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Road trip from Chicago to Tampa
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ITINERARY
21h 37m1,166 miles15 stops
1
University of South Florida Botanical Gardens, Tampa
2
WestShore Plaza
3
Bayshore Boulevard
Home of the world's longest sidewalk.
4
Michigan Avenue Bridge
The view from the bridge is one of the best vistas the city has to offer.
5
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
6
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.
7
Tennessee State Museum
The Tennessee State Museum is located at the corner of Rosa L. Parks Blvd. and Jefferson Street at Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park. It is designed to bring history to life. It includes a “Tennessee Time Tunnel” chronicling the state’s rich history and leading visitors though the Museum’s permanent collection, a hands-on children’s gallery, six rotating galleries, a state-of-the art digital learning center and a two-story Grand Hall. Exhibitions include significant artifacts related to the state’s history, along with displays of art, furniture, textiles, and photographs produced by Tennesseans. The Museum's Civil War holdings of uniforms, battle flags and weapons are among the finest in the nation.There is no admission charge for visitors. Hours are subject to change. Please check our website at tnmuseum.org for the most up to date information on parking, exhibitions and events.
8
Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park
This 19 acre park in the heart of Nashville serves as a monument to the bicentennial celebration of the State of Tennessee. This park offers plenty of opportunities to learn about the long history of Tennessee while having a great experience in a beautiful green space. More information on this park and many more can be found at the TN State Parks website.
9
Lane Motor Museum
Lane Motor Museum in Nashville features the largest European collection of cars and motorcycles in the United States. Admission for adults aged 18-64 is $15; Admission for Youths aged 6-17 is $3; Admission for seniors 65+ is $10; Children under 5 are always free. There is plenty of FREE parking.
10
River Gallery
Craft and art collections.
11
The Spice & Tea Exchange of Chattanooga
Come In and Smell the Spices! The Spice & Tea Exchange® offers food lovers, chefs, and tea enthusiasts a unique shopping experience filled with culinary delights. Explore your inner chef and shop over 140 fine spices, 75+ hand-mixed seasoning blends, sugars, salts, loose-leaf teas, and accessories. Create your own gourmet gift, or choose from a variety of gift boxes and recipe samplers!
12
Johnny's Hideaway
13
Ponce City Market
14
State Farm Arena
Philips Arena, named for founding partner Philips Electronics and home of the NHL’s Atlanta Thrashers, NBA’s Atlanta Hawks and WNBA's Atlanta Dream, has hosted many top tours and events including: U2, Rolling Stones, Paul McCartney, Bruce Springsteen, Kenny Chesney, Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey, Disney On Ice, Harlem Globetrotters, Sesame Street Live and so many more!
15
Underground Atlanta
Known as “the city beneath the city,” Underground Atlanta has been the cultural heart of Downtown Atlanta since the 1900s. From basement speakeasies to the annual Peach Drop (where an 800-pound peach is dropped from the top of a building to ring in the new year), this arts, entertainment, and retail district has seen it all. Today, Underground Atlanta offers a multifaceted cultural experience featuring a virtual reality gallery, music clubs, and restaurants. travelers can also enjoy outdoor concerts, festivals, artisan markets, and more. This vibrant hub is conveniently connected to the Five Points train station, and just a short stroll from the scenic Broad Street Boardwalk. – Tripadvisor
Customize this Trip
OVERVIEW
Prepare for an unforgettable adventure from the bustling metropolis of Chicago to the sun-kissed shores of Tampa! Along the way, immerse yourself in diverse landscapes, vibrant cities, and historical landmarks. Travel through the heart of the Midwest, marveling at rolling countryside and charming towns. As you approach the Gulf Coast, feel the warm embrace of the sun and the allure of sandy beaches.
Discover the rich tapestry of America's heartland, where history unfolds in every corner. Explore iconic cities like St. Louis, home to the iconic Gateway Arch, and Nashville, where music fills the streets. Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Memphis, known for its legendary barbecue and musical heritage. Along the mighty Mississippi River, witness the grandeur of nature and the stories it whispers.
As you journey southward, the landscape transforms into a vibrant canvas of coastal beauty. Traverse lush forests, where towering trees create a verdant canopy. Delight in the charm of small towns, where friendly locals welcome you with open arms. Embrace the serenity of the Gulf Coast, where white-sand beaches stretch for miles and the gentle rhythm of waves invites relaxation. From the bustling streets of Chicago to the tranquil shores of Tampa, this adventure promises a symphony of experiences that will create memories to cherish for a lifetime.
1
Start:University of South Florida Botanical Gardens, Tampa
Tampa, Florida·
3.5
(98) review
4202 E Fowler Ave, Tampa, FL 33620-5150
2
Start:WestShore Plaza
Tampa, Florida·
4.0
(99) review
250 WestShore Plaza, Tampa, FL 33609-1918
3
Start:Bayshore Boulevard
Tampa, Florida·
4.5
(972) review
Home of the world's longest sidewalk.
