo climbing the walls is an adrenaline-packed family activity. On the Way: Route 66 (see below for stops) to Springfield (Lincoln attractions). What to Do: Marblehead Lighthouse State Park, Cedar Point Amusement Park, Rock n' Roll Hall of Fame, and Fairport Harbor Marine Museum and Lighthouse. What to Do: Kal-Haven Trail, DeGrandchamp Farms, Michigan Maritime Museum, Friends Good Will Tall Ship, and the Farmers Market. Columbus, Ohio: Columbus has been one of our favorite cities to wander. The event travels less than 100 feet but features several lively Irish-themed entertainment acts. We also enjoy visiting the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium which has one of the best African savanna experiences I have viewed. Ideas for Teacher's Spring Break Road Trip? 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. Some prefer the relaxing vibe of small-town charm, others an escape into the great outdoors, or perhaps a little of both. Chicago to Indianapolis to Louisville (270 miles one way) We live in Chicago, so we have taken many spring break road trips. Attractions in Chattanooga put on special events as part of the Spring Break Safari, making the city the perfect family spring break destination. Kick off your visit at Monument Circle, an impressive centerpiece circling the 284- foot tall Soldiers' and Sailors' Monument. Don't miss the wonderful state parks and the interesting towns of Hammondsport and Corning. The bustling downtown full of shops, wineries, eateries and history beckons wanderers. With the weather still feeling wintery, book into a cozy cabin and enjoy quality time together over spring break. Work up an appetite by strolling the grounds and taking a 1.3-mile hike through pastures along Eagle Creek. ( StayThe Radisson Plaza Hotel at Kalamazoo Center is a great option for its convenient downtown location, indoor pool, whirlpool, and four on-site restaurants. Bonus: Traverse City is known as the Cherry Capital of the World. Waterfalls and rock formations amaze inside Hocking Hills State Park. And no trip there is complete without a visit to the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park. The post 21 Spring Break Road Trips That Are Scenic from Start to Finish appeared first on Reader's Digest. 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. Bonus: Springfield didn't invent the corn dog, but it does claim to be the birthplace of the iconic cozy dog that's a hotdog on a stick covered in tasty batter for out of towners. Nothing washes down BBQ better than snow cones. What are the 25 Best Day Trips from Chicago? 12 Super Road Trip Destinations from Chicago Perfect for Your Next Adventure. If some of your group are less interested in spa time than others, Adventureworks Hot Springs is a more active alternative. Head to the Children's Museum for some play-based fun. Don't put off North Dakota as your last state because it has a lot going for it. Where to Stay: Cozy Cabins right by the Park. Mill City Museum and the Museum of Russian Art are two of my favorite museums in the Midwest. Board Amtrak in Los Angeles and enjoy the picturesque scenery of the great American Southwest as you venture over to Arizona. The interstate ends here and you'll complete your road trip by following Highway 61 Scenic Drive, which follows the shore of Lake Superior all the way to Grand Portage at the Canadian border. On the Way: Lincoln Boyhood National Memorial. St. Louis, Missouri:St. Louis is an ideal location for a little getaway right along the mighty Mississippi River. 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. Taking you through small towns and beautiful landscapes, you can download a free audio guide which gives you some of the background to this peaceful part of Indiana. Our highlights: Baseball fans should head straight to the Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame & Museum, where you can also take a tour of the Great American Ballpark. We love renting a cabin in the region for a little nature respite away from it all. 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Highlights of the museum include American POP, an exhibit that explores pop culture, how we shape it, and how it shapes us, Beyond Spaceship Earth where you can immerse yourselves into the exciting life of an astronaut, and Take Me There: Greece will introduce you to Greek culture through art, food, music, dance, and architecture. Rosy Mound Natural Trail in Grand Haven is one of our cherished nature highlights. May 2, 2023 by Theresa Goodrich. To reach Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg, take I-40 out of Knoxville then turn south on TN-66. Where to Stay: A 2-bedroom Country Cabin with Modern Amenities, 1 Bedroom Cabin, sleeps 4 with Outdoor Deck. Follow I-30 W out of the city, then turn onto US-70 for the final stretch of your drive to Hot Springs. Where to Stay: Hotel with Ideal Downtown Location, Highly Rated B&B in the Center of the City with a Fabulous Breakfast, Family and Budget-Friendly Hotel with Pool and Free Parking. Drive an hour to. 