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14 Awesome Stops on a Chicago to New Orleans Road Trip

Here’s everything you need to know about your Chicago to New Orleans road trip!

The drive from Chicago to New Orleans has some great places to stop off. Going from north to south will take you through some interesting places in the USA. I did the route a few years ago, when I was in America for three months.

You can’t beat a road trip in the USA – they’re a dream. Taking in the country’s never-ending landscape, long freeways, and roadside motels is a great way to experience the USA.

The Chicago to New Orleans road trip is a long one, at 925 miles if you were to go straight. But, going straight isn’t the point of a road trip now, is it? It’s in all the twists and turns that you find the interesting places and people, the experiences that really make your road trip unique to you.

Here are my top recommendations for where to stop off on the Chicago to New Orleans drive, enjoy!

Road Trip from Chicago to New Orleans

Map of the road trip from Chicago to New Orleans

This Chicago to New Orleans road trip will take you through Illinois, Tennessee, Mississippi and Louisiana.

Do you need a rental car for your road trip? Check out the award-winning comparison site Discover Cars for the BEST DEALS the world over. Book early for the best price!

1. Chicago – your road trip begins!

I presume you’ll have had a few days to enjoy in Chicago before the road trip to New Orleans. Seriously, Chicago is the best city in the USA, and I don’t say that lightly. I love it there. So much to see, do and eat – it’s awesome. Been twice and I hope to go again ASAP!

Wintry things to do in Chicago – the video

Here are just some of the things to do in Chicago , and make sure to check out my YouTube video whatever the season. Lots of ideas for Chicago activities in there too.

So yes, make sure to book in plenty of time to enjoy Chicago, before you embark on the Chicago to New Orleans drive. I’d definitely recommend doing a food tour in Chicago so that you can enjoy some of the local flavours, and have a tour guide to ask questions to, too. Just a warning to arrive very hungry for this!

2. 1950s Park Forest House Museum

Address: 227 Monee Road, Park Forest, Illinois 60466 USA

This is where you’ll find the hidden treasure of Illinois. The 1950s Park Forest House Museum is called a Museum because it houses a lot of antiques. In layman terms, it’s just a well-preserved house from the 1950s.

If you’re fond of the simpler times of those cupboards like television boxes, gramophones & analog telephone sets, this will take you to a trip down the memory lane.

This is one of the best road trips from Chicago .

3. Kankakee County Historical Museum

Address: 801 S 8th Ave, Kankakee, Illinois 60901 USA

Every US County has its history and cultural heritage, and Kankakee is no different. This well-maintained museum elaborately takes you through Kankakee’s history and its people. The building might look small from the outside, but the collection this museum has might baffle you once you get in. It’s got a beautiful park to go for a walk and also houses an old one-room school building.

If you want unique attractions on your Chicago to New Orleans Road Trip then this is a great choice.

4. Krannert Art Museum

Address: 500 E Peabody Dr, Champaign, Illinois 61820 USA

Krannert Art Museum, named after its benefactors, is the second-largest fine arts museum in Illinois. It has a wide range of artwork on display ranging from ancient Egypt to modern-day photography. The museum gets close to 132000 visitors every year and is a must-see spot for anyone on an art trail.

5. Springfield

I’ve written about the best things to do in Springfield , as I spent a few days there last year. It’s a cool little city – the main attraction is City Hall.

Capitol Building in Springfield Illinois

You can drive some of the genuine Route 66 here – a must for all American road trip lovers, surely? This is a unique stop on the road trip from Chicago to New Orleans I think you’ll really enjoy. Check out the best hotels in Springfield to plan your trip.

6. Heartland Classics

Address: 1901 W Evergreen Ave, Effingham, Illinois 62401 USA

Spoiler Alert! This one might seem like a museum, but it isn’t.

It’s a 30000 sq ft showroom that houses more than 200 vintage cars for sale & display. If you’re a car enthusiast who likes collecting trivia about vintage cars, you’ll love it. Even if you’re not looking to buy, this is a place worth visiting on your Chicago to New Orleans drive.

7. Shawnee National Forest

Take some time out from your Chicago to New Orleans road trip to explore nature at its finest in the Shawnee National Forest. Here you can see bears and bald eagles, you’re allowed to wild camp, and there are some incredible views to enjoy from up on the rocks.

8. Visit Nashville!

This one is a little off-route, and it’s not a pitstop. If you’re stopping at Nashville, you might as well spend a couple of days.

It will add three hours to the journey – but totally worth it.

If it’s your first time, you have to explore the city’s rich history and culture. As someone who’s a country music enthusiast, I cannot get enough of this city. So many must-see places. Ryman Auditorium , the mother church of Country Music. Grand Ole Opry House , which has been hosting its namesake event since 1974.

The Country Music Hall Of Fame & Museum , that’s home to 200,000 sound recordings, including an estimated 98% of all pre-World War II country recordings released commercially.

Then there’s the Johnny Cash Museum. It’s home to various artefacts that chronicle the legend’s life like Stage Costumes, including his infamous prison jumpsuit costume, vintage guitar amps, highwaymen memorabilia, gold and platinum records, and much more. The final room here is pure emotion. They had him up on the big screens singing Nine Inch Nails’ Hurt, and to see him doing that, as an old man, after everything you’ve learned before is just emotional!

Ended up buying a tshirt here – loved the whole experience. And from dabbling in his music, a visit here has set me on the path to be a lifelong fan.

If you’re planning on doing a few different Nashville attractions, then I’d recommend you look into buying the Nashville City Pass – it can save you a lot of money and time if you use it right.

– Me posing in Chicago in my Cash tshirt. I road tripped the other way!

At night you can visit broadway and visit one honky-tonk bar after another and listen to some upcoming country musicians. Some of my recommendations are:

– Nashville Underground: This one is not your typical local bar. It has got four floors with live music and food. Therefore, plenty of choices available at one single place.

– Jack’s Bar-B-Que: It’s known for its signature smoked Tennessee pork shoulder sandwiches. Jack’s Bar-B-Que Texas Sweet Hot Sauce was named “The Best Sauce on the Planet” by American Royal in 2014.

READ MORE: Best Spots on the Nashville to Memphis Road Trip

9. Chattanooga

I had a great time in Chattanooga on my Chicago to New Orleans road trip. It was a random choice, and somewhere I’d never even heard of, but all the signs were there, telling me to go, so I did.

Great stops on the Chicago to New Orleans road trip

I explored the beautiful Ruby Falls – America’s deepest commercial cave and largest underground waterfall. And then went to Rock City on Lookout Mountain to see the incredible natural rock formations and views over Chattanooga. There are some pretty gardens up here, with over 400 native plant species. And you can also stand at a marked point where you can look out on the panoramic views over 7 different states. Pretty impressive!

– Follow this Chicago to New Orleans road trip itinerary and you’ll see some impressive views!

I also went up the Incline Railway – less impressive, but fun all the same!

I was randomly in Chattanooga for the celebration of the famous Chattanooga Choo Choo song by Glenn Miller, and even got a train whistle to prove it.

Do you know the Chattanooga Choo Choo?

9. Blue Sky Vineyard

Address: 3150 S Rocky Comfort Rd, Makanda, Illinois 62958 USA

Even if you’re not a wine enthusiast, you should visit this place for its scenic beauty and Tuscan inspired architecture. It’s a family-owned Vineyard that produces 17 different kinds of Illinois wines and 5 Americans wines ranging from dry to sweet.

89 Road Trip Quotes to Inspire Your Next Adventure

10. Johnny Cash’s Boyhood Home

Address: 4791 W County Road 924, Dyess, Arkansas 72330 USA

Who doesn’t want to see the house where Man In Black grew up? It’s the same house where the 2006 classic ‘Walk The Line’ starring Joaquin Phoenix & Reese Witherspoon shooting happened. Not much to see here, but visit this one for the bragging rights. After all, you can say you’ve been to Johnny Cash’s house. It will also be the perfect prelude for your next stop.

11. Memphis

Head to Beale Street for the main attractions. I’d also recommend visiting the National Civil Rights Museum to learn more about Martin Luther King – how he got started and the impact he made on the world.

Book early to get into Sun Studio – known as the ‘Birthplace of Rock n Roll’, here you can see a real life studio and learn more about the careers of Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis. You can book a Memphis: Big Mojo Sun Studio + Music History 3-Hour Bus Tour if you want to really delve deep into the music history here. You’ll enjoy a guided tour of world-famous Sun Studio as well as a crash-course in Memphis music history with a professional musician as your guide. Sing along as you visit music-related landmarks and all the places that make Memphis so special.

I loved the Sun Studio and would definitely have done this tour as I was travelling solo and I think it’d be a great place to experience in a group.

Just watch out here. I actually got picked up by a cop for walking in a sketchy area, totally oblivious to the danger I was putting myself in. Still loved my weekend in Memphis though.

12. Graceland

Address: 3734 Elvis Presley Blvd, Memphis, Tennessee 38116 USA

The home of the king! What could be better than visiting Elvis Presley’s fabled mansion right after visiting Johnny Cash’s boyhood home? Chicago to New Orleans is the only road trip that gives you the chance to revisit the lives of two icons.

Graceland is the first property owned by a rock icon to be declared a National Historic Landmark. It is also the most visited house in the USA after the White House, with over 650000 visitors every year.

Spanned across 13.8 acres, the elaborate tour of the property will take you through the house, the famous jungle room, you’ll get to see Presley’s Gold Record for Jailhouse Rock, and tour ends with the spine-chilling visit to his grave in the meditation garden.

I loved it here. Spent the day there and couldn’t stop just imaginging him walking there – and what an incredible life he led. If those walls could talk!

Graceland is an absolute highlight of the Chicago to New Orleans road trip. Don’t miss it!

13. Holmes County State Park

Address: State Park Road, Durant, Mississippi 39063 USA.

This state park built around two lakes covering a land span of 88 acres has around 28 campsites fro travelers to bunk. The lakes are popular spots for fishing. The architecture is rustic and aligns well with the natural landscape of the property. It’s also home to a wide variety of wildlife. This will make for a great stop on your Chicago to New Orleans road trip, before you hit the bright lights of NOLA.

14. Oak Alley Plantation

I visited the Oak Alley Plantation for the night and got a fascinating insight into the dark history there. It was home to the rich and wealthy, and slaves.

15. New Orleans

You’ve made it! You’ve completed somewhere around 1300 miles on the scenic drive from Chicago to New Orleans – congratulations.

Check out all the cheap things to do in New Orleans here…

I loved New Orleans – so much so I ended up staying there for two weeks. I went to the New Orleans Jazz Festival , to Hogs for the Cause Festival and the French Quarter Festival too. I ate as much as I could of the many New Orleans specialities there are, and filled my time with the amazing wealth of cheap things to do in NOLA .

You can book good value, reliable car hire with Rental Cars – use this link for the best deals.

FAQs about Chicago to New Orleans Road Trip

1. what does chicago to new orleans road trip look like.

Road trip from Chicago leading to New Orleans is hinted with historical traces, sights of wildlife, and nature landscapes that will surely give you a nostalgic feels.

2. What is the distance between Chicago to New Orleans?

Chicago to New Orleans is separated by a driving distance of approximately 925 miles or 1489 km.

3. How long is the drive time from Chicago to New Orleans?

The drive on a road trip from Chicago to New Orleans would take about 13 and a half hours non-stop.

4. Which is the most visited stop from Chicago to New orleans road trip?

Among the many stops between Chicago to New Orleans road trips, the most visited is Jackson Square. It’s where the prominent statue of General Andrew Jackson is erected at the intersection of the French Quarter and the river bank.

5. What are things to do in Chicago before going to New Orleans?

Before you embark on your journey going to New Orleans, make sure you have fun in Chicago first. The activities you must try are seeing art at the Art Institute of Chicago, exploring Grant Park, eating Chicago-style pizza, witnessing theater shows at Goodman Theatre, and taking a river cruise to see the Chicago skyline.

6. What are things to do in New Orleans?

The things you could do once you arrive in New Orleans are stroll the Bourbon Street or French Quarter, indulge yourself in music and dancing just from the streets, try the city’s beer, and explore the zoos.

7. Is there a scenic route from Chicago to New Orleans?

When you take a road trip from Chicago to New Orleans, you are expected to pass a total of six states. And if you take the Great River Road, you will be rewarding yourself with different views of the landscape. One of which is the Mississippi River, The Gateway Arch, the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, and Saint Louis Zoo. Given this, it is without the best scenic route between the two places.

Keen to carry on the American road trip dream?

How about driving from New Orleans to Austin ?

Apartments in New Orleans

Want to stay somewhere comfy and chill? How about booking an apartment in New Orleans – lots of cool options to choose from on that link. This way you get to relax in your own space, have space to walk around, and get to stay in a cool NOLA home too. Winner!

Looking for budget accommodation in New Orleans? Check out my post on the top 5 hostels in New Orleans !

More on road trips in the USA

How to Save Money on a Road Trip in the USA

12 Awesome Stops on a San Francisco to LA Road Trip

Guide to Your Florida Road Trip

11 Unique Stops on a Chicago to Atlanta Road Trip

PIN THIS Chicago to New Orleans drive FOR LATER

7 Ways to Make the Most of Your Road Trip Budget
Planning a Road Trip in the USA: 13 Best Routes!
What to Expect from a Bayou Rum Distillery Tour…
19 Awesome Road Trips from Chicago (with Timings)
25+ Top Tips for a Solo Road Trip You NEED To Know
11 Unique Stops on the Drive from Chicago to Atlanta

Hi, I'm Vicky! I wrote this. You can find me on all the social media @VickyFlipFlop. I love a bit of adventure, will try anything once, and have a strong passion for the local food and drink, whatever it may be. I'm here to help inspire you to travel to places a little out of your comfort zone, or at least to explore the usual destinations in a different way. Stay, have a look around, and if you have any questions – let me know below.

Whats the best season/month to do the roadtrip from chicago to new Orleans?

Hi Vicky, Great blog and info about this trip. Could you tell me how many days it took you? greating, Ite (Netherlands)

12 Essential Stops on Chicago to New Orleans road trip

Planning Chicago to New Orleans road trip and looking for best places to stop along the way?

This road trip from Windy City to the Deep South is one of our favorites.

Love music? Then you should definitely do this iconic road trip!

Listen to live music in Chicago and St. Louis and explore the blues music on Beale Street in Memphis….

….drive the Blues Highway and visit honky tonk bars on Music Row in Nashville…

….off course, and listen to New Orleans jazz on Frenchmen Street!

Here are some of the best stops on the Chicago New Orleans road trip.

Things to do in Chicago

Located on the shores of Lake Michigan, Chicago is a beautiful city.

If you are new to Chi-town, take some time to explore Chicago’s iconic attractions .

Visit Millenium Park, home to the popular Bean sculpture, and the Art Institute of Chicago.

Take a walk on Navy Pier or enjoy a ride on the Ferris wheel.

For some fun shopping head to the Magnificent Mile.

Eat some deep-dish pizza and then drive south for an iconic road trip.

Chicago to New Orleans via I-55

The road trip along I-55 from Chicago to New Orleans is a great way to see some of the Midwest and the South.

Springfield

The first stop on the road trip is Springfield, IL.

This city is home to the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, as well as several other historical sites.

If you are a fan of the 16th president, make sure to visit this museum.

Just across the Mississippi River from Illinois, St. Louis is an easy stop on your road trip

Visit the iconic Gateway Arch National Park or take a ride to the top for some amazing views.

