The Great Drive: Your Road Trip from Big Bend, Wisconsin to Gulf Shores, Alabama

Are you up for an adventurous road trip from Big Bend, Wisconsin to Gulf Shores, Alabama? This could be the ultimate spring break or summer vacation experience! The distance between these two destinations is approximately 1,047 miles and depending on the route you choose, it could take you anywhere from 16 to 24 hours to reach Gulf Shores. In this guide, we'll help you plan your dream road trip and explore different routes and things to do along the way.

Route 1: The Fastest Route

The quickest route to Gulf Shores from Big Bend is via interstate highways. You’ll drive through several states, including Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Tennessee, Mississippi, and Alabama. While you won’t have much time to explore the towns situated along this route, it can get you to Gulf Shores in just over 16 hours.

Starting from Big Bend, you'll want to hop on I-94 east towards Chicago. After about 80 miles, merge onto I-90 east towards Hammond, Indiana. From there, you will take I-65 south towards Indianapolis and Louisville. Once you reach Louisville, keep on driving south along I-65, merging onto I-22 west, then onto I-269 south which will eventually take you south to I-55. From there, merge onto I-20 and finally onto I-65 south towards Mobile, Alabama. Take exit 37B to AL-59 south to Gulf Shores.

This route might be the quickest, but we recommend taking a break and visiting some landmarks along the way.

Route 2: The Scenic Route

If you're up for a trip that's more scenic, you might enjoy taking Route 2. This option takes you on a more southern route through the Appalachian Mountains and several National Forests. This route will take about 17 hours to cover the 1,124 miles from Big Bend to Gulf Shores. You'll cover several states, including Illinois, Missouri, Arkansas, Mississippi, and Alabama

To begin, take I-55 south towards St. Louis, then merge onto I-44 west towards Springfield and Tulsa. From Tulsa, take I-40 east until you reach Alma, Arkansas. Take exit 13 to I-540 south and merge onto US-71 south. From there continue south, and just before Texarkana, turn left onto I-49 south towards Shreveport. After about 28 miles, take exit 205 and continue onto US-84 east, then take US-84 east towards Natchez, Mississippi. Take exit 1C for US-98 towards Hattiesburg, merge onto US-98 east, and turn left onto AL-59 south. This highway takes you straight to Gulf Shores.

Along the way, there are many places to stop and explore, including the Ozark Mountains, Lake Dardanelle State Park, and the Little Missouri Falls Recreation Area. The Bistineau State Park in Louisiana and the De Soto National Forest in Mississippi are also worth a visit.

Route 3: The Coastal Route

Finally, if you're looking to enjoy coastal views alongside the way, we recommend Route 3. This route will take you along the Gulf Coast and through beautiful coastal towns. This scenic trip offers a chance for you to indulge in local seafood and enjoy some fun in the sun.

Starting in Big Bend, you'll take I-43 south towards Milwaukee. After about 62 miles, merge onto I-94 east towards Chicago. From there, turn onto I-65 south towards Indianapolis and onto I-24 towards Nashville. Then take exit 4 for US-60 towards Paducah. Continue driving south towards Memphis, and once you reach Memphis, take I-55 south for Jackson. Merge onto I-20 east towards Meridian and then take exit 69 for MS-15 towards Bay Springs. You will continue driving south along MS-15, taking you through Louisiana until it intersects with US-98 east. Take US-98 east, and you will eventually find yourself in Gulf Shores.

This scenic route is approximately 1,315 miles and takes around 24 hours. However, you'll enjoy breathtaking views, unique landmarks, and incredible beaches along the way. Some of the attractions to check out as you travel down this route include the Mammoth Cave National Park in Kentucky, the Rickwood Caverns State Park in Alabama, and the Dauphin Island in Alabama.

No matter which route you choose, the road trip from Big Bend to Gulf Shores will be an unforgettable journey. Select one of the routes mentioned above and make your road trip even more enjoyable by trying out local cuisine, visiting state parks, and checking out landmarks along the way. Happy travels!