Top Five Places to Visit on a Trip Between Chicago, Illinois and George Mason, Virginia

Are you planning a road trip from Chicago, Illinois to George Mason, Virginia and wondering what places to visit along the way? Look no further! Here are the top five places to visit that will add excitement to your journey.

Route and Halfway Point: Hudson, OH

The route from Chicago to George Mason spans over 650 miles and takes around 10 hours to complete. The halfway point of the journey is Hudson, OH, a charming town with a population of 22,000 people. Hudson boasts a vibrant downtown area with plenty of restaurants, shops, and cafes to explore.

Be sure to take a stroll down the historic Main Street, which features beautiful Victorian buildings and unique architecture. There are also several parks and trails in Hudson to enjoy, including Cascade Park, which has a waterfall and hiking trails.

Now onto the top five places to visit in between Chicago and George Mason!

Stop 1: Indiana Dunes National Park

Get in Touch with Nature

Just an hour’s drive from Chicago, the Indiana Dunes National Park is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts. Covering 15 miles of Lake Michigan's southern shore, the park has 15 miles of soft sandy beaches, lush forests, and wetlands.

Hike through the beautiful rolling dunes, bird watch, kayak, or simply relax on the beach. The park also offers ranger-led programs and nature-based activities, making it an excellent place to learn about the local environment.

Stop 2: Cuyahoga Valley National Park

Get Active

Located between Cleveland and Akron, Cuyahoga Valley National Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. With over 125 miles of biking, hiking, and horseback riding trails, this park is perfect for those who want to get their hearts racing.

Along the trails, visitors can see picturesque waterfalls, lush forests, and the famous Brandywine Falls. The park also offers several ranger-led programs and educational activities, making it a great place for the whole family to enjoy.

Stop 3: Hershey's Chocolate World

Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth

Crossing into Pennsylvania, Hershey’s Chocolate World is a can’t-miss stop for chocolate lovers. This fun and interactive attraction allows visitors to learn about the history of chocolate, see how it is made, and participate in chocolate tasting experiences.

Take a ride through the chocolate-making process on the Hershey’s Chocolate Tour, create your own candy bar at the Create-Your-Own Candy Bar attraction, or take a trip to the 4D Chocolate Mystery attraction. There’s something for everyone at Hershey’s Chocolate World.

Stop 4: Shenandoah National Park

Take in the Scenery

Located in Virginia, Shenandoah National Park extends along the Blue Ridge Mountains and covers over 200,000 acres. The park is known for its beautiful scenic views, waterfalls, and wildlife.

Take a leisurely drive down the historic Skyline Drive, which offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Visitors can also hike the many trails in the park, which offer views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and Shenandoah River.

Stop 5: Old Town Alexandria

Shop and Explore

Just outside of Washington, D.C., Old Town Alexandria is a charming and historic district on the banks of the Potomac River. With cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and shops galore, this destination is perfect for anyone looking to stroll, shop and dine.

Explore the Torpedo Factory Art Center, a former torpedo factory re-purposed as artist studios, go boutique shopping on King Street, or visit the historic Carlyle House. There’s something for everyone in Old Town Alexandria.

In conclusion, a road trip from Chicago to George Mason offers a variety of exciting destinations to explore. From nature to chocolate to history, the journey has something for everyone. Be sure to add these top five destinations to your itinerary for an unforgettable trip.