If you are a baseball fan, catch a Cardinals game at Busch Stadium.

Visit the Museum of Westward Expansion or walk through the Butterfly House at the Missouri Botanical Gardens.

Take the kids to see the Saint Louis Zoo which is home to more than 700 species of animals.

The home of the blues, Memphis is a must-stop on any road trip through the South.

Visit Beale Street and explore the history of blues music.

Tour the iconic Sun Studio and the famous Blues Hall of Fame.

Be sure to book your Sun Studios tour in advance as they get full early on.

Check out Graceland, the home of Elvis Presley.

Visit the National Civil Rights Museum, the site of Martin Luther King, Jr’s assassination.

Learn about music history as it was created at the Stax Museum of American Soul Music.

If you are in town on a Saturday, head to the Memphis Farmers Market for local produce and goods.

From Memphis, drive south to Jackson, MS.

This city is the capital of Mississippi and home to several interesting attractions.

Visit the Governor’s Mansion, the state capitol building, and the Mississippi Museum of Natural Science.

Take a walk down Capitol Street and enjoy the unique architecture of this historic city.

From Jackson, take the historic Natchez Trace Parkway west to Natchez.

This stretch will take you deep through the Mississippi Delta.

This city is home to several antebellum mansions, as well as the Natchez National Historical Park.

Visit Longwood, one of the largest octagonal houses in the country.

Explore Stanton Hall, an opulent Greek Revival mansion.

For a look at Natchez’s African American history, visit the Forks of the Road slave market site.

New Orleans

The final stop on this road trip is New Orleans.

This city is known for its jazz music and Cajun food.

Explore the French Quarter and enjoy the unique architecture of this historic district.

Take a walk down Bourbon Street and listen to some live jazz music.

Visit Jackson Square and the St. Louis Cathedral.

Sample some of the local cuisines at one of the many restaurants in the city.

Visit the City Park or take a ride on the streetcar.

End your trip by listening to some New Orleans jazz on Frenchmen Street!

Chicago to New Orleans via I-65 & I-20

Another option for your road trip from Chicago to New Orleans is to take I-65 south through Kentucky and then I-20 east through Mississippi.

This route will take you through some of the scenic countrysides of the Midwest and the South.

Indianapolis

The first stop on this road trip is Indianapolis, IN.

This city is the capital of Indiana and home to several interesting attractions.

Visit the State Capitol building and the Soldiers and Sailors Monument.

Explore the Indianapolis Museum of Art or take a walk through White River State Park.

If you are a racing fan, catch a race at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

The next stop on this road trip is Louisville, KY.

This city is home to the Kentucky Derby, as well as several other interesting attractions.

Visit Churchill Downs and take a tour of the historic racetrack.

Explore the Frazier History Museum or walk through the Waterfront Park.

For a taste of local culture, head to the Louisville Slugger Museum.

The next stop on this road trip is Nashville, TN.

This city is known as the country music capital of the world.

Music City is also the largest city in Tennessee and is great to visit for couples .

Visit the Country Music Hall of Fame and learn about the history of country music.

Take a walk down Music Row and see where some of the biggest stars in music got their start.

If you are a fan of country music, be sure to catch a show at the Grand Ole Opry.

Tour the Johnny Cash Museum and eat some Nashville hot chicken.

Things to do in New Orleans

At the end of your trip lies New Orleans, a soulful city that makes visitors fall in love with its culture and history.

Take a jazz cruise on the Mississippi River.

Explore the architecture and eclectic shops in the French Quarter, the city’s most popular attraction.

Tour the historic mansions in Garden District.

Eat beignets at Café Du Monde and try the turtle soup at Commander’s Palace.

Take a day trip to see the historic River Road plantations including Oak Alley Plantation and Laura Plantation.

The Chicago to New Orleans drive is full of amazing attractions and lively cities!

There are so many amazing things to see and do on the Chicago to New Orleans drive, it’s hard to choose a favorite.

What is your favorite stop on this road trip?

39 Best Stops Between Chicago and New Orleans

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How long is the drive from Chicago to New Orleans?

The direct drive from Chicago to New Orleans is 926 mi (1,490 km) , and should have a drive time of 14 hrs 28 mins in normal traffic.

If you’re going on a road trip from Chicago to New Orleans, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way — with Memphis , Saint Louis , Tunica , Springfield , Natchez , Vicksburg , Baton Rouge , Paducah , and Jackson , as well as top places to visit like Harrah's Joliet and Fair Oaks Farms, or the ever-popular Chicago Premium Outlets.

Top cities between Chicago and New Orleans

Springfield.

Track your travel spending and split costs with friends

Plan your trip. Keep your budget organized. Split the cost between tripmates. Wanderlog does it all.

Baton Rouge

Best stops along chicago to new orleans drive, chicago premium outlets.

Harrah's Joliet

Fair oaks farms, starved rock state park, indiana beach boardwalk resort, turkey run state park, lincoln monument association.

Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum

Lincoln home national historic site.

City Museum

The Gateway Arch

Busch Stadium

Saint louis zoo, the national quilt museum, paducah wall to wall.

Don’t forget to pack anything

Stay organized with a to-do list, packing list, shopping list, any kind of list.

Discovery Park of America

Casey jones home & railroad museum, national civil rights museum.

Horseshoe Tunica

Delta blues museum, uss cairo gunboat and museum, vicksburg national military park.

All travel reservations in 1 place

Never dig through your emails again — access all your flights, lodging, and any reservations in 1 place.

Rosedown Plantation State Historic Site

Tiger stadium, houmas house estate and gardens, nottoway resort, top searches in new orleans, other popular road trips from chicago, explore nearby places.

New Orleans
Bridge City
River Ridge
Belle Chasse
Braithwaite
Crown Point
Saint Bernard
Des Allemands

All related maps of New Orleans

Map of New Orleans
Map of Gretna
Map of Harvey
Map of Marrero
Map of Terrytown
Map of Arabi
Map of Metairie
Map of Westwego
Map of Bridge City
Map of Chalmette
Map of Elmwood
Map of Harahan
Map of Avondale
Map of River Ridge
Map of Belle Chasse
Map of Braithwaite
Map of Kenner
Map of Crown Point
Map of Saint Bernard
Map of Barataria
Map of Luling
Map of Jefferson
Map of Lafitte
Map of Destrehan
Map of Hahnville
Map of Norco
Map of Des Allemands
Map of LaPlace
Map of Lacombe
Map of Slidell
Map of Mandeville

New Orleans throughout the year

New Orleans in January
New Orleans in February
New Orleans in March
New Orleans in April
New Orleans in May
New Orleans in June
New Orleans in July
New Orleans in August
New Orleans in September
New Orleans in October
New Orleans in November
New Orleans in December

Looking for day-by-day itineraries in New Orleans?

Get inspired for your trip to New Orleans with our curated itineraries that are jam-packed with popular attractions everyday! Check them out here:

1-Day New Orleans Itinerary
2-Day New Orleans Itinerary
3-Day New Orleans Itinerary
4-Day New Orleans Itinerary
5-Day New Orleans Itinerary

Frequently Asked Questions

Can i drive from chicago to new orleans.

Yes! You can drive from Chicago to New Orleans.

How far is New Orleans from Chicago by car?

The drive from Chicago to New Orleans is 926 miles (1,490 km).

How long does it take to drive from Chicago to New Orleans?

Driving from Chicago to New Orleans should take you 14 hrs 28 mins in normal traffic.

How much would gas cost from Chicago to New Orleans?

Gas from Chicago to New Orleans would cost around $81 to $189 , depending on your vehicle's fuel efficiency.

Where should I stop on the way from Chicago to New Orleans?

You could check out Harrah's Joliet and Fair Oaks Farms, or the always popular Chicago Premium Outlets!

What are the best cities to visit between Chicago and New Orleans?

People love visiting Memphis, Saint Louis, and Tunica, among others.

What's the weather like in Chicago?

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

Weather in Chicago in January
Weather in Chicago in February
Weather in Chicago in March
Weather in Chicago in April
Weather in Chicago in May
Weather in Chicago in June
Weather in Chicago in July
Weather in Chicago in August
Weather in Chicago in September
Weather in Chicago in October
Weather in Chicago in November
Weather in Chicago in December

What are some other road trips from Chicago?

There are plenty! Below you'll find links to all the road trips we've assembled for Chicago.

Chicago to New York City drive
Chicago to Washington DC drive
Chicago to Orlando drive
Chicago to Toronto drive
Chicago to Las Vegas drive
Chicago to Nashville drive
Chicago to Milwaukee drive
Chicago to Saint Louis drive
Chicago to New Orleans drive
Chicago to Niagara Falls drive
Chicago to Boston drive
Chicago to Louisville drive
Chicago to Indianapolis drive
Chicago to Branson drive
Chicago to Cleveland drive
Chicago to Gatlinburg drive
Chicago to Montreal drive
Chicago to Memphis drive
Chicago to Atlanta drive
Chicago to Philadelphia drive
Chicago to Cincinnati drive
Chicago to Pittsburgh drive
Chicago to Baltimore drive
Chicago to Wisconsin Dells drive
Chicago to Detroit drive
Chicago to Savannah drive
Chicago to San Antonio drive
Chicago to Madison drive
Chicago to Charleston drive
Chicago to St. Augustine drive

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Aug 5, 2023

The Ultimate Road Trip on Interstate 55: Drive Chicago to New Orleans

Interstate 55, commonly known as I-55, is a major highway that stretches from the vibrant city of New Orleans, Louisiana on the Gulf of Mexico, to the bustling metropolis of Chicago, Illinois on Lake Michigan. Spanning over 960 miles, this iconic route passes through several states, each offering its unique blend of history, culture, and attractions.

One of my favorite things about road trips is seeing how the country is connected by highways that crisscross the nation. As you get into a large city, often you will come across an interchange of another major highway.

Traveling anytime soon on I-10? Here's my article on Things to Do on an I-10 Roadtrip

We drive from Dallas to Chicago often because that is where my sister and her family lives and we always drive into Chicago on I-55 after connecting onto it in St. Louis.

Alas, we are not headed to Chicago today, but just crossing from Dallas to Smoky Mountain National Park via I-55 in Memphis before connecting onto I-40 to Nashville.

Ah, Memphis. Easily one of my favorite cities. I-55, in fact, has a lot of great cities along its path and is a great road trip. Let me explain…

I-55 history, map of interstate (i-55), states traveled through on i-55, major cities along i-55, major attractions / things to do along i-55, total mileage from new orleans to chicago on i-55, interesting facts about i-55.

Interstate 55 holds a significant place in America's transportation history. Its origins can be traced back to the Federal-Aid Highway Act of 1956, which aimed to develop a comprehensive network of interstate highways across the nation. Construction on I-55 began in the late 1950s and continued through the 1970s, connecting various regions and boosting economic growth. Today, I-55 stands as a testament to the nation's commitment to modernizing its transportation infrastructure.

But why do I love it? Because it starts and ends in 2 of my favorite cities (New Orleans and Chicago) and has some cool cities in between, like Memphis, Jackson, and St. Louis!

Map of Interstate 55 (I-55)

States traveled through on i-55: 5.

I-55 takes travelers through six states:

Mississippi

Major Cities along I-55:

LaPlace, Louisiana

New Orleans (Ok, so it's technically 29 miles off of it)

Jackson, Mississippi

Springfield, illinois.

Bloomington, Illinois

La Place and New Orleans, Louisiana

If you've read any of my articles before, I have made it well-known that I love New Orleans. Why? There are many reasons, such as the amazing people, excellent food, intriguing history, celebrations, music, and paranormal activity.

There so many things to do, but some of my favorite things are to:

Eat chargrilled oysters at Felix's and generally eat my way through the city

Take a riverboat ride on the Mississippi River

Visit the World War II Museum (it's amazing - make sure to spend at least half a day there

Watch a show at Preservation Hall

Trying to see a lot in one visit? Use my Go City tool to decide if it will save you money to buy a Go City Pass!

Like New Orleans, Memphis is one of my favorite cities to visit. I love Memphis barbecue and enjoy the music and general vibe of the city. Make sure to visit Beale Street and don't leave without visiting Stax or Sun Studios!

Memphis Pyramid

Beale Street

Graceland Memphis

The Peabody

Civil Rights Museum

Sun Studios

Stax Studios

Mississippi Civil Rights Museum

Mississippi State Capitol

Mississippi Museum of Natural Science Jackson, MS

Mississippi Blues Trail Sites

Mississippi Writer's Trail Sites

Mississippi Civil Rights Trail

Visiting State Capitols is one of many things that I call Super Bucket List items . Learn more and add some to your bucket list. Here's how I suggest you create and manage your bucket list .

Gateway Arch & Museum St Louis, MO

City Museum St Louis, MO

Budweiser Brewery St Louis, MO

Lincoln Home National Historic Site Springfield

My sister and her family live in Chicago so we go at least twice a year, if not more. I also spent many years working in Chicago. It is definitely one of my favorite cities in the United States. There's so many things to do, but if you had limited time, do the following:

Go to the top of Willis Tower or the John Hancock (my rec: John Hancock because there are less people, a great view and its on the Magnificent Mile!)

Millenium Park

The Art Institute of Chicago Chicago, IL

Walk and shop the Magnificent Mile Chicago, IL

Take the Architectural Tour

Want more ideas? Here is my list of 35 Epic Things to do in Chicago

Total Mileage from New Orleans to Chicago on I-55:

It crosses the Mississippi River twice (in St. Louis and in Memphis)

It connects the jazz of New Orleans to the blues of Chicago

I-55 in New Orleans partly consists of the Manchac Swamp Bridge, a nearly 23-mile causeway, one of the largest viaducts in the world.

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Chicago to New Orleans Flights

Whether you’re looking for a grand adventure or just want to get away for a last-minute break, flights from Chicago to New Orleans offer the perfect respite. Not only does exploring New Orleans provide the chance to make some magical memories, dip into delectable dishes, and tour the local landmarks, but the cheap airfare means you won’t bust your budget. So no matter whether your ideal itinerary involves flying one way, non-stop, or round trip, you’re bound to find flights that match your schedule on Expedia, and at prices that won’t shock your wallet.

Bagging a cheap flight from Chicago to New Orleans may mean more dollars to spend on for one-of-a-kind souvenirs when you arrive, but it doesn’t mean you have to skimp on your travel experience, as Expedia offers a sizzling selection of cheap airlines that’ll put you in your happy place on their planes, whether that’s getting lost in a hair-raising airport thriller, dreaming on the passing landscape over a glass of bubbly, or jotting down your vacation bucket list at 38,000 feet. There’s also bound to be plenty of opportunities to snap a few photos of the high life that will make your friends green with envy. After all, enjoying the journey is part of the fun.

With so many affordable flights and so many wonderful adventures awaiting you, there’s no reason to put off booking a fantastic flight from ORD to MSY today. So don’t leave it to the last minute to make your dream trip a reality: pack your bags with your go-to travel accessories, put together your list of must-see attractions and can’t-miss activities, and get ready to broaden your horizons – with Expedia, the wonders of New Orleans are only a plane trip away. Book your travel arrangements with us today!

If you would like to book flights to New Orleans more flexibly many prefer to purchase one-way tickets with options to take different airlines. A one way ticket to New Orleans is $33 now!

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Road Trip from New Orleans to Chicago

A road trip from New Orleans to Chicago is an unforgettable travel experience, offering a sumptuous selection of cultural and scenic places to visit along the way. This adventure from the south to the north of the US is guaranteed to leave you with lasting memories even before you reach your final destination.

