A Journey from the Windy City to the Village of Rockville Centre

Travel from the home of the Cubs to the idyllic shores of Long Island Sound with a journey that’s brimming with adventure. Along the way, you’ll find magnificent vistas, charming towns, and some of the best-kept secrets of America’s heartland. Here is your ultimate guide to the top five places to see on your trip between Chicago, Illinois, and the Village of Rockville Centre, New York.

A Stopover at West Middlesex, PA

West Middlesex, PA, is where your journey begins to gain momentum. Located halfway from Chicago to New York, this is a cozy town nestled in the heart of Mercer County. A small, unassuming hamlet, West Middlesex is also known as a rest stop on the way to more significant sights.

Here, you shouldn’t miss the opportunity to dine at the historic and legendary Tanglewood Golf Course. The picturesque view of the course is stunning. You can enjoy locally sourced ingredients on a freshly prepared lunch menu at the Clubhouse's restaurant, overlooking 18 greens.

Our Top Five Places to See

The drive between Chicago and the Village of Rockville Centre is filled with historical and cultural sights that are worth seeing. Here are our top five places to add to your must-see list.

Sight One: The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland, OH

291 miles into the trip, you'll reach Cleveland, OH, home to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. As an iconic institution, the museum has an extensive collection that showcases the birth of rock and roll. For music lovers, make sure you visit the "Legends of Rock" exhibit, which features legends such as Elvis Presley, Jimi Hendrix, and The Beatles.

Sight Two: The Colebrookdale Railroad in Boyertown, PA

If you're looking for a unique experience off the beaten path, take a special trip to Boyertown, PA. Here, you'll find the Colebrookdale Railroad, a historic steam locomotive that offers a seven-mile journey through Berks County's hills and valleys. The trip allows you to traverse through woodlands, farmlands, and historic industrial sites, with breathtaking views that showcase Pennsylvania's natural beauty.

Sight Three: Hershey's Chocolate World in Hershey, PA

Who doesn't love chocolate? And what better place to indulge your sweet tooth than Hershey, PA? Hershey's Chocolate World is home to some of the best chocolate tours in the world. You can learn about the chocolate-making process, indulge in delicious tastings, and even make your candy bars. Visitors can also take a tour of the historic town of Hershey, where the famous chocolate brand began.

Sight Four: The Corning Museum of Glass in Corning, NY

If you appreciate art and history, visit the Corning Museum of Glass in Corning, NY. The museum boasts an extensive collection of glass artifacts, and you can even watch professional glassblowers create custom works of art right before your eyes. It's fascinating to see the science and art of glassblowing up close, and it's a unique experience that you won’t forget.

Sight Five: Fire Island National Seashore in Long Island, NY

Fire Island National Seashore is home to one of New York's hidden gems - five beautiful barrier islands off the coast of Long Island. A quick ferry trip from Bay Shore or Sayville will take you to a place that feels like a world away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Fire Island gives you a chance to relax, meditate and capture stunning sunsets from one of the most beautiful beaches in the country. End this fantastic journey with serene waves rolling gently and refreshing sea salt air.

The Best Route for Your Trip

The best route for your trip from Chicago to the Village of Rockville Centre is through the I-90 Turnpike. From West Middlesex, PA, you have the option to take the I-80 East or the I-76 towards Cleveland. Whether you're stopping unexpectedly for diversions or on a tight schedule, this road trip is one that every wanderlust should try.

In conclusion, this journey from Chicago to Rockville Centre is the ultimate American road trip, filled with unique attractions, fascinating history, and breathtaking natural beauty. By visiting these top five places, you'll discover some of the most beautiful sights the American countryside has to offer. Don’t forget to travel over to Fire Island National Seashore, where you’ll find a tranquil getaway that’s perfect for ending a relaxing trip across the East Coast.