The Best Things to Do on a Road Trip from Cincinnati, Ohio to Skokie, Illinois

The Midwest is home to some of the most scenic routes in the country, and the route from Cincinnati, Ohio, to Skokie, Illinois, is no exception. If you are planning a road trip from the Buckeye State to the Land of Lincoln, there are many stops and attractions worth checking out. With a driving distance of approximately 300 miles, the trip can be completed in about five and a half hours. One interesting point to note is the halfway point Frankfort, IN which provides a perfect spot to rest or grab some food. Here are some of the top attractions to look out for along the way.

Mammoth Cave National Park

Mammoth Cave National Park is an ideal place to start your road trip. Located in Mammoth Cave, Kentucky, about a three-hour drive from Cincinnati, the park is home to one of the most massive networks of caves in the world. The park is a great place for some subterranean adventure, and it has many hiking trails and guided cave tours. You will also get the chance to observe various aquatic animals such as fish, amphibians, and insects. An interesting fact about Mammoth Cave is that new caves continue to be discovered within the park, with over 400 miles of caves already surveyed.

Corvette Museum

The Corvette is the ultimate American sports car, and at the Corvette Museum in Bowling Green, Kentucky, you can learn everything there is to know about this iconic car. The museum is just over a two-hour drive from Mammoth Cave National Park. It houses over 80 Corvettes and features various exhibits such as the history of the Corvette and the manufacturing process. Visitors can also learn about special editions and prototypes. One unique fact is that the museum is built on the site of the sinking of the “Corvette Cave-in,” where eight Corvettes were swallowed by a giant sinkhole in 2014.

Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum

The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum is a must-visit for history enthusiasts traveling through Springfield, Illinois. It is approximately a four-hour drive from the Corvette Museum in Bowling Green, Kentucky. The museum features fascinating exhibits on the life and presidency of the iconic US President Abraham Lincoln. You also get to see various artifacts, including writings, documents, and personal effects, such as the Mary Todd Lincoln Collection and Lincoln’s Presidential Library. Additionally, the library and museum host various events and programs throughout the year, making it an educational experience worth the trip. An interesting fact about the museum is that it has over 12.5 million items in its collection.

Gurnee Mills Mall

If you enjoy shopping, then Gurnee Mills Mall, located about an hour's drive from Skokie, Illinois, is an excellent place to stop. The mall features over 200 stores and has something for everyone, from clothes and home decor to electronics and sporting gear. Visitors can also participate in various entertainment activities such as arcade games, rides, and a movie theatre. Fun fact, the mall also houses various dining options, including fast-food chains, cafes, and restaurants where you can refuel for the rest of your trip.

Chicago Botanic Garden

The last stop on a road trip from Cincinnati to Skokie should be the Chicago Botanic Garden, located only 20 minutes from the city. A trip to the garden is an invitation to a serene and beautiful world of nature. The garden features various collections of plants and designs such as the Bonsai collection, the Japanese Garden, and the English Walled Garden. Visitors can also participate in various programs and events such as flower shows, adult education, and youth and family programs. One interesting fact about the Chicago Botanic Garden is that it comprises 27 gardens and four natural areas, spread over 385 acres.

Conclusion

Road trips offer a way to connect with the countryside, historical sites, and enjoy scenic driving. A road trip from Cincinnati to Skokie is no exception. By following this route, you get to experience the majestic Mammoth Cave National Park, admire American sports cars at the Corvette Museum, learn some history at the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, indulge in shopping at Gurnee Mills Mall, and connect with nature at the Chicago Botanic Garden. The 300-mile drive is worth it, and you can complete it in approximately five and a half hours, including stopping time.