Road Trip from Chicago, Illinois to Calabash, North Carolina
Are you planning a road trip from the Windy City to the beautiful beaches of North Carolina? This route offers a diverse mix of museums, landmarks, and natural wonders. Here are the top sights to see along the way.
Interesting Fact
Did you know that the historic highway that once connected Chicago and Calabash, which was also the first coast-to-coast highway, was US Route 40?
Nitro, WV - Midway Point
If you need a break and a place to recharge on your journey, Nitro, WV, is the perfect midway point. This small town offers a variety of restaurants and shops and is known for its charming local events and festivals.
Length of the Trip
The journey from Chicago to Calabash is approximately 870 miles, which takes approximately 14 hours and 30 minutes without any stops. However, we recommend taking the time to enjoy the many attractions along the route and breaking up the trip into two or three days.
Top 5 Places to Visit
Indiana Dunes National Park - A beautiful escape from the city, the Indiana Dunes National Park is an incredible stretch of white sand beaches and dunes along the southern shore of Lake Michigan. Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, it provides a relaxing atmosphere and tranquil views of Lake Michigan.
Kentucky Horse Park - Kentucky’s Horse Park makes for a perfect pitstop for horse lovers and racing fans alike. This park is home to more than 50 breeds of horses and offers guided tours and even live shows.
Natural Bridge State Resort Park - That’s right! Kentucky is home to a natural bridge. It is a one-of-a-kind attraction that is definitely worth seeing if you're willing to go off-the-beaten-path. Take the Cascade Trail Walk to see the beautiful waterfall and other natural attractions.
The Biltmore Estate - The Biltmore Estate is the grandiose and beautiful North Carolina mansion that belonged to the Vanderbilt family. The grounds are open to visitors, and you can explore the rooms of the estate in guided tours.
Myrtle Beach - Famous for its wide, pristine beach, Myrtle Beach is a perfect destination for people of all ages. If you want to take a break from the driving, relax with your family in one of many cafes and restaurants and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
Point of Interest Recommendations
Indiana Dunes National Park- Explore the diverse natural environments of the eight different plant communities within the park. Make sure to pack a picnic!
Kentucky Horse Park- Take a scenic horseback ride on the trails or experience the exhibits in the International Museum of the Horse.
Natural Bridge State Resort Park- Take a hike on one of the many scenic trails for breathtaking views of the natural bridge.
The Biltmore Estate - Enjoy the sunset from the roofless Mansion Trail Walk, where you’ll see breathtaking views of the estate.
Myrtle Beach – Take it easy, go for a paddleboat ride or take one of many tourist boat tours.
Conclusion
The road trip from Chicago to Calabash is an excellent example of the best of American Tourism. With the right planning, you can make a memorable experience out of the 870-mile journey, which could take two or three days or more; you won’t be disappointed.