Galena, Illinois
(Driving Time: 2 hours, Distance: 103 miles)
- I get my kicks exploring the quaint streets and 19th-century architecture of this historic mining town nestled in the scenic hills near the Mississippi River.
Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin
(Driving Time: 3 hours, Distance: 183 miles)
- Waterparks galore! This kitschy tourist town offers a splash-tastic getaway with massive indoor water parks like Noah's Ark to beat the heat.
Starved Rock State Park, Illinois
(Driving Time: 1.5 hours, Distance: 78 miles)
- Stunning sandstone canyons and waterfall-laden hiking trails make this Illinois state park a wonderland for outdoor adventurers like myself.
Indianapolis, Indiana
(Driving Time: 5 hours, Distance: 292 miles)
- From motor speedways to world-class museums and a hopping downtown scene, this quintessential Midwestern city has enough action to keep any road-tripper entertained.
Hannibal, Missouri
(Driving Time: 2.5 hours, Distance: 146 miles)
- I'm transported to the times of Mark Twain wandering the boyhood home and museums dedicated to this American literary icon in his beloved hometown on the Mississippi.
Milwaukee, Wisconsin
(Driving Time: 3 hours, Distance: 184 miles)
- With a brewery on nearly every corner, fantastic lake views, and a vibrant arts scene, Milwaukee is a surprisingly cool urban gem in America's Dairyland.