The Great American Road Trip: Chicago, Illinois to Starkville, Mississippi

Are you planning a road trip from the Windy City to the heart of Mississippi? Whether you're heading down south for a college visit or just to explore a new part of the country, there are a few different routes you can take to get from Chicago to Starkville. Let's take a look at the distance and travel time for each option, along with some fun stops along the way!

Route 1: I-55 S and I-20 W

The most direct route from Chicago to Starkville takes you south on I-55 and then west on I-20. This route covers approximately 560 miles and usually takes around 9.5 hours to drive without any significant stops. If you choose to take this route, consider stopping at the Gateway Arch in St. Louis for a quick photo op, or make a detour to Memphis to visit Graceland, the home of Elvis Presley.

Route 2: I-65 S and I-20 W

If you prefer to avoid the traffic around St. Louis, you can opt for a slightly longer route that takes you south on I-65 before merging onto I-20. This route covers approximately 610 miles and usually takes around 10 hours to drive without factoring in any stops. Along this route, you could make a pitstop in Nashville, Tennessee, to explore the music scene or visit the Country Music Hall of Fame.

Route 3: Scenic Route

For those who are in no rush and want to take in some of the country's natural beauty, consider taking a more scenic route through the backroads of Illinois, Missouri, and Mississippi. While this route will likely take longer than the interstate options, it provides the opportunity to see charming small towns and beautiful countryside along the way. Plan for at least a couple of extra hours of travel time if you choose this option.

Whether you choose to take the fastest route or opt for a more leisurely drive, there are plenty of interesting places to explore along the way from Chicago to Starkville. With a little planning, your road trip could turn into an adventure filled with fun memories and new experiences!