Road Trip from Denver to Chicago with Mount Rushmore and Golf Stops

Day 1: Mount Rushmore Visit

Denver, CO to Mount Rushmore, SD on May 23, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Denver Biscuit Company

Start your day with hearty biscuits and gravy at this popular spot known for its generous portions and Southern comfort food.

USD15, 1h0m

9:30am

Drive to Mount Rushmore

Travel northeast for about 6 hours (approx. 370 miles) from Denver to Mount Rushmore National Memorial, enjoying scenic views along the way.

USD0, 6h0m

3:30pm

Visit Mount Rushmore National Memorial

Explore the iconic presidential sculptures carved into the Black Hills, with walking trails and a museum to learn the history behind this American landmark.

USD0, 2h0m

5:30pm

Check-in and Dinner at the Keystone House

Enjoy a cozy dinner close to Mount Rushmore featuring local flavors and a relaxing ambiance to wind down your day.

USD30, 1h30m

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Day 2: Golf & Rapid City

Rapid City, SD on May 24, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Firehouse Brewing Co.

Grab a delicious breakfast with local craft coffee and freshly baked pastries in an historic downtown setting.

USD20, 1h0m

9:00am

Golf at The Pines Golf Course

Play a round of golf at this scenic, well-maintained course just 15 minutes from Rapid City, perfect for mid-level players.

USD50, 4h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at Tally's Silver Spoon

Enjoy upscale American cuisine with locally sourced ingredients in a charming bistro atmosphere in Rapid City.

USD25, 1h0m

2:45pm

Drive to Mitchell, SD

Head east for about 3 hours (approx. 190 miles) to Mitchell, stopping en route for sightseeing or rest.

USD0, 3h0m

6:00pm

Explore Mitchell and visit the Corn Palace

Tour the famous Corn Palace decorated with murals made of corn and other grains, a unique Midwest attraction open until 7 PM.

USD0, 1h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at The Depot

Dine in a historic train depot offering steak and classic American dishes with friendly service.

USD30, 1h30m

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Day 3: Golf en route

Mitchell to Chicago, IL on May 25, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Thunder Road Cafe

Enjoy a classic American breakfast with generous portions to fuel up for the day ahead.

USD15, 1h0m

8:00am

Drive toward Madison, WI

Drive approximately 6 hours east (approx. 390 miles) toward Madison, WI, breaking the journey for a mid-route golf experience.

USD0, 6h0m

2:00pm

Golf at Yahara Hills Golf Course, Madison

Play a scenic and challenging 18-hole course praised for its rolling terrain and beautiful views, a great way to stretch your legs before continuing.

USD60, 3h30m

5:30pm

Drive to Chicago, IL

Drive south for approximately 2.5 hours (approx. 150 miles) to reach Chicago for your overnight stay.

USD0, 2h30m

8:00pm

Dinner at Lou Malnati's Pizzeria

Savor Chicago’s famous deep-dish pizza in a casual and lively atmosphere, perfect for your first night in the city.

USD25, 1h30m

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Day 4: Chicago Sightseeing

Chicago, IL on May 26, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Wildberry Pancakes and Cafe

Indulge in award-winning pancakes and fresh coffee near Millennium Park to start exploring downtown Chicago.

USD20, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Millennium Park and Cloud Gate

Explore this iconic public park featuring the famous 'Bean' sculpture along with gardens and fountains; park open daily from 6 AM to 11 PM.

USD0, 1h30m

11:30am

Chicago Architecture River Cruise

Take a highly rated 90-minute boat tour showcasing Chicago’s renowned architecture along the Chicago River.

USD50, 1h30m

1:30pm

Lunch at Giordano's

Enjoy another experience of Chicago-style deep-dish pizza at this famous and historic establishment.

USD25, 1h0m

3:00pm

Visit the Art Institute of Chicago

Explore one of the oldest and largest art museums in the US with diverse collections, open until 5 PM on weekdays.

USD30, 2h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at The Purple Pig

Dine on Mediterranean-inspired small plates with a focus on charcuterie and wine near Michigan Avenue.

USD35, 1h30m

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When are you going?

Add your start date and we'll check in at two weeks out, one week out, and the day before — bookings, packing, and a day-one brief. Reply to any of them if plans change.