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. A plethora of hiking opportunities exist in and around the city including Lakeshore Nature Preserve, Blue Mound State Park, Devil's Staircase and Pheasant Branch Conservancy. Saint Paul and Minneapolis, commonly called the Twin Cities, have a lot to offer for a vacation. Every trip to Pittsburgh welcomes us to new experiences. On the Way: Eau Claire, an Underrated Wisconsin Destination. EatFrom boils to sushi, Saltwater Crab will satisfy your seafood cravings. By signing up to Tinybeans newsletters you agree to our Terms and Held on Easter Monday, this Polish festival includes polka dancing, accordion music and beer tents a really unique way to spend the spring break whatever your age! Bonus: The mineral-rich water from the hot springs is said to have healing qualities, and there are fountains across the city where you can take a drink or fill a bottle. 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. There is a free docent tour on Thursdays. 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. The Ulysses S. Grant is home is one of our favorites to tour and includes so many authentic family artifacts. Seems like most people agree it's not worth traveling out of the way for. Though heavy and a bit somber, the history and lessons to be learned at the National Civil Rights Museum are too important to skip. Where to Eat & Drink: White Pine's Yooper Diner, Antonio's Restaurant, and Hoop'n Holler Tavern. not only for their famous chocolate chip cookies but also for an excuse to visit the hip and trendy NuLu neighborhood. Locals and visitors alike will swear by Brother Junipers for the best breakfast in town. 11 years ago Save Hello just learned of this forum. 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. How to get there: Follow I-55 southeast through Illinois, passing Springfield before you cross the Mississippi River at St Louis, Missouri. Wakarusa is the final stop on the trail, which then passes through Elkhart again before you rejoin I-90 to continue east towards Cleveland. And no visit to Cleveland would be complete without the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame experience. When you reach Grand Rapids join US-131 and continue north until you reach your destination. It's a relaxing place to escape the hustle and bustle, and if you're travelling as a family children love exploring the tropical conservatory too. So, without further ado, heres what I would recommend for the Chicagoans ready to take on the road and create life-long Spring Road Trip memories with family and Bonus: You won't be able to see the famous Indy 500 automobile race during your spring break visit, as this usually takes place in May. AAA estimates that 2.8 million a must-see in Memphis. Meramec Caverns for the natural underground caverns and zipline. You can also visit the historic lighthouses six in all to enjoy more atmospheric views out across the lake. You'll find a whole host of family-friendly attractions in Columbus, including one of the best science museums in the country at the Centre of Science and Industry. Springfield, Illinois. Home to the world's longest water coaster and America's only launched wing coaster, both amusement parks will keep the whole family entertained. 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. If you decide to make a return trip to see the race you'll be in good company more than half a million people watch from around the Speedway. Our travel tips: The city will be really busy if you do visit for Opening Day, so expect some queues and leave extra time to get parked (we'd suggest arriving early). Where better to go horseback riding than in the home of The Kentucky Derby? The Riley Children's Health Sports Fitness Experience allows kids to pedal a car on a drag strip, show off their athletic skills, stroll down the Avenue of Champions to see statues depicting sports legends, and work those muscles on the Fitness Path and Track. Starting with quick weekend getaways, this list is ordered by distance and ends with long road trips from Chicago. While a drive of this length probably won't suit spring breakers with