trip to florida from chicago

The Ultimate Road Trip Itinerary from Chicago to Florida

by Cheryl | Sep 6, 2018 | destinations we EXPLORE , places we EAT , places we PLAY , places we STAY | 5 comments

If you know our family, we love going on adventures and long road trips. On our latest road trip, we made our way from Chicago to Florida. If there’s one thing I’ve learned from road tripping, it’s that the kids are much happier if we add in stops (and snacks — lots and lots of snacks.) Plus, it’s much more fun to explore than sit around in the car, right?

So if you’re thinking of planning a trip (yes, go for it!) to Florida, here’s a rundown of our complete road trip itinerary from Chicago to Florida. Keep checking back for updates as I’ll have full details for you!

Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links, meaning, at no additional cost to you, I will earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase.

Day 1: Chicago to Glasgow, Kentucky

Pit stop : Whenever we are on I-65, we always, always stop at Fair Oaks Farm for a potty break (clean bathrooms!), food, ice cream, or samples. (exit 220) If you have more time, I’d even suggest hanging out and seeing how this modern dairy farm operates. See what else you can do at Fair Oaks Farm .

Worthy Road Trip Stop:  Our first major stop to stretch our legs was at Columbus, Indiana about an hour south of Indianapolis. The small Midwest town of Columbus, Indiana is known for their modern architecture. We had ice cream at an old-time ice cream parlor, Zaharakos , then let the kids unleash their energy at the playground at the Commons with the awesome Luckey Climber. We had fun in Columbus and hopefully will return again to check out more of the architecture around the city.

We hopped on the road again and reached our final destination of the day:  Glasgow, Kentucky.

Where to eat:  We wanted something close to our hotel, and El Mazatlan was just down the hotel. After quick research, we also found out it was a local favorite. The Mexican food was pretty good, but we were impressed with the large (and strong) 16 oz. margaritas for $4. Yes, you heard that right!

Where to Stay:  Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Glasgow

If you have more time:   Take time to explore Mammoth Cave National Park, the largest cave system in the world. Gary from Everything Everywhere shares his experience at Mammoth Cave.

Days 2 to 4: Chattanooga, Tennessee

  View this post on Instagram   I can’t get enough of the beauty at #RockCity especially Lover’s Leap and the waterfall. Why Is it called Lover’s Leap? Legend says that a woman and a man from feuding tribes fell in love and eloped. The man was captured and thrown off the cliff. Eventually the woman followed after. . . . #instatravel #travelwithkids #travelbloggers #discovertheroad #travel #familytravel #postcardplaces #instago #instatravel #wonderlust #instapassport #travelwithme #roadtrip #familytravelblogger #bestintravel #trekarooing #roadtrip #travelmom #otheplaceswego #ChattanoogaFun @Chattanooga_Fun #Tennessee #visittennessee #visitchattanooga @SeeRockCity #waterfalls #myviewtoday #scenicview #instawaterfall #loversleap A post shared by O the Places We Go (@oplaceswego) on Aug 6, 2018 at 6:46pm PDT

If there’s one thing you need to know about Chattanooga, it’s that there’s so much to do!

Things to Do:

• Lookout Mountain’s legendary attractions – Ruby Falls  for the tallest underground waterfall, Rock City’s incredible vistas , and Incline Railway’s one-mile trek up the mountain.
• Explore the river and ocean at the Tennessee Aquarium. If you have time, definitely schedule a backstage tour.
• Learn about Chattanooga aboard a Chattanooga Duck , an amphibious vehicle that goes on the road and water.
• Try a moon pie (or 12) at the Moon Pie General Store .
• Walk on the  Walnut Bridge , the world’s longest pedestrian bridge.

Where to eat:

• At Champy’s Fried Chicken, f ried chicken is king here along with fried catfish and fried pickles.
• Try  Purple Daisy Café for finger-lickin’ BBQ and an insane banana pudding
• Delightful BBQ (small portions) at  Puckett’s Grocery located just a short walk from the Tennessee Aquarium.
• Treat yourself to any of the amazing flavors at Clumpie’s. 
• Looking for amazing burritos? MoJo’s by the base of Lookout Mountain is calling your name.
• Try unique flavored donuts at Julie Darling Donuts .

Where to stay: SpringHill Suites by Marriott Downtown Chattanooga/Cameron Harbor

Related: Read all about our #ChattanoogaFun.

Day 4: Chattanooga, TN to Gainesville, FL

Worthy Road Trip Stops :

• Since we passed by Georgia, known for their peaches, we just had to grab some peaches at Lane Southern Orchards. We were pleasantly surprised to find a peach tour on-site and was also able to try their homemade peach cobbler topped with their homemade peach ice cream. Yummy!  Read more about this worthy road trip stop at Lane Southern Orchards.
• Georgia is also known for pecans, so we also had to make a pit stop for pecan. Located right off the highway,  Ellis Brothers Pecans,  has pecans in every flavor. Imagine aisles and aisles of pecans (and samples). It was awesome! Plus, their restrooms were clean.
• We couldn’t get enough of BBQ so we stopped by Smok n’ Pig BBQ . If you’re ever in the area, we highly recommend. Huge portions, great value (entrees includes salad bar AND dessert!), plenty of seating.

Where to stay: Holiday Inn Express & Suites Alachua – Gainesville Area

If you have more time:   If you happen to visit on a Saturday, stop by the Retirement Home for Horses at Mill Creek Farm . As the name suggests, 140 horses call Mill Creek Farm home. The admission is two carrots – a fabulous deal.

Day 5: Gainesville, FL to Winter Haven, FL

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by O the Places We Go (@oplaceswego) on Aug 11, 2018 at 7:54am PDT

We actually wanted to visit a natural spring today, but we were told there was a brown out due to rain. It was a hot and steamy day so we made our way to Gainesville.

Worthy stop: If the weather is on your side, make sure to bring bathing suits to the Depot Park’s splash pad. The park is pretty fantastic, too! We were all pretty famished and at the suggestion of Visit Gainesville tried out a BBQ spot in a convenience store. Pearl’s Country BBQ may have been the best BBQ we’ve had the entire time.

We drove a couple hours and made it to Central Florida . Yay!

Things to do: Kids loved exploring Hammock Hollow, the children’s garden at Bok Tower Gardens . The singing carillon is not to be missed!

Where to eat: Another local favorite, Harry’s Old Place, serves delicious seafood along with my kids’ personal favorite, gator bites!

Where to Stay: Hampton Inn Winter Haven

Related: Read all about our visit in Central Florida’s Polk County.

Day 6: LEGOLAND at Winter Haven, FL

Things to do:

What can I say? Any LEGO lovers will love this place. The kids could not get enough of the fun at Legoland Florida. We saw a Miniland on steroids, went on rides, found out that roller coasters are not going to happen anytime soon, ate apple fries, got wet at Legoland Waterpark, and then eventually rained out. It was a blast!

What to eat:  Food at Legoland Florida and delivery from MJ’s pizza

Day 7: Tallahassee, FL

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by O the Places We Go (@oplaceswego) on Aug 14, 2018 at 10:43am PDT

We visited the Sunshine State’s capital, Tallahassee. and immediately wished we had more time to explore.

