Chicago, Illinois, and Fort Collins, Colorado are two vibrant and dynamic cities, each offering its own unique array of attractions and activities. The road trip from Chicago to Fort Collins covers approximately 1,000 miles and takes about 15 hours to complete. Along the way, travelers will encounter a variety of interesting pit stops, including the halfway point of Ashland, NE. This road trip offers a mix of urban exploration, natural beauty, and historical sites, making it an ideal adventure for all types of travelers.
Top Five Things to do on a Road Trip from Chicago, Illinois to Fort Collins, Colorado
Exploring the Magnificent Mile in Chicago, Illinois
Visitors to Chicago's Magnificent Mile can experience some of the city's best shopping, dining, and entertainment. The street is lined with high-end retailers, gourmet restaurants, and theaters, making it a must-visit destination for tourists and locals alike. The Magnificent Mile is also home to iconic Chicago landmarks such as the John Hancock Center and the Wrigley Building.
Interesting Fact: The Magnificent Mile is one of the most prestigious shopping districts in the United States, attracting millions of visitors each year.
Discovering the Badlands National Park in South Dakota
The Badlands National Park is a striking landscape of rugged terrain, expansive prairies, and unique rock formations. Travelers can explore the park's many hiking trails, take in breathtaking views of the surrounding scenery, and learn about the area's rich natural and cultural history at the visitor center. The Badlands National Park is an ideal location for wildlife watching, stargazing, and photography.
Interesting Fact: The Badlands National Park is home to one of the world's richest fossil beds, containing the remains of ancient mammals, reptiles, and birds.
Visiting Mount Rushmore in South Dakota
No road trip through South Dakota is complete without a visit to the iconic Mount Rushmore. This monumental sculpture features the faces of four famous U.S. presidents - George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln - carved into the granite face of the mountain. Visitors can take a walking tour of the park, participate in ranger-led programs, and explore the on-site museum and bookstore.
Interesting Fact: Mount Rushmore took 14 years to construct, from 1927 to 1941, and required the efforts of nearly 400 workers.
Exploring Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado
Rocky Mountain National Park offers visitors a chance to experience the beauty and grandeur of the Rocky Mountains. The park features pristine alpine lakes, lush forests, and a diverse array of wildlife, making it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Travelers can hike, bike, fish, or simply enjoy the stunning mountain views from one of the many scenic overlooks.
Interesting Fact: Rocky Mountain National Park is home to more than 60 species of mammals, including elk, moose, and bighorn sheep.
Sampling Craft Brews in Fort Collins, Colorado
Fort Collins is known for its thriving craft beer scene, with numerous breweries and taprooms scattered throughout the city. Visitors can take a brewery tour, attend a beer festival, or simply relax on a sunny patio with a refreshing pint. Fort Collins' craft breweries offer a wide variety of beer styles, from hoppy IPAs to rich stouts, ensuring that there's something for every beer enthusiast to enjoy.
Interesting Fact: Fort Collins has been dubbed the "Napa Valley of Beer" due to its high concentration of craft breweries and beer-related events.
In conclusion, the road trip from Chicago, Illinois to Fort Collins, Colorado offers a diverse range of attractions and activities, from the bustling city streets of Chicago to the serene mountain landscapes of Colorado. The journey takes approximately 15 hours, with the halfway point of Ashland, NE offering a convenient rest stop for weary travelers. Whether you're interested in urban exploration, natural beauty, or historical landmarks, this road trip has something for everyone to enjoy.