Chicago Explorer II - Self Drive Tour

The ultimate American road trip! Parallel to I-55, the legendary Route 66 began its run right here, cutting through the state before running all the way to the Pacific Coast – you will get a glimpse of it, as some of the old-time diners and other Americana still stand. From Chicago you head south, pass the old truck stop town of McLean, and roar through the coal-mining area of Illinois – along the Pontiac Trail, the original name for this bit of the road here – toward Springfield, which is the Illinois state capital. Overnight.

Day 2 : Springfield - Galesburg

Around Springfield you can discover some of America’s most significant historic sites, such as Lincoln Home National Historic Site, New Salem Historic Village and the Dana Thomas House by Frank Lloyd Wright. From Springfield you pick up Hwy 125 and ride the northwestern loop via Rushville and Macomb – where you change to SR 41 – up to Galesburg. Make sure to visit Seminary Street Historic District, one of the Midwest’s success stories in downtown restoration and revitalization. Overnight.

Day 3 : Galesburg - Chicago

From Galesburg you head northeast and take Hwy 34 up to junction 80, where you ride over to La Salle. Named for the French explorer who came down the Illinois River to this region in 1679. You might want to visit Starved Rock State Park while here. Cross over to Aurora, which used to be the site of a large Potawatomi Indian settlement in the 19^th century. Now it’s only a few miles back into Chicago, where you return your motorcycle.