Things to Do: Explore Old Florida fauna, the zoo, and have a fun treetop adventure at Tallahassee Museum .

• Burger concoctions at Midtown Caboose.
• Ice cream at Lofty Pursuits .
• Delectable donuts from Donut Kingdom .

Where to stay: The super hip and trendy (and pet-friendly) Aloft Tallahassee Downtown

If we had more time: I think we would have enjoyed seeing the Capitol, as well as seeing wild manatees at Wakulla State Park. Learn more about the Capitol from Perceptive Travel .  Travel with Sara talks about exploring Tallahassee by Segway. Fun!

Read all about our visit to Tallahassee here.

Days 8-10: Destin, Fort Walton Beach, and Okaloosa Island, FL (The Heart of the Emerald Coast)

Oh, the beautiful Emerald Coast. Whether you want to fill your time with activities, lounging on the beach, or both, the Emerald Coast is fantastic.

• Walk along the Okaloosa Boardwalk and Okaloosa Island Pier for fantastic views of the emerald green waters.
• Golf with dinosaurs at Wild Willy’s Adventure Zone , then cool off in the arcade.
• Find dolphins on Southern Star Dolphin Cruises .
• Get to know the area’s animals at the Gulfarium . Say hi to their albino alligator.
• Bowl under the sea at Uncle Buck’s Fish Bowl , while sipping your fishbowl drink, of course.
• Catch some rays at the beach . Kids can build sand castles with the white, soft sand.

Where to Eat:

• Enjoy the atmosphere and awesome views of the beach and ocean at Al’s Burger and Beach Club on The Boardwalk. Don’t miss the blackened tuna salad or ahi tuna burger.
• Have lunch at The Cowhead for amazing burgers.
• Head a few doors down for snow cones at KC’s Sandbar and Grille . Whatever flavor you choose make sure to get it with ice cream and topped with homemade sweet cream.
• Eat and bowl at Uncle Buck’s Fish Bowl. Try their gator bites here too.

Where to Stay: The Island by Hotel RL, a beachfront hotel

Day 11: Emerald Coast, FL to Huntsville, AL

We said goodbye to Florida and made our way back to Chicago. But not without checking out more places, of course. Unfortunately, since we were on running out of time, we didn’t get a chance to explore Rocket City.

If we had more time: Space exploration at U.S. Space & Rocket Center and food at Supper Heroes. Read about all the fun you can have at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center from Travel with Sara  and Traveling Adventures of a Farm Girl .  Find out about all the family fun in Huntsville from  Thrifty Jinxy, and yes, there’s more to explore than space as told by Litte Family Adventure . Hint: You must try Cotton Row Restaurant.

Day 12-13: St. Louis, Missouri

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by O the Places We Go (@oplaceswego) on Aug 19, 2018 at 2:54pm PDT

We made the drive to St. Louis with just one quick fast food stop. We wanted to get to our final overnight stay of our trip, and still have time to explore a little of the city of St. Louis.

Suggested stop:   If you need to stretch your legs, The  Paducah  Riverfront in Paducah, Kentucky is a great place to walk while looking at historical murals. [ Read about our side trip to Paducah here.]

Suggested stop : The hometown of Superman, Metropolis, IL, has plenty of photo ops including a huge statue of the man himself and a museum dedicated to all things Superman. [ Read about our super trip to Metropolis, Illinois . ]

Things to do In St. Louis:

• The revitalized area around the Gateway Arch is finally complete! Check out the new museum, tour, and the surrounding areas.
• Try the free Saint Louis Science Museum with dinosaurs and space exhibits. Don’t miss the outdoor area with rain garden and chickens.
• If the St. Louis Cardinals are playing, you shouldn’t miss a game at Busch Stadium.
• Get lost with the kids at the super cool City Museum.
• Try toasted ravioli and St. Louis style pizza from Imo’s pizza.
• Get your ice cream fix at Clementine’s Naughty and Nice Creamery .
• Try Afghan food at St. Louis’ first Afghani Restaurant at Sameem’s Afghan Restaurant in The Grove. Emperor Plate large enough for two people or one very, very hungry husband.

Where to stay:  Drury Plaza Hotel St. Louis at the Arch

Day 13: Casey, IL

Time to head back home, but before doing we had to check out the collection of world’s largest things in Casey, Illinois.

Suggested Stop:  If you’re looking for a wonderful farm to table place to eat, look no further than Firefly Grill in Effingham, Illinois. Make a stop at a Corvette museum. If you love to cook, then you’ll want an authentic John Boos cutting board . [ Read more about our Effingham, Illinois. ]

Yes, it may have been a little out of the way (shhh, don’t tell my husband!) but visiting Casey, Illinois was totally worth the small detour! The small town has 8 of the World’s Largest items, and also some other big items.

Find out what other big things you can see on the ultimate road trip stop at Casey, Illinois.

Have you driven to Florida before? What were some of your favorite things to do on the way there?

More about our Chicago to Florida road trip:

Chattanooga, Tennesee

Georgia Road Trip Stops

Central Florida’s Polk County

12 Hours in Tallahassee with the Family

St. Louis, Missouri

Casey, Illinois

Road Trip Survival

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I have a Florida trip scheduled for June and I was just wondering aloud how many days I’d need to allow for a road trip from North Dakota when your post caught my eye. It gave me a frame of reference and some great ideas for what to see on the way. Thanks for inspiring me to start planning!

Yes, please let me know if you have any other questions or suggestions. Do you know which route you’ll be taking?

Would love to have and see some road landscapes – we don’t get much road trip here in San Diego! Beautiful scenery, as usual!

Last year, we stopped in Louisville at toured the Louisville Slugger Museum. Everyone leaves with a free (small) bat!

I’d also highly recommend Legoland in Florida. My boys LOVED it when we were there 2 years ago (age 7 and 5), and we are thinking about going back in March.

Thanks For given us experience about road trip to chicago to florida

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Cheap flights from Chicago to Miami

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• Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) Chicago 24 min 25 km
• Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW) Chicago 22 min 14 km
• Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport (MKE) Milwaukee 1 hr 23 min 120 km
• Indianapolis International Airport (IND) Indianapolis 2 hr 57 min 265 km

Popular airports near Miami

• Miami International Airport (MIA) Miami 23 min 10 km
• Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) Fort Lauderdale 34 min 34 km
• Palm Beach International Airport (PBI) West Palm Beach 1 hr 12 min 102 km
• Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) Fort Myers 2 hr 15 min 178 km

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• Miami RUB 7,677 May 18 — May 20 1 stop 30 hr 59 min Frontier
• Las Vegas RUB 10,914 May 11 — May 13 1 stop 6 hr 40 min Frontier
• Seattle RUB 10,750 May 3 — May 5 Nonstop 4 hr 34 min Alaska
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Chicago To Florida Road Trip: The Ultimate Guide

Traveling from Chicago to Florida is one of the best journeys you can experience in the USA . The 1,188 miles of a road trip from Chicago to Florida takes around 19 hours and 13 mins of driving without stops.

