A Fun and Scenic Drive from Big Bend to Chicago

Are you looking to take a road trip from Big Bend, Wisconsin to Chicago, Illinois? There are a few options to consider, each offering their own unique drive time and scenery. Before hitting the road, it's important to decide which route best suits your needs. Here are some options to consider, along with the distance and time for each.

Option 1: I-94 E, Distance: 99.8 miles, Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

The quickest way to get from Big Bend to Chicago is via I-94E. This route is straightforward and the time of travel is minimal. If you're in a rush or need to get to the Windy City quickly, this is the best route for you. However, this option won't offer as much scenery, so it may not be ideal for those who want a more interesting drive.

Option 2: US-12 E and US-41 S, Distance: 149.7 miles, Time: 2 hours 30 minutes

If you'd like a scenic route to Chicago, consider driving east on US-12 and then taking US-41 south. This drive will take you through some quaint towns like Lake Geneva and Waukegan, so a stop en route might be in order. Be sure to visit the Geneva Lake Shore Path in Lake Geneva to enjoy some beautiful scenery. Additionally, this route offers plenty of opportunities to pull over and take photos of the landscape.

Option 3: WI-83 S and I-94 E, Distance: 136 miles, Time: 2 hours 20 minutes

This route is another scenic option that lets you take in the beauty of Wisconsin's countryside before heading into bustling Chicago. Driving south on WI-83 takes you through the Kettle Moraine State Forest, an outdoor enthusiast's playground with its hiking and camping options. Take in the sights of the park, enjoy a picnic, and continue driving on towards Chicago for more fun stops.

Option 4: I-43 S and I-90 E, Distance: 148 miles, Time: 2 hours 30 minutes

Another scenic option is to take I-43 south and then catch I-90 east into Chicago. Along the way, you'll pass through Rockford, Illinois, which boasts plenty of interesting sights, including the famous Anderson Japanese Gardens. These gardens are a must-see, so make sure to stop and take in the beauty of this Japanese landscape. From there, make the rest of the trip into Chicago for even more adventure.

Regardless of which route you select, you'll want to make a few stops along the way. Some recommendations include Geneva Lake, Kettle Moraine State Forest, and the Anderson Japanese Gardens. Rest stops and small towns along the way also provide opportunities to take a break, eat some food, and stretch your legs.

In conclusion, the best route from Big Bend, Wisconsin to Chicago, Illinois depends on your preference for scenery, time constraints, and desire for unique stops. Each option offers its own set of attractions and scenic vistas, so it is up to you to decide which route to take. Regardless, hitting the road and taking in the cornfields, forests, towns, and cities of the Midwest makes for an incredibly enjoyable and unforgettable experience.