The Best Places to Visit on a Road Trip Between Charlotte, NC and Chicago, IL

Are you planning a road trip from Charlotte to Chicago? Get ready to explore some of the best tourist destinations in the Midwest. The route covers around 800 miles and a few states, including Kentucky, Ohio, Indiana, and Illinois. Let's break down some of the best stops to make on your journey.

The Halfway Point: Frankfort, OH

As you reach the halfway point between Charlotte and Chicago, you'll come across Frankfort, OH. A small town that offers a variety of fun and interesting things to see and do. Make sure to stop by the infamous Kingdom of Bouncy Houses to let your kids burn off some energy. The Bouncy Houses have a wide range of inflatables, including slides, moon bounces, and inflatable obstacle courses. If you want to explore history, the Ross County Historical Society & Museum is an exciting museum worth a visit. The museum has a rich collection of local artifacts, including photographs, textiles, and rare antiques from local merchant citizens.

Stop 1: Louisville, Kentucky

The first must-see place after starting your journey from Charlotte is Louisville, Kentucky. Home to world-famous Kentucky Fried Chicken, Louisville is more than just a chicken haven. Take a refreshing break by stopping by the Louisville Waterfront Park. The park has an excellent view of the Ohio River and a magnificent walking bridge that connects Kentucky to Indiana. If you are a fan of horse racing, make sure you visit the Kentucky Derby Museum at Churchill Downs. The museum features interactive exhibits that give an exciting overview of the Derby's history and the horse racing industry.

Stop 2: Cincinnati, Ohio

The second stop should be Cincinnati, Ohio. Nicknamed "The Queen City," Cincinnati combines a cool and modern vibe with beautiful historic architecture. One of the must-visit places in Cincinnati is the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden. The renowned zoo features over 500 animal species, including lions, tigers, elephants, and more. If science is more your thing, check out the Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal. The museum is inside a historical train station that has been transformed into an excellent center for science and history. The museum features several interactive exhibits, including a dinosaur museum and a replica of an underground mine.

Stop 3: Indianapolis, Indiana

The third stop on the list should be Indianapolis, Indiana. An underrated tourist destination in the Midwest, Indy has a unique charm and a lot to offer visitors. Your first stop in Indianapolis should be the famous Indianapolis Motor Speedway. The track is the site of the iconic Indianapolis 500 and features a museum that showcases various memes and cars that have raced the race over the years. After the driving adventure, find some quiet time to explore Indianapolis' stunning city center by visiting the Indianapolis Monument Circle. The circle is a beautifully designed public space that features impressive monuments and fountains.

Stop 4: South Bend, Indiana

As we close in on Chicago, the fourth stop is South Bend, Indiana, located about 100 miles from Indianapolis. South Bend is home to Notre Dame University, famous for its Fighting Irish football team, but it has much more to offer. Visit the Studebaker National Museum and check out the automotive history displayed since 1852. At the museum, you can see everything from pioneer vehicles and wagons to modern electric cars. Then head to the Potawatomi Zoo for animal sightings, exhibits, and endangered species conservation.

Stop 5: Chicago, Illinois

Your final destination is the Windy City, Chicago, Illinois. Chicago offers a plethora of tourist attractions, but three stand out above the rest. Millennium Park is a must-visit destination for free public art and entertainment. Prepare to snap selfies at one of the most talked-about attractions, the Cloud Gate sculpture. Next, visit the Navy Pier, which is a hub of entertainment, dining, and attractions. The pier has everything, from theaters and exhibitions to amusement rides and fireworks. Finally, another must-visit place is the Art Institute of Chicago. The museum has an impressive collection of art from artists such as Monet, Van Gogh, and Renoir.

In Conclusion

So, there you have it! Our top picks for your road trip from Charlotte to Chicago. There is a perfect blend of modern art and history, outdoor adventure, and family fun stops. Ensure to come back and visit some places you may have missed out on the first time!