This 1,000-mile road trip from New Orleans to Chicago takes 15 hours to drive. Highlights en route include the Mississippi, Talladega National Forest, De Soto National Forest, and the cities of Memphis, Jackson, St Louis or Nashville, and Indianapolis.

Read on to find out how to make the most of this fantastic drive, including our preferred route options, the best places to stay to break things up, and the best time of year to make the trip from New Orleans to Chicago.

How far is Chicago from New Orleans and how long will the road trip take?

Driving to Chicago from New Orleans takes around 15 hours and covers approximately 1,000 miles. Both the Nashville and Memphis routes are roughly the same, with the Memphis route being about 20 miles shorter, and just minutes quicker.

The road trip to Chicago takes a full day of driving as a straight route, so in order to appreciate the gorgeous landscapes, you should extend your vacation by at least two to three days to make the road trip truly unforgettable.

Best road trip route from New Orleans to Chicago

There are two truly great routes to choose from for a road trip from New Orleans to Chicago, taking you through some of the most memorable landscapes, sights, and attractions in the south.

Both routes take you through some of the more urbanized parts of the American south, such as Nashville, Louisville, and Indianapolis, or Jackson, Memphis, and St Louis. Depending on the season, like in any city, there is the possibility of traffic congestion.

The Nashville route includes Talladega and De Soto National Forests, Spring Mill, Brown County and Turkey Run State Parks as well as a great number of attractions suitable for younger generations.

The Memphis route has comparable attractions with lakes, parks and forests as well as the deeply historical and important cities like Jackson and Memphis.

How to drive from New Orleans to Chicago

The map above shows our suggestions for the best road trip routes between New Orleans and Chicago. Keep reading for detailed descriptions of both routes, where to stay on either, and the best things to do on the way.

The Nashville Route

On your way out of New Orleans, get on Interstate 10 (I-10) and drive north over the Twin Span Bridge and Lake Pontchartrain. You then have a couple of options for stops and detours to Fontainebleau State Park, INFINITY Science Center to the east, and Gulf Islands Waterpark.

Back on the main route, head towards De Soto National Forest where you can either make a stop or continue further along to Hattiesburg.

Here, you could visit the zoo before continuing on to Meridian, and either driving on to Birmingham and enjoying some of the city's attractions. or detour to Talladega National Forest for a stop in nature.

Your next stop will be Nashville where you could rest for the night and enjoy an exciting morning at some famous local attractions. Once ready to leave, drive north towards Mammoth Cave National Park where you can detour.

After that, stick to the interstate until you reach Louisville where you can visit the zoo, the science center, and more local attractions. Before you drive off towards Indianapolis, on the way there, you should definitely detour to Hosier National Forest to the west.

Take some time to appreciate the amazing city of Indianapolis and some of the gorgeous sites around town, before you cover the last few hundred miles into your final destination – Chicago.

The Memphis Route

Coming out of New Orleans on I-10 West, you skirt Lake Pontchartrain and drive on the Bonnet Carré Spillway Bridge. Head through Joyce Wildlife Management Area, through Ponchatoula and on to Summit, where you can detour to Natchez, and drive parts of the historic Natchez Trace Parkway .

Continuing on I-55 north, you hit Jackson where you can decide if you wish to stop over. Otherwise carrying on the interstate, you can take a short detour to the beautiful Grenada Lake.

The route then continues again on the interstate to the iconic city of Memphis. From here, you will drive all the way north to St Louis and on to Chicago.

Best places to stop between New Orleans and Chicago

Driving from New Orleans to Chicago cuts a path south to north of the US and covers a significant stretch. Given this, it's recommended to make several stops to find comfortable accommodation for a regenerating overnight stay.

Read on for a look at some of the best hotels:

Take a break in Birmingham

At just over 5 hours from New Orleans, Birmingham is an obvious candidate for your first stop en route to Chicago if you're taking the Nashville Route.

A visit to the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute is reason enough to make this city a stop on your itinerary. This monumental museum charts the journey of civil rights advocates throughout the 1950s and 60s, and their profound impact on American and Global culture, society and politics.

If you're planning a visit, the Elyton Hotel, Autograph Collection is an outstanding choice for your overnight stay . Not only is this hotel situated close to the Civil Rights Museum (as well as the Museum of Arts and Vulcan Museum), it is unsurpassed in the city in terms of style and luxury.

This old-world, historical building, located in the center of the entertainment and financial district, has been painstakingly restored. Its rooms and suites have a bright and open feel, with tall ceilings and massive view-enhancing windows - perfect to wake up to before resuming your journey to Chicago.

Feed the soul in Jackson

Heading out on the Memphis Route, you'd be wise to choose Jackson, Mississippi as your first stopover point. "The City of Soul" is famed for its excellent cuisine, a wealth of museums, and a deep sense of history.

And at just under 3 hours' drive from New Orleans, this choice sets you up for an easy first day on the road. If you decide to make Jackson your base for the night, Old Capitol Inn is an ideal hotel for your stay, situated downtown . This designer boutique hotel is intimate and welcoming, with quirky rooms themed around interesting events, places, and people of Mississippi.

The hotel is in ideal proximity to a plethora of historical attractions, ideal to give the traveler an intimate glimpse of US history with a visit to Medgar Evers Home; a pioneer and spearhead for civil rights.

Then there's the Museum of Civil Rights itself. Additionally, there's the Mississippi Museum of Natural Science, and for some urban downtime, LeFleur's Bluff State Park is close by.

Admire the beauty of Nashville

If taking our suggested Nashville Route you must, of course, stay in the world-famous home of country music. At 8 hours' drive from New Orleans, you could technically make this your first (or only) overnight stop, if you're in a hurry.

In any case, with its legendary nightlife - and much more culture besides - we suggest you plan this city into your road trip itinerary.

The Hyatt Centric Downtown Nashville is a great base for a short stay, with its excellent city views, chic design and a handy on-site coffee house with a sunny terrace to enjoy your beverage on.

If you decide to spend your time in downtown Nashville, the excellent location gives easy access to highlights of the city like the Johnny Cash Museum, Tootsies Orchid Lounge, and Bridgestone Arena.

And after a busy day exploring all that Nashville has to offer, don't forget the hotel's fabulous rooftop pool. Take the opportunity to cool off and relax before heading out for the night!

Submerge yourself in Memphis

You can't go on the Memphis route without stopping in Memphis! There is so much to see and do in this city, known the world over as "Home of the Blues and Birthplace of Rock 'n' Roll".

Spend quality time on one of Memphis' riverboat cruises, stroll through a Historic Memphis Guided Walk, or submerse yourself in the music scene with a visit to the world-famous Memphis Music Hall of Fame. Or simply hang out on Beale Street - one of the most iconic streets in America, with its plethora of buzzing bars and live music venues.

The lovely River Inn of Harbor Town is our recommendation for your overnight stay, with typical southern hospitality and a European aesthetic, it is close to the Mississippi River and most rooms look over the river itself.

You wouldn't want to visit Memphis and not visit the King of Rock n' Roll's house, Elvis needs no introduction, and his converted home at Graceland is now a museum to the south of the city.

Things to see on a road trip from New Orleans to Chicago

The road trip from New Orleans to Chicago is best enjoyed over the span of at least two to three days, if not a whole week.

With all the excitement and exhilaration crammed into this trip, you should definitely spend at least a couple of days sampling some of the great places listed below:

Fontainebleau State Park – Here, as a nature lover, you can escape the fast city life, surrounded by lakes on all sides, amidst shrubbery and diverse wildlife. Fontainebleau State Park also offers activities such as biking, boating, and paddling.
INFINITY Science Center – Infinity Science Center is a museum dedicated to inspiring like-minded, young, and adventurous future scientists. Check out their newest and largest attraction – the mighty Saturn V, a first-stage booster, and its five giant engines.
Gulf Islands Waterpark – Spend a fun and thrilling afternoon at Gulf Islands Waterpark and go for a ride on some of the exciting water attractions accessible to both adults and children.
De Soto National Forest – Enjoy year-round recreational opportunities such as biking, canoeing, horseback riding, and for the fans of adrenalin-inducing experiences – ATV rides.
Hattiesburg Zoo – Head over to where grownups and kids alike can fulfil their unrealized dream of hugging a sloth! Here, you can also admire a multitude of exotic animals such as jaguars, prairie dogs, and many more reptilian species.
Talladega National Forest – Talladega National Forest covers around 400,000 acres through which you can either enjoy a quick scenic ride or better yet camp for a while and relish some peace and quiet.
Old Stone Fort State Archaeological Park – Admire the graceful waterfalls and dramatic scenery of the Old Stone Fort State Archaeological State Park, home to an important part of Native American history, and now hosts events & activities for visitors.
Nashville – Packed with a long list of museums, historical landmarks, and exciting attractions, Nashville is an amazing place to spend the better part of an afternoon.
Mammoth Cave National Park – Visit the longest cave system in the world and join the seemingly endless exploration of this beautiful naturalistic monument.
Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historical Park – Honor the humble beginnings of the 16th president of the United States – Abraham Lincoln, by visiting his birthplace and learning about what prepared him to lead the nation through the Civil War.
Dinosaur World – Dig for fossils and pan for minerals, just a short drive away from Mammoth Cave National Park.
Louisville –Besides the plethora of attractions, museums, and exhibits, there are plenty of places to escape the urban scene in Louisville.
Brown County State Park – Because the park resembles the Great Smokey Mountains, Brown County State Park has been nicknamed “Little Smokies”. The magical park encompasses 16,000 acres of ridges, rugged hills, scenic vistas, and fog-shrouded ravines.
Indianapolis – Best known for annually hosting the world's largest single-day sporting event – the Indianapolis 500, the city is also known for its amazing zoo, botanical garden, and the world's largest children's museum.
Bowling Green – Home to the National Corvette Museum, the amusement park Beech Bend and the stunning Lost River Cave, this city is an excellent tourist destination.

Joyce Wildlife Management Area - Take a "swamp walk" and experience the wildlife, eye to eye.
Natchez - An hour or so detour off the main route, this is worth a stop to view the palatial plantation mansions - this classic southern city has stories to tell in every brick.
Jackson - The state capital, steep yourself in history and atmosphere on the banks of the Pearl River.
Sardis Lake - A lovely stop at this lake that feeds into the Little Tallahatchie River. Take a walk along the waterside and view the dam, the marina, and even take a dip in Lower Lake Beach.
Arkabutla Lake - Take a walk along the Ark Trail at the Coldwater River Nature Conservancy and soak up the lush woodland.
Memphis, Tennessee - If you choose this as part of your stopover, you can soak in all the many attractions like Graceland, the legendary home of Elvis, a boat ride on the Mississippi River, and the Memphis Music Hall of Fame.
Mark Twain National Forest - This gigantic forest, named after famous Missouri author Mark Twain, has so many attractions, take your time and soak up experiences like Elephant Rocks State Park, Taum Sauk Mountain, and the Onondaga Caves.
Gateway Arch National Park - The famous Gateway Arch in St Louis, is a must-see feat of architecture. The arch was built to symbolize the gateway to the west during the westward expansion in the 1800s.
St Louis, Missouri - A wonderful city, and another potential stopover, well worth it as a base to visit the Gateway Arch and many other attractions like the St Louis Zoo and Cathedral Basilica of Saint Louis.
Springfield - Stop off at the home of President Lincoln and visit the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum to keep your historical knowledge up to date.
Kankakee River State Park - A lovely stop in nature before the big city - home to Smith, Hoffman, Langham, and Willow Islands, great for fishing, biking, and hiking.

Best time to go on a road trip from New Orleans to Chicago

The road trip from New Orleans to Chicago is best enjoyed from April through May and from September to October. Fall and Spring are both preferable for a road trip because temperatures are pleasant and warm during both seasons.

The most enjoyable period for such a trip would be from April through May. Average daytime temperatures hover between the high-50s and low-70s, perfect for all sorts of outdoor activities.

Occasionally, you might run into some rain clouds but with a few warm clothes on hand and an umbrella, it shouldn't pose a problem. Crowds are manageable during spring, so you shouldn't worry much about queues and delays.

Fall in Chicago is not only beautiful but is also packed with exciting and memorable events like the Chicago Jazz Festival in September. The weather conditions are perfect for exploring popular local attractions – maintaining enjoyable temperatures around the 70s during the day.

Temperatures can get a little colder in the evening, so come prepared with some additional layers.

It can be a challenge embarking on a summer road trip to Chicago. Average summertime temperatures range from the high-50s to the mid-80s, but fluctuation is to be expected due to passing heat waves, humidity, and strong breezes.

Visiting between June and August means organizing well in advance and booking around a month before, as hotel vacancies and deals are snapped up early. But it is certainly worth it to experience the multitude of distractions Chicago has.

From sampling its world-famous pizza, taking a boat trip on the Chicago River, to rocking out at the famous Lollapalooza and Chicago Blues Festivals, there's so much to soak in.

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Waterfalls of the Guadalupe River In Hunt Texas Hill Country near San Antonio

Ultimate Roadtrip from Chicago to New Orleans

Roadtripping across America’s vast width is a dream many long to tick off their bucket list. But how about roadtripping from the North to the South? At the United States’ narrowest point, you can drive from Chicago all the way down to New Orleans in under 24 hours. So once again our lead travel writer Catherine Lux took on the challenge and turned a 1,341 mile drive into a luxurious two-week adventure, passing through Chicago, St Louis, Nashville, Memphis, Jackson, Natchez, and New Orleans.

Chicago’s The Bean at Cloud Gate

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS – TWO NIGHTS

How to get to chicago.

From the UK & Europe: There are daily direct flights to Chicago from most European cities , including London.

From the US: Fly direct with any major US carrier

Where to stay in Chicago: Langham Chicago

The Langham Chicago is a stunning contemporary hotel located on the banks of the Chicago River and right in the heart of the action, with Magnificent Mile and The Bean just a short walk away. The hotel has every modern amenity you should need, as well as luxury marble bathrooms and floor-to-ceiling windows that give you sweeping views over the city skyline and river.

Book a stay at Langham Chicago

What to do in Chicago

Chicago is a more laid-back New York City . It’s cleaner, friendlier, and has a much more relaxed feel to it. The Bean at Cloud Gate is unmissable, and just across the road the American Writers Museum is a fascinating museum about America’s most famous literary masters. Navy Pier is a beautiful spot in the city to wander and eat an ice-cream, while Magnificent Mile is for anyone looking to shop – whether its designer or stocking up in Sephora.

For theatre-lovers, the Chicago Theatre is best seen in the evening when the lights are lit up and they regularly have shows and concerts going on there if you have time. If you’re not afraid of heights then make sure to make a stop at Willis Tower for an exceptional view over the city!

Where to eat in Chicago

There’s a plethora of incredible restaurants in Chicago, from fine dining down to their famous Deep Dish Pizza. We recommend trying a mixture of fine dining and budget restaurants to get the full experience. On the budget end, you can’t miss Deep Dish Pizza at Uno’s Pizzeria – Chicago’s original deep dish pizza haunt – and a burger at Billy Goat’s Tavern . For fine dining make sure you book tables at Alinea , and Oriole .

