Chicago to Zion National Park Road Trip

1. Day 1: Chicago
   10 minutes (1.3 miles) from Downtown Chicago

   Explore the vibrant city of Chicago in the morning, visit Millenium Park and the Art Institute. In the afternoon, take an architectural boat tour along the Chicago River. In the evening, enjoy deep dish pizza at Giordano's.

   • Millennium Park: Free, 2-3 hours
   • Art Institute of Chicago: $25, 2-4 hours
   • Architectural Boat Tour: $40, 1.5-2 hours
   • Giordano's: $15-20, 1-2 hours
2. Day 2: Indianapolis
   3.5 hours (185 miles) from Chicago

   Start your day with a visit to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. In the afternoon, explore the Indianapolis Museum of Art. In the evening, enjoy dinner at St. Elmo Steak House.

   • Indianapolis Motor Speedway: $20-30, 2-3 hours
   • Indianapolis Museum of Art: $18, 2-3 hours
   • St. Elmo Steak House: $40-50, 1-2 hours
3. Day 3: St. Louis
   4.5 hours (300 miles) from Indianapolis

   In the morning, explore the iconic Gateway Arch and take a tram ride to the top. In the afternoon, visit the Saint Louis Art Museum. In the evening, enjoy a riverfront dinner cruise on the Mississippi River.

   • Gateway Arch: $13-16, 2-3 hours
   • Saint Louis Art Museum: Free, 2-3 hours
   • Riverfront Dinner Cruise: $50-70, 2-3 hours
4. Day 4: Kansas City
   4 hours (250 miles) from St. Louis

   Start your day with a visit to the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. In the afternoon, explore the Country Club Plaza for shopping and dining. In the evening, enjoy live jazz music at the Green Lady Lounge.

   • Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art: Free, 2-3 hours
   • Country Club Plaza: Varies, 2-3 hours
   • Green Lady Lounge: Varies, 2-3 hours
5. Day 5: Denver
   8 hours (600 miles) from Kansas City

   Explore the Mile High City in the morning, visit the Denver Art Museum. In the afternoon, take a hike in the stunning Rocky Mountain National Park. In the evening, enjoy dinner at Elway's.

   • Denver Art Museum: $13-16, 2-3 hours
   • Rocky Mountain National Park: $25-35, 4-6 hours
   • Elway's: $40-50, 1-2 hours
6. Day 6: Arches National Park
   4.5 hours (350 miles) from Denver

   Spend the day exploring the magnificent red rock formations in Arches National Park. Hike to Delicate Arch and enjoy the stunning views. In the evening, set up camp at a nearby campground.

   • Arches National Park: $30-35, full day
   • Campground: $20-30 per night
7. Day 7: Zion National Park
   4.5 hours (330 miles) from Arches National Park

   Arrive at Zion National Park and spend the day exploring the breathtaking canyons and hiking trails. Hike Angels Landing for panoramic views. In the evening, relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings before heading back to Chicago.

   • Zion National Park: $35-40, full day

Recommendations

Are there any other local attractions, events, or experiences I should also consider? How about day trips? Any good ideas on how to get the most for my money and have a lot of fun?

While on your road trip, consider visiting the Grand Canyon, Bryce Canyon National Park, or even taking a detour to Las Vegas. These destinations offer stunning natural beauty and unique experiences. To make the most of your money, consider camping or staying in budget-friendly accommodations along the way. Don't forget to pack snacks and drinks for the road to save on dining expenses. Enjoy the journey!