Most Scenic Road Trips in Chicago, Illinois, United States
1. North Shore Scenic Drive
Experience Lake Michigan's shoreline and charming towns like Winnetka and Highland Park.
- Lakefront Views: Enjoy breathtaking views of Lake Michigan.
- Historic Mansions: Pass by beautiful historic mansions in Winnetka.
- Parks and Beaches: Stop at parks and beaches for a break.
2. Illinois Route 66
Travel the iconic Route 66 through Chicago's suburbs, from downtown to Joliet.
- Historic Landmarks: Pass by famous Route 66 landmarks.
- Cultural Diversity: Explore diverse cultures represented in the towns along the route.
- Roadside Attractions: Enjoy unique roadside attractions, such as giant fiberglass statues.
3. Chicago Lakefront Trail
Cycle or walk along the lakefront, taking in skyline views and parks.
- Urban Scenery: Enjoy a blend of urban architecture and natural beauty.
- Accessibility: Easy access from downtown Chicago.
- Recreational Activities: Opportunities for cycling, walking, and picnicking.
4. Northwestern Highway
Discover the stunning Fox River Valley as you head northwest from Chicago.
- Scenic River Valley: Drive through the beautiful Fox River Valley.
- Historic Towns: Explore historic towns like Algonquin and Crystal Lake.
- Natural Beauty: Enjoy the natural beauty of forests, rivers, and lakes.
5. Lincoln Highway (Illinois Route 30)
Travel through picturesque towns and landscapes as you head west from Chicago.
- Rural Landscapes: Experience the charm of Illinois' rural communities.
- Historic Sites: Pass by sites like the Joliet Iron Works State Historic Site.
- Charming Small Towns: Discover small towns with unique shops and restaurants.
6. Skokie North Shore Sculpture Park
Enjoy a scenic drive through this park filled with over 70 sculptures.
- Public Art: See an impressive collection of contemporary sculptures.
- Nature Trails: Explore nature trails while appreciating the art.
- Family-Friendly: A great destination for families and art lovers.
7. Naples Road Scenic Drive
Take in the beauty of Naples Sculpture Park and the Kankakee River Valley.
- Artistic Landscape: Drive through a landscape dotted with over 30 sculptures.
- Nature Preserves: Explore nature preserves along the Kankakee River.
- Historic Sites: Pass by historic sites like the Harding-Baker-White House.
8. Sheridan Road Coastal Drive
Drive along Lake Michigan's shoreline, taking in the charming towns of Evanston and Wilmette.
- Lakefront Views: Enjoy breathtaking views of Lake Michigan.
- Historic Architecture: Admire the beautiful historic architecture in Evanston and Wilmette.
- Recreational Activities: Opportunities for cycling, walking, and beach activities.
9. Route 120 to Galena
Travel through the beautiful countryside of northwest Illinois en route to the historic town of Galena.
- Rural Landscapes: Experience the charm of rural Illinois.
- Historic Towns: Explore the charming historic town of Galena.
- Natural Beauty: Enjoy the natural beauty of forests, rivers, and farms.
10. Illinois Beach State Park
Drive through this beautiful state park on Lake Michigan's shore.
- Lakefront Views: Enjoy breathtaking views of Lake Michigan.
- Nature Trails: Explore nature trails through the park.
- Recreational Activities: Opportunities for swimming, fishing, and camping.
11. Roosevelt Road (Route 83)
Travel south from Chicago along the scenic Des Plaines River.
- Scenic River Valley: Drive through the beautiful Des Plaines River Valley.
- Nature Preserves: Explore nature preserves along the river.
- Historic Sites: Pass by historic sites like the Lockport Towpath Trail.
12. Illinois and Michigan Canal Towpath
Follow the historic canal towpath from Chicago to LaSalle-Peru.
- Historic Landmarks: Experience the history of the Illinois and Michigan Canal.
- Nature Trails: Explore nature trails along the canal.
- Rural Landscapes: Enjoy the charm of rural Illinois.
13. Illinois Prairie Path
Cycle or walk along this historic rail-trail that winds through the Chicago suburbs.
- Urban Scenery: Enjoy a blend of urban architecture and nature.
- Nature Trails: Explore nature trails through forests, prairies, and wetlands.
- Recreational Activities: Opportunities for cycling, walking, and bird watching.
14. North Branch Canal Trail
Follow the North Branch of the Chicago River through north Chicago.
- Urban Scenery: Experience a unique blend of urban and natural beauty.
- Nature Trails: Explore nature trails along the river.
- Recreational Activities: Opportunities for cycling, walking, and fishing.
15. Indiana Dunes Scenic Highway (Indiana Route 12)
Travel through the Indiana Dunes National Park to Lake Michigan's shore.
- Scenic River Valley: Drive through the beautiful Indiana Dunes National Park.
- Lakefront Views: Enjoy breathtaking views of Lake Michigan.
- Nature Trails: Explore nature trails through the dunes and forests.