Top Five Places to Visit on a Trip Between Chicago, Illinois and Athens, Alabama
If you're planning a road trip between Chicago and Athens, make sure to explore some of the hidden gems along the way. From quirky roadside attractions to historic landmarks, there's plenty to discover on this route. Here are our top five picks for must-visit destinations.
The Route and Halfway Point: Sellersburg, IN
The journey from Chicago to Athens spans approximately 570 miles and takes around 9.5 hours to complete by car. As you make your way south, you'll pass through some picturesque landscapes and charming small towns. One of the best places to stop and stretch your legs is Sellersburg, Indiana. This quaint town is located about halfway between the two cities and offers a range of attractions to explore.
1. French Lick Scenic Railway - French Lick, IN
Hop aboard an old-fashioned train and take a trip through Indiana's scenic countryside. The French Lick Scenic Railway offers a range of excursions, including a two-hour narrated ride on a vintage train. Along the way, you'll enjoy stunning views of caves, forests, and valleys. The train is equipped with comfortable seating, air conditioning, and restrooms, making it an ideal attraction for families with young children.
2. Corvette Museum - Bowling Green, KY
Automotive enthusiasts won't want to miss the National Corvette Museum in Bowling Green. This museum features over 80 Corvette models and has interactive exhibits that showcase the history and evolution of the iconic sports car. You can even take a behind-the-scenes tour of the nearby Corvette assembly plant. With its sleek design, this attraction is sure to impress visitors of all ages.
3. Jack Daniel's Distillery - Lynchburg, TN
Whiskey lovers can get a taste of Tennessee's famous spirit at the Jack Daniel's Distillery in Lynchburg. This historic site has been producing whiskey for over 150 years using a unique filtering process. A guided tour will take you through the distillery's facilities and explain the production process. Visitors can also visit the old-fashioned general store and purchase Jack Daniel's souvenirs.
4. Ave Maria Grotto - Cullman, AL
The Ave Maria Grotto in Cullman, Alabama is a unique religious site that features over 125 miniature replicas of famous religious structures from around the world. These sculptures were created by a Benedictine monk named Brother Joseph Zoetl who spent 50 years constructing the miniature shrines. Visitors can wander through the peaceful gardens and admire the intricate details of each sculpture.
5. U.S. Space and Rocket Center - Huntsville, AL
Learn about the history of space exploration at the U.S. Space and Rocket Center in Huntsville, Alabama. This museum features a range of exhibits dedicated to the Apollo missions, the International Space Station, and the future of space travel. You can even take a virtual reality journey to Mars or try your hand at piloting a spacecraft in a simulator. With its interactive exhibits and impressive collection of artifacts, this attraction is ideal for families and science enthusiasts.
These are just a few of the many attractions you can explore on a trip between Chicago and Athens. Whether you're a fan of history, science, or just love discovering new places, this route has something for everyone. So get behind the wheel and start exploring!