Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Carol Stream, Illinois and Atlanta, Georgia
A road trip is an adventure of its own, and it becomes even more exciting when it involves visiting new places, trying new things, and experiencing different cultures. The journey from Carol Stream, Illinois, to Atlanta, Georgia, is one such trip that'll leave you with fond memories. The trip covers over 770 miles, with a halfway point in Sonora, KY. While there are lots of attractions to visit, we've compiled a list of top five things to do on the journey.
Mammoth Cave National Park - Kentucky
Mammoth Cave National Park is home to the world's longest cave system, sprawling over 400 miles and counting. The park is located about an hour's drive from Sonora, KY, and it's a must-see attraction to include in your itinerary. Exploring the cave system's narrow, winding paths, rivers, and domes offers an unforgettable experience, especially if you're a nature lover, hiker, or adventure seeker.
Interesting Fact: Mammoth Cave National Park is one of the oldest tourist attractions in North America. It was established in 1941 and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The Gateway Arch - Missouri
St. Louis, MO, is home to one of the most recognizable landmarks in the US, the Gateway Arch. This famous stainless-steel structure stands at 630 feet tall and represents America's westward expansion. Visitors can take an elevator to the top of the arch and enjoy a breathtaking view of the city's skyline.
Interesting Fact: The Gateway Arch is the tallest man-made monument in the US.
Graceland - Tennessee
Graceland, the former home of Elvis Presley, is a pilgrimage for millions of fans worldwide. The mansion, located in Memphis, TN, provides a glimpse into the rock-n-roll king's private life. Visitors can tour the house, see the memorabilia collection, the trophy room, and even Elvis' collection of cars and planes. A visit to Graceland is a momentous experience, especially for music lovers.
Interesting Fact: Graceland attracts over 600,000 visitors annually, making it one of the most popular celebrity homes in the US.
Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area - Georgia
The Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area is a picturesque destination located in the outskirts of Atlanta, GA. The park offers various activities such as fishing, kayaking, hiking, and wildlife watching. The park encompasses over 50 miles of the scenic Chattahoochee river, and visitors can witness the river's beauty by taking a boat tour or hiking one of the many trails.
Interesting Fact: The Chattahoochee River is the primary water source for the Atlanta Metropolitan area.
Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site - Georgia
The Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site is a place of historic significance located in the Sweet Auburn district of Atlanta, GA. This site preserves the legacy of the civil rights icon, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Visitors can tour King's birth home, the Ebenezer Baptist Church where he preached, and the King Center, which includes a museum chronicling the civil rights movement.
Interesting Fact: Martin Luther King Jr. was born in the home that is part of the MLK National Historic Site. The house is a typical shotgun-style house and is a testament to the humble beginnings of a great leader.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the road trip from Carol Stream, Illinois, to Atlanta, Georgia, is a journey of a lifetime. It covers over 770 miles, and there are numerous fascinating attractions to visit. The top five places to visit include Mammoth Cave National Park, The Gateway Arch, Graceland, the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area, and The Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site. Each destination offers a unique experience that's worth exploring. The trip typically takes around 12 hours, but the journey is worth it for the memories that'll last a lifetime.