Road Trip from Chicago to Apex
Road trips are a perfect way to explore new places, meet new people and tag along with friends or family. A trip from Chicago, Illinois to Apex, North Carolina, is an exciting adventure that presents opportunities for unforgettable memories.
Did you know that the distance between Chicago and Apex is about 806 miles? The journey takes roughly 12 hours and 30 minutes, depending on traffic and stops along the way.
Halfway through the trip, you'll come across Jackson, OH. This quaint little town boasts a rich history, including being the hometown of the Civil War general, Ambrose Burnside.
Embark on this exciting road trip, and explore the following must-see places between Chicago and Apex.
1. Indiana Dunes National Park
Indiana Dunes National Park is a perfect destination for nature lovers, with its sandy beaches, beautiful woods and dunes, and remarkable landscapes. The park covers an area of approximately 15,000 acres, and visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, camping, and bird watching. Don't forget to check out the park's most prominent feature, the 125-foot sand dune, Mount Baldy.
Point of interest: The Chellberg Farm, a restored 20th-century farm that serves as a museum for the region's history.
2. The Toledo Museum of Art
The Toledo Museum of Art is a must-see attraction for art enthusiasts. The museum boasts over 35,000 works of art, including paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts from around the world. The architecture of the museum is also a sight to behold, featuring unique designs of various styles, including Neoclassical, Art Nouveau, and Art Deco.
Point of interest: The Glass Pavilion, which houses a stunning collection of glass art from ancient times to contemporary works.
3. Cuyahoga Valley National Park
Cuyahoga Valley National Park is an amazing destination for those looking to experience wildlife and nature. The park's vast forested land offers visitors numerous trails for hiking, cycling, and horseback riding. The park is also home to the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad, offering visitors a chance to experience a historic train ride through the park's beautiful scenery.
Point of interest: The Brandywine Falls is a perfect spot to take photos and capture the beauty of the park.
4. Wright Brothers National Museum
Located in Dayton, Ohio, the Wright Brothers National Museum is a must-see for aviation enthusiasts. Dedicated to the inventors of the first powered flight, the museum showcases the Wright brothers' story and their contributions to the world of aviation. The museum displays the original Wright Flyer III airplane, which the brothers used for their first flight in 1905.
Point of interest: Visitors can watch a film about the Wright brothers' history and achievements in the museum's theater.
5. Biltmore Estate
At Biltmore Estate in Asheville, North Carolina, visitors can step back in time and explore the Vanderbilt family's magnificent estate. The sprawling estate boasts 250 rooms, including a banquet hall, an indoor pool, a bowling alley, and exquisite gardens. Visitors can also take a stroll through the estate's winery and taste varieties of wine.
Point of interest: At Antler Hill Village, visitors can explore farm operations, enjoy live music events, and buy unique souvenirs.
After visiting all these great places, the trip from Chicago to Apex will leave you with unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime. The 12-and-a-half-hour drive may sound long, but with pit stops along the way, it's definitely worth it.