Route 66 Gas Station Hertz one way rental

Hertz hire car outside the Standard Oil Gas Station on Old Route 66

OLD ROUTE 66 & ST LOUIS, MISSOURI – 1 NIGHT

After 2-3 days in Chicago, rise and shine early and pick up your hire car from Hertz* and hit the road! Unfortunately Chicago to Nashville is an incredibly long drive, so you’ll want to break it up with a stop in St Louis. Take the opportunity to drive down Old Route 66 and experience a piece of American roadtrip history! Just don’t drive down on a Monday as everything on the route will be closed…

For your first stop along the route, take the short diversion to Dwight for Ambler’s Texaco Station , then Odell for the Standard Oil Gas Station . These towns are very small and definitely just a photo stop, but if you visit over the Summer months the gas stations do have small museums. Pontiac is up next, with its Pontiac car museum and a Route 66 museum .

Stop off in Atlanta Illinois for lunch at Palms Grill Cafe and to see the Button with a Hotdog , and then head on to Springfield Illinois to visit the Lincoln Tomb .

Arrive in St Louis in the evening and check in at the Four Seasons St Louis , and then head to Mango for delicious Peruvian food. The next morning before you leave the city, stop by the famous Arch for a photo! Then head on to Nashville…

Nashville’s Honky Tonk Highway on Broadway

NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE – 3 NIGHTS

Where to stay in nashville: the hermitage hotel.

Five-star The Hermitage Hotel is the oldest hotel in Nashville, with 122 pet-friendly bedrooms and beautifully appointed traditional bedrooms with plenty of space. The staff here are just magical, as is the lobby which you’ll stare up at in awe as soon as you walk through the front doors.

Book a stay at The Hermitage Hotel

What to do in Nashville

Even if you’re not the biggest Country Music fan, it’s hard to not let it seep into your soul as you take a stroll down the Honky Tony Highway. Make sure you’re in Nashville on a Tuesday or Friday and book to see the famous show at the Grand Ole Opry , the home of country music. The Grand Ole Opry is the most famous and historic radio show in the US, and you really can’t leave Nashville without paying a visit and seeing the most renowned country stars take to the stage. We highly recommend the backstage tour for a chance to step onto that famous circle yourself!

As well as the Grand Ole Opry, pay a visit to the Ryman Auditorium (the original home of the radio show), and the Country Music Hall of Fame . For Elvis fans, Historic RCA Studio B is a must-do as it’s where he recorded over 200 of his records! Architectural history buffs will want to visit the Parthenon and Tennessee State Capitol , and shoppers can’t visit Nashville without stopping by Reese Witherspoon’s gorgeous store; Draper James .

For live music, Honky Tonk Highway is one of the best music experiences you can have in the whole world. From 3pm until 5am every single day, every bar along Broadway opens for business, with live music playing throughout those hours. There’s a variety of music from country to blues, but naturally it’s mostly country (and incredible country music at that)! Robert’s Western World and Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge are my two personal favourite, as well as Doc Hollidays Saloon down on 2nd Ave.

Where to eat in Nashville

Dining out in Nashville traditionally meant fried chicken and comfort food, but the culinary scene in the city is fast evolving and there are now plenty of fantastic restaurants to choose from. Whatever you do though, do not miss brunch at Pancake Pantry (you do need to queue, but it moves quickly), and lunch at Monell’s in Germantown .

Monell’s is an experience in itself, for under $20 you sit at a huge table with strangers, and you all share lunch like a family would. The food is impressive – it’s impossible to leave hungry – and it’s a great opportunity to meet locals and tourists alike. We were sat beside a police officer in his full uniform on his lunch break, so it was fascinating chatting to him!

Elvis Presley’s Graceland estate in Memphis Tennessee

MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE – 3 NIGHTS

Where to stay in memphis: the peabody.

There’s a distinct lack of luxury hotels in Memphis, and so the only wise choice is The Peabody. Despite an impressively grand lobby and the famous Duck Parade, the rooms disappointingly don’t have a mini bar or tea and coffee facilities (you have to phone and request them to be brought up), and the bathroom amenities are lacking. Our bathroom ceiling also fell down on us. However, the rooms are all brand new and have recently been refurbished to a high standard, and the location is really unbeatable.

Book a stay at The Peabody

What to do in Memphis

While Nashville is the home of Country, Memphis is home of the Blues! Of course your first stop needs to be Graceland, the home of Elvis Presley . There’s a really incredible museum where you can see a huge array of his outfits and costumes, cars, motorbikes, and possessions. The house itself has been left exactly as he left it when he died, so you’re able to see the famous Jungle Room, and his tastefully decorated living room with those stunning peacock stained-glass windows.

Once you’ve visited Graceland make your way back to downtown Memphis and stop by the Lorraine Motel where civil rights leader Dr Martin Luther King was assassinated, and don’t leave the city without visiting The National Civil Rights Museum . The museum is so important, and a visit is vital to learning more about the civil rights movement and how black people in America were treated up until very recently (and even today in certain parts).

Music lovers should get to Sun Studio early as they often sell out their tours for the day by midday, and STAX just down the road is also well worth a visit. Beale Street is a must-do, even if you just visit a couple of bars (we loved BB Kings and Rum Boogie Cafe ) and wander up and down the street taking it all in. If you’re in Memphis on a Sunday, head to Al Green’s Tabernacle Gospel Church – you won’t regret it and all visitors are welcome.

Where to eat in Memphis

Bountiful food options means travelers are spoiled for choice in Memphis. Book dinner at local secret Itta Bena , which is a gorgeous fine dining restaurant located above BB Kings Blues Club. There is no sign outside, you need to walk into BB Kings and ask them how to get to Itta Bena (it’s up some stairs, through a fire door, up some more stairs). Make sure you order the Crab stuffed avocado as an appetiser, and don’t leave without trying their pecan pie!

Young Avenue Deli is a brilliant local lunch spot, and don’t miss the pecan and chocolate pie (can you tell I became obsessed with pecan pie?) at Muddy Waters just around the corner. Central BBQ is also unmissable, with some of the best BBQ ribs I have ever had, and a great banana pudding too. Expect to queue at Central BBQ as you’re unable to book, but I promise the wait is worth it.

Oak Alley Plantation, Louisiana

JACKSON & NATCHEZ, MISSISSIPPI – 2 NIGHTS

Once again you’re going to want to break up the drive between Memphis and New Orleans, so make two one-night stops; one in Jackson Mississippi, and one in Natchez Mississippi. Drive down to Jackson from Memphis on a Monday, stop for a famous milkshake at Brent’s Drugs (a very cool old diner that was used in The Help movie ), and check-in at Westin Jackson , then head to Hal and Mal’s Blues Club to experience true Jackson Blues. Hal and Mal’s is famous for world-class blues, and their blues night is only on Mondays at 7pm.

The next morning drive down the old Natchez Trace Parkway . You need to drive off the highway and follow the signs for the Natchez Trace Parkway. Trucks aren’t allowed onto the road, and it’s practically empty. It’s one of the most beautiful scenic drives and shows you the true Mississippi. En-route to Natchez stop off in Vicksburg which is about an hour north of Natchez. Visit the Vicksburg National Military Park , and the Biedenharn Coca-Cola Museum – which is where Coca-Cola was first bottled. If you’re lucky you may even see the famous Steamboat down on the river!

When you arrive in Natchez check-in at Monmouth Historic Inn , and make sure to book a Pond Cottage. Enjoy the late afternoon and evening in one of the rocking chairs on the porch with a good book, before heading into town for dinner at the popular local riverside restaurant, Magnolia Grill . Magnolia Grill specialise in local fish and seafood, and the staff are just lovely.

And then it’s time to head to New Orleans! Take a short detour on the way to NOLA, to Oak Alley Plantation in Louisiana. They’re now an organization, and one of the few plantations that actually make an effort to educate visitors on the history of slavery and the actual people who built and maintained the beautiful plantation. We found the ‘slave quarter’ exhibition very informative, and were impressed by the plantation’s commitment to educating visitors and giving the slaves a legacy.

For example, did you know that pecans are in commercial production because of a slave named Antoine who lived at Oak Alley and was a talented botanist? He discovered how to make a thin-shelled pecan, as they used to have very hard and thick shells that were impossible to crack! They also have a tribute to the people who lived, worked, and died at the plantation in the form of a wall with all of the names of the slaves on it.

A musician in New Orleans’ French Quarter

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – 4 NIGHTS

Where to stay in new orleans: the royal sonesta.

I first stayed in the Royal Sonesta in New Orleans when I was 14-years-old. I was a well-traveled 14-year-old who had stayed in luxury hotels around the world, and yet for some reason the Royal Sonesta holds a special place in my memory, and so I was ecstatic to return. The luxury hotel is just as I remembered it; a stunning lobby, friendly staff, and the courtyard swimming pool providing guests with a tranquil place to relax after a hectic day around the French Quarter. It’s also situated in the best position in the city, with the front of the hotel being right on Bourbon Street, and the side entrances leading onto Conti and Bienville.

Book a stay at the Royal Sonesta New Orleans

What to do in New Orleans

The first stop you have to make in New Orleans is Cafe du Monde for their legendary Beignets! Ignore the queue and walk straight past it into the cafe – find a table and sit down for table service. Afterwards, walk along the river to the Natchez Steamboat box office to collect your tour tickets (we recommend pre-ordering them online). The Steamboat is a 2-hour boat tour that gives you a brilliant overview of the history of New Orleans and the steamboats, and is a great way to see the city from a different angle.

The Mardi Gras Museum is well-worth a peek as it gives you an opportunity to get a feel for the vibrancy of the costumes and effort that goes into making them, even if you’re not in town for Mardi Gras. A walking tour around the French Quarter will help you get your bearings in the French Quarter, and also give you a fantastic insight into the people who have lived in the city. There are plenty of walking tours available, from literary tours to tours taken by the famous New Orleans Babydolls!

When it comes to Jazz you can’t go to New Orleans without seeing live jazz at Preservation Hall . Pre-book tickets online to avoid queuing for hours (despite what the website says, you will be queuing for up to 2-hours in peak times), and go to Pat O’Brien’s next door afterwards for one of their famous Hurricane cocktails. Afterwards, stroll up to Bourbon Street . It’s rowdy and dirty, but so much fun, and you really musn’t leave New Orleans without at least trying a few of the bars. If Bourbon Street really isn’t your scene and you’re looking for a more sophisticated type of jazz, get a taxi to Frenchman Street and The Spotted Cat Music Club .

Before you leave NOLA head to Salon by Sucre for weekend brunch on the balcony. Pre-book and request a balcony seat as it can get busy and you might be seated inside instead. The mac & cheese, and the S.O.B burger are to die for, and order one of their signature desserts whilst people-watching and listening to the sounds of New Orleans jazz rising from the street below.

Where to eat in New Orleans

If you eat in one special place in New Orleans, make it the Commander’s Palace . This world-famous and award-winning Haute Creole restaurant is located in the Garden District of New Orleans, and was established in 1893. Don’t leave the restaurant before ordering a heavenly Key Lime Martini, and stand-out dishes include the Gumbo du Jour, and the Grilled Gulf Bluefin Tuna “Steak Frites. Also, every time you go to the restroom the staff escort you by the arm and ask everyone to move out of the way for you. It’s absolutely brilliant!

New Orleans’ foodie scene has always been renowned and one of the best in America, but in the past few years the city has seen a huge number of world-class restaurants open. DTB is one of those new restaurants that critics and locals alike have fallen in love with, but if you’re looking for traditional fine dining Antoine’s is unmissable. You also must try the Po’boys and Irish Coffee from Erin Rose – a NOLA institution!

Hertz Car Hire Fact Box Car hire in the USA with hertz.co.uk starts from £23 a day. For further road trip inspiration, head to Hertz American Road Trip Planner and discover iconic and off-the-beaten track routes, downloadable maps and insider guides.

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Chicago to New Orleans drive

Chicago to new orleans road trip planner.

Here's a sample itinerary for a drive from Chicago to New Orleans. If you're planning a road trip to New Orleans, you can research locations to stop along the way. Make sure you check road conditions to double check the weather. Traveling with a dog or cat? Find pet-friendly stops . Camping along the way? Search for RV campgrounds . Find the best hotels, restaurants, and attractions based on the most talked about places recommended by Trippy members.

10:00 am start in Chicago drive for about 2 hours

12:14 pm Champaign stay for about 1 hour and leave at 1:14 pm drive for about 1.5 hours

2:50 pm Altamont stay for about 1 hour and leave at 3:50 pm drive for about 3 hours

day 1 driving ≈ 7 hours find more stops

8:00 am leave from Sikeston drive for about 2 hours

10:13 am Memphis stay for about 3.5 hours and leave at 1:43 pm drive for about 2 hours

3:40 pm Winona (Mississippi) stay for about 1 hour and leave at 4:40 pm drive for about 1.5 hours

6:11 pm Jackson (Mississippi) stay for about 1 hour and leave at 7:11 pm drive for about 2 hours

9:17 pm Hammond (Louisiana) stay for about 1 hour and leave at 10:17 pm drive for about 1 hour

11:19 pm arrive in New Orleans stay at Hotel Monteleone

day 2 driving ≈ 9 hours find more stops

Where should I stop along the way?

Champaign (4 answers) Altamont Sikeston Memphis (140 answers) Beale Street (9 mentions) Graceland (9 mentions) National Civil Rights Museum (8 mentions) Memphis Zoo (7 mentions) Mud Island (6 mentions) restaurants around Memphis: Central BBQ Gus's World Famous Fried Chicken Charlie Vergos Rendezvous Payne's Bar-B-Q Cozy Corner Restaurant questions about Memphis: What's the best neighborhood in Memphis for a first time visitor? What are the musts of Memphis, y'all? Must sees in Memphis TN?? Hidden gems places to eat?? Best blues clubs in Memphis? Good Food and Fun With Kids Winona (Mississippi) Jackson (Mississippi) (16 answers) questions about Jackson (Mississippi): What's going down in Jackson, MS for New Years Eve? Hammond (Louisiana) (2 answers)

Where's the best place to stay in New Orleans?

Are you going straight to a hotel, or looking for a vacation rental or Airbnb?

The best resource on neighborhoods, areas, and hotels is the Trippy page on where to stay in New Orleans .

If you're looking for a quick answer, you can check out Hotel Monteleone , which was mentioned 11 times on Trippy.

Here are some more hotels people talk about:

Want to research more popular hotels in New Orleans? Click the blue button below.

Where's the best place to eat in New Orleans?

Need some recommendations on somewhere to get food?

Trippy members suggest Café du Monde , which was mentioned 62 times.

Here are some more restaurants people talk about:

Want to research more popular restaurants in New Orleans? Click the blue button below.

What are some things to do in New Orleans?

This section could be endless, so rather than trying to suggest every local activity or attraction, we'll leave it open-ended.

These are some of the places people talk about on Trippy:

Of course, Trippy is the perfect place to ask questions because there's an entire community of travelers talking to each other and sharing tips and advice. Trippy is where you can get answers personalized for your tastes, budgets, trip dates & more!

For example, here are some questions people have asked about New Orleans. Click on any question to see answers from the community!

Click the button below to explore more questions and answers related to New Orleans.

Do I really have to go back home?

Yes, even this step is optional, because if you're on vacation who wants the trip to end? It's okay, you can start planning your next trip!

Want to plan the trip back? Get the reverse directions for a New Orleans to Chicago drive , or go to the main page to plan a new road trip .

You can also compare the travel time if you're flying or driving by calculating the distance from Chicago to New Orleans . Or get a full Chicago to New Orleans flight plan .

Don't forget about exploring your own hometown with a staycation. You can also find some cool day trips or get away for a weekend. Maybe try typing in a faraway location like London, Hong Kong, or Sydney, and get inspired for your dream trip around the world.