This article includes 29 top tips that turn your Florida trip into an unforgettable journey. So if you’re looking for the best hotels, restaurants, and places to visit on the road trip from Chicago to Florida, take your coffee and keep reading!

Table of Contents

10 Best Hotels On The Way From Chicago To Florida

On the way from Chicago to Florida, you may want to stay at some points on the way. Here are the top ten hotels on the Chicago – Florida route!

• Homewood Suites by Hilton Lafayette: Homewood Suites by Hilton Lafayette is one of the best hotels where you can stay on the road trip from Chicago to Florida. Driving from Chicago to Homewood Suites by Hilton Lafayette might take around 2 hours and 9 mins . The award-winning Homewood Suites by Hilton Lafayette hotel in Lafayette, Indiana, can accommodate many travel needs with clean and comfortable one and two-bedroom suites. We stayed here while visiting Purdue University and were delighted with the friendly staff, clean room, complimentary breakfast, and short drive to campus. Check the Homewood Suites by Hilton Lafayette, one of the best hotels in Lafayette, Indiana, on TripAdvisor and Booking.com for recent reviews, prices, and availability.
• Indianapolis Marriott East: Another top hotel where you can choose the stay on the road trip to Florida from Chicago is Indianapolis Marriott East. Located in Indianapolis, Indiana, the hotel is 189 miles away from Chicago, and it would take 3 hours and 18 mins to drive. I stayed at the hotel and event center for the night and was impressed with the service from check-in to checkout. The hotel and center are close to Interstate 70 and 465, making it easy to get around town and nearly two miles from I-24. If you want to learn more about the Indianapolis Marriott East, you can check it on TripAdvisor or Booking.com .
• Residence Inn Louisville East/Oxmoor: Didn’t our first two hotel suggestions interest you? So we would like to introduce you to the Residence Inn Louisville East/Oxmoor. Residence Inn Louisville East/Oxmoor is located in Louisville, Kentucky, and it’s 308 miles away from Chicago. You can arrive there with 5 hours 12 mins of non-stop driving. The rooms are clean, and the staff is friendly. The breakfast is good, and the dinners are even better. Check the TripAdvisor and Booking.com pages of Residence Inn Louisville East/Oxmoor for more information.
• La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Elizabethtown: If you are taking the road trip from Chicago to Florida, Elizabethtown, Kentucky, is must have a place you should visit. La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Elizabethtown is one of the best hotels in town. It is La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Elizabethtown, 342 miles from Chicago, and it would take 5 hours and 45 mins to drive. The hotel is pet-friendly, and the staff was helpful. The room and lobby were clean and inviting, with plenty of places to eat. Excellent breakfast before leaving. If you need more info about the price and availability of La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Elizabethtown, check the TripAdvisor and Booking.com pages.
• Best Western Plus Nashville Airport Hotel: Our next hotel is Best Western Plus Nashville Airport Hotel, Nashville, Tennessee. It will take 7 hours, and 47 mins of car ride o reach this hotel from Chicago. This hotel was a great place to stay. The room was clean, and the complimentary breakfast was perfect for starting our day. The staff was welcoming, and everything in the hotel was spotless. Check the Best Western Plus Nashville Airport Hotel on TripAdvisor and Booking.com pages of Best Western Plus Nashville Airport Hotel for reviews, prices, and availability.
• Comfort Suites, Manchester: Another hotel you can accommodate on the road trip from Chicago to Florida is Comfort Suites, Manchester. It’s possible to arrive at this hotel, located in Manchester, Tennessee, within 8 hours and 42 mins drive from Chicago. The staff is kind and attentive, the rooms are always top-notch, and the breakfast is yummy! Before making the reservation, we suggest you read the latest reviews on TripAdvisor and Booking.com .
• The Chattanoogan Hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton: Another hotel that deserves to be on the list is The Chattanoogan Hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton. It’s located in Chattanooga, Tennessee, 574 miles from Chicago. You can arrive there within 10 hours 3 mins of car drive. This hotel is excellent, and the staff is always welcoming. We stayed here for two nights and were very close to all the attractions. It only took about a 15-minute drive to Tennessee Valley Railroad, the river area, lookout mountain, and the zoo. If you need further information, you can check the TripAdvisor and Booking.com pages of The Chattanoogan Hotel and Curio Collection by Hilton.
• The Candler Hotel Atlanta, Curio Collection by Hilton: Located in Atlanta, Georgia, The Candler Hotel Atlanta, Curio Collection by Hilton is another hotel where you can stay on the Chicago to Florida road trip. The Candler Hotel Atlanta, Curio Collection by Hilton is 690 miles from Chicago and will take 11 hours 51 mins of non-stop driving. We stayed at the hotel for four nights and thought it was great. We were upgraded to a Deluxe view room with a historic feel. The top-notch staff and the rooms were quiet and calm with good AC. The food in the restaurant was good, and valet parking was pretty quick too. Check the TripAdvisor and Booking.com pages of The Candler Hotel Atlanta, and Curio Collection by Hilton, for more information.
• Courtyard by Marriott Orlando Downtown: As we approach the end of our list, another hotel we would like to introduce to you is Courtyard by Marriott Orlando Downtown hotel. Courtyard by Marriott Orlando Downtown, Orlando, Florida, is 1,130 miles from Chicago, and you can arrive there within 18 hours and 5 mins of non-stop driving. The hotel rooms and amenities are newly renovated, clean, and of high quality. The staff is professional and friendly, and they provide thorough service. Check the TripAdvisor and Booking.com pages of Courtyard by Marriott Orlando Downtown for more information about the Courtyard by Marriott Orlando Downtown hotel.
• The Saint Hotel: The last hotel we recommend you stay at on the road trip from Chicago to Florida is The Saint Hotel. You can arrive at The Saint Hotel, Florida, after 18 hours, 52 mins of non-stop driving, and 1,130 miles of the road trip from Chicago. The Saint Hotel, located overlooking the Gulf of Mexico, provides guests with an unbeatable location and views of the harbor. The rooms are clean and comfortable. The restaurant/bar had delicious food and excellent service. Check the TripAdvisor and Booking.com pages of The Saint Hotel for more information.

In this part, we explained ten different hotels you can stay at on the road trip from Chicago to Florida. You can pick one of them that suits your taste. Don’t forget to share your experience by writing a comment to this post. It will help people who will take the same Chicago to Florida route.

Now, it’s time to discover the best restaurants from Chicago to Florida. We have nine restaurant recommendations worth your attention.

9 Best Restaurants On The Way To Florida From Chicago

If dining is a pleasure, some restaurants will please you on your Chicago to Florida road trip. This section lists the nine  restaurants to dine at on the road trip from Chicago to Florida. Stay hungry and enjoy!