4
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.
5
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
6
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.
7
Start:Tennessee State Museum
Nashville, Davidson County, Tennessee·
4.5
(997) review
The Tennessee State Museum is located at the corner of Rosa L. Parks Blvd. and Jefferson Street at Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park. It is designed to bring history to life. It includes a “Tennessee Time Tunnel” chronicling the state’s rich history and leading visitors though the Museum’s permanent collection, a hands-on children’s gallery, six rotating galleries, a state-of-the art digital learning center and a two-story Grand Hall. Exhibitions include significant artifacts related to the state’s history, along with displays of art, furniture, textiles, and photographs produced by Tennesseans. The Museum's Civil War holdings of uniforms, battle flags and weapons are among the finest in the nation.There is no admission charge for visitors. Hours are subject to change. Please check our website at tnmuseum.org for the most up to date information on parking, exhibitions and events.
8
Start:Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park
Nashville, Davidson County, Tennessee·
4.5
(969) review
This 19 acre park in the heart of Nashville serves as a monument to the bicentennial celebration of the State of Tennessee. This park offers plenty of opportunities to learn about the long history of Tennessee while having a great experience in a beautiful green space. More information on this park and many more can be found at the TN State Parks website.
9
Start:Lane Motor Museum
Nashville, Davidson County, Tennessee·
4.5
(971) review
Lane Motor Museum in Nashville features the largest European collection of cars and motorcycles in the United States. Admission for adults aged 18-64 is $15; Admission for Youths aged 6-17 is $3; Admission for seniors 65+ is $10; Children under 5 are always free. There is plenty of FREE parking.
10
Start:River Gallery
Chattanooga, Tennessee·
4.5
(98) review
Craft and art collections.
11
Start:The Spice & Tea Exchange of Chattanooga
Chattanooga, Tennessee·
5.0
(92) review
Come In and Smell the Spices! The Spice & Tea Exchange® offers food lovers, chefs, and tea enthusiasts a unique shopping experience filled with culinary delights. Explore your inner chef and shop over 140 fine spices, 75+ hand-mixed seasoning blends, sugars, salts, loose-leaf teas, and accessories. Create your own gourmet gift, or choose from a variety of gift boxes and recipe samplers!
12
Start:Johnny's Hideaway
Atlanta, Georgia·
3.5
(95) review
3771 Roswell Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30342-4414
13
Start:Ponce City Market
Atlanta, Georgia·
4.5
(992) review
675 Ponce de Leon Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30308-1884
14
Start:State Farm Arena
Atlanta, Georgia·
4.5
(912) review
Philips Arena, named for founding partner Philips Electronics and home of the NHL’s Atlanta Thrashers, NBA’s Atlanta Hawks and WNBA's Atlanta Dream, has hosted many top tours and events including: U2, Rolling Stones, Paul McCartney, Bruce Springsteen, Kenny Chesney, Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey, Disney On Ice, Harlem Globetrotters, Sesame Street Live and so many more!
15
Start:Underground Atlanta
Atlanta, Georgia·
2.0
(976) review
Known as “the city beneath the city,” Underground Atlanta has been the cultural heart of Downtown Atlanta since the 1900s. From basement speakeasies to the annual Peach Drop (where an 800-pound peach is dropped from the top of a building to ring in the new year), this arts, entertainment, and retail district has seen it all. Today, Underground Atlanta offers a multifaceted cultural experience featuring a virtual reality gallery, music clubs, and restaurants. travelers can also enjoy outdoor concerts, festivals, artisan markets, and more. This vibrant hub is conveniently connected to the Five Points train station, and just a short stroll from the scenic Broad Street Boardwalk. – Tripadvisor
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
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Frequently Asked Questions
What's the driving distance between Chicago and Tampa?
The distance is 1,166 miles
What's the travel time between Chicago and Tampa?
The driving time can vary depending on traffic conditions, but it is typically 21h 37m mins in normal traffic
What are some of the best cities to visit between Chicago and Tampa?
Some popular stops include
Are there any cool sights or attractions I shouldn't miss on my drive to Tampa?
There are plenty! Here are some stops you shouldn’t miss on your way to Tampa
What’s the weather like in Tampa?
The weather in Tampa is generally mild year-round, with warm, dry summers and cool, wet winters. See the links below for more information
Weather in Tampa in January
Weather in Tampa in February
Weather in Tampa in March
Weather in Tampa in April
Weather in Tampa in May
Weather in Tampa in June
Weather in Tampa in July
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Weather in Tampa in September
Weather in Tampa in October
Weather in Tampa in November
Weather in Tampa in December
Interested in a detailed plan for your time in Tampa?
Plan your dream Tampa trip with our daily itineraries featuring must-see attractions! See them here!
A 1-day itinerary in Tampa
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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
