Illinois Lincoln Highway Itinerary
Embark on an amazing road trip along the Illinois Lincoln Highway and discover the beauty of the Midwest! Starting in the bustling city of Chicago, the 237km journey will take you through the towns of Geneva, Rochelle, and Rock Falls. Along the way, you can explore the many attractions the area has to offer, such as the historic U.S. Route 66. The best time to take this road trip is during the summer months, when the weather is pleasant and the roads are in good condition. This is a road trip suitable for all drivers, and can be completed in one day with a moderate budget. So pack your bags and hit the road - the Illinois Lincoln Highway awaits!
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number of days
237 km
route length
fair
budget
family
good for
on the right
traffic direction
low
accident level
START
Chicago
Distance 237 km
Driving time 3.3 h
Pace: fast
71.0 kWh
Airports
ORD
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Chicago is one of the United States' most vibrant cities and a great starting point for the Illinois Lincoln Highway Road Trip. The city offers a great range of attractions and activities, from the iconic skyline of the city, to the bustling lakefront, to the world-class museums.
The must-see attractions in Chicago include the Willis Tower, the Art Institute of Chicago, Millennium Park, the Magnificent Mile, the Navy Pier and the Museum Campus. Visitors can also take a stroll in Grant Park, explore the Lake Michigan shoreline or take a boat tour of the Chicago River.
For those traveling by air, the closest international airport is Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD), which is also served by many car rental companies. From there it is easy to begin your journey on the Illinois Lincoln Highway Road Trip.
Whether it's a weekend getaway or an extended vacation, Chicago is a great place to start. With its diverse attractions, lively culture, and delicious cuisine, it's sure to be an unforgettable experience.
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Chicago
- Geneva
Distance 60 km
Driving time 0.8 h
Pace: fast
17.9 kWh
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Itinerary
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Are you looking for an exciting road trip from Chicago to Geneva? Then look no further! This 37 mi journey will take you less than an hour to complete, but you’ll be sure to make some unforgettable memories along the way.
Start off your trip by exploring the historical sites of Chicago, such as the Art Institute of Chicago, the Field Museum, and the Willis Tower. Then, take a break and enjoy some delicious food at one of the many restaurants in the city.
As you make your way to Geneva, you’ll pass through some beautiful countryside. Be sure to take your time and soak in the views. Once you arrive in Geneva, you can explore the Fox River, the Geneva History Museum, and the Geneva Lake Museum.
No matter what kind of adventure you’re looking for, you’ll find something to enjoy on this road trip from Chicago to Geneva. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the Itinerary for this stage.
Geneva - United States - North America - Scenic Drive - Wikipedia
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2
Geneva
- DeKalb
Distance 38 km
Driving time 0.6 h
Pace: fast
11.5 kWh
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Itinerary
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Are you ready for an exciting road trip that starts in Geneva, United States and ends in DeKalb? This 24 mi journey will take you less than 1 hour and will be filled with plenty of fun and interesting places to explore!
In Geneva, you can visit the Geneva Historical Society and the Smith Opera House. The Geneva Historical Society is a great place to learn about the history of the area, while the Smith Opera House offers a variety of live performances.
In DeKalb, you can explore the Ellwood House Museum and the Egyptian Theatre. The Ellwood House Museum is a great place to learn about the history of the area, and the Egyptian Theatre offers a variety of live performances.
For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get ready for an amazing road trip!
DeKalb - United States - North America - Scenic Drive - commons.wikimedia.org
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3
DeKalb
- Rochelle
Distance 26 km
Driving time 0.4 h
Pace: fast
7.9 kWh
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Itinerary
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Are you ready for an amazing road trip experience? Then let’s start in DeKalb, United States and get to Rochelle in no time! This road trip is only 16 miles long and it will take you less than one hour to drive. On the way, you can visit some of the most interesting places. In DeKalb, you can check out the DeKalb Taylor Municipal Airport and the Ellwood House Museum. When you reach Rochelle, you can visit the Flagg Township Museum and the Rail Splitter Covered Wagon.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the “Itinerary” of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Let’s embark on this amazing road trip and enjoy the journey!
Rochelle - United States - North America - Scenic Drive - Wikimedia Commons
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Rochelle
- Dixon
Distance 43 km
Driving time 0.6 h
Pace: fast
12.8 kWh
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Itinerary
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Welcome to the Rochelle-Dixon road trip stage! Get ready for a 26mi drive that will take you less than 1 hour. You'll be able to explore the most interesting places in both cities.
In Rochelle, start your journey by visiting the Flagg Township Museum, located in the historic Flagg Township High School. Here you will learn about the history of the area, from its first settlers to the present day. After that, take a walk in the beautiful Flagg Township Park, where you can enjoy nature and the outdoors.
Then, you will continue your journey to Dixon. Here, you can visit the Ronald Reagan Boyhood Home, a museum dedicated to the life and legacy of the former US President. You can also explore the Dixon Historic Center, a museum that showcases the history of the city.
Finally, make sure to visit the Dixon Petunia Festival, a yearly event that celebrates the city's unique petunia flower.
For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your trip!
Dixon - United States - North America - Scenic Drive - www.flickr.com
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Dixon
- Rock Falls
Distance 28 km
Driving time 0.5 h
Pace: modest
7.2 kWh
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Welcome, road-trippers! This stage of your journey starts in Dixon, United States and ends in Rock Falls, 17 miles away. The drive will take you less than an hour, so you can enjoy the sights and sounds of the area.