• Triple XXX Family Restaurant, West Lafayette: We would like to start our restaurant recommendation list on the road trip from Chicago to Florida with Triple XXX Family Restaurant, West Lafayette. Triple XXX Family Restaurant, West Lafayette, is located in Lafayette, Indiana, and is 123 miles from Chicago. It would take 2 hours 11 mins of driving. At Burger King, we strive to serve fresh, delicious burgers with crisp, cold condiments and perfectly seasoned fries. Our pellet ice is a delightfully refreshing addition, and our prompt service is always appreciated. Our root beer is also perfect – it’s cold and refreshingly sweet. For more information about Triple XXX Family Restaurant, West Lafayette, you can visit the  TripAdvisor or Google Maps pages of Triple XXX Family Restaurant, West Lafayette.
• High Velocity, Indianapolis: Another top restaurant you can choose to eat at on the road trip to Florida from Chicago is High Velocity, Indianapolis. Located in Indianapolis, Indiana, High Velocity, Indianapolis is 183 miles from Chicago and would take 3 hours and 12 mins of driving. We enjoyed our meal at the restaurant; the dishes we ordered (nachos and wagyu burger) were delicious. The service was impeccable as well. If you want to learn more about High Velocity, Indianapolis, you can check it on TripAdvisor or Google Maps .
• J Graham’s Cafe: Another restaurant that can be preferred by those who are fond of food is J Graham’s Cafe. It will take 5 hours and 6 mins of car drive to take 302 miles from Chicago to J Graham’s Cafe, Louisville, Kentucky. We visited the restaurant for lunch. The hamburger was delicious, and the staff was friendly. You can check J Graham’s Cafe on TripAdvisor or Google Maps for more information.
• Back Home Restaurant, Elizabethtown: Back Home Restaurant, Elizabethtown deserves to be on our list. It is one of the most recommended restaurants in Elizabethtown, Kentucky. The restaurant is excellent, and the food is great. The roast beef was delicious, as was the fried chicken. The service here is exceptional and makes it a great meal all around. Back Home Restaurant, Elizabethtown, is 343 miles from Chicago, and it would take 5 hours and 48 mins of non-stop car driving. If you want to learn more about Back Home Restaurant, Elizabethtown, you can check it on TripAdvisor or Google Maps .
• Monell’s Dining & Catering: If you enjoy dining, Monell’s Dining & Catering would be an excellent choice in Nashville, Tennessee. It’s 441 miles from Chicago and would take 7 hours and 40 mins of car driving. The restaurant provides a great experience with its delicious food, atmospheric setting, and attentive service. We highly recommend the catfish and stuffed shells dishes for anyone looking for an enjoyable dining experience. If you want to learn more about Monell’s Dining & Catering, you can check it on TripAdvisor or Google Maps .
• Jiffy Burger, Manchester: Another restaurant we recommend you to visit on the road trip from Chicago to Florida is Jiffy Burger, Manchester, Manchester, Tennessee. It will take 8 hours and 40 mins of driving to reach Jiffy Burger, Manchester, from Chicago. I ordered the bacon cheeseburger at my local restaurant, which was delicious. The tomatoes were fresh and tasted great on the burger. If you’re in Manchester, I recommend trying Jiffy Burger – it’s the best around! For more information about Jiffy Burger, Manchester, you can check TripAdvisor or Google Maps pages of the restaurant.
• Mellow Mushroom Chattanooga – Downtown: Ranked seventh on our list, Mellow Mushroom Chattanooga – Downtown appeals to those who want to turn their Florida vacation into a memorable experience. Located in Chattanooga, Tennessee, 573 miles away from Chicago, and it’ll take 10 hours to drive. I visited this establishment and was pleased with the fast service and delicious food. The atmosphere is also fun. If you want to learn more about Mellow Mushroom Chattanooga – Downtown, you can check it on TripAdvisor or Google Maps .
• Ray’s on the River, Atlanta: Monell’s Dining & Catering is an excellent restaurant that is 681 miles away from Chicago. Monell’s Dining & Catering is located in Nashville, Tennessee, and you can reach there after 11 hours 42 mins of car driving. The food was exceptional. The prime rib, lobster tail, salmon, and whipped potatoes were all delicious. Plus, the crab cakes were a real treat. The staff was professional, and they provided an excellent level of service. If you want to discover the menu and more information about Ray’s on the River, Atlanta, you can check it on TripAdvisor or Google Maps .
• The Melting Pot, Orlando: Eating is serious business. Another restaurant preferred by those who take this job seriously is The Melting Pot, Orlando, Orlando, Florida. It is 1,129 miles from Chicago and would take around 18 hours and 6 mins of car driving. The restaurant offers a unique and extraordinary experience to its customers. We love the place and the service. We ate Orlando Staff Selections, and it was perfect. You can visit the official TripAdvisor and Google Maps pages of The Melting Pot, Orlando, for detailed information.

This section lists our nine restaurant recommendations for you to eat on your road trip from Chicago to Florida. We hope these suggestions will help you turn your 1,188 miles journey into a feast of taste. Of course, you can choose a suitable restaurant from the list according to your preference. Remember, like you, people planning a Florida road trip need your opinion. Therefore, we kindly ask you to share your experience with us in the comment field at the end of the blog post.

In the next section, we list the destinations worth seeing along the route from Chicago to Florida. Keep reading.

10 Places To Visit On The Way From Chicago To Florida

A unique experience awaits you in Florida. However, on your road trip, there are destinations like Lafayette, Indian. We want to explain the top ten destinations we recommend on the Florida route.

