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Road trip from Chicago to Waco
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ITINERARY
18h 56m1,017 miles17 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
Peoria PlayHouse Children's Museum
The Peoria PlayHouse Children's Museum provides children with the tools and inspiration they need to be explorers and creators of the world. We do this in part through understanding, supporting, and promoting play in the fullest sense of the word, one that includes imagination and creativity.
5
Galloway Creek Greenway
6
Springfield Art Museum
7
Route 66 Car Museum
8
Port City Raceway
9
Tulsa Raceway Park
10
Tam Bao Buddist Temple
11
BOK Center
12
Vintage Sewing Center And Museum
13
PanIQ Room Dallas
14
Central Market
15
Waco Hippodrome Theatre
The Historic Waco Hippodrome Theatre is back! Come enjoy delicious food and refreshing drinks as you sit back, relax, and watch your favorite films, live music, and performing arts. First opening on February 7, 1914, The Waco Hippodrome Theatre is a landmark in entertainment for the Waco community. After some tender-loving renovations, the Waco Hippodrome Theatre is open and busier than ever! Our dining room and bar/lounge area are open Mon-Fri for lunch and dinner, and we open at 10:00 am on Saturdays and Sundays to serve the best brunch in Downtown Waco.
16
The Texas Collection
Established in 1923, The Texas Collection is a special library, archival research center, and the University Archive that collects, preserves, and provides access to materials documenting the history, heritage and culture of Texas for the Baylor community and the public.
17
Little Shop on Bosque
The Little Shop on Bosque is the original home of Magnolia Market and offers last chance and slightly damaged items at a discount. The shop is stocked with everything from florals to vases, apparel to gifts, and so much more. *Please note that all sales at our Little Shop on Bosque are final. You cannot receive a replacement or refund on any sales.
Customize this Trip
OVERVIEW
Get ready for an exciting adventure filled with fun and learning as we embark on a journey from the bustling city of Chicago to the heart of Texas, Waco! Along the way, we'll pass through diverse landscapes, visit fascinating places, and make memories that will last a lifetime.
From the towering skyscrapers and vibrant culture of Chicago, we'll head south through the rolling hills and charming towns of the Midwest. As we cross the Mississippi River, we'll enter the vast and beautiful state of Missouri, where we can explore its Ozark Mountains and learn about its rich history. Continuing our journey, we'll make our way through the vibrant cities of Arkansas and Louisiana, each with their own unique character and attractions.
Finally, we'll arrive in Waco, a city brimming with history, culture, and outdoor adventures. We'll have the chance to visit the iconic Magnolia Market at the Silos, explore the wonders of the Dr Pepper Museum, and learn about the fascinating story of the Texas Rangers. Whether you're interested in history, art, nature, or simply experiencing the warmth and hospitality of the Lone Star State, this trip has something for everyone. Pack your bags, get ready to discover new places, and create memories that will last a lifetime!
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:Peoria PlayHouse Children's Museum
Peoria, Illinois·
4.5
(84) review
The Peoria PlayHouse Children's Museum provides children with the tools and inspiration they need to be explorers and creators of the world. We do this in part through understanding, supporting, and promoting play in the fullest sense of the word, one that includes imagination and creativity.
5
Start:Galloway Creek Greenway
Springfield, Missouri·
5.0
(9) review
2120 S Ventura Ave Pershing Middle School, Springfield, MO 65804-2718
6
Start:Springfield Art Museum
Springfield, Missouri·
4.5
(99) review
1111 E Brookside Dr, Springfield, MO 65807-1899
7
Start:Route 66 Car Museum
Springfield, Missouri·
4.5
(95) review
1634 W College St, Springfield, MO 65806-1614
8
Start:Port City Raceway
Tulsa, Oklahoma·
4.5
(3) review
1706 N 161st East Ave, Tulsa, OK 74116-4825
9
Start:Tulsa Raceway Park
Tulsa, Oklahoma·
4.5
(21) review
3101 N Garnett Rd, Tulsa, OK 74116-1219
10
Start:Tam Bao Buddist Temple
Tulsa, Oklahoma·
4.5
(6) review
16933 E 21st St, Tulsa, OK 74134-2102
11
Start:BOK Center
Tulsa, Oklahoma·
4.5
(907) review
200 S Denver Ave, Tulsa, OK 74103-5019
12
Start:Vintage Sewing Center And Museum
Tulsa, Oklahoma·
5.0
(97) review
5528 S Peoria Ave, Tulsa, OK 74105-6822
13
Start:PanIQ Room Dallas
Dallas, Texas·
4.5
(99) review
5302 Belt Line Rd, Dallas, TX 75254-7606
14
Start:Central Market
Dallas, Texas·
4.5
(99) review
5750 E Lovers Ln, Dallas, TX 75206-2921
15
Start:Waco Hippodrome Theatre
Waco, Texas·
4.0
(92) review
The Historic Waco Hippodrome Theatre is back! Come enjoy delicious food and refreshing drinks as you sit back, relax, and watch your favorite films, live music, and performing arts. First opening on February 7, 1914, The Waco Hippodrome Theatre is a landmark in entertainment for the Waco community. After some tender-loving renovations, the Waco Hippodrome Theatre is open and busier than ever! Our dining room and bar/lounge area are open Mon-Fri for lunch and dinner, and we open at 10:00 am on Saturdays and Sundays to serve the best brunch in Downtown Waco.
16
Start:The Texas Collection
Waco, Texas·
5.0
(9) review
Established in 1923, The Texas Collection is a special library, archival research center, and the University Archive that collects, preserves, and provides access to materials documenting the history, heritage and culture of Texas for the Baylor community and the public.
17
Start:Little Shop on Bosque
Waco, Texas·
3.5
(93) review
The Little Shop on Bosque is the original home of Magnolia Market and offers last chance and slightly damaged items at a discount. The shop is stocked with everything from florals to vases, apparel to gifts, and so much more. *Please note that all sales at our Little Shop on Bosque are final. You cannot receive a replacement or refund on any sales.
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 Waco?
The distance is 1,017 miles
What's the travel time between Chicago and Waco?
The driving time can vary depending on traffic conditions, but it is typically 18h 56m mins in normal traffic
What are some of the best cities to visit between Chicago and Waco?
Some popular stops include
Are there any cool sights or attractions I shouldn't miss on my drive to Waco?
There are plenty! Here are some stops you shouldn’t miss on your way to Waco
What’s the weather like in Waco?
The weather in Waco is generally mild year-round, with warm, dry summers and cool, wet winters. See the links below for more information
Weather in Waco in January
Weather in Waco in February
Weather in Waco in March
Weather in Waco in April
Weather in Waco in May
Weather in Waco in June
Weather in Waco in July
Weather in Waco in August
Weather in Waco in September
Weather in Waco in October
Weather in Waco in November
Weather in Waco in December
Interested in a detailed plan for your time in Waco?
Plan your dream Waco trip with our daily itineraries featuring must-see attractions! See them here!
A 1-day itinerary in Waco
A 2-day itinerary in Waco
A 3-day itinerary in Waco
A 4-day itinerary in Waco
A 5-day itinerary in Waco
A 6-day itinerary in Waco
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
