By Huuk Team
Share Your Trip
Excited about your upcoming trip? Share the adventure with your friends!
Road trip from Chicago to Gastonia
All Category
Museums
Outdoor Activities
Sights & Landmarks
Shopping
Food & Drink
Nature & Parks
NightlifeShow more (1+)
All Category
MuseumsOutdoor ActivitiesSights & LandmarksShoppingFood & DrinkNature & ParksNightlifeReset
Show less
ITINERARY
14h 11m724 miles24 stops
1
Michigan Avenue Bridge
The view from the bridge is one of the best vistas the city has to offer.
2
Boystown
Located in Chicago's North Side, this vibrant neighborhood is known for its exciting nightlife and for being one of the largest LGBTQIA+ communities in the city. It's the host of the annual Chicago Pride Parade, and a must-see in the area is the Legacy Walk on Halsted Street, where you can learn about the contributions of the LGBTQIA+ community while admiring the colorful street art and rainbow crosswalks. Check out the unique shops and then grab a bite at one of the area's delicious Thai or Mexican restaurants. At night, visit one of the neighborhood's bars to enjoy a drag show, concert, and tasty cocktail. Consider taking a food or walking tour of Chicago that stops by Boystown. – Tripadvisor
3
Wrigley Field
Get a behind-the-scenes look at the legendary home of the Chicago Cubs with Wrigley Field Tours. Built in 1914, this must-see Chicago attraction houses more than 100 years of history. New this year, fans can join us on a non-gameday Ivy Tour which includes the opportunity to take a photo in front of Wrigley Field’s historic ivy wall.
4
Angel's Envy Distillery
Built in the heart of Louisville, the ANGEL’S ENVY Distillery is downtown’s first fully operational whiskey production facility. Co-founded in 2010 by the late Master Distiller Lincoln Henderson, ANGEL’S ENVY began as a passion project that combined their family’s deep-rooted passion for and knowledge of the industry with an innovative outlook on bourbon making and finishing. ANGEL’S ENVY opened the doors in 2016 and puts you in the center of our distilling process for a unique tour experience.
5
Lexington Brewing & Distilling Co.
The first era of the Lexington Brewing Co. began in the 1890s and came to a halt during Prohibition, changing ownership several times in the decades that followed. By the time Pearse Lyons and his son, Mark, explored the brewery in 1999, it was a dilapidated shell of what it had once been. However, Pearse was a visionary and entrepreneur and saw only what it could be. Spurred by a passion for brewing and distilling that courses through the Lyons family lineage of Irish coopers, Pearse revived Lexington Brewing Co. and restored a craft beer tradition that dates back to the 1700s. Pearse continued to dream big as he set his sights on distilling — a natural progression given his background in fermentation, his family’s heritage and Kentucky’s bourbon tradition. Two copper pot stills that were commissioned from Scotland arrived at Lexington Brewing Co. in 2008. In 2012, Town Branch Distillery opened, first new distillery to be built in Lexington, Kentucky, in more than 100 yrs.
6
Fayette Mall
Fayette Mall is located at the intersection of Nicholasville Road and Reynolds Road. The mall is central Kentucky’s premier shopping destination with over 170 retailer and dining options including The Disney Store, H&M, Michael Kors, Sephora and The Cheesecake Factory. Fayette Mall also features a children’s play area located in Center Court. Mobile device charging stations can be found in the Food Court. WiFi is available at Starbucks, Dillard’s and Dick’s Sporting Goods. Customer Service Center is located inside the front entrance next to P.F. Chang’s. Visit shopfayette-mall.com for more information including a complete list of retailers, restaurants, entertainment options and a mall map.
7
Waveland State Historic Site
Experience 19th century plantation life at this historic compound where you can tour the mansion or "big house," see quarters where slaves lived, visit a smokehouse and other elements of daily life in the Old South.
8
House Mountain State Natural Area
9
Savage Garden
10
Cottage Door Antiques & Gifts
11
Muse Knoxville
Muse Knoxville is a children’s Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, & Math (STEAM) museum located in Chilhowee Park. Our programs in the museum, in schools across East Tennessee, & throughout Knoxville bring STEM, the arts, health & wellness, & emergent literacy to life in the minds of children. We inspire & empower ALL children through transformative learning experiences through a variety of hands-on and inquiry-based, exhibits and Outreach programs for children aged 6 mos. to 10 y/o. *Museum Play - Indoor educational learning & play spaces, a full-dome planetarium, outdoor learning spaces & a playground! *Field Trips - Bring your class, homeschool, daycare or youth group for a day of fun! *Parties/Events - Choose from a variety of packages to celebrate your special day with us. *Planetarium - We house East Tennessee's only public-access planetarium with shows that rotate every hour!
12
Knoxville Botanical Garden
13
Peter Kern Library
Hidden inside the historic Kern Building, behind The Oliver Hotel lobby, is Knoxville’s one and only speakeasy, The Peter Kern Library. Once a well-kept secret, the bar is now a beloved institution. The dark wood, fireplace, rows of books, and cocktails named after literary characters create a warm and cozy atmosphere where time seems to stop.
14
CSA II's Rebel Corner
CSA II®'s Rebel Corner is an Online American Heritage Preservation Retailer featuring many areas of American History and Heritage, especially the Wartime Period of 1861-1865, commonly referred to as The War For Southern Independence or The War Between The States!! We offer a wide variety of options and do special orders as well!! Please feel free to visit us at our website for some of the best deals around!!
15
Grove Arcade
Grove Arcade is a beautifully preserved historical building in the heart of Downtown Asheville that represents the heart and character of the town. It’s rich history and ornate architecture combined with its eclectic mix of shops and restaurants offer patrons a full-day immersion into Asheville lifestyle and culture.
16
Lexington Glassworks
Lexington Glassworks, located in the heart of downtown Asheville, NC, was born out of the desire to create timeless and innovative hand-blown glass. Each piece is skillfully crafted using century-old techniques with the singular goal of creating top-notch work. The gallery features high-quality custom lighting and handmade glass for any budget. Lexington Glassworks is a makers studio where the public is invited to view the artists at work.
17
Greenville Zoo
18
Roper Mountain Science Center
Roper Mountain Science Center’s mission is to ignite the natural curiosity of all learners to explore and shape their world. Located just off of I-385 at Roper Mountain Road, Roper Mountain contains an array of state-of-the-art educational facilities on its 62-acre campus. Visitors experience the latest in STEM education through interactive exhibits and several hands-on activities. Families can attend numerous events throughout the year including Friday Starry Nights, Summer Adventure and Afterschool Explorations. Roper Mountain provides the opportunity to explore, imagine and grow as a learner of any age. Roper Mountain Science Center is only open to the public for select events throughout the yearFor more information, visit RoperMountain.org.
19
Oakwood Cemetary
20
Wooden Robot Brewery
21
Sycamore Brewing
A small family owned brewery featuring an inviting taproom and beer garden. Serving a large selection of fresh craft beer brewed on-site as well as wine. Located directly on the light rail trail (Blue Line) a short walk from the East West stop.
22
Sugar Creek Brewing Company
Sugar Creek Brewing Co. Bringing Belgian-inspired beer to the Carolinas and beyond, Sugar Creek Brewing Company combines the watchful eye of a Trappist Monk with the technical precision of nuclear engineering to craft fresh, full-flavored beers that are immensely satisfying and intensely drinkable. Using unique combinations of aromatic yeast strains, domestic and imported hops and award-winning malt varietys, Sugar Creek infuses traditional recipes with modern tastes and techniques to create beer that nourishes both mind and body. Sugar Creek Tap Room Mon-Wed: 4pm - 9pm Thursday: 4pm - 10pm Friday: 2pm - 10pm Saturday: 11am- 10pm Sunday: 12pm - 8pm Tighten the ropes and raise the sails, the Sugar Creek Brewing Co. Tap room is where your exploration begins! We have constructed a large taproom and private event room and staffed it with kind, courteous and knowledgeable beertenders. On tap you will find all of our year-round beers as well as seasonal and small-batch releases. Beers are available by the glass, 4 oz. Tasting flights, and growler fills via our Pegas CrafTap growler filler. The taproom is open for exploration seven days a week! Sugar Creek Private Event Room Adjacent to our taproom is our 1700 sqft private event room, complete with a private outdoor patio, private bar, and overhead projector. Private events are available seven days a week, for parties as small as 15 people. In addition to offering a full range of our favorite beers, Sugar Creek is happy to provide food services or accommodate outside catering.
23
The Sleepy Poet Antiques Mall
24
Bojangles' Coliseum
Located in Charlotte, NC - Since 1955, Bojangles' Coliseum has hosted concerts, family shows, conferences, sports events, and Charlotte Checkers hockey.
Customize this Trip
OVERVIEW
Get ready for an epic adventure that will take you from the bustling streets of Chicago to the charming town of Gastonia! We'll travel through a diverse landscape, from towering skyscrapers and sparkling shores to rolling hills and vast farmlands. Along the way, we'll encounter a kaleidoscope of cultures, traditions, and stories that will paint a vibrant tapestry of our journey. Our adventure will be a testament to the boundless wonders that await us when we embrace the open road and embark on a journey of discovery.
As we leave the Windy City behind, we'll follow the winding path of the mighty Mississippi River, a witness to the birth of our nation and the cradle of countless civilizations. We'll traverse the rolling plains of the Midwest, where endless fields of corn and soybeans sway gently in the breeze. The air will be alive with the sound of crickets and the sweet scent of wildflowers, creating a symphony of nature's beauty. As we continue our journey southward, we'll encounter the vibrant heartland of America, where small towns and bustling cities seamlessly blend.
We'll marvel at the architectural wonders of metropolises like St. Louis and Memphis, where towering skyscrapers reach for the heavens and historic buildings whisper tales of a bygone era. We'll delve into the rich musical heritage of the Deep South, where the soulful melodies of blues and country music fill the air. And as we approach our destination in Gastonia, we'll be greeted by the warm hospitality and southern charm that are synonymous with this welcoming community. Our journey from Chicago to Gastonia will be a journey of discovery, a celebration of diversity, and a testament to the indomitable spirit of exploration that resides within us all.
1
Start:Michigan Avenue Bridge
Chicago, Illinois·
4.5
(985) review
The view from the bridge is one of the best vistas the city has to offer.
2
Start:Boystown
Chicago, Illinois·
4.5
(98) review
Located in Chicago's North Side, this vibrant neighborhood is known for its exciting nightlife and for being one of the largest LGBTQIA+ communities in the city. It's the host of the annual Chicago Pride Parade, and a must-see in the area is the Legacy Walk on Halsted Street, where you can learn about the contributions of the LGBTQIA+ community while admiring the colorful street art and rainbow crosswalks. Check out the unique shops and then grab a bite at one of the area's delicious Thai or Mexican restaurants. At night, visit one of the neighborhood's bars to enjoy a drag show, concert, and tasty cocktail. Consider taking a food or walking tour of Chicago that stops by Boystown. – Tripadvisor
3
Start:Wrigley Field
Chicago, Illinois·
4.5
(9953) review
Get a behind-the-scenes look at the legendary home of the Chicago Cubs with Wrigley Field Tours. Built in 1914, this must-see Chicago attraction houses more than 100 years of history. New this year, fans can join us on a non-gameday Ivy Tour which includes the opportunity to take a photo in front of Wrigley Field’s historic ivy wall.
4
Start:Angel's Envy Distillery
Louisville, Kentucky·
4.5
(967) review
Built in the heart of Louisville, the ANGEL’S ENVY Distillery is downtown’s first fully operational whiskey production facility. Co-founded in 2010 by the late Master Distiller Lincoln Henderson, ANGEL’S ENVY began as a passion project that combined their family’s deep-rooted passion for and knowledge of the industry with an innovative outlook on bourbon making and finishing. ANGEL’S ENVY opened the doors in 2016 and puts you in the center of our distilling process for a unique tour experience.
5
Start:Lexington Brewing & Distilling Co.
Lexington, Kentucky·
4.5
(984) review
The first era of the Lexington Brewing Co. began in the 1890s and came to a halt during Prohibition, changing ownership several times in the decades that followed. By the time Pearse Lyons and his son, Mark, explored the brewery in 1999, it was a dilapidated shell of what it had once been. However, Pearse was a visionary and entrepreneur and saw only what it could be. Spurred by a passion for brewing and distilling that courses through the Lyons family lineage of Irish coopers, Pearse revived Lexington Brewing Co. and restored a craft beer tradition that dates back to the 1700s. Pearse continued to dream big as he set his sights on distilling — a natural progression given his background in fermentation, his family’s heritage and Kentucky’s bourbon tradition. Two copper pot stills that were commissioned from Scotland arrived at Lexington Brewing Co. in 2008. In 2012, Town Branch Distillery opened, first new distillery to be built in Lexington, Kentucky, in more than 100 yrs.
6
Start:Fayette Mall
Lexington, Kentucky·
4.5
(91) review
Fayette Mall is located at the intersection of Nicholasville Road and Reynolds Road. The mall is central Kentucky’s premier shopping destination with over 170 retailer and dining options including The Disney Store, H&M, Michael Kors, Sephora and The Cheesecake Factory. Fayette Mall also features a children’s play area located in Center Court. Mobile device charging stations can be found in the Food Court. WiFi is available at Starbucks, Dillard’s and Dick’s Sporting Goods. Customer Service Center is located inside the front entrance next to P.F. Chang’s. Visit shopfayette-mall.com for more information including a complete list of retailers, restaurants, entertainment options and a mall map.
7
Start:Waveland State Historic Site
Lexington, Kentucky·
4.5
(97) review
Experience 19th century plantation life at this historic compound where you can tour the mansion or "big house," see quarters where slaves lived, visit a smokehouse and other elements of daily life in the Old South.
8
Start:House Mountain State Natural Area
Knoxville, Tennessee·
4.5
(135) review
9601 Hogskin Road, Knoxville, TN
9
Start:Savage Garden
Knoxville, Tennessee·
4.5
(3) review
3237 Garden Dr, Knoxville, TN 37918-3319
10
Start:Cottage Door Antiques & Gifts
Knoxville, Tennessee·
4.0
(2) review
4901 Tazewell Pike, Knoxville, TN 37918-9287
11
Start:Muse Knoxville
Knoxville, Tennessee·
4.0
(91) review
Muse Knoxville is a children’s Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, & Math (STEAM) museum located in Chilhowee Park. Our programs in the museum, in schools across East Tennessee, & throughout Knoxville bring STEM, the arts, health & wellness, & emergent literacy to life in the minds of children. We inspire & empower ALL children through transformative learning experiences through a variety of hands-on and inquiry-based, exhibits and Outreach programs for children aged 6 mos. to 10 y/o. *Museum Play - Indoor educational learning & play spaces, a full-dome planetarium, outdoor learning spaces & a playground! *Field Trips - Bring your class, homeschool, daycare or youth group for a day of fun! *Parties/Events - Choose from a variety of packages to celebrate your special day with us. *Planetarium - We house East Tennessee's only public-access planetarium with shows that rotate every hour!
12
Start:Knoxville Botanical Garden
Knoxville, Tennessee·
3.5
(97) review
2743 Wimpole Ave, Knoxville, TN 37914-5958
13
Start:Peter Kern Library
Knoxville, Tennessee·
4.0
(99) review
Hidden inside the historic Kern Building, behind The Oliver Hotel lobby, is Knoxville’s one and only speakeasy, The Peter Kern Library. Once a well-kept secret, the bar is now a beloved institution. The dark wood, fireplace, rows of books, and cocktails named after literary characters create a warm and cozy atmosphere where time seems to stop.
14
Start:CSA II's Rebel Corner
Tallahassee, Florida·
5.0
(2) review
CSA II®'s Rebel Corner is an Online American Heritage Preservation Retailer featuring many areas of American History and Heritage, especially the Wartime Period of 1861-1865, commonly referred to as The War For Southern Independence or The War Between The States!! We offer a wide variety of options and do special orders as well!! Please feel free to visit us at our website for some of the best deals around!!
15
Start:Grove Arcade
Asheville, North Carolina·
4.0
(987) review
Grove Arcade is a beautifully preserved historical building in the heart of Downtown Asheville that represents the heart and character of the town. It’s rich history and ornate architecture combined with its eclectic mix of shops and restaurants offer patrons a full-day immersion into Asheville lifestyle and culture.
16
Start:Lexington Glassworks
Asheville, North Carolina·
4.5
(983) review
Lexington Glassworks, located in the heart of downtown Asheville, NC, was born out of the desire to create timeless and innovative hand-blown glass. Each piece is skillfully crafted using century-old techniques with the singular goal of creating top-notch work. The gallery features high-quality custom lighting and handmade glass for any budget. Lexington Glassworks is a makers studio where the public is invited to view the artists at work.
17
Start:Greenville Zoo
Greenville, South Carolina·
4.0
(996) review
150 Cleveland Park Dr, Greenville, SC 29601-3147
18
Start:Roper Mountain Science Center
Greenville, South Carolina·
4.5
(90) review
Roper Mountain Science Center’s mission is to ignite the natural curiosity of all learners to explore and shape their world. Located just off of I-385 at Roper Mountain Road, Roper Mountain contains an array of state-of-the-art educational facilities on its 62-acre campus. Visitors experience the latest in STEM education through interactive exhibits and several hands-on activities. Families can attend numerous events throughout the year including Friday Starry Nights, Summer Adventure and Afterschool Explorations. Roper Mountain provides the opportunity to explore, imagine and grow as a learner of any age. Roper Mountain Science Center is only open to the public for select events throughout the yearFor more information, visit RoperMountain.org.
19
Start:Oakwood Cemetary
Spartanburg, South Carolina·
4.5
(9) review
182 Oakwood Ave, Spartanburg, SC 29302-1602
20
Start:Wooden Robot Brewery
Charlotte, North Carolina·
4.5
(97) review
1440 S Tryon St Suite 110, Charlotte, NC 28203-4262
21
Start:Sycamore Brewing
Charlotte, North Carolina·
4.0
(93) review
A small family owned brewery featuring an inviting taproom and beer garden. Serving a large selection of fresh craft beer brewed on-site as well as wine. Located directly on the light rail trail (Blue Line) a short walk from the East West stop.
22
Start:Sugar Creek Brewing Company
Charlotte, North Carolina·
4.5
(98) review
Sugar Creek Brewing Co. Bringing Belgian-inspired beer to the Carolinas and beyond, Sugar Creek Brewing Company combines the watchful eye of a Trappist Monk with the technical precision of nuclear engineering to craft fresh, full-flavored beers that are immensely satisfying and intensely drinkable. Using unique combinations of aromatic yeast strains, domestic and imported hops and award-winning malt varietys, Sugar Creek infuses traditional recipes with modern tastes and techniques to create beer that nourishes both mind and body. Sugar Creek Tap Room Mon-Wed: 4pm - 9pm Thursday: 4pm - 10pm Friday: 2pm - 10pm Saturday: 11am- 10pm Sunday: 12pm - 8pm Tighten the ropes and raise the sails, the Sugar Creek Brewing Co. Tap room is where your exploration begins! We have constructed a large taproom and private event room and staffed it with kind, courteous and knowledgeable beertenders. On tap you will find all of our year-round beers as well as seasonal and small-batch releases. Beers are available by the glass, 4 oz. Tasting flights, and growler fills via our Pegas CrafTap growler filler. The taproom is open for exploration seven days a week! Sugar Creek Private Event Room Adjacent to our taproom is our 1700 sqft private event room, complete with a private outdoor patio, private bar, and overhead projector. Private events are available seven days a week, for parties as small as 15 people. In addition to offering a full range of our favorite beers, Sugar Creek is happy to provide food services or accommodate outside catering.
23
Start:The Sleepy Poet Antiques Mall
Charlotte, North Carolina·
4.5
(93) review
4450 South Blvd, Charlotte, NC 28209-2673
24
Start:Bojangles' Coliseum
Charlotte, North Carolina·
4.0
(98) review
Located in Charlotte, NC - Since 1955, Bojangles' Coliseum has hosted concerts, family shows, conferences, sports events, and Charlotte Checkers hockey.
CHECKLIST
GPS device or app
Download Offline Map
Car charger and portable battery
Water bottles and snacks
Travel pillow and blanket
Sunglasses and sunscreen
First-aid kit
Trash bags
Hand sanitizer and wet wipes
Driver’s license and vehicle registration
Cash and cards
Camera or smartphone
Unlock Effortless Travel Planning
Create your dream trip in minutes by this prompt. Try now!
EXPLORE MORE
Discover Exciting Road Trip Inspirations
Chicago to Philadelphia
758 miles
14h 3m
20 stops
MuseumsFood & Drink
ToursSights & LandmarksShoppingChicago to San Jose
2,167 miles
37h 30m
26 stops
Sights & LandmarksNature & ParksOutdoor ActivitiesTours
Water & Amusement ParksChicago to Columbus
355 miles
6h 49m
19 stops
Sights & LandmarksToursWater & Amusement Parks
Fun & Games
Spas & WellnessChicago to San Francisco
2,135 miles
36h 54m
27 stops
Sights & LandmarksNature & ParksFood & DrinkToursWater & Amusement ParksChicago to Seattle
2,055 miles
36h 4m
16 stops
Sights & Landmarks
OtherNature & ParksMuseumsFun & GamesChicago to Denver
1,002 miles
17h 42m
13 stops
Food & DrinkSpas & WellnessOtherShoppingToursEXPLORE OTHER
Check Out Different Road Trip Options
Dallas to Frisco
28 miles
0h 40m
29 stops
Shopping
Concerts & ShowsSights & LandmarksMuseumsSpas & WellnessNew York to Boston
213 miles
4h 38m
16 stops
Fun & GamesConcerts & ShowsNightlifeNature & ParksSights & LandmarksWashington DC to Los Angeles
2,685 miles
47h 35m
26 stops
Nature & ParksWater & Amusement ParksOutdoor ActivitiesMuseumsToursNew York to Boston
213 miles
4h 38m
23 stops
Fun & GamesNightlifeSights & LandmarksNature & ParksFood & DrinkKissimmee to Winston-Salem
617 miles
11h 39m
24 stops
Sights & LandmarksOtherShoppingOutdoor ActivitiesFun & GamesFayetteville to Lexington
646 miles
12h 40m
15 stops
Concerts & ShowsShoppingNature & ParksFun & GamesNightlifeFAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the driving distance between Chicago and Gastonia?
The distance is 724 miles
What's the travel time between Chicago and Gastonia?
The driving time can vary depending on traffic conditions, but it is typically 14h 11m mins in normal traffic
What are some of the best cities to visit between Chicago and Gastonia?
Some popular stops include
Are there any cool sights or attractions I shouldn't miss on my drive to Gastonia?
There are plenty! Here are some stops you shouldn’t miss on your way to Gastonia
What’s the weather like in Gastonia?
The weather in Gastonia is generally mild year-round, with warm, dry summers and cool, wet winters. See the links below for more information
Weather in Gastonia in January
Weather in Gastonia in February
Weather in Gastonia in March
Weather in Gastonia in April
Weather in Gastonia in May
Weather in Gastonia in June
Weather in Gastonia in July
Weather in Gastonia in August
Weather in Gastonia in September
Weather in Gastonia in October
Weather in Gastonia in November
Weather in Gastonia in December
Interested in a detailed plan for your time in Gastonia?
Plan your dream Gastonia trip with our daily itineraries featuring must-see attractions! See them here!
A 1-day itinerary in Gastonia
A 2-day itinerary in Gastonia
A 3-day itinerary in Gastonia
A 4-day itinerary in Gastonia
A 5-day itinerary in Gastonia
A 6-day itinerary in Gastonia
Where else can I travel to if I'm starting my trip in Chicago?
We have a lot of great trip options for Chicago! See the links below for all the itineraries we created for you