And if you know Chicago well, please help your fellow travelers and answer their questions about Chicago!

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Chicago to New Orleans Road Trip

The best things to see and do between Chicago and New Orleans

Featured Trip Guides

Created by Roadtrippers - July 22nd 2016

Chicago, Illinois, United States

5757 S Woodlawn Ave, Chicago, IL, US

Frank Lloyd Wright Robie House

227 Monee Rd, Park Forest, IL, US

1950s Park Forest House Museum

801 S 8th Ave, Kankakee, IL, US

Kankakee County Historical Museum

500 E Peabody Dr, Champaign, IL, US

Krannert Art Museum

1022 South Pine Street, Gays, IL, US

Two Story Outhouse

1901 W Evergreen Ave, Effingham, IL, US

Heartland Classics

6260 Gesell Road, Kinmundy, IL, US

Ingram's Pioneer Log Cabin Village

3150 S Rocky Comfort Rd, Makanda, IL, US

Blue Sky Vineyard

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116 W Malone Ave, Sikeston, MO, US

Sikeston Depot

109 North 5th Street, Blytheville, AR, US

Historic Greyhound Bus Depot Visitor Center

4791 W County Road 924, Dyess, AR, US

Johnny Cash Boyhood Home

3764 Elvis Presley Blvd, Memphis, TN, US

2406 S Lamar Blvd, Oxford, MS, US

Phillips Grocery

5369 State Park Rd, Durant, MS, US

Holmes County State Park

1150 Lakeland Dr, Jackson, MS, US

Mississippi Agriculture & Forestry Museum

Building 850, Hattiesburg, MS, US

Mississippi Armed Forces Museum

27100 Chef Menteur Hwy, New Orleans, LA, US

Fort Pike State Historic Site

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Chicago to New Orleans Road Trip

There is no better experience than to get in a car and take a road trip no matter the destination, as long as it’s far enough to spend hours talking, singing, and playing games. Every summer, right before the school year starts, taking that last vacation and making it count is becoming a tradition for our family. For the most part, we try to visit different places; however, heading down to the beach seems to be a family favorite for all of us. This year, we decided to do the Chicago to New Orleans road trip and spend a few nights in the Big Easy and then enjoy a week spent at the beach in Destin, Florida. One of the best parts about driving is that you can see so much more along the way and really connect as a family. Check out our Chicago to New Orleans road trip and see where we stopped along the way.

How We Got There (the Car)

Forget about taking a plane. Hit the highway instead and visit small towns along the way. For this trip, we were lucky to have Ford reach out to drive one of their cars. We needed something spacious since we are a family of five (two adults and three kids ranging in age from 6 to 16!). We ended up getting the Ford Edge Titanium 2019 in baltic sea green, which was perfect for this adventure. With plenty of legroom in the back seat, the kids had more than enough space to be comfortable and plenty of UBS port and plugs-ins for all of the electronics. Some features we loved included the panoramic moonroof, heated/a/c seats, and, of course, the smooth ride. The trunk space was perfect—not too big and not too small.

Where to Stop Along the Way From Chicago to New Orleans

One our way down via I-57/I-55 to New Orleans, you could stop in Cairo, Illinois, which was once a hub for railroad shipping and steamboat industry because of its central location on the Mississippi and Ohio rivers.

Detour: If time is not a problem, head to Paducah, KY , for the night. This town has it all, from a charming downtown with one-of-a-kind shops and boutiques to Top Chef Sara Bradley, the freight house restaurant owner. This stop will not disappoint!

Continuing our way down, we stopped in Memphis, which is almost midway down to New Orleans. If you’re a fan of Elvis, we suggest booking a night at The Peabody hotel —this is the hotel that has the march of ducks from the rooftop to the lobby fountain. Later on or right before leaving the next day, make your way to Graceland, which is just minutes from the hotel.

From here, it’s basically just a few quick stops at the gas station for some quick snacks (boiled peanuts are for sale everywhere but never had them—we always forget to buy).

On the Way Back From Destin to Chicago

To change things up for the way back to Chicago, we took I-65 all the way up from Destin, Florida. We made a quick stop in Cave City, KY, for some fantastic food at Bucky Bees BBQ. Check out the buffet, which everyone loved! We had BBQ ribs, pulled pork, potato salad, and cornbread. We couldn’t be any happier after that meal, and it’s a stop we would definitely make again.

Detour: During this part of the trip, we made a few detours. Check out Mammoth Cave in Cave City, visit Sinking Springs Farm Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historical Park, or stop in any distilleries along the way.

Back on the highway, our final stop before getting to Chicago is Louisville, which just so happens to be one of our favorite foodie towns. We suggest eating at Royals Hot Chicken (don’t miss the Bourbon slushie or shake), the Garage, and the must-stop, Hi-Five Doughnuts . ( Check out this post for our favorite foodie stops). For an overnight stay, check out the 21c Museum Hotel , one of our favorite hotels.

New Orleans

New Orleans happens to be one of our favorite US destinations. There’s truly no other city like it when it comes to the French, Spanish, and Creole influences. From the music to the culture, there’s something for everyone. We recommend strolling the streets of the French Quarter, exploring the neighborhoods, visiting Café Du Monde for beignets (several times like we did!), and going on a Swamp Tour during your stay. As for a hotel, we enjoyed staying at the B on Canal in the Central Business District and within walking distance to the French Quarter.

Destin, Florida

Our last stop on this adventure was a week’s stay in Destin, Florida, and truth be told, after a bustling two days in New Orleans soaking up the music and culture, all we wanted to do was plant ourselves on the beach. Destin’s BEST part is the beaches, which feature white sand and crystal blue waters just like in the Caribbean. All of the Emerald Coast beaches are stunning, and we can’t wait to go back.

Cheap flights from Chicago to New Orleans from $31

This is the cheapest one-way flight price found by a momondo user in the last 72 hours by searching for a flight from chicago to new orleans departing on 5/8. fares may change, and may not be available for all flights or travel dates. click the price to refresh the search for this deal..

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Cheap Chicago to New Orleans (CHI to MSY) flight deals and tips

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If you are looking to fly from Chicago to New Orleans, you are most likely going to fly from Chicago O'Hare Intl Airport to New Orleans Louis Armstrong Airport, the most popular airports on that route. When booking your trip to New Orleans, it is helpful to have an alternative airport to fly out of. The nearest airport to Chicago O'Hare Intl Airport is Chicago Midway Airport which is located in Chicago. If you are looking for alternate airports to fly into when traveling from Chicago, you can try Gulfport Biloxi Regional Airport or Baton Rouge Ryan Airport which are located in Gulfport and Baton Rouge respectively. In April, $62 is typically the cheapest round trip price you’ll find from Chicago to New Orleans which you can find when you fly ORD — MSY.

Easily compare round-trip flights from Chicago to New Orleans

Below you can see the best fares for your round-trip flight route over the next six months. all fares were found on momondo this week. browse the quickest and cheapest flights from chicago to new orleans by changing tabs, find the cheapest one-way flights from chicago to new orleans, if you're looking for one-way flights from chicago to new orleans, view some of our deals below provided by frontier and spirit airlines, search last-minute flights to new orleans from chicago, find and compare round-trip flight prices for your last-minute flight from chicago to new orleans, best airlines flying from chicago to new orleans, compare and see reviews for airlines that fly from chicago to new orleans with momondo, united airlines flights from chicago to new orleans.

United Airlines is one of the most popular airlines flying from Chicago to New Orleans, operating 22 flights/week on average for this route. A good United Airlines flight deal for Chicago to New Orleans starts from $144 round-trip, up to an average price of $346. Our users have rated United Airlines at 7.4/10.

American Airlines Flights From Chicago to New Orleans

American Airlines is also a popular choice for this route. American Airlines flight deals for Chicago to New Orleans start from as low as $173 round-trip, depending on your selected dates, with average American Airlines deals seen on momondo around $341. American Airlines operates 4 flights to New Orleans from Chicago in an average week. Users have rated it 7.3/10 across 15,047 reviews.

Spirit Airlines flights from Chicago to New Orleans

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The distance between Chicago and New Orleans Louis Armstrong is about 834.4 mi. A reasonable flight in good conditions will take 2h 23m.

When did momondo last update prices for flights from Chicago to New Orleans Louis Armstrong Airport?

Prices for flights from Chicago to New Orleans Louis Armstrong Airport are refreshed on a daily basis.

How many operators does momondo search for flights from Chicago to New Orleans Louis Armstrong Airport?

As of April 2024, there are 5 operators available to choose from for flights from Chicago to New Orleans Louis Armstrong Airport.

How old do you have to be to fly from Chicago to New Orleans Louis Armstrong Airport?

The minimum age for a child to fly alone is five, but airlines that offer an unaccompanied minor (UNMR) service may have their own age limitations. Flight duration, scheduling, and layovers are among the considerations that may influence age limits. We recommend that you double-check with the airline you are booking with for travel from Chicago to New Orleans Louis Armstrong Airport.

What documentation or ID do you need to fly to New Orleans Louis Armstrong Airport?

The required travel and health documents for your New Orleans Louis Armstrong Airport trip may vary depending on your itinerary and personal circumstances. As a general rule, you should carry multiple documents, including a national ID card or driver's license and a passport valid for six months after your intended arrival at New Orleans Louis Armstrong Airport. We recommend that you seek guidance from your airline or a reliable third party such as IATA.

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momondo collates all your flight options in one place and lets you filter them to find the perfect flight from Chicago to New Orleans. momondo saves you time and could save you money on your trip.

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Yes. momondo enables you to select and highlight flights to New Orleans from Chicago with this policy.

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momondo provides multiple filters to help you find the best flight to New Orleans from Chicago. Filter by price, airline, airports, cabin, aircraft, payment method, number of stops and more.

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Yes momondo offers price alerts on flights to New Orleans from Chicago. After performing a search on this page you should be able to see the price alert set up feature. Simply provide a valid email address and momondo will instantly alert you when prices change.

An easier way to manage your New Orleans trip

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Cheap flights from Chicago to New Orleans

Good to know, when is the cheapest time to fly, popular airports near chicago.

Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) Chicago 24 min 25 km
Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW) Chicago 22 min 14 km
Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport (MKE) Milwaukee 1 hr 23 min 120 km
Indianapolis International Airport (IND) Indianapolis 2 hr 56 min 265 km

Popular airports near New Orleans

Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY) New Orleans 20 min 18 km
Pensacola International Airport (PNS) Pensacola 3 hr 2 min 283 km
Baton Rouge Metropolitan Airport (BTR) Baton Rouge 1 hr 25 min 122 km
Gulfport-Biloxi International Airport (GPT) Gulfport 1 hr 14 min 108 km

Frequently asked questions about flying from Chicago to New Orleans

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These suggestions are based on the cheapest fares to popular destinations in the next six months.

Prices include required taxes + fees for 1 adult. Optional charges and bag fees may apply.

Las Vegas RUB 11,011 May 11 — May 13 1 stop 6 hr 40 min Frontier
Miami RUB 9,144 May 4 — May 6 1 stop 3 hr 14 min Frontier
Lisbon RUB 58,441 May 2 — May 6 1 stop 15 hr 40 min Lufthansa, SWISS
Portland RUB 11,944 May 10 — May 13 1 stop 7 hr 32 min Frontier

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Drive from Chicago to New Orleans

New Orleans, LA, is known for its colorful Mardi Gras spirit, but this city offers much more than just parades. Its charm attracts visitors year-round for its historic homes, Southern, Cajun, and Creole dining, picturesque parks, and so much more. When traveling from Chicago to New Orleans, you can easily transition from chilly weather to humid heat. Pick up a comfortable full-size sedan from Enterprise to make your road trip comfortable and convenient as you make your way south to this soulful city. Be prepared for the open road by visiting our checklist of road trip essentials.

Drive Time from Chicago to New Orleans: approximately 15 hours Distance from Chicago to New Orleans: approximately 1,000 miles Recommended car for this road trip: Full-size sedan

Start Your Reservation Today

If you're not a native of the Windy City, you'll want to visit some of the city's top highlights before you start your road trip from Chicago to New Orleans. Take a stroll along Navy Pier or explore the art at Millennium Park.

Residents and visitors alike can appreciate an architecture cruise up and down the Chicago River. Sometimes it’s hard to gain an appreciation for the unique and stunning skyline of Chicago without having a guide to tell you how this city became what it is today. No one does it better than the Chicago Architecture Foundation .

Before you leave town, grab a quick breakfast at Xoco. From acclaimed chef Rick Bayless, Xoco offers authentic, Mexican-inspired dishes in a fast-casual setting. Everything is delicious, but don’t pass up the opportunity to order the wood-oven chilaquiles.

Rent a Car in Chicago

2. St. Louis

The first leg is the longest of the trip at just over 300 miles and close to five hours. In St. Louis, ride to the top of the iconic Gateway Arch to see the city from a breathtaking spot 630 feet in the air. You'll find a wealth of free attractions at Forest Park , one of the largest urban parks in the country. The Saint Louis Zoo (consistently rated one of the top 10 zoos in the country), Saint Louis Science Center, Saint Louis Art Museum, and the Missouri History Museum are all free of charge, and all found on park grounds.

Nimble adults and kids alike will enjoy City Museum – a 10-story tall building filled inside and outside with all imaginable things to climb on, crawl through, hang from, slide down, run around and more. It's not really a museum; it's more of a massive playground for all ages.

Adults may want to take an Anheuser-Busch brewery tour while in town, or you may want to visit one of the dozens of breweries throughout the city. After all, St. Louis was just awarded the Best Beer Scene 2018 award .

Wind down for the night and grab some dinner at Pastaria, a casual Italian restaurant from James Beard Award-winning chef Gerard Craft. The menu boasts a blend of traditional dishes like cacio e pepe and Bolognese with unique items like Italian Ramen.

Before you leave the Gateway to the West, swing by Vincent Van Donut for some big-as-your-head breakfast treats.

Memphis, TN, is 4 hours south of St. Louis. You'll cover 284 miles on this stretch of the trip. For a quick bite, or lunch, stop at Lambert’s Café , ‘the only home of the throwed rolls’ as you make your way south to the home of Elvis Presley - Graceland. The former home of Elvis is an incredibly popular attraction and for a good reason. The site offers tours of the mansion along with a career museum, automobile museum, and a restaurant. Lines here can get long so give yourself at least a few hours to spend here.

This city has a rich music history with highlights that include the Blues Hall of Fame, Memphis Music Hall of Fame, Stax Museum of American Soul Music, and Memphis Rock ‘n' Soul Museum. You can also visit Sun Studio where many famous musicians launched their careers. Music lovers of nearly all genres can find something to enjoy in this city with almost every attraction grooving to a great beat.

Memphis also houses the National Civil Rights Museum , paying homage to the figures that spearheaded the Civil Rights Movement. This moving museum with give clarity and enlightenment to one of the most important periods in American history. Lastly, The Children's Museum of Memphis caters to kids with highlights such as the Memphis Grand Carousel, earthquake table, Engine House 18, and play-size grocery store.

While you’re in town, plan on getting a drink at the Peabody Hotel and experience the duck parade through the lounge. Is it Kitchy? Yes. Is it memorable? Absolutely.

Any visit to Memphis without grabbing BBQ is not really a visit at all. Try the dry-rubbed ribs at the BBQ Shop for big, bold flavors. Other meal highlights should include dinner at The Beauty Shop, a converted 50s-esque beauty shop where the food shines.

