Top Five Best Places to Visit on a Road Trip from Chicago, IL to Ruston, LA

Are you planning a road trip from Chicago, IL to Ruston, LA? If so, you're in for a scenic journey! The best part is that along the way there are plenty of great places to stop and explore. Here are our top five recommended places to visit on your road trip.

Halfway Point: Portageville, Missouri

Before we dive into the top five places to visit, let's talk about the halfway point on this journey. Portageville, Missouri is a small town with a population of just over 3,000. It's a great place to stop and stretch your legs while taking in the charm of small-town America. One popular attraction is the Dragstrip 66 raceway, where you can watch drag racing on the weekends.

Stop 1: Memphis, Tennessee - Home of the Blues

Title: Memphis, Tennessee
Home of the Blues

Known as the birthplace of rock and roll, Memphis has a vibrant music scene and is a must-visit destination for any music lover. One of the top attractions is Beale Street, where you can check out live music any night of the week. Other popular attractions include the National Civil Rights Museum, Graceland (the home of Elvis Presley), and Sun Studio, the birthplace of rock and roll.

Stop 2: Jackson, Mississippi - City of Soul

Title: Jackson, Mississippi
City of Soul

Jackson, Mississippi has a rich and storied history, from its role in the civil rights movement to its status as the “City of Soul”. The Mississippi Civil Rights Museum is a must-visit attraction, where you'll learn about the struggle for civil rights in the South. If you're a fan of soul and R&B, be sure to check out the Mississippi Blues Trail, a collection of landmarks and museums honoring the state's musical heritage.

Stop 3: Natchez, Mississippi - Historic Riverfront City

Title: Natchez, Mississippi
Historic Riverfront City

Located on the bluffs of the Mississippi River, Natchez is a charming town with a rich history. The Natchez Trace Parkway is a popular attraction, where you can drive through the Mississippi wilderness and see historic sites like Emerald Mound and the Old Natchez Trace. The city is also home to many beautiful antebellum homes, like Stanton Hall and The Briars.

Stop 4: Lafayette, Louisiana - Capital of Cajun Country

Title: Lafayette, Louisiana
Capital of Cajun Country

Lafayette is the heart of Cajun country, famous for its delicious food and unique culture. Take a tour of the Tabasco Factory, where you'll learn about the history of this spicy condiment and see how it's made. For an authentic Cajun experience, head to the Blue Moon Saloon for live music and dancing.

Stop 5: Ruston, Louisiana - Gateway to Louisiana Tech

Title: Ruston, Louisiana
Gateway to Louisiana Tech

Our final stop is Ruston, Louisiana, home to Louisiana Tech University. The university's sports teams, the Bulldogs and Lady Techsters, have a huge following in the community. The Louisiana Military Museum is a fascinating attraction, with exhibits on the state's military history, including the role of Louisiana soldiers in World War II.

In conclusion, a road trip from Chicago, IL to Ruston, LA is full of exciting places to visit and explore. From Memphis, Tennessee to Ruston, Louisiana, there's something for everyone along this route. Whether you're a music lover, history buff, or foodie, you're sure to find something that interests you on this road trip. So pack your bags, hit the road, and enjoy the journey!