• Haan Museum of Indiana Art: Haan Museum of Indiana Art will be the first destination we recommend you to stop by on your Chicago to Florida road trip. Located in Lafayette, Indiana, the Haan Museum of Indiana Art is 123 miles away from Chicago, and it would take 2 hours and 12 mins to drive. The Haans home is a great place to stay and explore. The restoration work and furnishings are top-notch, and the family is friendly and welcoming. We spent a lot of time exploring the sculpture garden and house artworks, which were both very interesting. If you want to learn more about the Haan Museum of Indiana Art, you can check it on TripAdvisor or the official website .
• Children’s Museum of Indianapolis: Children’s Museum of Indianapolis, Indianapolis, Indiana, is one of the destinations we recommend you to stop by on the Chicago to Florida route. It’s 181 miles from Chicago, and it’ll take about 3 hours and 9 mins of driving. This museum is excellent for young children who love spending hours there. The upper floors have a play area that kids enjoy spending time in. If you want to learn more about the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis, you can check it on TripAdvisor or their website .
• Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory: One of the stops you should not neglect to stop by when you take the road trip from Chicago to Florida is Louisville, Kentucky. And if you’ll visit Louisville, Kentucky, we suggest you visit Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory. You can arrive at Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory after 5 hours and 3 mins of driving. The factory tour was interesting and informative. The museum features a lot of memorabilia and signatures from players in both leagues and all teams. You can visit TripAdvisor and the official site of Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory for more information.
• Swope’s Cars of Yesteryear Museum: Do you also like to travel and experience new things? Then, it would be best to visit Swope’s Cars of Yesteryear Museum, Elizabethtown, Kentucky, on the road trip from Chicago to Florida. Swope’s Cars of Yesteryear Museum is 348 miles from Chicago, and you can arrive there after the 5 hours 52 mins of drive. The Swope’s Cars of Yesteryear Museum features a variety of vehicles from the early 1900s to the 1960s, both in original condition and restored. The museum is run by lovely people with many beautiful cars on display. In addition, you should check TripAdvisor and the official website of Swope’s Cars of Yesteryear Museum before going there.
• Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum: Located in Nashville, Tennessee, the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum ranks fifth on our list of tourist destinations on the Florida road trip. You must take 7 hours 43 mins of driving to arrive at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum is a popular tourist destination in Nashville, Tennessee, which has two floors of gallery space with permanent- and limited- engagement exhibits. The museum also features displays of costumes and guitars from country stars. Close to Broadway for a walk afterward. If you want to learn more about the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, you can check it on TripAdvisor or the official website .
• Old Stone Fort State Archaeological Park: Another attraction you can visit on the road trip from Chicago to Florida is Old Stone Fort State Archaeological Park, Manchester, Tennessee. Old Stone Fort State Archaeological Park is 502 miles from Chicago, and it would take 8 hours and 39 mins to drive. This historic Native American site is an excellent place to learn about the history of this region. In addition, there is a museum and theater on-site to provide additional information and hiking trails that allow visitors to explore the site’s many features. For more information about Old Stone Fort State Archaeological Park, you can check their TripAdvisor page or official website .
• Tennessee Aquarium: You can visit many destinations on your Chicago to Florida journey. One of these destinations is Tennessee, Aquarium, located in Chattanooga, Tennessee. You can arrive at Tennessee Aquarium after 10 hours of driving. This aquarium contains more than 9,000 aquatic animals from around the world. You could walk through both buildings at your own pace, and they had a lot to show you, including a spotless environment. If you want to read the reviews of previous visitors about Tennessee Aquarium, you can visit Tennessee Aquarium’s TripAdvisor page or their website .
• Georgia Aquarium: As we near the end of our list of the top 10 best places to visit on the road trip from Chicago to Florida, it would be unfair not to mention Georgia Aquarium. Georgia Aquarium locates in Atlanta, Georgia, 689 miles from Chicago, and it takes 11 hours, and 51 mins drive from Chicago to get there. Georgia Aquarium is a world-renowned aquarium that features six different galleries with more than 70 different habitats housing 10 million gallons of water and thousands of species of marine animals. The aquarium is home to magnificent aquatic creatures, such as whale sharks, manta rays, dolphins, beluga whales, sea otters, and African penguins. Guests can marvel at these animals up close and come to understand their majestic nature better. If you want to learn more about Georgia Aquarium, you can check it on TripAdvisor or the official website .
• The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Orlando: Now, we would like to introduce you to another vibrant restaurant on the Florida trip. Located in Orlando, Florida, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Orlando is 1,128 miles from Chicago, and it would take 18 hours and 4 mins to drive. The Islands of Adventure amusement park is a great place to visit. It has many highly immersive rides, such as Hagrid Motorcycle adventure, the Hippogriff, the Forbidden Journey, and regular short shows. If you want to learn more about The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Orlando, you can check it on TripAdvisor or the official website .
• Dry Tortugas National Park: We have come to the end of our list. Our latest destination, located in Florida, is Dry Tortugas National Park. To reach Dry Tortugas National Park, which is 1,511 miles away from Chicago, you must take a 1-day car journey from Chicago. The park is located on the Gulf of Mexico and features 100 square miles of open water with seven small islands. It is only accessible by boat or seaplane. It is known for its magnificent Fort Jefferson, picturesque blue waters, superlative coral reefs, and marine life, as well as the vast array of bird life that inhabits the area. The boat ride was enjoyable; we traveled at 35 mph for 2 hours. Make sure to bring sunscreen if traveling outside! We suggest you check Dry Tortugas National Park’s TripAdvisor and official website for more information about the place.

FAQ of the Road Trip From Chicago to Florida

Here we are answering the frequently asked questions about the Chicago to Florida drive.

How Long Is The Road Trip From Chicago To Florida?

• With ideal traffic and weather conditions, the road trip takes approximately 19 hours and 13 mins to drive. The distance between Chicago to Florida is 1,188 miles.
• If you want to make the Chicago to Florida road trip by bike , the time you spend on the road will be four days and 10 hours .
• If you are crazy enough and plan to walk the Chicago-Florida route, you will have to walk for 16 days and 5 hours .

Where Do You Stop On Driving From Chicago To Florida?

There are many beautiful pit stops along the way to Florida. Here we list ten of them . For more information about the best places on the Chicago to Florida journey, you can check the 10 Best Places To Visit On The Way From Chicago To Florida part.

• Haan Museum of Indiana Art: 123 miles / 2 hours 12 mins to drive from Chicago | 1,066 miles / 17 hours 14 mins of driving to Florida.
• Children’s Museum of Indianapolis: 181 miles / 3 hours 9 mins to drive from Chicago | 1,005 miles / 16 hours 15 mins of driving to Florida.
• Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory: 300 miles / 5 hours 3 mins to drive from Chicago | 890 miles / 14 hours 15 mins of driving to Florida.
• Swope’s Cars of Yesteryear Museum: 348 miles / 5 hours 52 mins to drive from Chicago | 848 miles / 13 hours 35 mins of driving to Florida.
• Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum: 442 miles / 7 hours 43 mins to drive from Chicago | 749 miles / 11 hours 38 mins of driving to Florida.
• Old Stone Fort State Archaeological Park: 502 miles / 8 hours 39 mins to drive from Chicago | 690 miles / 10 hours 41 mins of driving to Florida.
• Tennessee Aquarium: 573 miles / 10 hours 0 mins to drive from Chicago | 616 miles / 9 hours 18 mins of driving to Florida.
• Georgia Aquarium: 689 miles / 11 hours 51 mins to drive from Chicago | 500 miles / 7 hours 29 mins of driving to Florida.
• The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Orlando: 1,128 miles / 18 hours 4 mins to drive from Chicago | 68.0 miles / 1 hour 25 mins of driving to Florida.
• Dry Tortugas National Park: 1,511 miles / one day 0 hours to drive from Chicago | 328 miles / 6 hours 5 mins of driving to Florida.

Where Should You Stay On The Road Trip From Chicago To Florida?

There are many excellent hotels during your Chicago to Florida road trip. We have selected ten hotels for you. These hotels are listed below. Remember, you can find detailed information about these hotels in the 10 Best Hotels On The Way To Florida From Chicago section.