The drive from Memphis to Jackson, MS, takes about three hours and covers more than 200 miles. In Jackson, you'll find plenty to explore, from the Mississippi Museum of Natural Science to the Mississippi Museum of Art. Sports fans can check out a collection of Super Bowl MVP trophies, Olympic gold medals, and World Series championship titles at the Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame and Museum.

Before you hit the road again, grab lunch at one of the city's favorite hot spots such as Mama Hamil’s Southern Cookin’ & BBQ. The restaurant has everything from fried chicken and BBQ ribs to chicken and dumplings.

5. New Orleans

After another three hours on the road, you'll complete your road trip from Chicago to New Orleans. You can cover the final 200 miles on Interstate 55 South or U.S. Route 49 South and Interstate 59 South. Once you've reached your destination, enjoy highlights such as the Audubon Aquarium of the Americas , with a 400,000-gallon tank filled with colorful marine life. The Audubon Zoo houses an award-winning Louisiana Swamp where you can experience local wildlife up close.

Of course, you'll want to spend some time in the French Quarter and get some authentic Creole and Cajun cooking. Make sure you save some room for a stop at Café Du Monde for Beignets and chicory coffee. Sure, it's a tourist spot, but there's a reason everyone goes there; it's delicious. Insider tip: there are multiple locations throughout the city, with the French Quarter spot being by far the busiest. Other iconic dining spots include Commander's Palace, Galatoire's, Brennan's and Dooky Chase Restaurant.

Driving in New Orleans: We advise to limit driving within the French Quarter as parking can be hard to find and streets are narrow and busy with cars, shuttles, and pedestrians. Otherwise though, the city has a good network of highways and major roads laid out as a grid.

If your visit doesn't coincide with Mardi Gras, you can still experience the holiday spirit at Mardi Gras World, a place where the floats are crafted and stored. While in New Orleans, consider taking a swamp boat tour, a ghost tour, or a walk around the National WWII museum. There’s more than enough things to do in New Orleans than you can probably fin in a single visit.

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Chicago to New Orleans FAQs

What kind of food is Chicago known for?

Chicago is known for its pizza, hot dogs, and Italian beef sandwiches. Deep dish pizza originated in Chicago and is characterized by ultra thick crust and sauce on top. A traditional Chicago hot dog is complete with relish, onions, tomato, pickle spear, and celery salt, all on a poppyseed bun. Italian beef in Chicago is composed of thin seasoned roast beef simmered in au jus and served on an Italian roll. You'll find countless places in Chicago to enjoy these dishes.

What can you do for free in New Orleans?

There are several free attractions to visit in New Orleans, including:

- Besthoff Sculpture Garden , which spans 11 acres and has over 90 unique sculptures to see.
- New Orleans Glassworks , with free demonstrations on glass blowing.
- The Garden District, a neighborhood filled with lavish mansions, some of which belong to celebrities.

Is there an elevator in the Gateway Arch?

The St. Louis Gateway Arch doesn't have a typical elevator, but it does have a tramway that takes visitors to the top. Each tram car seats up to 5 people. It takes approximately 4 minutes to reach the top of the Arch, where you'll have a stunning view of downtown St. Louis. Please note that the Gateway Arch is not fully accessible for people in wheelchairs or scooters.

Find cheap flights from New Orleans to Chicago from $33

This is the cheapest one-way flight price found by a kayak user in the last 72 hours by searching for a flight from new orleans to chicago departing on 5/8. fares are subject to change and may not be available on all flights or dates of travel. click the price to replicate the search for this deal., search hundreds of travel sites at once for deals on flights to chicago.

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Cheap flight deals from New Orleans to Chicago (MSY-CHI)

Flights from new orleans to chicago - travel insights & trends, get data-powered insights and trends into flights from new orleans to chicago to help you find the cheapest flights, the best time to fly and much more., what is the cheapest new orleans to chicago flight route, our data shows that the cheapest route for a one-way flight from new orleans to chicago cost $80 and was between new orleans and chicago o'hare intl airport. on average, the best prices are found if you fly this route. the average price for a return flight for this route is $71., what’s the cheapest day of the week to fly from new orleans to chicago, if you are looking for a flight deal from new orleans to chicago, look for departures on thursdays and avoid leaving on a sunday, as it's usually the priciest day. when flying back from chicago, tuesday is the cheapest day to fly and friday is the most expensive., what is the cheapest month to fly from new orleans to chicago, the cheapest month for flights from new orleans to chicago is february, where tickets cost $180 on average. on the other hand, the most expensive months are june and july, where the average cost of tickets is $336 and $304 respectively., how far in advance should i book a flight from new orleans to chicago, to get a below average price on the flight from new orleans to chicago, you should book around 1 week before departure. for the absolute cheapest price, our data suggests you should book 71 days before departure., which airlines provide the cheapest flights from new orleans to chicago, in the past 3 days, the cheapest one-way tickets to chicago from new orleans were found on spirit airlines ($33) and frontier ($49), and the lowest round-trip tickets were found on spirit airlines ($63) and frontier ($89)., which airlines fly most frequently between new orleans and chicago, american airlines connects new orleans to chicago with up to 3 flights per day and both southwest and united airlines also offer 3 flights per day., which airlines fly non-stop between new orleans and chicago, there are 4 airlines that fly nonstop from new orleans to chicago. they are: american airlines, southwest, spirit airlines and united airlines. the cheapest price of all airlines flying this route was found with spirit airlines at $45 for a one-way flight. on average, the best prices for this route can be found at spirit airlines., how many flights are there between new orleans and chicago per day, each day, there are between 9 and 11 nonstop flights that take off from new orleans and land in chicago, with an average flight time of 2h 31m. the most common departure time is 6:00 am and most flights take off in the morning, while the most flights land at chicago o'hare intl airport. each week, there are 71 flights. the most frequent day of departure is sunday, when 15% of all weekly flights depart. the fewest flights depart on a tuesday., which cabin class options are there for flights between new orleans and chicago, there are 4 cabin class options for the route. these are first, business, economy and prem economy. perform a search on kayak to find the latest prices and availability for all cabin fares, which differ across airlines., how long does a flight from new orleans to chicago take, direct flights take on average 2h 32m to travel the 834 miles between new orleans and chicago., what’s the earliest departure time from new orleans to chicago, early birds can take the earliest flight from new orleans at 5:10 am and will be landing in chicago at 7:30 am., what’s the latest departure time from new orleans to chicago, if you prefer to fly at night, the latest flight from new orleans to chicago jets off at 9:35 pm and lands at 12:11 am., good to know, when to book flights from new orleans to chicago, faqs for booking flights from new orleans to chicago, which is the best arrival airport if i want to visit millennium park.

Two of Chicago’s international airports, O'Hare International Airport (ORD) and Midway International Airport (MDW) have direct connections to Millennium Park. However, MDW is the best arrival option as it lies about 9 miles away, compared to ORD which is about 16 miles away. The quickest way to get there is via a taxi, which takes approximately 15min.

What is the best way to get to downtown Chicago from the adjacent airports?

There are several transportation options to get you to downtown Chicago after landing from any of Chicago City's airports. From Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW), you can take CTA "L" trains or Metra which are the cheapest means to travel to the city center of Chicago. If you’re arriving at Chicago O’Hare International Airport, the Blue Line 'L' train will take you to downtown Chicago in about 45min.

What is the best way to get to MSY from downtown New Orleans?

It takes about 50min to reach MSY from downtown New Orleans by bus. The bus departs at a 30min interval from the outer curb outside Level 3 Ticket Lobby, making stops at Elk Place at Cleveland or the Union Passenger Terminal/Bus Bay 2. Alternatively, you can order a taxi and reach the airport in around 30min.

Are there any hotels in MSY?

Yes, you’ll find plenty of hotels close to the airport in New Orleans that also offer courtesy shuttle services to and from the airport. Such facilities include Hampton Inn & Suites New Orleans-Elmwood/Clearview Pkway, LA, Comfort Suites Airport, and Holiday Inn Express & Suites New Orleans Airport South, An IHG Hotel. These hotels are handy if you have an early morning flight.

What is the cheapest flight from New Orleans to Chicago?

In the last 3 days, the lowest price for a flight from New Orleans to Chicago was $33 for a one-way ticket and $63 for a round-trip.

Do I need a passport to fly between New Orleans and Chicago?

No, a passport isn't needed to fly from New Orleans to Chicago. However, local authorities might ask for an official ID.

Which airports will I be using when flying from New Orleans to Chicago?

New Orleans is served by only 1 airport and there are 2 airports in Chicago. You will leave New Orleans from New Orleans Louis Armstrong and you will be arriving in Chicago at one of these airports: Chicago Midway or Chicago O'Hare Intl.

Which airlines offer Wi-Fi service onboard planes from New Orleans to Chicago?

All the following airlines offer inflight Wi-Fi service on the New Orleans to Chicago flight route: American Airlines, Delta, JetBlue, Air Canada, Alaska Airlines, and United Airlines.

Which aircraft models fly most regularly from New Orleans to Chicago?

The Boeing 737-800 is the aircraft model that flies most regularly on the New Orleans to Chicago flight route.

Which airline alliances offer flights from New Orleans to Chicago?

oneworld, and Star Alliance are the airline alliances operating flights between New Orleans and Chicago, with Star Alliance being the most commonly used for this route.

On which days can I fly direct from New Orleans to Chicago?

There are nonstop flights from New Orleans to Chicago on a daily basis.

Which is the best airline for flights from New Orleans to Chicago, Delta or United Airlines?

The two airlines most popular with KAYAK users for flights from New Orleans to Chicago are Delta and United Airlines. With an average price for the route of $339 and an overall rating of 8.0, Delta is the most popular choice. United Airlines is also a great choice for the route, with an average price of $308 and an overall rating of 7.4.

How does KAYAK find such low prices on flights from New Orleans to Chicago?

KAYAK is a travel search engine. That means we look across the web to find the best prices we can find for our users. With over 2 billion flight queries processed yearly, we are able to display a variety of prices and options on flights from New Orleans to Chicago.

How does KAYAK's flight Price Forecast tool help me choose the right time to buy my flight ticket from New Orleans to Chicago?

KAYAK’s flight Price Forecast tool uses historical data to determine whether the price for a flight to Chicago from New Orleans is likely to change within 7 days, so travelers know whether to wait or book now.

What is the Hacker Fare option on flights from New Orleans to Chicago?

Hacker Fares allow you to combine one-way tickets in order to save you money over a traditional round-trip ticket. You could then fly to Chicago with an airline and back to New Orleans with another airline.

What is KAYAK's "flexible dates" feature and why should I care when looking for a flight from New Orleans to Chicago?

Sometimes travel dates aren't set in stone. If your preferred travel dates have some wiggle room, flexible dates will show you all the options when flying to Chicago from New Orleans up to 3 days before/after your preferred dates. You can then pick the flights that suit you best.

Top tips for finding a cheap flight from New Orleans to Chicago

Looking for a cheap flight? 25% of our users found flights on this route for $151 or less one-way and $250 or less round-trip.
Both the departure and arrival airports have lounges for your relaxation and convenience. There are three main lounges at Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY), including Delta Sky Club, United Club, and The Club MSY. Various airports in Chicago have lounges with amenities such as meals and showers.
When you fly out of MSY, plan to arrive at least 2h before the take-off, although wait durations will vary depending on the day, holiday, and season. It’s helpful to visit the MYS website before you go, as you’ll see the security line wait times in real-time and plan for your trip well.
MYS provides services for travelers with reduced mobility upon request. To utilize these services, make early arrangements with your airline, letting them know your needs. Also, you can request special aid or a wheelchair service in preparation for your arrival at any of the airports in Chicago. Take advantage of this service by contacting your airline in advance, and your assistance will be ready when you land in Chicago.
If you're arriving late at Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) and looking for a hotel adjacent to the airport in Chicago, look no further than the Four Points by Sheraton Chicago O'Hare. Conveniently located within O'Hare International Airport, it is easily accessible and boasts excellent amenities such as an indoor pool, a sauna, and free parking.
If you are traveling with the family, Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport has nursing facilities for the little ones. There are three nursing rooms at Concourse A, near Gate A3, Concourse B, close to Gate B9, and Concourse C, near Gate C8.

Prefer to fly non-stop from New Orleans to Chicago?

Find which airlines fly direct from Louis Armstrong to Chicago, which days they fly and book direct flights.

Nonstop departures

New Orleans Louis Armstrong to Chicago

ANA, Air Canada, Air New Zealand, +14 more

ANA, Air Canada, +15 more

ANA, Air Canada, Air New Zealand, +13 more

ANA, Air Canada, +14 more

Nonstop returns

Chicago to New Orleans Louis Armstrong

ANA, Air Canada, Air New Zealand, +15 more

ANA, Air Canada, +16 more

ANA, Air Canada, Air New Zealand, +17 more

ANA, Air Canada, +18 more

ANA, Air Canada, Air New Zealand, +16 more

ANA, Air Canada, +17 more

ANA, Air Canada, Air New Zealand, +18 more

ANA, Air Canada, +19 more

Top 5 airlines serving from New Orleans to Chicago

Service was good for such a short flight. Small plane but smooth flight.

Worst flight in my life. Only was scheduled for a 45 min flight to get our connection flight. It was late by 40 minutes and we missed our connection. Delta was totally useless trying to help and unable to get my family on the next flight because they overbooked it Thus had to get a hotel at my expense and lost a day at Disney as a result. Cost me about a $1000 if you add 2 hotels meals shuttles etc to get thru the day Awful customer service by Delta in Detroit totally useless people

The experience was good and the flight departed on time and landed early

The flight was delayed but we got to our final destination.

Boarding was great. The flight landed early. It took the crew over an hour and a half to bring out drinks. I paid to upgrade my seat to Comfort+ only to be near a crying/screaming baby who was seldom quiet. Noise-cancelling earbuds didn’t even help. Waste of money to upgrade.

Seats in first class on the E175 recline too far back. I was in 2A, and the man in 1A fully reclined almost the entire flight. It took 6-7 inches of space away from me and made it very difficult to work on my laptop.

On 2 different flights the wifi was horrible and there was no drink or snack service.

Wifi wasn’t working well so we couldn't view any media.

Flight was late. Club was full. Experience is exactly what I expected.

Carly the flight attendant was extremely helpful and very accommodating to passengers on the flight from what I noticed. Couldn't be more satisfied with the service and assistance from Delta's flight attendant, Thanks again Carly!!

The flight was delayed instead of leaving at 11 it left at 12.20

United WiFi is consistently unusable (it can take 10 mins to load a single web page). If you need Wifi to do work, be prepared to lose half a day of productivity.

Good movies, iffy pay WiFi, food ok- on time though and that was great!

The plane boarded and deplaned twice before the crew timed out. Flight was 7 hours late departing. Horrible experience!

Awful…flight was delayed more than 12hrs, missed all connections to Fort Wayne, IN, had to get flight to another city 2 hours from my destination, flight was again delayed by 40 mins because they did not have enough fuel, again missed a connection, finally arrived in Indiana at 11pm…but before my 2 hour drive home, ay, no Five That Our Luggage Never Made On The plane and Still In Chicago

Boarding was friendly and quick. While the plane model was older with no live tv, the entertainment was full of movies and tv shows. All food was available. Pilots were very communicative with status of the flight. Flight landed on time.