In Dixon, you should visit the Ronald Reagan Boyhood Home, a National Historic Landmark. Here you can learn about the life of the 40th President of the United States. You can also visit the John Deere Historic Site, which is dedicated to the life and works of the inventor of the steel plow.
When you reach Rock Falls, you should visit the Rock Falls Historical Museum, which houses artifacts and photographs from the early days of the city. You can also visit the Rock Falls Railroad Museum, which has a collection of vintage locomotives and rolling stock.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please consult the "Itinerary" of this stage.
We hope you enjoy this stage of your journey!
Rock Falls - United States - North America - Scenic Drive - National Park Service
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Rock Falls
- Fulton
Distance 42 km
Driving time 0.6 h
Pace: fast
12.7 kWh
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Itinerary
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Welcome, road-trippers! This stage of your journey will take you from Rock Falls to Fulton, a 26mi drive that will take you less than an hour.
In Rock Falls, you can visit the Rock Falls Historical Museum, which is located in the former Rock Falls High School. It offers a unique look into the history of the city, including its founding, the development of its industries, and the lives of its citizens.
On the way to Fulton, you can stop by the Prophetstown State Park, which is located on the banks of the Rock River. Here you can explore the park's trails, picnic areas, and educational programs, as well as the nearby historic village of Prophetstown.
Once you reach Fulton, you can visit the Fulton Historical Society and Museum, which is located in a former schoolhouse. Here, you can learn about the city's history, including its early settlement, its industrial development, and its role in the Civil War.
These are just some of the highlights of this stage of your road trip. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please consult the "Itinerary" of this stage.
Happy travels!
Fulton - United States - North America - Scenic Drive - Wikimedia Commons
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Fulton
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Fulton, Illinois is the perfect ending point for the Illinois Lincoln Highway Road Trip. Located at the western entrance of the Illinois Zephyr Rail Trail, this small town has a lot to offer.
Start your visit at the famous Windmill Cultural Center, where you can learn about the history of Fulton through a multimedia experience. If you’re looking for something more active, you can take a stroll on the Illinois Zephyr Rail Trail. This 9.5 mile trail is a great way to see the sights of the area while getting some exercise.
If you’re looking to take a break from the road trip, there are plenty of places to stay in Fulton. From quaint bed and breakfasts to full-service hotels, there’s something for everyone.
Fulton has several restaurants and bars to choose from. Whether you’re looking for a casual meal or a fine dining experience, you’re sure to find something to enjoy.
For those traveling by air, the closest international airport is Quad City International Airport (MLI), located in nearby Moline, Illinois.
End your Illinois Lincoln Highway Road Trip in beautiful Fulton, Illinois. With its rich history, scenic trails, and wide variety of dining and lodging options, Fulton is the perfect place to explore and relax.
Illinois Lincoln Highway at a glance
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Start:
Chicago
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End:
Fulton
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Distance:
237 km
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Stay:
1 day
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Getting there:
Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD)
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When to drive:
May, June, July, August, September, October
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More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
Embark on the historic Illinois Lincoln Highway Road Trip, a captivating 237-kilometer journey that takes you from the bustling streets of Chicago to the serene town of Rock Falls. This route, established in 1913, is one of the earliest transcontinental highways in the United States and offers a charming blend of urban landscapes, quaint towns, and significant landmarks, including a portion of the legendary U.S. Route 66.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
- Chicago: Begin your adventure in this world-class city, famous for its impressive skyline, rich cultural heritage, and diverse culinary scene. Don't miss iconic attractions such as Millennium Park, the Art Institute of Chicago, and the Willis Tower Skydeck.
- Geneva: Stroll along the scenic Fox River Trail, explore Geneva's historic downtown with its delightful boutiques, and visit the Geneva History Museum to learn about the area's past.
- Rochelle: A must-see for railRoad enthusiasts, the Rochelle RailRoad Park provides a unique vantage point for train-spotting, where you can witness the intersection of two major rail lines.
- Rock Falls: A hidden gem, this tranquil town offers outdoor activities along the Rock River and access to the Hennepin Canal Parkway, perfect for hiking, cycling, and enjoying the lush Illinois landscape.
Best Time to Go:
The summer months are ideal for this Road Trip, offering warm weather, lush greenery, and a full calendar of local festivals and events. However, the fall season also provides a picturesque backdrop of changing leaves and comfortable temperatures.
Potential Risks:
- The Midwest is known for its unpredictable weather, with the possibility of thunderstorms or high temperatures in the summer.
- Chicago's traffic can be challenging, especially during rush hour. It's best to plan your departure to avoid peak congestion times.
Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:
- The Illinois Lincoln Highway is part of the larger Lincoln Highway, which was America's first coast-to-coast Road, stretching from New York to San Francisco.
- The route features numerous murals and gazebos that showcase the history of the highway and its significance to American Road travel.
- Along the highway, you'll find over two dozen interpretive gazebos and nearly 200 historical markers to delve deeper into the route's storied past.
- The Road Trip can be comfortably completed in one day, but taking a slower pace to explore the small towns and hidden gems along the way can enhance the experience.
A good choice for:
The Illinois Lincoln Highway Road Trip is more than just a drive through the Midwest; it's a chance to step back in time and discover the roots of American cross-country travel. With its blend of modern attractions and historical charm, this journey offers a rich tapestry of experiences for all types of travelers. Whether you're an architecture buff, a nature lover, or a history enthusiast, the Illinois Lincoln Highway has something to pique your curiosity and fill your travelogue with unforgettable memories.
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