Top Five Popular Attractions to See Between Chicago, Illinois and Phoenix, Arizona
Are you planning a road trip from Chicago to Phoenix and looking for some must-visit attractions along the way? Well, you're in luck! In this article, I will be sharing with you the top five popular attractions to see between Chicago, Illinois and Phoenix, Arizona. From iconic architectural wonders to natural marvels, this trip has it all.
Halfway Point: Elk City, OK
Before diving into the top five attractions, let's talk about the halfway point of this trip - Elk City, Oklahoma. This small town serves as a perfect pit stop for anyone looking for a break from the long drive. Upon arriving in Elk City, you can check out the National Route 66 & Transportation Museum and get a glimpse of the rich history of Route 66. You can also visit Elk City Lake and Park where you can relax and have some fun with family and friends.
Now, let's get to the main attractions on your route!
1. Gateway Arch, St. Louis, MO
The Gateway Arch is a world-famous architectural marvel located in St. Louis, Missouri. It is an iconic monument that stands at 630 feet tall, making it the tallest man-made monument in the United States. The Gateway Arch offers breathtaking views of the Mississippi River and the cityscape of Saint Louis from its observation deck. The structure itself is magnificent and unique, being a parabolic curve on both sides.
2. Cadillac Ranch, Amarillo, TX
Cadillac Ranch is one of the most unusual art installations located in Amarillo, Texas. It features a row of ten vintage Cadillac cars buried nose-down in the ground, with their tail fins sticking up in the air. The installation encourages visitors to paint graffiti on the cars, making it a constantly changing piece of art. The Cadillac Ranch is a popular photography spot and an Instagram-worthy destination.
3. Petrified Forest National Park, AZ
Located in northeastern Arizona, Petrified Forest National Park is a natural wonder that you don't want to miss. The park covers over 230 square miles and is home to colorful petrified wood, scenic vistas, and fascinating ancient history. Visitors can hike the trails, take a ranger-led tour, or simply enjoy the view from the numerous overlooks. If you're interested in learning about the geology and history of the area, both the visitor center and the Painted Desert Inn National Historic Landmark are worth a visit.
4. Grand Canyon National Park, AZ
The Grand Canyon is one of the most famous natural attractions in the world and certainly a bucket-list item for many. This gigantic natural wonder located in Arizona is 277 miles long, up to 18 miles wide, and has a depth of over a mile. The park offers excellent hiking trails, stunning vistas, and plenty of opportunities for taking pictures. While you can easily spend several days exploring the Grand Canyon National Park, it's worth at least a few hours to be in awe of its beauty.
5. Las Vegas, NV
Before hitting your final destination, you may want to make a pit stop at the "Entertainment Capital of the World" - Las Vegas. The city is full of sparkling lights, fancy hotels, lively casinos, world-class entertainment, and gourmet food. Whether you're into gambling, shopping, or simply taking in the fabulous atmosphere, Las Vegas won't disappoint. A stop here is an excellent way to break up the drive from the Grand Canyon to Phoenix.
Conclusion
With so many attractions to see between Chicago and Phoenix, it can be overwhelming to plan your route. However, if you're looking for the most scenic route, you may want to consider driving along parts of historic Route 66, passing through Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, and New Mexico. The trip from Chicago to Phoenix covers over 1,500 miles, and depending on your pace and level of explorations, it can take anywhere from two to six days. Whatever your plan, the above five attractions will make your journey memorable. So gas up the car, grab some snacks, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure.