DC to Chicago

[Bobcat]

Hi everyone!
I'm heading to Chicago from DC in about 2 weeks time with my girlfriend and I was wondering whether there are any cool places to stop by on the way there. Neither of us have seen much of the country in between the two cities (we usually fly) so if you know of anything either: (1) of historical interest, (2) romantic, or (3) just plain fun - to do on the way, I would appreciate you letting me know.
Many thanks!

[Mark Sedenquist]

I'm heading to Chicago from DC in about 2 weeks time with my girlfriend and I was wondering whether there are any cool places to stop by on the way there.

Welcome to the Great American RoadTrip Forum! What route were you planning to use? There are hundreds of such places and so it be helpful if we knew what highways you are considering and how long are you allowing for the roadtrip?

Mark

[Bobcat]

Thanks for responding!
We're pretty open and can allocate up to 2 or 3 days for the trip. We were thinking of heading up through Pennsylvania, the west across Ohio and Indiana. So in terms of highways, I guess I-70, I-76, I-80 and I-90 - which is just the most direct route that I found online. But we'd be open to trying a slightly different route if there's cool stuff to see.

[AZBuck]

For a route that is 1) historic, 2) romantic and 3) fun, I'd suggest following the general track of the old National Road. In the East, it is roughly US-40 and some of the historic venues along it are Fort Frederick (if you stop here, be sure to also drive down to the old canal along the Potomac and hike along it for a while - very pretty and romantic), Fort Necessity, and others. There are many state and local web sites regarding the National Road, so be sure to do a thorough search to see what's available. Also US-40 through western Maryland and southwestern Pennsylvania is just a lovely road, but parallels I-70 for those times when you fell you need to travel a bit faster. But with three days you can afford to take a somewhat relaxed approach to your drive to Chicago.

Once into Ohio, you'll have to head more northwest across the farmlands of the Midwest. From Wheeling, you might have a look at US-250, OH-39, and OH-97 as a possibility for a back road alternative to the Interstates. This route is dotted with state parks and local historical societies that you can stop at as the mood strikes.

Have a great trip.

AZBuck

[RoadDog]

Along America's North Coast, between Cleveland and Toledo, in Ohio, is an island in Lake Erie referred to as Put-in-Bay (actually on South Bass Island). If you're looking for a party like in Key West, this would be the place. The magnificent Perry Peace Monument is there as well. It commemorates the War of 1812's Battle of Lake Erie which took place nearby. "We have met the enemy, and they are ours."

Also, in Toledo, you have to stop at the original Tony Packo's for a hotdog like you've never had. This place was featured on two MASH episodes.

Keep on Down that Two Lane Highway. --RoadDog

[Mark Sedenquist]

Along America's North Coast, between Cleveland and Toledo, in Ohio,

RoadDog, thanks for more local intel -- how was the England caper?

Mark