• Homewood Suites by Hilton Lafayette: 124 miles / 2 hours 9 mins to drive from Chicago | 1,065 miles / 17 hours 9 mins of driving to Florida.
• Indianapolis Marriott East: 189 miles / 3 hours 18 mins to drive from Chicago | 1,005 miles / 16 hours 8 mins of driving to Florida.
• Residence Inn Louisville East/Oxmoor: 308 miles / 5 hours 12 mins to drive from Chicago | 892 miles / 14 hours 20 mins of driving to Florida.
• La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Elizabethtown: 342 miles / 5 hours 45 mins to drive from Chicago | 847 miles / 13 hours 33 mins of driving to Florida.
• Best Western Plus Nashville Airport Hotel: 448 miles / 7 hours 47 mins to drive from Chicago | 750 miles / 11 hours 37 mins of driving to Florida.
• Comfort Suites, Manchester: 506 miles / 8 hours 42 mins to drive from Chicago | 684 miles / 10 hours 36 mins of driving to Florida.
• The Chattanoogan Hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton: 574 miles / 10 hours 3 mins to drive from Chicago | 615 miles / 9 hours 17 mins of driving to Florida.
• The Candler Hotel Atlanta, Curio Collection by Hilton: 690 miles / 11 hours 51 mins to drive from Chicago | 499 miles / 7 hours 30 mins of driving to Florida.
• Courtyard by Marriott Orlando Downtown: 1,130 miles / 18 hours 5 mins to drive from Chicago | 75.1 miles / 1 hour 33 mins of driving to Florida.
• The Saint Hotel: 1,175 miles / 18 hours 52 mins to drive from Chicago | 93.2 miles / 1 hour 48 mins of driving to Florida.

Where To Eat Between Chicago to Florida?

If you are thinking of taking a break and having a nice meal on your Chicago to Florida journey, you can consider the nine restaurants we have chosen. In addition, you can read detailed information about the restaurants in the section titled 9 Best Restaurants On The Way From Chicago To Florida .

• Triple XXX Family Restaurant, West Lafayette: 123 miles / 2 hours 11 mins to drive from Chicago | 1,067 miles / 17 hours 18 mins of driving to Florida.
• High Velocity, Indianapolis: 183 miles / 3 hours 12 mins to drive from Chicago | 1,002 miles / 16 hours 4 mins of driving to Florida.
• J Graham’s Cafe: 302 miles / 5 hours 6 mins to drive from Chicago | 888 miles / 14 hours 14 mins of driving to Florida.
• Back Home Restaurant, Elizabethtown: 343 miles / 5 hours 48 mins to drive from Chicago | 857 miles / 13 hours 33 mins of driving to Florida.
• Monell’s Dining & Catering: 441 miles / 7 hours 40 mins to drive from Chicago | 751 miles / 11 hours 39 mins of driving to Florida.
• Jiffy Burger, Manchester: 504 miles / 8 hours 40 mins to drive from Chicago | 686 miles / 10 hours 36 mins of driving to Florida.
• Mellow Mushroom Chattanooga – Downtown: 573 miles / 10 hours 1 min to drive from Chicago | 616 miles / 9 hours 18 mins of driving to Florida.
• Ray’s on the River, Atlanta: 681 miles / 11 hours 42 mins to drive from Chicago | 511 miles / 7 hours 43 mins of driving to Florida.
• The Melting Pot, Orlando: 1,129 miles / 18 hours 6 mins to drive from Chicago | 65.3 miles / 1 hour 23 mins of driving to Florida.

So, there you have it- a complete guide to planning a road trip from Chicago to Florida. We have listed ten hotels, nine restaurants, and ten places to visit on the way. We have also given you detailed information about each place so that you can make an informed choice about where to stay, eat, and what to see. We hope this guide has helped make your road trip from Chicago to Florida as enjoyable as possible.

Share Your Thoughts

Have you ever taken a road trip from Chicago to Florida? So, it would be perfect if you shared your experience with other travelers who want the same experience. You can share your thoughts about the road trip from Chicago to Florida and your recommendations about this route by using the comment field below.

Video: Florida Road Trip – Travel Guide

We suggest you to watch this video, before planning your Florida road trip.

Other Road Trips Worth Your Attention

• Chicago To Dallas Road Trip: The Ultimate Guide
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Cheap flights from O'Hare Intl (ORD) to Florida from $26

This is the cheapest one-way flight price found by a cheapflights user in the last 72 hours by searching for a flight departing on 5/14. fares are subject to change and may not be available on all flights or dates of travel. click the price to replicate the search for this deal., how far in advance should i book a flight from chicago o'hare intl airport to florida.

Travelers have found it’s best to book a flight 12 days in advance to save up to 50% compared to booking the same week of travel. As your travel date approaches, the cost of this flight route may potentially increase. While opting to book 12 days out may not be an option for all, there are still additional ways to secure a deal in the near future. You might find a flight from Chicago O'Hare Intl Airport to Florida 1-2 weeks in advance for as low as $132, or $233 for flights within the next 24 hours.

What is the cheapest month to fly from Chicago O'Hare Intl Airport to Florida?

January can be a great time to fly to Florida from Chicago O'Hare Intl Airport with a flight ticket averaging about $220. Cheapflights users have found deals in the month of January for as cheap as $64. The most expensive prices can be found in the month of March.

When is the cheapest time to fly from Chicago O'Hare Intl Airport to Florida (ORD - FL)?

When flying from Chicago O'Hare Intl Airport to Florida, the time of day you decide to fly out makes little to no difference towards the overall price you’ll pay on tickets.

Cheap Spirit Airlines flights from O'Hare Intl to Florida

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Nonstop 2h 56m

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Chicago O'Hare Intl Fort Lauderdale

Nonstop 3h 06m

Fort Lauderdale

Nonstop 3h 19m

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Reviews of airlines servicing Florida

Get insights into the airlines that provide service to florida. read reviews, discover amenities, and learn about the overall travel experience offered by airlines. use this information to make informed decisions when choosing an airline for your flight to florida. reviews last updated april 6, 2024., to help decide which airline to fly from chicago to florida, see what other customers have to say about spirit airlines, frontier and delta. you can also see how each airline stacks up in terms of entertainment options, comfort, food, crew/service, and boarding process..

Entertainment

No tray tables for food or drink not convenient nor comfortable

Related info for your journey

Find useful and relevant information for your journey from o'hare intl to florida. access travel guides, tips, and recommendations to enhance your travel experience. get information about local attractions, weather, transportation options, and more., can i find flights from chicago o'hare intl airport to florida for under $100 on cheapflights.

Yes, there are multiple flights from Chicago O'Hare Intl Airport to Florida for under $100. The cheapest flight booked recently is on Frontier for just $47, but on average you can expect to pay $53.

Are there nonstop flights from Chicago O'Hare Intl Airport to Florida for under $100 on Cheapflights?

Cheapflights has at least 20 direct flights from Chicago O'Hare Intl Airport to Florida under $100. A good price for a nonstop flight from Chicago O'Hare Intl Airport to Florida is less than $55.

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There are currently 20+ open flights from Chicago O'Hare Intl Airport to Florida within the next 7 days for less than $100.

What days are nonstop flights available from Chicago O'Hare Intl Airport to Florida?

You can find nonstop flights on the following days: Monday, Saturday.

How many flights depart from Chicago O'Hare Intl Airport to Florida on average per day?

On average 3 flights depart from Chicago O'Hare Intl Airport to Florida per day. Morning (6am - Noon) - 33% of flight departures Afternoon (Noon - 6pm) - 33% of flight departures Evening (6pm - Midnight) - 33% of flight departures

How long is the flight from Chicago O'Hare Intl Airport to Florida?

Departing from Chicago O'Hare Intl Airport to Florida will take you 2h 56m. Airlines will cover a distance of 1205 mi. All flights are typically nonstop.

