The Best Road Trip from Cincinnati to Joliet: Top Five Must-See Places

Are you planning a road trip from Cincinnati to Joliet? We've got you covered! Along the way, you'll find a bunch of small towns, intriguing sights, and memorable experiences. Here are the top five places you shouldn't miss:

Halfway point: Thorntown, IN

Located halfway between Cincinnati and Joliet, Thorntown is a charming small town worth checking out. As you drive through the town, you'll notice historic homes, churches, and storefronts. Start at the Thorntown Public Library, where you'll experience a mix of history and modern-day amenities. The library itself is modern, spacious, and filled with books and amenities. The historic courthouse is nearby, and it's the perfect spot to take a photo.

1. Rock and Roll Hall of Fame

Located in Cleveland, Ohio, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is a must-visit destination for music fans. The museum features iconic artifacts such as Elvis Presley's gold piano, Jimi Hendrix's outfits, and Michael Jackson's glove. You'll learn about the history of rock and roll, from its roots to today's stars. Don't miss the rooftop patio that offers stunning views of Lake Erie, too.

2. Space Center Houston

Space Center Houston is a must-see attraction for anyone interested in space exploration. The center features a replica of a space shuttle, interactive exhibits, and behind-the-scenes tours of NASA's Johnson Space Center. You'll learn about the history of the space program and the challenges astronauts face. The highlight of the center is the tram tour that takes you to the astronaut training center, the NASA control center, and the rocket park.

3. The Children's Museum of Indianapolis

The Children's Museum of Indianapolis is the world's largest children's museum, and it's the perfect spot for families traveling with kids. The museum features interactive exhibits that allow children to explore science, history, and culture. Kids will love the Dinosphere exhibit, where they'll see life-size dinosaurs, and the Take Me There: Greece exhibit, which transports visitors to Athens. The museum also offers an outdoor playground and a planetarium show.

4. Mall of America

Located in Bloomington, Minnesota, the Mall of America is the largest mall in the United States. With over 500 stores, a Nickelodeon Universe theme park, an aquarium, and a mini-golf course, the mall is a destination in itself. You'll find brands like Apple, Nike, and H&M, as well as local boutiques. The mall offers a variety of dining options, from casual to fine dining, so you won't go hungry.

5. The Art Institute of Chicago

The Art Institute of Chicago is home to some of the world's most iconic art pieces. You'll see works by Vincent van Gogh, Pablo Picasso, and Grant Wood. The museum's collection includes over 300,000 pieces, spanning medieval to modern times. Don't miss the Thorne Miniature Rooms, which feature intricate dollhouse-like rooms. The museum also features an impressive collection of armor and weapons.

Best Route

The best route for this road trip is I-71 to I-70 to I-65. Along the way, you'll experience a variety of landscapes and sights, from rolling hills to the flat plains of Indiana. You'll also have the chance to visit iconic attractions like the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Space Center Houston, and the Art Institute of Chicago. Whether you're traveling with family or friends, this road trip is guaranteed to be an adventure you'll never forget.