The Palm Springs to Chicago O’Hare was on Time and Palm Springs airport is easier navigate. As our connection was only an approximately 50 minutes, we asked staff for insights for the Chicago airport in terms of transferring into the other terminal from which our flight left, and they were unhelpful. However, the United App was very helpful in terms of notifications and even providing directions. The Chicago to Detroit flight was significantly delayed which we all know does happen. However, there were very few updates or notifications as to why this was happening when we would actually arrive. It took nearly 30 minutes for bags to make it to baggage claim. We arrived nearly 1 hour late on a 40 minute flight.

They rerouted flight to LAX. Offered nothing but a 5 hr drive to SBP. No compensation. No regards to our healthy and safety.

Flight cancelled due to fog. No other flights available for 36 hours. Directed by United to book passage on another carrier, and submit receipts for reimbursement. Did that. United now states they will not reimburse. Currently out 2 grand.

The flight was delayed by 4 hours !!!!! It was very uncomfortable , and they told us only one our before departure

The flight got canceled due to mechanical issues, and he to be rebooked and missed my appointments for that day

Nice aircraft. Plane was PACKED full and distance between seats was tight. Had it been more than a two hour flight it would not have been tolerable. I had much more knee space on the JetBlue flight I went out on.

The flight was scheduled to depart DCA at 12:30 pm but was delayed twice on the ground so that we were finally scheduled to depart at around 4:00 pm. Once we boarded, it was announced that takeoff would be delayed again to fix a hydraulic problem which delayed our eventual takeoff until around 5:00 pm. Once we departed, it was a smooth flight back to ORD. We did not get any explanation about what caused the original significant delay. In my experience, this happens frequently with AA.

Flight attendants had no personality! The looked miserable! My seat was broken in first class. I can’t believe how American Airlines changed. 😞

The only problem experienced was a ground stop in Chicago due to weather. But the crew handled everything professionally. They prioritized rebooking those passengers who had connecting flights and then deplaning the other passengers. When the hold was lifted, they efficiently re-boarded all the passengers so that we could depart before our departure limit expired.

Our second leg to Jackson WY was unable to land due to weather. We were flown back to Dallas after stopping in SLC. We were given hotel rooms and vouchers. We were told that we would be back on the same plane in the morning. Instead we were given a different flight with different seats. Not a good experience. No one knew what was going on.

Turn on the heat. Flight was way too cold from Arizona to Chicago.

Perfect flight. On time departure and early arrival. Smooth flight.

Overall pleasant was delayed and caused transportation issue when landing

The arriving flight was a few minutes late, but the gate crew helped to deplane and board our outgoing flight quickly and efficiently. We were able to depart quickly and arrive at ORD almost at the posted time. Great job.

I had a death in my family and booked my flight on Spirit. My flight was cancelled the morning of my flight, no explanation, no help to rebook, nobody to talk to. The next available flight was 2days later !!!! Terrible airline, will NEVER fly with them again!

They took a horrible route with a lot of turbulence and I eneded up getting sick. Even if the flight takes longer. Don't put people life at risk just to get to the airport on time.

Every thing was fine ,low price,easy on time ,clean, good staff, really no issues

Had to board plan 2x due to lack of security check after 1st boarding

Miserable. The crew was rude, the flight was delayed 5 hours for mechanical reasons and then “weather” even though other planes were leaving.

They kept Changing the flight times. It was delayed several times and at one point it was supposed to depart at 3.40am! At which point we ended up staying overnight and booked long a separate United flight for early morning departure. The spirit flight then got moved up and left at 1.30 in the morning when it was supposed to leave at 9.40pm the night before.

Flight was delayed...not horribly late. Just before push back engine shut down for a quick replacement item that took about five minutes. After that, everything was smooth and the pilot was able to make up time in the air so that our arrival time was not too far off the original anticipated arrival time.

Well those seats! Man! On a short flight tolerable but too stiff and lack of cushioning make a longer flight uncomfortable. Good leg room tho, but I’m only 5’3”….

The flight was delayed almost two hours on the front end, and an hour on the backend once we landed and waited for a gate to open up. We were told to remain in our seats during that whole delay and I had to go to the bathroom badly. I was unable to hold it and was forced to urinate in my pants while in my seat. I then had to sit in it until we finally deboarded and I was able to change my clothes.

We waited an hour to get off of the plane

Flight was cancelled and I had to spend the night in the airport lugging my suitcase around

If you don’t check in 24 hours in advance, they will charge you $110 to check your bag instead of the $30. I did not get an email with this information and did not check in. In addition, my flight home was cancelled at layover and I had to spend the night in the airport, and then have another layover at another airport before making it home. Will not fly frontier again.

Terrible. Seats are bad and the baggage policy is inconsistent

Flight delayed 3 times, resulting in late arrival, rental car place gave car away resulting in increased BS charges because I was late. Frontier blows.

I paid for extra leg room. The flimsy plastic seat underneath the floatation seat did not line up with the arm rests. It seemed as if the plastic part was zip tied on but immovable. This caused severe uncomfortable for the duration of the flight.

Left Denver late, then sat on tarmac 30 min after arrival

Better than I expected but I did pay for a seat and carry on bags ahead of time.

Crew members are very rude and not cooperate with passengers.

30 minute delay due to boarding and settling of a family.

It was impossible to change a carry-on for a checked bag after the initial selection. The flight was delayed 14 hours "to allow for a late arriving aircraft." The seats were shockingly uncomfortable. This was only the second time I've seen seats that didn't recline in an airline. The first was in an East Bloc airline before the fall if the Iron Curtain.

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11 U.S. Destinations That Are Perfect for a Girls' Getaway

Posted: April 12, 2024 | Last updated: April 12, 2024

<p>These days, most of us are busier than ever. We have families, jobs, charity work, hobbies, the list goes on. That said, it can be easy for our treasured friendships to fall by the wayside without a little effort. Thankfully, one a great way to strengthen the bonds of friendship is through <a href="https://www.veranda.com/travel/weekend-guides/">traveling together</a>. Whether it's a quick weekend road trip or a long-haul flight, a getaway with the girls is good for the soul. It's a time to <a href="https://www.veranda.com/travel/a43276464/unplugged-vacations/">disconnect from the stressors of everyday life</a> and reconnect with the squad that keeps you grounded. Whether meeting up with old sorority sisters or hoping to make memories with new friends, luxurious resorts and charming cities are the perfect places for a girls' trip. </p><p>From pastel towns to dazzling beaches to five-star resorts, we’ve gathered 11 domestic destinations that are perfect for unplugging with your best buds this year. Here, the best places to go on a girls' trip in the U.S.</p>

These days, most of us are busier than ever. We have families, jobs, charity work, hobbies, the list goes on. That said, it can be easy for our treasured friendships to fall by the wayside without a little extra effort. Thankfully, one great way to strengthen the bonds of friendship is by traveling together . Whether it's a quick weekend road trip or a cross-country flight, a getaway with the girls is good for the soul. It's a time to disconnect from the stressors of everyday life and reconnect with the squad that keeps you grounded. Whether meeting up with old sorority sisters or hoping to make memories with new friends, luxurious resorts and charming cities are the perfect places for a girls' trip.

From pastel towns to dazzling beaches to five-star resorts, we’ve gathered 11 domestic destinations that are perfect for unplugging with your best buds this year. Here, the best places to go on a girls' trip in the U.S.

<p>Grab your girls for a lovely weekend in the Lowcountry. Pastel-colored <a href="https://www.veranda.com/travel/a43806265/what-to-do-in-charleston/">Charleston</a> is filled with charm, complete with world-class shopping, excellent dining, and a seaside setting that will enhance vacation photo ops. Other gorgeous sights in Charleston include a pineapple-shaped fountain, a row of rainbow-colored homes, and plenty of cobblestone streets lined with palm trees. </p><p><a class="body-btn-link" href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1553576&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.tripadvisor.com%2FHotel_Review-g54171-d8662471-Reviews-The_Dewberry_Charleston-Charleston_South_Carolina.html&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.veranda.com%2Ftravel%2Fweekend-guides%2Fg46628435%2Fbest-places-for-girls-trip-in-usa%2F">Shop Now</a></p>

Charleston, South Carolina

Grab your girls for a lovely weekend in the Lowcountry. Pastel-colored Charleston is filled with charm, complete with world-class shopping, excellent dining, and a seaside setting that will enhance vacation photo ops. Other gorgeous sights in Charleston include a pineapple-shaped fountain, a row of rainbow-colored homes, and plenty of cobblestone streets lined with palm trees.

<p>Yellowstone is the ultimate girls' trip destination for outdoor lovers. Whether you want to head to the national park for a wildlife tour, soak in local hot springs, or head on incredible hike, you're sure to feel one with nature. We recommend glamping at Under Canvas for the ultimate luxe outdoor experience—nightly s'mores and stargazing included.</p><p><a class="body-btn-link" href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1553576&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.tripadvisor.com%2FHotel_Review-g45253-d25246991-Reviews-Under_Canvas_North_Yellowstone_Paradise_Valley-Livingston_Montana.html&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.veranda.com%2Ftravel%2Fweekend-guides%2Fg46628435%2Fbest-places-for-girls-trip-in-usa%2F">Shop Now</a></p>

Livingston, Montana

Yellowstone is the ultimate girls' trip destination for outdoor lovers. Whether you want to head to the national park for a wildlife tour, soak in local hot springs, or head on incredible hike, you're sure to feel one with nature. We recommend glamping at Under Canvas for the ultimate luxe outdoor experience—nightly s'mores and stargazing included.

<p>Whether you head to Rosemary Beach, Alys Beach, Seaside or another spot along <a href="https://www.veranda.com/travel/weekend-guides/g46975633/what-to-do-in-30a-florida/">30A</a>, the Gulf Coast of Florida is a magical destination for a girls' trip any time of year. Whether you want to rent bikes, eat delicious seafood, lounge on white sand beaches, shop at adorable boutiques, or admire the beautiful architecture, this area offers something for every type of traveler. </p><p><a class="body-btn-link" href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1553576&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.tripadvisor.com%2FHotel_Review-g2223281-d4742637-Reviews-The_Pearl_Hotel-Rosemary_Beach_Florida.html&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.veranda.com%2Ftravel%2Fweekend-guides%2Fg46628435%2Fbest-places-for-girls-trip-in-usa%2F">Shop Now</a></p>

30A, Florida

Whether you head to Rosemary Beach, Alys Beach, Seaside or another spot along 30A , the Gulf Coast of Florida is a magical destination for a girls' trip any time of year. Whether you want to rent bikes, eat delicious seafood, lounge on white sand beaches, shop at adorable boutiques, or admire the beautiful architecture, this area offers something for every type of traveler.

Washington D.C.

Washington D.C. is always beautiful, but plan to head to the capital city during the beautiful cherry blossom season in late March. No matter when you visit, the national landmarks, impressive museums, and culinary offerings will never disappoint.

<p>Head to small-town Maine for an exclusive girls' getaway rooted in luxury. Biddeford’s setting offers something for everyone, with an Atlantic ocean beachfront on one side and mountains on the other. The group can choose between a coastal getaway or a picturesque ski trip to nearby Pleasant Mountain, depending on the time of year.</p><p><a class="body-btn-link" href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1553576&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.tripadvisor.com%2FHotel_Review-g40516-d23968009-Reviews-The_Lincoln_Hotel-Biddeford_Maine.html&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.veranda.com%2Ftravel%2Fweekend-guides%2Fg46628435%2Fbest-places-for-girls-trip-in-usa%2F">Shop Now</a></p>

Biddeford, Maine

Head to small-town Maine for an exclusive girls' getaway rooted in luxury. Biddeford’s setting offers something for everyone, with an Atlantic ocean beachfront on one side and mountains on the other. The group can choose between a coastal getaway or a picturesque ski trip to nearby Pleasant Mountain, depending on the time of year.

<p>When it comes to celebrating, few cities rival the revelry found in <a href="https://www.veranda.com/travel/weekend-guides/a39726202/new-orleans-travel-guide/">New Orleans</a>. It's vibrant and lively any time of year, with decadent cuisine, stunning architecture, and a strip of daiquiri-slinging bars that may contribute to fuzzy memories.</p><p><a class="body-btn-link" href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1553576&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.tripadvisor.com%2FHotel_Review-g60864-d15219988-Reviews-Hotel_Peter_And_Paul-New_Orleans_Louisiana.html&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.veranda.com%2Ftravel%2Fweekend-guides%2Fg46628435%2Fbest-places-for-girls-trip-in-usa%2F">Shop Now</a></p>

New Orleans, Louisiana

When it comes to celebrating, few cities rival the revelry found in New Orleans . It's vibrant and lively any time of year, with decadent cuisine, stunning architecture, and a strip of daiquiri-slinging bars that may contribute to fuzzy memories.

<p>There’s no shortage of history, charm, and unbelievable food in Boston, and it's the perfect place to visit with your girls. Choose to stroll the Freedom Trail or eat your way through the North End (or both), all with plenty of luxury lodging options to wind down after a day spent exploring. </p><p><a class="body-btn-link" href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1553576&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.tripadvisor.com%2FHotel_Review-g60745-d26176272-Reviews-Raffles_Boston-Boston_Massachusetts.html&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.veranda.com%2Ftravel%2Fweekend-guides%2Fg46628435%2Fbest-places-for-girls-trip-in-usa%2F">Shop Now</a></p>

Boston, Massachusetts

There’s no shortage of history, charm, and unbelievable food in Boston, and it's the perfect place to visit with your girls. Choose to stroll the Freedom Trail or eat your way through the North End (or both), all with plenty of luxury lodging options to wind down after a day spent exploring.

<p>The Windy City is an excellent destination for a friendship trip, thanks to its near-infinite luxury lodging options, famous cuisine, and proximity to the Chicago River <em>and</em> Lake Michigan! Hop aboard a boat tour down the Chicago River, then join the great debate on Chicago deep dish versus tavern-style pizza. </p><p>Stay at the <a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1553576&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.tripadvisor.com%2FHotel_Review-g35805-d23228472-Reviews-Pendry_Chicago-Chicago_Illinois.html&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.veranda.com%2Ftravel%2Fweekend-guides%2Fg46628435%2Fbest-places-for-girls-trip-in-usa%2F">Pendry Chicago</a>, which offers a glitzy “Champagne Suite" experience complete with a welcome bottle of Moët & Chandon, a Champagne-paired dinner, ice skating reservations in winter, and more.</p><p><a class="body-btn-link" href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1553576&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.tripadvisor.com%2FHotel_Review-g35805-d23228472-Reviews-Pendry_Chicago-Chicago_Illinois.html&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.veranda.com%2Ftravel%2Fweekend-guides%2Fg46628435%2Fbest-places-for-girls-trip-in-usa%2F">Shop Now</a></p>

Chicago, Illinois

The Windy City is an excellent destination for a friendship trip, thanks to its near-infinite luxury lodging options, famous cuisine, and proximity to the Chicago River and Lake Michigan! Hop aboard a boat tour down the Chicago River, then join the great debate on Chicago deep dish versus tavern-style pizza.

Stay at the Pendry Chicago , which offers a curated wellness experience for guests through their partnership with AIRE Ancient Baths . Additionally, each weekend from June to September the hotel has live music on the roof, so you and your besties can enjoy alfresco cocktails in style.