What are the most popular routes from Chicago O'Hare Intl Airport to Florida?

The most popular flight routes from Chicago O'Hare Intl Airport to Florida are Chicago O'Hare Intl - Orlando, Chicago O'Hare Intl - Fort Lauderdale and Chicago O'Hare Intl - Miami.

What are the most popular airlines that fly from Chicago O'Hare Intl Airport to Florida?

Consider American Airlines, JetBlue or Delta when booking your flight. These represent the most popular airlines when flying from Chicago O'Hare Intl Airport to Florida.

What are the most reliable airlines from Chicago O'Hare Intl Airport to Florida?

Consider Qatar Airways (87%), Avianca (85%) or American Airlines (82%) when booking your flight. These represent the most reliable airlines when flying from Chicago O'Hare Intl Airport to Florida.

What are the cheapest flights from Chicago O'Hare Intl Airport to Florida?

While on average a flight from Chicago O'Hare Intl Airport to Florida is generally $858, our data shows the cheapest flight currently is $45. When looking at the most popular route, (Chicago O'Hare Intl - Orlando), you can expect to pay $62 for that flight.

What does ORD to MIA mean?

Chicago O'Hare Intl Airport is ORD and Miami Airport is MIA. These codes are created by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and airlines use them to identify the departing and arrival airports in the flight routes they service. Ready for more IATA code knowledge? These are related airports for your current travel destination: Orlando Airport (MCO), Fort Lauderdale Airport (FLL), Tampa Airport (TPA), Fort Myers SW Florida Intl Airport (RSW), Jacksonville Airport (JAX).

Can I find deals for flights from O'Hare Intl to Florida that include extra baggage allowance?

The amount of baggage you can bring depends on the airline and the type of fare you've chosen. After entering your flight details, you'll be able to view the specific baggage policies for each deal in the search results. Keep in mind that certain deals may offer additional baggage allowance.

Can I find deals on flights from O'Hare Intl to Florida with specific airlines?

Yes, Cheapflights allows you to browse and filter flight deals by airline. After entering your origin and destination, use the available filters to view flights offered by airlines.

Can I find deals for flights from O'Hare Intl to Florida that include hotel bookings?

Yes. In addition to deals on O'Hare Intl to Florida flights, Cheapflights offers vacation packages that include both flights and hotel.

How can I find direct flights from O'Hare Intl to Florida?

After entering your origin and destination, apply the non-stop filter on the search result page to see available direct flights.

Can I find deals for business class flights from O'Hare Intl to Florida?

Yes. Cheapflights offers flight deals from O'Hare Intl to Florida by cabin class. In addition to browsing deals, you can also filter by cabin class on the search results page after making a search.

Can I find deals for flights from O'Hare Intl to Florida that allow pets onboard?

Many airlines do offer the option to travel with pets. After selecting a flight deal, you can find more information about the airline's pet policy on their official website or by contacting the airline directly. Please note that additional fees and restrictions may apply.

Can I find deals on last-minute flights from O'Hare Intl to Florida?

Yes, you can often find last-minute deals on O'Hare Intl to Florida flights on Cheapflights. However, these deals can vary and may not always be available. We recommend checking back frequently or signing up for price alerts for the most up-to-date deals.

How recently were the Chicago O'Hare Intl Airport to Florida flight deals updated?

The Chicago O'Hare Intl Airport to Florida flight deals you see on this page were last updated on 4/6.

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40 Best Stops Between Chicago and Orlando

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How long is the drive from Chicago to Orlando?

The direct drive from Chicago to Orlando is 1,150 mi (1,851 km) , and should have a drive time of 17 hrs 47 mins in normal traffic.

If you’re going on a road trip from Chicago to Orlando, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way — with Nashville , Atlanta , St. Augustine , Louisville , Chattanooga , Clearwater , Cincinnati , Indianapolis , Jacksonville , and Lexington , as well as top places to visit like Keeneland Association Inc and Maker's Mark Distillery, or the ever-popular James B. Beam Distilling Co..

Top cities between Chicago and Orlando

Indianapolis.

Track your travel spending and split costs with friends

Plan your trip. Keep your budget organized. Split the cost between tripmates. Wanderlog does it all.

Chattanooga

Jacksonville

St. augustine, best stops along chicago to orlando drive, james b. beam distilling co..

Keeneland Association Inc

Maker's mark distillery, the lost sea adventure, tennessee aquarium.

Tuckaleechee Caverns

Lookout mountain, high country adventures, tail of the dragon rentals, harrah's cherokee valley river, mercier orchards, amicalola falls state park, anna ruby falls.

Don’t forget to pack anything

Stay organized with a to-do list, packing list, shopping list, any kind of list.

Marietta Square

Six flags over georgia.

Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park

Stone Mountain

Fort clinch state park.

Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens

Butterfly rainforest at the florida museum of natural history, castillo de san marcos national monument, st george st, saint augustine distillery.

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Fort Matanzas National Monument

Silver springs state park, ellie schiller homosassa springs wildlife state park west entrance, weeki wachee spring, big cat rescue, top searches in orlando, other popular road trips from chicago, explore nearby places.

• Winter Park
• Azalea Park
• Altamonte Springs
• Casselberry
• Wekiva Springs
• Winter Garden
• Winter Springs
• Celebration
• Saint Cloud

All related maps of Orlando

• Map of Orlando
• Map of Winter Park
• Map of Azalea Park
• Map of Eatonville
• Map of Maitland
• Map of Southport
• Map of Gotha
• Map of Fern Park
• Map of Windermere
• Map of Ocoee
• Map of Altamonte Springs
• Map of Casselberry
• Map of Wekiva Springs
• Map of Winter Garden
• Map of Apopka
• Map of Longwood
• Map of Oakland
• Map of Winter Springs
• Map of Oviedo
• Map of Heathrow
• Map of Lake Mary
• Map of Kissimmee
• Map of Zellwood
• Map of Celebration
• Map of Montverde
• Map of Chuluota
• Map of Ferndale
• Map of Saint Cloud
• Map of Sanford
• Map of Minneola
• Map of Sorrento

Orlando throughout the year

• Orlando in January
• Orlando in February
• Orlando in March
• Orlando in April
• Orlando in May
• Orlando in June
• Orlando in July
• Orlando in August
• Orlando in September
• Orlando in October
• Orlando in November
• Orlando in December

Looking for day-by-day itineraries in Orlando?

Get inspired for your trip to Orlando with our curated itineraries that are jam-packed with popular attractions everyday! Check them out here:

• 1-Day Orlando Itinerary
• 2-Day Orlando Itinerary
• 3-Day Orlando Itinerary
• 4-Day Orlando Itinerary
• 5-Day Orlando Itinerary

Frequently Asked Questions

Can i drive from chicago to orlando.

Yes! You can drive from Chicago to Orlando.

How far is Orlando from Chicago by car?

The drive from Chicago to Orlando is 1,150 miles (1,851 km).

How long does it take to drive from Chicago to Orlando?

Driving from Chicago to Orlando should take you 17 hrs 47 mins in normal traffic.

