Best Things to Do on a Road Trip from Chicago to San Antonio

Chicago to San Antonio is a long and adventurous road trip with an array of highlights along the way. The trip would take you through the beautiful cities of St. Louis, Memphis, Dallas, and many other towns before reaching the cowboy city of San Antonio. One of the highlights of the trip is the halfway point, Afton, OK, which is the perfect stopover for a quick bite or to stretch your legs.

Top 5 Things to Do:

1. Gateway Arch in St. Louis

The Gateway Arch in St. Louis is a marvel of engineering, standing at 630 feet and representing the westward expansion of the United States. An elevator within the arch takes visitors to the top for a breathtaking view of the city. You should visit this iconic landmark because of its significance in American history.

2. Graceland in Memphis

Graceland, the former home of Elvis Presley, is a must-see attraction for Elvis fans. From the vivid colors and patterns of fabrics in the Jungle Room to the famous Musical Gates, visitors can experience up close the life and legacy of the King of Rock and Roll. You should visit this attraction to experience the lavish lifestyle of Elvis Presley.

3. Sixth Floor Museum in Dallas

The Sixth Floor Museum in Dallas is situated in the infamous Texas School Book Depository, where Lee Harvey Oswald shot President John F. Kennedy. The museum is dedicated to telling the story of JFK's legacy and the events that occurred on that fateful day in November 1963. You should visit this museum to understand the lasting impact of the assassination on American history.

4. Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo

Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo is a striking public art installation featuring a lineup of ten vintage Cadillac cars partially buried in the ground. Visitors can bring their spray cans and add their own personal touch to the cars. You should visit this surreal art installation to appreciate unique artwork.

5. The Alamo in San Antonio

The Alamo is synonymous with the history of Texas. The former mission was the site of one of the most significant battles in the state's fight for independence from Mexico. Visitors can see the original walls, weapons, and artifacts that were used by the soldiers during the battle. You should visit this site to learn about the valiant effort to preserve Texan independence.

Interesting Facts:

1. The Gateway Arch in St. Louis is the tallest man-made monument in the US.
2. Graceland in Memphis is the second-most visited residence in the United States – behind the White House.
3. The Sixth Floor Museum in Dallas welcomes over 350,000 visitors annually.
4. Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo was created by a group of avant-garde artists called the Ant Farm.
5. The Alamo in San Antonio welcomed 1.6 million visitors in 2019.

In conclusion, the route from Chicago to San Antonio is a long but exciting road trip that features many highlights and attractions. Visitors can see iconic landmarks like the Gateway Arch in St. Louis, experience the life and legacy of Elvis Presley at Graceland, learn about the lasting impact of JFK's assassination at the Sixth Floor Museum in Dallas, appreciate surreal artwork at Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo, and understand the significance of the battle at the Alamo in San Antonio. The trip would take approximately 19 hours with plenty of opportunities for sightseeing and adventure along the way.