Have you ever dreamed of a cross-country American road trip, freely exploring new lands in your own motorhome? Imagine driving down the legendary Route 66, passing through quaint towns and stunning natural landscapes. Illinois, the starting point of Route 66, is an ideal place to begin this memorable journey.
Illinois is not only the starting point of the legendary Route 66 but also a treasure trove of exciting things waiting for you to discover. From bustling cities to peaceful countryside, Illinois offers a unique blend of culture, history, and nature. With a comfortable motorhome, you can freely explore every corner of the state and enjoy an unforgettable vacation.
Exploring Route 66 by Motorhome: An Endless Journey
Route 66, also known as the “Mother Road,” is an American icon, symbolizing freedom, exploration, and the pioneering spirit. This legendary route begins in Chicago, Illinois, and stretches all the way to Los Angeles, California, passing through 8 states and carrying rich historical and cultural stories.
Motorhome driving on Route 66 in Illinois
Exploring Route 66 by motorhome offers a free and comfortable travel experience, enjoying the beauty along every road.
Traveling Route 66 by motorhome is a unique experience, allowing you to freely explore interesting destinations, stop wherever you like, and enjoy memorable moments. Illinois is an ideal starting point for this journey, with fascinating attractions along Route 66.
Must-See Stops in Illinois
- Chicago: Start your journey in the vibrant city of Chicago, where Route 66 begins. Explore skyscrapers, green parks, and famous museums. Don’t forget to enjoy the distinctive Chicago-style pizza.
- Pontiac: Visit the town of Pontiac to admire the art murals depicting the history of Route 66 and explore the Route 66 Hall of Fame & Museum.
- Atlanta: Stop in the town of Atlanta to take photos with the giant statue of Abe Lincoln on Route 66.
- Springfield: Explore Springfield, the capital of Illinois and the hometown of Abraham Lincoln. Visit the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum to learn about the life and career of this great president.
Preparing for Your Motorhome Trip
To have a smooth and memorable motorhome trip on Route 66, you need to prepare thoroughly.
- Plan Ahead: Research Route 66, attractions, campgrounds, and support services along the way.
- Vehicle Check: Ensure your motorhome is in good working order, serviced, and thoroughly inspected.
- Personal Items: Prepare enough clothing, personal items, food, water, and other necessary supplies.
- Insurance: Purchase motorhome and travel insurance to ensure safety throughout the trip.
Beyond Route 66: Discovering the Diverse Beauty of Illinois
Besides Route 66, Illinois has many other interesting things to explore. With a motorhome, you can easily travel to other attractions in the state and enjoy diverse experiences.
Magnificent Nature
- Starved Rock State Park: Explore sandstone canyons, stunning waterfalls, and hiking trails in Starved Rock State Park.
Scenic canyons and rock formations at Starved Rock State Park, Illinois
Starved Rock State Park is famous for its magnificent natural beauty, an ideal destination for those who love exploration.
- Shawnee National Forest: Admire vast forests, rolling hills, and clear blue lakes in Shawnee National Forest.
- Illinois Caverns: Explore spectacular caves with unique stalactites and stalagmites at Illinois Caverns.
Culture and History
- Galena: Visit the historic town of Galena, with well-preserved historical architecture and unique shops.
- Cahokia Mounds: Explore the Cahokia Mounds archaeological site, one of the largest Native American settlements in North America.
- Anderson Japanese Gardens: Relax in the peaceful Anderson Japanese Gardens with lakes, waterfalls, stone bridges, and traditional architectural structures.
Unique Cuisine
Illinois has a rich and diverse culinary scene, with many signature dishes you should try.
- Chicago-style Pizza: Enjoy thick-crust pizza with generous toppings and melted cheese.
- Italian Beef Sandwich: Taste the Italian beef sandwich with rich sauce.
- Horseshoe Sandwich: Discover the open-faced sandwich with French fries and special cheese sauce.
Useful Tips for Your Motorhome Trip
- Book in Advance: Book campsites in advance, especially during peak tourist season.
- Learn Traffic Laws: Understand the traffic laws of Illinois and the states you will be traveling through.
- Use Helpful Apps: Download useful travel apps to find locations, services, and necessary information.
- Connect with the Community: Join motorhome travel groups and forums to share experiences and learn from others.
Conclusion
Experiencing Illinois by motorhome is an exciting and memorable journey of discovery. From the legendary Route 66 to stunning natural landscapes and unique historical sites, Illinois offers a unique blend of culture, history, and nature. With a comfortable motorhome, you can freely explore every corner of the state and enjoy an unforgettable vacation. Plan your trip today and discover the endless beauty of Illinois!
Are you ready for a motorhome adventure?