<p>For when the group *really* needs to get away, jet off to the Florida Keys for an island-hopping adventure. Plant roots in stunning Islamorada, a laid-back paradise with a small-town feel. The gang can relax on the beaches, hire a boat for fishing or watersports, and enjoy infinite amounts of tasty seafood. </p><p><a class="body-btn-link" href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1553576&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.tripadvisor.com%2FHotel_Review-g34346-d84610-Reviews-Cheeca_Lodge_Spa-Islamorada_Florida_Keys_Florida.html&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.veranda.com%2Ftravel%2Fweekend-guides%2Fg46628435%2Fbest-places-for-girls-trip-in-usa%2F">Shop Now</a></p>

Islamorada, Florida

For when the group *really* needs to get away, jet off to the Florida Keys for an island-hopping adventure. Plant roots in stunning Islamorada, a laid-back paradise with a small-town feel. The gang can relax on the beaches, hire a boat for fishing or watersports, and enjoy infinite amounts of tasty seafood.

<p>Tucked at the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Charlottesville looks like it was plucked out of a Hallmark movie. If they were to make one here about a girls' trip, they’d surely have the group hopping on the Monticello Wine Trail, browsing the city’s many museums, or getting their steps in on a trail at the nearby Shenandoah National Park. </p><p><a class="body-btn-link" href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1553576&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.tripadvisor.com%2FHotel_Review-g57592-d25442243-Reviews-Kimpton_The_Forum_Hotel-Charlottesville_Virginia.html&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.veranda.com%2Ftravel%2Fweekend-guides%2Fg46628435%2Fbest-places-for-girls-trip-in-usa%2F">Shop Now</a></p>

Charlottesville, Virginia

Tucked at the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Charlottesville looks like it was plucked out of a Hallmark movie. If they were to make one here about a girls' trip, they’d surely have the group hopping on the Monticello Wine Trail, browsing the city’s many museums, or getting their steps in on a trail at the nearby Shenandoah National Park.

<p>If your girl group loves a great bottle of vino, it's time to plan a trip to California's wine country. <a href="https://www.veranda.com/travel/g39959146/what-to-do-in-sonoma-valley/">Sonoma</a> has plenty to offer, from wine tastings and vineyard tours to delicious restaurants and bike rentals. Your trip can be action-packed or laid-back: Lounge by the pool at the hotel, indulge in a luxe spa treatment, or take a fun-filled day trip to Napa or San Francisco. </p><p><a class="body-btn-link" href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1553576&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.tripadvisor.com%2FHotel_Review-g33107-d117820-Reviews-MacArthur_Place_Hotel_Spa-Sonoma_Sonoma_County_California.html&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.veranda.com%2Ftravel%2Fweekend-guides%2Fg46628435%2Fbest-places-for-girls-trip-in-usa%2F">Shop Now</a></p>

Sonoma, California

If your girl group loves a great bottle of vino, it's time to plan a trip to California's wine country. Sonoma has plenty to offer, from wine tastings and vineyard tours to delicious restaurants and bike rentals. Your trip can be action-packed or laid-back: Lounge by the pool at the hotel, indulge in a luxe spa treatment, or take a fun-filled day trip to Napa or San Francisco.

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A few people holding wine glasses filled with white wine, two visible with long hair, around a table with menus and a white tablecloth with a half empty bottle of white wine.

Where to Drink Wine in Chicago

Great wine lists abound in this fascinating city. Here are eight places with distinctive lists that stand out.

Despite its nondescript architecture, Obélix is a relaxed, casual French bistro. Credit... Lucy Hewett for The New York Times

Supported by

By Eric Asimov

Published April 4, 2024 Updated April 9, 2024

The motto of Chicago ought to be, “Too much to do, not enough time.”

That’s how I feel whenever I visit. Whether restaurants, architecture, museums or music, Chicago overflows with wonderful options, and that certainly extends to great places to drink wine.

On a recent trip that unfortunately coincided with a biting Arctic blast, I sought out warm refuges with superb food and intriguing wine lists.

I was looking for casual, comfortable places that served full meals and offered lists with a clear personality. I omitted the sorts of classic, expensive Michelin-starred restaurants where you would expect to find extensive wine lists. These eight places stood out as distinctive emblems of Chicago’s singular Midwestern character.

I could have included many more, like Beautiful Rind , a lovely cheese and wine shop where you can pay a small corkage fee to open bottles with cheese and salumi; Easy Does It , an excellent natural wine bar with a modest menu; Bronzeville Winery , a thoughtful wine bar that celebrates its South Side neighborhood; Daisies , a fascinating restaurant with a small selection of Midwestern wines embedded in its list; and other places I loved, like Lula Cafe and Avec . Not enough time.

Here they are, in no particular order.

Dear Margaret

This French Canadian restaurant in Lakeview looks exactly as I picture a French Canadian place: cozy and warm, knotty wood floors, a bit spare. There’s no place I would rather be on a freezing winter day, though I think I might feel that way any time of year.

The food is soulful, the wine list chosen with care and the hospitality gracious. My cold-weather menu included delicate, oceanic fried smelts; Canadian bacon with a refreshing corn relish and wonderful, housemade bread; a crisp, perfectly seasoned pork schnitzel; and striped bass with brown butter topped with sunchoke chips. To end, what else but Canada’s favorite dessert, an exquisite butter tart .

The wine list is not exhaustive, but it’s hard to go wrong. Every bottle was something I wanted to drink, whether a dry riesling from Forge in the Finger Lakes, a white blend from Luis Seabra in the Douro or a teroldego from Elisabetta Foradori in Trentino. Almost every bottle is under $100. I settled on a focused, gentle 2018 Savigny-les-Beaune aux Clous from Louis Chenu Père & Filles .

2965 North Lincoln Avenue, dearmargaretchi.com .

Cellar Door Provisions

This small, spare, amiable restaurant in Logan Square on the northwest side offers just a few modest yet beautifully detailed dishes on its ever-changing menu and a concise, well-chosen list of natural wines almost entirely under $100.

You might begin with a 2021 Le Rose from Ca’ de Noci in Emilia-Romagna, a light, fresh sparkling malvasia that is so good you won’t want to stop drinking it. That went brilliantly with fried onions tempura-style with romesco sauce and an earthy pig’s head terrine.

We followed that up with a 2021 riesling from Jean Ginglinger in Alsace, a stony, floral wine that was alive in the glass, superb with cheesy gnocchi in a savory ham broth and nutty braised broccoli rabe.

Neither the menu nor the list is exhaustive, but with either, it was hard to go wrong.

3025 West Diversey Avenue, cellardoorprovisions.com .

Monday brunch, as this excellent French bistro in River North calls that day’s midday meal, comes with a bubbly benefit: half-price bottles of Champagne. It has another thing going for it, too. While Obélix looks like a modern spot for hushed business meetings, situated in a nondescript downtown building, it’s actually relaxed and unpretentious, the kind of place business people go to escape uptight offices.

The food is classic French with a few creative touches. A beautifully composed pâté en croûte was made with wild boar and duck, while a generous Lyonnaise salad was topped with a duck egg, crisp duck confit and duck fat croutons. This being brunch, Obélix offered deviations from the standard fare, like merguez served as a hot dog and Korean-style fried chicken on a burger bun, with excellent frites.

The wine list is almost entirely French and contains predictably expensive Burgundies, Bordeaux and other trophies. But it also offers plenty of bottles under $100, including some gems, like a 2020 Brézème from Éric Texier , an excellent syrah from the Côtes-du-Rhône, and a 2019 Domaine de Galouchey Vin de Jardin, a delicious natural Bordeaux. And if you come midday Monday, Champagne is a treat and a great value.

700 North Sedgwick Street, obelixchicago.com .

The Village at Italian Villages

Even if you’ve never been to the Village in the Loop, you most likely know the genre. Sinatra ate there. So did Capone. At nearly a century old, covered with photos of celebrities of the past, it’s the sincere incarnation of the sort of place Carbone was meant to parody and augment.

The wine list, however, is enormous and astounding. You will not find cutting edge Italian wines here, but you will see deep reserves of Italian classics here, including older vintages of Brunellos, Barolos and Super Tuscans, a label coined in the 1980s for top Tuscan wines that did not conform to appellation rules.

The Village is red wine territory, but you might start with a crisp sparkling wine like a 2016 Ferrari Perlé Rosé Riserva, with its mild but pure scent of berries. Where to go after that? I chose a lovely expressive Barolo, a 2012 Renato Ratti Conca, which I thought was a good value at $130.

The unsurprising Italian American food is a mixed bag — terrific beef ravioli served under an ocean of meaty red sauce, and sweet, tender eggplant parmigiana. But veal marsala was bland and muddy. Stick with red sauce and enjoy exploring the list, with upward of 1,200 bottles.

71 West Monroe Street, thevillage-chicago.com .

This sprawling restaurant in the West Loop manages to straddle the Adriatic Sea, blending Italian and Croatian elements in what the chef, Joe Flamm, calls “Adriatic drinking food.” The wine list is wide-ranging, with concentrations from France, Germany and the United States, but the most exciting element is the small selection of Eastern European wines from Slovenia and Croatia.

These might include a lively sparkling refosco rosé from Rodica , an organic winery in Slovenia, or a Vinas Mora Andreis, a fresh, bright, natural Croatian red made of the babic grape, which tastes like a combination of pinot noir and gamay.

These wines go beautifully with Adriatic dishes like burek, a flaky pastry filled with chard and cheeses, grilled clams in a shockingly green herbal sauce, mezzaluna pasta in a bright duck ragù and tender lamb saddle with roasted carrots, full of garlic and herbs and served off the bone like a porterhouse.

Rose Mary is by no means a sedate date place. It’s lively, maybe even boisterous in the best possible way.

932 West Fulton Market, rosemarychicago.com .

Not far from Rose Mary in the West Loop is El Che, an Argentine steak house with a superb wine list made up entirely of South American bottles.

Yes, you can drink inexpensively here, with many wines under $100 like, among whites, a liter of Pipeño Blanco from A Los Viñateros Bravos , a farmer’s blend from Itata in Chile, or an Argentine sémillon from Mendel in Mendoza. But this is an opportunity to try some of the better reds South America has to offer, like a 2020 Concreto malbec from Zuccardi , a superb, minerally malbec, or even splurge on something special, like a 2016 Zuccardi Finca Piedra Infinita for $360.

Reds like these are meant for beef. El Che’s are all cooked over wood coals. Options include a dry-aged strip, which has all the funk and tang you look for in dry-aging, or, if its available, a picanha, a smaller cut like a rump steak. The crisp beef-fat fries are not to be missed, while an endive salad is an archetypal steakhouse salve for the conscience.

845 West Washington Boulevard, elchechicago.com .

Webster’s Wine Bar

This sprawling neighborhood spot with a welcoming vibe is the granddaddy of Chicago wine bars, having opened in 1994 in Lincoln Park and still going strong in its second location in Logan Square.

The wine list, primarily European, is wise, seemingly tempered by years of experience. It resists the temptation to offer a bunch of trophy labels either too young or unaffordable to any but the wealthy. Instead, it’s impeccably chosen, with bottles selected to drink now.

With oysters, I drank an excellent biodynamically farmed 2020 Boissonneuse Chablis from Julien Brocard , combining the seashell character of Chablis with the richness of the 2020 vintage. The food extends beyond classic wine bar fare to include pasta, seafood and a steak frites.

2601 North Milwaukee Avenue, websterwinebar.com .

This small, casual restaurant in Logan Square, practices a considered eclecticism in both its food and its wine. The food combinations and juxtapositions are unconventional with an overriding goal of deliciousness. The same is true with wine.

Consider dishes like sweet, tangy Japanese eggplant, flavored with South Asian spices and served with pita, or okonomiyaki, eggy Japanese pancakes under a pile of greens, a riot of textures and flavors. Chiramonte, a tortelloni-like pasta, is served in a nutty lentil ragù with mint and bright Meyer lemon, a brilliantly balanced dish.

The worldly, beautifully chosen wine list follows suit, with plenty of versatile, refreshing bottles, the vast majority priced at under $100. I particularly enjoyed a fresh, herbal 2021 Sonoma trousseau gris from Jolie Laide , which came alive in the glass, and a graceful crunchy 2022 gamay from Ochota Barrels in the Adelaide Hills of Australia .

3209 West Armitage Avenue, 773-252-0997, giantrestaurant.com .

Follow New York Times Cooking on Instagram , Facebook , YouTube , TikTok and Pinterest . Get regular updates from New York Times Cooking, with recipe suggestions, cooking tips and shopping advice .

Eric Asimov , the chief wine critic of The Times since 2004, has been writing about wine, food and restaurants for more than 30 years. More about Eric Asimov

A Guide to Drinking Wine

Improve your experience with reds, whites and rosé with our tips and recommendations..

Wine can be a source of pleasure and conviviality, but it can also be intimidating. Learn the basics with this guide .

Adopting a more thoughtful approach to wine drinking will make it a deeper and richer experience. Here are four ways to achieve that .

For a glorious decade or two, red wine was lauded as good for the heart. Now, the drink has lost its health halo .

Thoughtful winemakers, motivated by environmental concerns, are turning to bag-in-box packaging. Here are 10 wines that are worth buying by the box .

The right glass can change how a particular wine smells and tastes. These are the models recommended by Wirecutter .

Should you chill red wine? The proper serving temperature depends on factors like the type of wine, the weather and personal taste .

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14 Awesome Stops on a Chicago to New Orleans Road Trip
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15 hours. Memphis Route. 980 miles. 13 hours and 30 minutes. Driving to Chicago from New Orleans takes around 15 hours and covers approximately 1,000 miles. Both the Nashville and Memphis routes are roughly the same, with the Memphis route being about 20 miles shorter, and just minutes quicker. The road trip to Chicago takes a full day of ...
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14 Awesome Stops on a Chicago to New Orleans Road Trip

Road Trip from Chicago to New Orleans

1. Chicago – your road trip begins!

Wintry things to do in Chicago – the video

2. 1950s Park Forest House Museum

3. Kankakee County Historical Museum

4. Krannert Art Museum

5. Springfield

6. Heartland Classics

7. Shawnee National Forest

8. Visit Nashville!

9. Chattanooga

Do you know the Chattanooga Choo Choo?

9. Blue Sky Vineyard

10. Johnny Cash’s Boyhood Home

11. Memphis

12. Graceland

13. Holmes County State Park

14. Oak Alley Plantation

15. New Orleans

FAQs about Chicago to New Orleans Road Trip

2. What is the distance between Chicago to New Orleans?

3. How long is the drive time from Chicago to New Orleans?

4. Which is the most visited stop from Chicago to New orleans road trip?

5. What are things to do in Chicago before going to New Orleans?

6. What are things to do in New Orleans?

7. Is there a scenic route from Chicago to New Orleans?

Apartments in New Orleans

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12 Essential Stops on Chicago to New Orleans road trip

Things to do in Chicago

Chicago to New Orleans via I-55

Springfield

New Orleans

Chicago to New Orleans via I-65 & I-20

Indianapolis

Things to do in New Orleans

39 Best Stops Between Chicago and New Orleans

How long is the drive from Chicago to New Orleans?

Top cities between Chicago and New Orleans

Track your travel spending and split costs with friends

Baton Rouge

Harrah's Joliet

Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum

City Museum

The Gateway Arch

Busch Stadium

Don’t forget to pack anything

Discovery Park of America

Horseshoe Tunica

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Rosedown Plantation State Historic Site

All related maps of New Orleans

New Orleans throughout the year

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Frequently Asked Questions

How far is New Orleans from Chicago by car?

How long does it take to drive from Chicago to New Orleans?

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The Ultimate Road Trip on Interstate 55: Drive Chicago to New Orleans

Table of Contents

Map of Interstate 55 (I-55)

Major Cities along I-55:

Jackson, Mississippi

La Place and New Orleans, Louisiana

Total Mileage from New Orleans to Chicago on I-55:

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