Roadtripping from Chicago, Illinois to Ashburn, Virginia

Are you ready for an adventure that combines outdoor activities, history and art? A road trip from Chicago, Illinois to Ashburn, Virginia offers all of that and more. This route takes you through forests, hills, historic towns, and vibrant cities.

Did you know that Chicago is known as the "Windy City" because of the strong winds that blow off Lake Michigan? And Ashburn, Virginia is where the world-famous data center, Loudoun County, is located.

About halfway through the route, you will pass Peninsula, OH. This small town in the Cuyahoga Valley National Park is a great place for a pit stop. You can go for a hike in the park, visit the 19th-century buildings, or grab a bite to eat in the charming downtown area.

The total distance from Chicago to Ashburn is around 685 miles (1102 kilometers), which can be covered in about 11 hours by car. However, it's recommended to take at least three to four days to make the most of the trip and enjoy the sights.

Here are the top five places to visit on your road trip:

1. Indiana Dunes National Park - This park offers 15 miles of beaches along Lake Michigan, as well as sand dunes, wetlands, and forests. It's a great place for hiking, swimming, sunbathing, and birdwatching. Don't miss the Mount Baldy dune, which is the tallest sand dune in the park and offers a stunning view of the lake.

Point of interest recommendation: The Bailly Homestead and Chellberg Farm are historic sites within the park that showcase the local history and culture.

2. Gettysburg National Military Park - This park is a must-visit for history buffs. It's the site of the Civil War battle that took place in 1863 and the location of President Lincoln's famous Gettysburg Address. You can take a guided tour of the battlefield, visit the museum and visitor center, and explore the town of Gettysburg.

Point of interest recommendation: The David Wills House is where President Lincoln stayed the night before he delivered the Gettysburg Address. It's now a museum that tells the story of the battle and its aftermath.

3. Shenandoah National Park - This park spans over 200,000 acres in the Blue Ridge Mountains and offers hiking trails, waterfalls, wildlife watching, and scenic drives. The Skyline Drive is a 105-mile road that runs through the park and offers breathtaking views of the mountains and valleys.

Point of interest recommendation: The park offers ranger-led programs, such as bird watching, stargazing, and history talks, that add a personal touch to your visit.

4. Monticello - This historic site was the home of Thomas Jefferson, one of America's founding fathers and the third President. The house and gardens showcase Jefferson's life and achievements, as well as his collection of artifacts, books, and art. You can take a guided tour, visit the museum and educational center, and enjoy the stunning views of the countryside.

Point of interest recommendation: The Hemings Family Tour offers a unique perspective on Monticello's history by focusing on the enslaved individuals who lived and worked there, including Sally Hemings, who had a relationship with Jefferson.

5. National Museum of African American History and Culture - This museum is located in Washington, DC and offers a comprehensive look at the history and culture of African Americans in the US. The exhibits cover slavery, the Civil War, segregation, the Civil Rights Movement, and contemporary issues. You can see artifacts, documents, photographs, and multimedia displays that highlight the achievements and struggles of black Americans.

Point of interest recommendation: The museum has an impressive collection of music, art, and literature that showcases the contribution of African Americans to American culture.

In conclusion, a road trip from Chicago, Illinois to Ashburn, Virginia is a great way to explore the diversity and richness of America's landscape, history, and culture. By visiting these top five places, you'll get a glimpse into different aspects of the country and gain a deeper understanding of its people. So pack your bags, hit the road, and enjoy the journey!