The Great North Road Trip: Byron to Chicago
Are you ready for a fun-filled road trip from Byron, Georgia to Chicago, Illinois? This adventure will take you through stunning landscapes, vibrant cities, and desolate towns. Whether you're looking for a quick journey or taking your time, there are several ways to make this trip. Here are a few routes to consider and the time it takes to get there.
Route 1: I-75N and I-90W
The most direct and popular route is taking I-75N and I-90W, which will take you through Atlanta, Chattanooga, and Nashville before heading north to Chicago. The distance between Byron, GA and Chicago, IL is approximately 780 miles, and if you're driving straight through, it'll take approximately 12-14 hours, depending on traffic and stops. The highway is well-maintained, and there are plenty of gas stations, rest areas, and restaurants along the way, making it the preferred route for many travelers.
We recommend stopping in Chattanooga, TN for some outdoor adventure at Ruby Falls, Rock City Gardens, and Lookout Mountain. If you're a country music fan, Nashville, TN is a must-visit, where you can explore the Country Music Hall of Fame, Grand Ole Opry, and Honky Tonk Highway.
Route 2: I-65N and I-90W
Another option is taking I-65N and I-90W, which will take you through Montgomery, Birmingham, and Indianapolis before heading to the Windy City. This route is slightly longer at approximately 830 miles but can save time on traffic congestion, especially during peak travel times.
If you take this route, we suggest stopping in Indianapolis, IN, and explore the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, one of the most iconic racetracks in the world. Or, take a stroll along the Canal Walk, which offers stunning city views and plenty of restaurants and shops.
Route 3: I-75N, I-64W, and I-57N
For a more scenic route, you may consider taking I-75N, I-64W, and I-57N, which will take you through stunning landscapes between Georgia and Illinois. You'll pass through Shenandoah National Park, Mammoth Cave National Park, and Shawnee National Forest before arriving in Chicago. This route is 880 miles long and can take about 14-16 hours, depending on stops.
Along the way, we suggest stopping at Mammoth Cave National Park, where you can explore the world's longest known cave system, with over 400 miles of explored passageways. Or, take a hike at Shawnee National Forest, which offers stunning rock formations and diverse wildlife.
No matter which route you take, a road trip from Georgia to Illinois is always a journey worth taking. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and hit the road for an adventure of a lifetime!