Columbia, South Carolina and Chicago, Illinois are two vibrant cities with plenty to offer, but what if you want to explore the places in between? A road trip from Columbia to Chicago offers a perfect opportunity to explore museums, parks, and landmarks along the way.
Interesting fact: The route from Columbia to Chicago passes through the beautiful Bluegrass region of Kentucky, known for its horse farms and bourbon distilleries.
Halfway point: Winchester, KY is the halfway point of the trip, giving travelers a chance to stretch their legs and explore the charming small town.
The drive from Columbia, South Carolina to Chicago, Illinois covers over 700 miles and can be completed in about 12 hours, without factoring in stops. However, the trip can take longer depending on traffic, weather, and how many stops you plan to make along the way.
Top 5 Places to Visit:
- Biltmore Estate - Asheville, NC The Biltmore Estate is a must-see stop along the route. This historic mansion is the largest privately-owned home in the United States and is surrounded by beautiful gardens and scenic mountain views.
Point of interest: Stop by the Biltmore Winery for a tasting of their award-winning wines.
- Great Smoky Mountains National Park - Gatlinburg, TN The Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers stunning vistas, wildlife, and hiking trails. It's a great place to enjoy the great outdoors and take in some fresh mountain air.
Point of interest: Make a stop at the Sugarlands Visitor Center to learn about the park's history and pick up some trail maps.
- St. Louis Gateway Arch - St. Louis, MO A visit to the Gateway Arch is a must when passing through St. Louis. The iconic landmark offers breathtaking views of the Mississippi River and the city skyline.
Point of interest: Take a tram ride to the top of the arch for a panoramic view of the surrounding area.
- Millennium Park - Chicago, IL Once you reach Chicago, make sure to visit Millennium Park. This expansive urban park is home to the famous Cloud Gate sculpture, also known as "The Bean," as well as beautiful gardens and outdoor art installations.
Point of interest: Check out a free concert or outdoor movie in the park during the summer months.
- Henry Ford Museum - Dearborn, MI On the outskirts of Detroit, the Henry Ford Museum offers a fascinating look at American innovation and history. Visitors can explore various exhibits, including the Rosa Parks bus and the presidential limousine used by John F. Kennedy.
Point of interest: Don't miss the opportunity to take a tour of the nearby Ford Rouge Factory to see how Ford trucks are made.
In addition to these top destinations, there are plenty of other interesting attractions to explore along the route, such as Mammoth Cave National Park in Kentucky, the Indianapolis Motor Speedway in Indiana, and the Harley-Davidson Museum in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Whether you're interested in history, nature, or art, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
In conclusion, the road trip from Columbia, South Carolina to Chicago, Illinois offers a diverse range of attractions and experiences. Whether you're interested in historical landmarks, natural beauty, or urban culture, there's plenty to see and do along the way. The trip can be completed in about 12 hours of driving time, but it's worth taking your time to make the most of the journey and explore everything the route has to offer.