The Best Places to Visit on a Road Trip from Albuquerque to Chicago

There is nothing quite like a road trip, especially one that takes you from the Southwest to the Midwest. Driving from Albuquerque, New Mexico to Chicago, Illinois can be an excellent adventure, as you will experience some of the most picturesque landscapes in the country. Whether you are a seasoned traveler or simply looking for a great way to spend your next vacation, this route is perfect for you. Along the way, you will find a wide range of places to explore, from national parks and scenic byways to historic landmarks and cultural landmarks.

To help you make the most of your trip, we have put together a list of the best places to see when driving from Albuquerque, New Mexico to Chicago, Illinois. So sit back, relax, and let's get started!

The Most Beautiful National Parks

1. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado Driving up I-25 from Albuquerque, you’ll eventually find yourself in the mountains of Colorado, and the panoramas are breathtaking. One of the best places to visit here is Rocky Mountain National Park. With over 350 miles of hiking trails and 416 square miles of stunning scenery – including snow-capped peaks, crystal-clear alpine lakes, rushing rivers, and abundant wildlife – you could easily spend a full day exploring this park.

2. Badlands National Park, South Dakota Located on the eastern edge of the Black Hills region of South Dakota, Badlands National Park is a surreal landscape unlike any other in the world. Here you'll find hundreds of square miles of eroded buttes, pinnacles, and spires, with striking rock formations that look like sculptures rising from the earth. It's a playground for hikers, photographers, and wildlife enthusiasts, with bison, pronghorn, bighorn sheep, and coyotes all calling this park home.

3. Theodore Roosevelt National Park, North Dakota Named after the President who loved it so much he made it a national park, Theodore Roosevelt National Park in North Dakota is a hidden gem that's often overlooked by travelers on road trips. Here you'll find dramatic canyons, rolling prairies, and breathtaking vistas that go on for miles. The park is home to bison, elk, and wild horses, and it's a hiker's paradise with over 100 miles of trails to explore.

The Most Beautiful Scenic Byways

4. Turquoise Trail Scenic Byway, New Mexico If you want to see the best of New Mexico's beauty, look no further than the Turquoise Trail Scenic Byway. This road takes you through the heart of the state's historic mining country, where you'll find ghost towns, pristine wilderness, and wide-open skies. Along the way, there are plenty of opportunities to stop and explore, from art galleries and museums to cafes and restaurants.

5. Will Rogers Highway, Oklahoma Also known as Route 66, this classic American highway is a must-see for anyone taking a road trip through the Southwest. The stretch of the road that runs through Oklahoma is particularly beautiful, passing through stunning landscapes that range from rolling hills and verdant forests to expansive prairies and rugged canyons. Along the way, be sure to stop in one of the many small towns that line the route, where you can soak up the local culture and take in a slice of Americana.

The Most Impressive Landmarks

6. The Gateway Arch, St. Louis As you approach the Mississippi River from the west, you'll be greeted by the towering Gateway Arch. This iconic landmark is one of the most recognizable symbols of St. Louis, and it offers stunning views of the city and the mighty Mississippi from its observation deck. The arch is also home to the Museum at the Gateway Arch, where you can learn all about the history of the region.

7. The Field of Dreams movie site, Dyersville, Iowa Fans of the classic baseball movie “Field of Dreams” will be delighted to know that the farm where the movie was filmed is open to the public. Located in the quiet town of Dyersville, Iowa, this picturesque spot features a baseball diamond and a gift shop, as well as plenty of photo opportunities. Even if you're not a fan of the movie, it's still a beautiful place to visit, with rolling hills and picturesque farmland as far as the eye can see.

Conclusion

There you have it – our top seven picks for the best places to see when driving from Albuquerque, New Mexico to Chicago, Illinois. Of course, there are plenty of other great spots along the way, depending on your interests and the time of year. Whether you're looking to explore natural wonders, iconic landmarks, or charming small towns, this road trip has something for everyone. So pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready for an adventure you'll never forget!