Road tripping from Chatham, Illinois to Dauphin Island, Alabama: The Best Stops Along the Way

Driving from Chatham, Illinois to Dauphin Island, Alabama is a long journey through several states. The route takes travelers through Tennessee, Mississippi, and Louisiana. With over 1,000 miles to cover, it's important to plan some stops along the way to break up the trip. One such stop is Selmer, TN, which is the halfway point of the journey. During the trip, there are several attractions and places to visit that will make the journey easier and entertaining.

Top Five Things to Do on a Road Trip From Chatham, Illinois to Dauphin Island, Alabama

1. Mammoth Cave National Park, KY

Mammoth Cave National Park in Kentucky is a must-visit for all nature enthusiasts. Located only three hours away from Chatham, it's a great place to stop and stretch your legs for a few hours or even a whole day. The park offers tours throughout the year, and visitors can explore the world's longest cave system. Hiking, camping, and other outdoor activities are available for those who would like to stay overnight or spend more time in the park.

Fun Fact: Mammoth Cave is the longest known cave system in the world, with over 400 miles of explored passageways.

2. Graceland, TN

Graceland is located in Memphis, TN, and is the estate of one of the most legendary musicians of all time, Elvis Presley. A tour of Graceland will take visitors through the mansion and the grounds, and they can see the many cars, airplanes, and artifacts that belonged to Elvis. There are also several gift shops and restaurants on the grounds, so visitors can easily spend several hours there.

Fun Fact: Graceland is the second-most visited home in the United States, after the White House.

3. Beale Street, TN

Beale Street is located in downtown Memphis, and it's the place to be for live music, food, and nightlife. From blues to jazz, this historic street has something to offer for everyone, and visitors can enjoy delicious Memphis barbecue while listening to some of the best live music from local musicians. Located only a few blocks away from Graceland, it's a perfect place to visit after a day of touring the estate.

Fun Fact: Beale Street is where legendary musicians such as B.B. King, W.C. Handy, and Elvis Presley got their start.

4. Vicksburg National Military Park, MS

Vicksburg National Military Park is located in Vicksburg, Mississippi, and it's a great place to learn about the Civil War and the history of the area. The park has several monuments and museums that tell the story of the Siege of Vicksburg and the importance of the Mississippi River during the Civil War. Visitors can also take a tour of the USS Cairo, a Civil War-era ironclad ship that was rediscovered in the river in the 1950s.

Fun Fact: The USS Cairo was the first armored warship to be sunk by an electrically detonated torpedo.

5. USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park, AL

The USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park is located in Mobile, Alabama, and it's a great place to learn about naval history and explore one of the most decorated battleships of World War II. The park also has several other military aircraft and vehicles on display, making it an ideal spot for history buffs and families alike.

Fun Fact: The USS Alabama was christened by the wife of the Governor of Alabama, and she was permanently docked in Mobile Bay in 1965.

Conclusion

Driving from Chatham, Illinois to Dauphin Island, Alabama is a long journey, but it doesn't have to be a boring one. With many exciting places to visit along the route, travelers can plan stops that will make the journey more enjoyable. The route passes through several states, and each stop has something unique to offer. The trip can take anywhere from two days to a week, depending on how much time travelers want to spend at each attraction. With so much to see and do, a road trip from Chatham, Illinois to Dauphin Island, Alabama is sure to be an adventure.