The Top Five Places to Visit Between Chicago and Manassas

Are you planning a road trip between Chicago, Illinois and Manassas, Virginia? If yes, then you're in for a treat! This scenic route is full of amazing places to stop and explore. From picturesque towns to natural wonders, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Ready? Let's hit the road!

The Route and Halfway Point

Before we start, let's take a look at the route. The distance between Chicago and Manassas is approximately 710 miles, and it takes about 11 hours to drive non-stop. But of course, we're not driving non-stop, are we? Our first stop is Hudson, OH, which is the halfway point of our journey. This charming town is perfect for a lunch break and a quick stroll before we hit the road again.

#1: Indiana Dunes National Park - Porter, IN

Our first stop is Indiana Dunes National Park, which is located in Porter, Indiana. It's only an hour's drive from Chicago and worth every minute. This national park boasts over 15 miles of sandy beaches, soaring dunes, and woodlands. You can hike, swim, or simply relax and soak up the sun. The park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including deer, foxes, and over 350 species of birds. Don't forget to climb the Mount Baldy dune for stunning panoramic views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline.

#2: Hocking Hills State Park - Logan, OH

Our next stop takes us to Logan, Ohio, where we'll find Hocking Hills State Park. This park is a nature lover's dream, featuring stunning natural formations such as waterfalls, gorges, and rock formations. The park has over 25 miles of hiking trails that offer breathtaking views of the park's scenic wonders. Make sure to head to Old Man's Cave, where you'll find the park's most famous rock formation. The park is also popular for its zipline tours, canoeing, and kayaking.

#3: Antietam National Battlefield - Sharpsburg, MD

Antietam National Battlefield is located in Sharpsburg, Maryland, and is a must-visit for history buffs. This historic site commemorates the bloodiest single-day battle in American history, with over 23,000 casualties. The park has a visitor center that houses numerous exhibits and artifacts that tell the story of the battle. You can also take a self-guided driving tour of the battlefield and see the different landmarks and monuments that mark the events of that fateful day.

#4: Gettysburg National Military Park - Gettysburg, PA

Another historic site on our list is Gettysburg National Military Park, located in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. This park is home to the site of the Battle of Gettysburg, which is widely regarded as one of the most pivotal battles of the American Civil War. The park has numerous monuments and memorials, as well as a visitor center that offers guided tours and exhibits relating to the battle. This is a great place to learn more about the war's causes and consequences and its ongoing relevance today.

#5: Shenandoah National Park - Luray, VA

Our last stop on this road trip is Shenandoah National Park, located in Luray, Virginia. This park is a nature lover's paradise, with over 500 miles of hiking trails and a scenic drive that takes you through the park's highlights. The most famous hike in the park is the Appalachian Trail, a 2,200-mile-long trail that stretches from Georgia to Maine. You can also go camping, fishing, or simply relax and take in the park's stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Conclusion

And there you have it, the top five places to visit between Chicago and Manassas. Whether you're a nature lover or history buff, or simply looking for a relaxing break from the road, these destinations have something for everyone. So why wait? Pack your bags, grab your camera, and hit the road. Your adventure awaits!