young families, this is a great time to take an adventure with older children or to hit the road with a group of friends. Animal artists change per season, however, elephants and orangutans are year-round options. Enjoy live music and a patio with fire pits and a full bar. Our goal is to highlight amazing locations,share our journeys andpost our favorite travel resources. PlayLike nothing youve seen before, Air Zoo shows kids a highly charged, multi-sensory aviation experience with more than 50 rare and historic aircraft, amusement park-style rides, a RealD 3D/4D theater, full-motion flight simulators, historical exhibits, and educational activities. Book early if you want to try to get tickets for the game. Indianapolis also has breweries, wineries and distilleries which you can visit with the Indy Craft Pass something that might appeal if you want to party during spring break. You can also enjoy the blooms in daytime if you need to hit the road back to Chicago by the evening. Where to Eat & Drink: Sky Bridge Station, Red River Rockhouse, Thatcher Barbecue Company, and Miguels Pizza. Colonial Dental Associates, Ltd. in Mount Prospect, Copyright A Little Time and a Keyboard. The Gateway Arch marks a grand entrance to St. Louis and the West. Rockford, Illinois. Heavy snow is possible but not guaranteed during March and April, so stay flexible in your choice of activities if you take this trip. Hands-on science learning inside Davenport's. Shawnee National Forest: Shawnee National Forest in Southern Illinois welcomes travelers to unique hikes with unparalleled views. Why you should visit: Atlanta is the southernmost destination on our list and is an amazing place to visit from Chicago during spring break. 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. Onsite dining and dog-friendly rooms are available. Where to Eat & Drink: The Peanut Shoppe, Mr. Zub's Deli & Bar, Lock 15 Brewing Company, and El Patron Tequileria & Cuisine. With its Dinosaur Hall and interactive science exhibits, Cincinnati Museum Center is also a great family day out. WebThe ultimate road trip planner to help you discover extraordinary places, book hotels, and share itineraries all from the map. the grand scale sculptures are breathtaking and the gardens awe especially the Japanese garden. But if you're ready to explore a little further afield after the St Patrick's Day party, or looking for a day trip or two while you spend spring break in Chicago itself, you have some amazing destinations to choose from. If the weather's good enough to spend more time outdoors, go for a longer hike through Cuyahoga Valley National Park where Brandywine Waterfall should be in full flow. Where to Stay: Adorable Rental with Free Bicycles walking distance to the Surf & Downtown. 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. By imported_Steve in forum Spring RoadTrips Replies: 6 Last Post: 01-14-2004, 07:02 PM. This 107-year-old, steam-powered, paddlewheel-propelled vessel is a Louisville landmark unto itself, not to mention all the sights you see along the way. It's kind of hard to believe you can find these views in the Midwest! Thrill seekers should definitely head to Gatlinburg's Mountain Coaster, which races rollercoaster-style down the side of the mountain, or Smoky Mountain Ziplines, where you can get a whole new view of this beautiful part of the world. Buckle up and escape to these family-friendly destinations all around us. Why you should visit: Nashville is the first of our road trip destinations where you're likely to be able to enjoy some warmer spring weather, and the first one outside the Midwest. Where to Eat & Drink: The Diver Down, Garden of the Gods Outpost, E'Town River Restaurant, and Hogg Hollow Winery. 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. Other attractions include the opportunity to feed flamingos, exotic birds, or giraffes. It's a straightforward interstate drive south for the weekend, and once you arrive you can immerse yourself in the party atmosphere until it's time to leave. Devils Lake at Wisconsin got the honor of the camping road trip this year. Carry on to Middlebury and Shipshewana before looping back round to visit Goshen and Nappanee. Every day is an opportunity to create new stories. Explore the Cave-in-Rock overlooking the Ohio River, the historic cavern provided a safe haven for frontier outlaws back in the day. Click on the link to read all about it! For extra entertainment, pick up a free Adventure Passport that may include a scavenger hunt around the boat or a map of landmarks along your cruise. Quad Cities, Illinois and Iowa: The Quad Cities incorporates a number of Illinois and Iowa communities saddling the striking Mississippi River. You could also spend a peaceful half hours walking through the daffodils which carpet Lake View Cemetery. Where to Stay: A Private Guesthouse with Free Bikes and a Fabulous Breakfast. 