Points of Interest between Chicago, Illinois to Leisure City, Florida

picture of Chicago, Illinois

Museums, Parks, and Landmarks to Visit on a Roadtrip from Chicago to Leisure City

Are you planning a road trip from Chicago, IL to Leisure City, FL? There are plenty of museums, parks, and landmarks to visit along the way. Don't miss out on these top attractions and points of interest!

Interesting Fact about the Route

Did you know that the quickest route from Chicago to Leisure City, covering a distance of 1,375 miles, is via I-65 S and I-10 E? It takes about 20 hours of driving time, but of course, you should plan for stops and sightseeing along the way.

The Halfway Point: Forest Park, GA

If you need a break halfway through the journey, consider stopping at Forest Park, Georgia, about 700 miles from both Chicago and Leisure City. Forest Park is a suburban city in the Atlanta metropolitan area, and it boasts several parks, hiking trails, and historical sites.

Length of the Trip

As mentioned, the distance from Chicago to Leisure City is around 1,375 miles. Depending on your pace, the trip could take you anywhere from two days (with minimal stops and long drives) to a week (with plenty of side trips, picnics, and hotel stays). We recommend taking your time, stopping at least three or four times to stretch your legs and explore the towns and attractions along the way.

Top Five Places to Visit

  1. Gateway Arch National Park (St. Louis, MO) - Not far from the I-64 E, the Gateway Arch National Park is a must-visit attraction. The iconic Gateway Arch is 630 feet tall and offers sweeping views of St. Louis and the Mississippi River. You can take a tram ride to the top, visit the museum and exhibits, or take a stroll in the surrounding park. The point of interest recommendation? Try some St. Louis-style BBQ and beer at one of the nearby restaurants.

  2. The National Museum of African American History and Culture (Washington, D.C.) - Located at the National Mall in Washington, D.C., the National Museum of African American History and Culture is a fascinating and moving museum. The museum showcases the history and achievements of African Americans from slavery to the present day. The exhibits cover music, sports, art, politics, and more. The point of interest recommendation? Take a walk around the National Mall and visit other museums such as the Smithsonian American Art Museum and the National Museum of Natural History.

  3. The Savannah Historic District (Savannah, GA) - Savannah is a charming and historic city in Georgia, and its Historic District is a treasure trove of sights and sounds. The district boasts over 20 city squares, each with its own unique features and attractions. You can visit the Mercer Williams House (featured in "Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil"), explore the Bonaventure Cemetery, or take a ghost tour of the city's haunted spots. The point of interest recommendation? Take a trolley tour of the district and sample some Southern cuisine at local restaurants.

  4. The Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex (Merritt Island, FL) - If you're a fan of space exploration, don't miss the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. The complex features exhibits, displays, and interactive experiences related to NASA's space program. You can see rockets, shuttles, and other spacecraft up close, take a bus tour of the launch pads and facilities, and even meet an astronaut. The point of interest recommendation? Visit the nearby Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge and see some native wildlife, birds, and plants.

  5. The Everglades National Park (Homestead, FL) - The Everglades National Park is a vast and unique wilderness area in southern Florida. The park is home to a diverse ecosystem of wetlands, sawgrass prairies, and mangrove forests. You can explore the park on foot, by boat, or by bike, and see alligators, bald eagles, and other wildlife. The point of interest recommendation? Take an airboat ride and discover the hidden corners of the park.

Conclusion

In summary, a road trip from Chicago to Leisure City offers plenty of opportunities to explore museums, parks, and landmarks. From St. Louis to Savannah to Merritt Island and beyond, you'll find something for every taste and interest. Plan your route, schedule your stops, and enjoy the journey!