Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Chicago, Illinois to Zachary, Louisiana

Are you looking for a fun and adventurous road trip? The drive from Chicago, Illinois to Zachary, Louisiana, covers a whopping 920 miles. However, if you're someone who loves to travel and explore new places, then this distance and time will likely not dissuade you. This drive will take you about fourteen hours and has many amazing stops along the way that you won't want to miss.

Along the drive, one of the most remarkable sites you'll come across is Blytheville, AR. Blytheville is precisely located midway between Chicago and Zachary, and it offers a variety of restaurants, shops, and activities that are unique to the region. The town has an array of infrastructure that showcases the Progressive nature of development and technology in the area. In addition, the town has great southern charm and hospitality that leaves visitors feeling like they're part of the community.

1. The Gateway Arch - St. Louis, MO (302 miles from Chicago)

It's hard to talk about driving from Chicago to Zachary without mentioning the Gateway Arch in Missouri. This 630-foot monument that stands tall over the Mississippi River is the perfect place to begin your trip. Visitors can explore a museum located at the base of the monument that tells stories about St. Louis' history. For those who enjoy heights, taking a tram to ride to the top of the arch offers a breathtaking view of downtown St. Louis. Don't forget to try the local toasted ravioli, a St. Louis regional dish that is unique to the region.

2. Mammoth Cave National Park- Mammoth Cave, KY (522 miles from Chicago)

The Mammoth Cave National Park is the second-oldest National Park in the United States, and it's a perfect example of nature's beauty. It's home to the world's longest cave system, which is more than 400 miles long. Visitors can take guided cave tours that range in length and difficulty. For those who enjoy hiking, there are over 80 miles of trails in the park. After exploring the caves and hiking, visitors can stop at the Mammoth Cave Hotel for a Kentucky Hot Brown, a local turkey and bacon sandwich topped with Mornay sauce, bacon, and cheese.

3. The National Civil Rights Museum- Memphis, TN (661 miles from Chicago)

The National Civil Rights Museum is located at the site of the Lorraine Motel, where civil rights activist Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated. The museum takes visitors on a journey through the history of the Civil Rights Movement in the United States. Visitors can also see exhibits containing artifacts, photographs, and documents that showcase different aspects of the civil rights movement. An excellent local dish to try in Memphis is the dry-rubbed barbeque ribs that are unique to the region.

4. Oak Alley Plantation- Vacherie, LA (832 miles from Chicago)

Oak Alley Plantation is a Louisiana plantation located in the small community of Vacherie. It has 25 acres of land and a historic mansion that was built in the 1830s. The plantation is home to over 300-year-old oak trees that create a beautiful surrounding for visitors. Visitors can take a guided tour of the mansion and grounds and learn about the history of the plantation. A recommended dish to eat while at Oak Alley is chicken and sausage gumbo, a local dish that is usually served with rice.

5. New Orleans, LA (846 miles from Chicago)

Last on the list is New Orleans. A city known for its vibrant music scene, delicious food, and the French quarter. The city is rich in history and is known as the birthplace of jazz. Visitors can take a walk along Bourbon Street for live music, unique souvenirs, and local dishes such as beignets, a pastry that is deep-fried and sprinkled with powdered sugar. For those who are in town for a more extended period, don't miss a visit to the World War II Museum for a history lesson on our nation's history.

Conclusion

A road trip from Chicago to Zachary, Louisiana is nothing short of an adventure for those who love to explore new places. The trip allows visitors to experience several different regions of the country - from St. Louis to New Orleans- as well as to try new foods and explore different cultures. Make sure to stop at the five unexpected places on this list to make this road trip truly unforgettable. Start planning today!