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. April is one of the wettest months of the year too, so pack accordingly. Where to Stay: Hotel with a Free Shuttle and Modern Rooms. Red River Gorge is an outdoor enthusiast's dream destination. If wingless and fuzzy is more your style, help care for furry residents at the Endangered Wolf Center, where tame Mexican gray wolves, red wolves, swift foxes, and African painted dogs defy the stereotype these creatures have of being vicious hunters. You might even see a little snow. PlayFor a one-of-a-kind museum adventure, take in the marvel that is the City Museum. Our highlights: The Center of Science and Industry (COSI) named "America's number one science museum" is packed full of interactive and informative exhibits which are guaranteed to keep children entertained for hours. There's no wrong answer; every tour is an adventure. Mix a little science into your spring break by watching nitrogen turn liquid ingredients and candy toppings of your choice into a heaping bowl of ice cream right before your eyes at Subzero Ice Cream. From here the road takes you through Eau Claire before arriving in the twin cities of St Paul and Minneapolis. If you're looking for something a little simpler in a great location with an indoor pool, consider the Hilton Garden Inn. Our highlights: You could spend days exploring the fabulous lakeshore, but seeing as you're only here for the weekend we'd suggest starting at Sleeping Bear Dunes with a hike along the Old Indian Trail or spending some time exploring Old Mission State Park. With mile after mile of open road, Illinois is the perfect state to explore on a road trip.Take the kids to splash around at the Great Wolf Lodge in Gurnee. Galena is a must-experience destination in the Midwest especially if you live in Illinois. The City Museum, St. Louis Science Center, St. Louis Zoo and St. Louis Art Museum among others inspire discovery. A post shared by City Museum (@citymuseum). 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. A short walk across the skybridge from downtown will take you to Mud Island. Olbrich Botanical Gardens enchants in all seasons. Families and college athletes alike will also appreciate the NCAA Hall of Champions, which even has sports simulators where you can try your hand at new activities. Springfield for Illinois Parliament and Lincoln exhibits. As a reward for the exercise, visit the dairy bar to throw down a milkshake or smoothie. Even this far south you'll need to pack warm clothes as the evenings will be cool and the weather can still sometimes be unsettled, especially in early spring. When you're ready to head out of town, make for Great Smoky Mountains National Park where trails and lookouts are abundant, or follow the Newfound Gap Road for a spectacularly scenic drive through the mountains. This takes place at a number of locations in and around Cleveland. From boating to paddle boarding, water activities are one of the best things to do when visiting. It's home to three very unique restaurants, an interactive wetlands educational museum, a bowling alley, an aquarium with a daily fish feeding show, a hotel, and a 28-story freestanding elevator, and glass observation deck. Our travel tips: Weather can be variable during spring break, from 32 degrees F right up to 65 degrees. When in St. Louis, one must also take an Anheuser-Busch Brewery Tour. 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. Younger kids will enjoy Kidzeum, a colorful museum where they can learn about keeping themselves and the planet healthy. With a large menu filled with delicious breakfast omelets, burritos, gyros, and seven different potato dishes, everyone is sure to find something that hits the spot. That makes spring break the perfect time to take a trip. It's where golf carts roam and drinks flow with over 25 bars, breweries, and wineries. Pack the swim diapers and bathing suits to take a dip in the indoor heated pool. With warmer days hopefully upon us soon, time is here to think about road trips! Looking to get out and explore? Thirteen tours are available ranging from easy descents to lantern tours and river tours that may require some mud crawling. Bloomington tops the list of coolest college towns in the Midwest. 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. Where to Stay: No-frills Chain with Indoor Pool and Free Breakfast, Unique and Romantic B&B with Breakfast and Full Bar. You'll cross the Ohio River to enter Kentucky, then follow the interstate south towards Lexington. While in Galena, wander over to nearby Dubuque, Iowa for a trip up the Fenelon Place Elevator. If you're planning a 2 week road trip from Chicago, head to the beautiful Black Hills of South Dakota. For a truly unique scene, visit Hollywood Candy which not only delights with tons and tons of candy but includes a vintage pinball arcade, movie memorabilia, a '50s diner, vinyls and so much more! If you're here without the family, take the chance to visit a winery or two, or taste some of the wine produced along the Traverse Wine Coast at one of the city's tasting rooms or bars. You'll discover winding country roads, talented artists, old-fashioned entertainment, recreational areas, blossoming gardens, and delicious treats. Road Trip From Chicago To Mackinac Island, Road Trip From Chicago To Yellowstone National Park, READ MORE - Road Trip from Chicago to Nashville, READ MORE - Road Trip from Chicago to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, an amazing place to visit from Chicago during spring break, READ MORE - Road Trip from Chicago to Atlanta, Peaceful relaxation, perfect for spring break without young children, Amazing natural attractions to get outdoors and explore. The fifth-largest city in Illinois, Rockford has come alive in Another sure fire hit with children is LEGOLAND Discovery Center. Where to Stay: Cabin or Hotel Stay with an Indoor Pool. Bathhouse Row is a National Historic Landmark District where 8 historic bathhouses still stand. Along with catching a sunset at South Bass Island State Park, touring the wineries, and eating and drinking your way through town. People have been coming to Hot Springs in search of the healing powers of its naturally heated spring water for nearly 200 years, so if you're in need of some relaxation and downtime during spring break, this is the place to come. Unique smalls towns are just a quick Where to Eat & Drink: St. Joseph Brewery, Cafe Patachou, BRU Burger Bar, The Rathskeller, St. Elmo Steak House, and Slippery Noodle Inn. Read here for a complete Springfield Itinerary to make the most of your time in the city. Springfield isn't just for families though older visitors might like to follow the Capital City Bourbon Journey, which takes you on a tour of some fabulous bars and restaurants to try locally-produced makes. Hiking, river views and more will entice nature lovers. At Lutsen you can ski in colder months or, if spring has come early when you visit, head up to the peak via gondola to enjoy stunning views. Our travel tips: Because of its popularity the roads into the national park can feel a little crowded at busy times, especially during spring break. Staying outside, you can also visit Franklin Park Conservatory & Botanical Gardens, where the spring flowers will be starting to burst into life. For one of the best in town, head to the Cozy Dog Drive In. 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. You're almost certain to enjoy some much-needed spring sunshine here, without the large crowds that you'll find further south in Florida or on the coast. If you're thinking of taking a road trip from Chicago in another season, check out our Best Road Trips from Chicago article for ideas and inspiration! With its close proximity, southwest Michigan is amongst the top one day road trips from Chicago. It's an unforgettable spectacle which is definitely worth the long drive out from Chicago. On the Way: For a delightful lunch on the way down, stop halfway in Bloomington at Rosie's Pub. The mountain itself towers above the city and if you're feeling energetic you can hike right up to the top for amazing views across Chattanooga and into Georgia. You'll find scenic drives, history, wildlife, and natural beauty throughout the entire region. The prolific American writer grew up in this charming small town and many of his tales were inspired here. Baseball fans might like to time the trip to catch the home opener of the Indianapolis Indians, which usually takes place in early April. WebMar 11, 2019 - Explore Kim Kaar's board "Chicago/spring Break road trip" on Pinterest. Take the unique tram ride to the top of Americas tallest monument (630 ft.) for a sweeping view of the city and the mighty Mississippi. 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, Roosevelts 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.

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