How much would gas cost from Chicago to Orlando?

Gas from Chicago to Orlando would cost around $101 to $235 , depending on your vehicle's fuel efficiency.

Where should I stop on the way from Chicago to Orlando?

You could check out Keeneland Association Inc and Maker's Mark Distillery, or the always popular James B. Beam Distilling Co.!

What are the best cities to visit between Chicago and Orlando?

People love visiting Nashville, Atlanta, and St. Augustine, among others.

What's the weather like in Chicago?

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

• Weather in Chicago in January
• Weather in Chicago in February
• Weather in Chicago in March
• Weather in Chicago in April
• Weather in Chicago in May
• Weather in Chicago in June
• Weather in Chicago in July
• Weather in Chicago in August
• Weather in Chicago in September
• Weather in Chicago in October
• Weather in Chicago in November
• Weather in Chicago in December

What are some other road trips from Chicago?

There are plenty! Below you'll find links to all the road trips we've assembled for Chicago.

• Chicago to New York City drive
• Chicago to Washington DC drive
• Chicago to Orlando drive
• Chicago to Toronto drive
• Chicago to Las Vegas drive
• Chicago to Nashville drive
• Chicago to Milwaukee drive
• Chicago to Saint Louis drive
• Chicago to New Orleans drive
• Chicago to Niagara Falls drive
• Chicago to Boston drive
• Chicago to Louisville drive
• Chicago to Indianapolis drive
• Chicago to Branson drive
• Chicago to Cleveland drive
• Chicago to Gatlinburg drive
• Chicago to Montreal drive
• Chicago to Memphis drive
• Chicago to Atlanta drive
• Chicago to Philadelphia drive
• Chicago to Cincinnati drive
• Chicago to Pittsburgh drive
• Chicago to Baltimore drive
• Chicago to Wisconsin Dells drive
• Chicago to Detroit drive
• Chicago to Savannah drive
• Chicago to San Antonio drive
• Chicago to Madison drive
• Chicago to Charleston drive
• Chicago to St. Augustine drive

• Itinerary + map in one view
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A Nostalgia Trip Along US-41, the South’s Route 66

Want more Roadside Americana? Read our full collection of stories here .

Before the U.S. had a national highway system (courtesy of President Eisenhower in 1956), the “Dixie Highway,” now known as US-41, became one of the country's first to guide travelers on interstate road trips. Built in 1915, it became the easiest way to travel from Chicago to Miami , with motels and souvenir stands popping up along the route. 

Like other iconic roadways of the era, its heyday has come and gone. The more-efficient I-75—which runs alongside much of the US-41—opened in the 1970s, causing many of the aforementioned businesses to close as they were no longer on the main route. But driving the highway today promises a quieter, nostalgia-steeped experience. 

If you want to see this route as generations before did, follow the traditions of “auto camps” by parking at one of the campgrounds along the way, or check into one of the remaining roadside motels—from Chicago’s circa-1960  Ohio House Motel , to Nashville’s  Dive Motel and Miami’s  Vagabond Hotel —which also promise updated decor and modern conveniences. 

Below, we cover highlights along this nostalgic road, as it takes the form of rural backroad and major city thoroughfares through seven states. Consider it inspiration for a multi-day drive of your own. 

All listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Chicago, Illinois to Evansville, Indiana (292 miles)

US-41 starts in the north, not far from Route 66, and follows along Chicago’s Lake Michigan shoreline. You can pop in for a drink at  The Green Mill , a watering hole beloved by gangster Al Capone, catch a game at Wrigley Field , and grab a slice of deep dish pizza. 

In Indiana, the road winds south through the Chicago suburbs before opening up into farmlands in the western edge of the state. Roadside stands offer produce like tomatoes, blueberries, and corn, depending on the season. 

Stop in Morocco to see bison roam the prairie at the  Kankakee Sands nature preserve. Open from 7 a.m. to dusk, it includes over 8,000 acres owned by the state chapter of the Nature Conservancy. 

Between Veedersburg and Terre Haute, you can detour to dozens of covered bridges that bring New England to mind. In Bruceville, stretch your legs and enjoy a photo op at the  Big Peach , a large replica of the fruit in front of a store selling locally made baked goods and gifts. 

Evansville, Indiana to Guthrie, Kentucky (108 miles)

Cross the Ohio River into Henderson, which is a significant location because it was where John James Audubon lived in the 1810s, doing research on the animal species there. It’s now  Audubon State Park , a 700-acre site encompassing hiking trails through an old growth forest. His former home is now the  Audubon Museum & Nature Center , featuring his early paintings.

The  Trail of Tears Commemorative Park in Hopkinsville acknowledges the government-led effort in the 1800s to remove Indigenous people from their ancestral lands. The site was home to one of the many camps on the route from the Southeast to Oklahoma.

Before crossing the state line, continue south to Guthrie, birthplace of  All the King's Men author Robert Penn Warren.  His home is open for tours by appointment. 

Guthrie, Kentucky to East Ridge, Tennessee (195 miles)

In Tennessee, US-41 follows the Red River where outdoors lovers can rent canoes to paddle the waterway—the courageous can explore the spooky  Bell Witch Cave , home to rumors of supernatural activity. 

It’s a short drive into energetic Nashville , known for its country music legacy. It’s easy to spend days here, but if you’re short on time, the  Country Music Hall of Fame is your must-see, plus the famous hot chicken from  Prince’s . 

Catch a live music act at  The Caverns , an underground venue in Pelham, or stop by one of the many distilleries on the Tennessee Whiskey Trail. After a hike to Monteagle’s  Old Stone Fort , a park filled with massive boulders, settle in to a meal at the  Smoke House in Monteagle, a restaurant from 1960 that is again operational after a 2021 fire. It also has motel rooms and cabins. 

Near Chattanooga, you’ll start to see remnants of the highway’s heyday, specifically the  Rock City advertisement barns painted on rural structures to bring visitors to the  quirky mountain top attraction with its fairy village and scenic viewpoints. 

East Ridge, Tennessee to Macon, Georgia (206 miles)

The Georgia section of US-41 has stretches of rural pasture and suburban Atlanta sprawl. In the northwest corner of the state, the drive passes through Dalton, where the chenille quilts sold on the highway’s roadside stands in the 1930s inspired the modern carpet industry. 

Visit  New Echota State Historic Site in Calhoun, a reconstructed village where the treaty was signed that led to the Cherokee removal on the Trail of Tears. The site hosts regular events that feature Indigenous artisans. 

In the town of Cartersville, the  Booth Museum of Western Art is not just a highlight of the town but of the region, with an incredible array of paintings, sculpture, and artifacts of the American West. 

US-41 also cuts through Atlanta , another big destination with no shortage of things to do. But if you're passing through quickly, don’t miss the  Trap Music Museum on the west side of the city. It focuses on the genre of hip-hop popularized by A-Town, with items from notable music videos and a bar for a post-tour cocktail.

Macon, Georgia to Dunellon, Florida (294 miles)

Driving south out of Atlanta the next big city is Macon, which attracted Southern rock acts like the Allman Brothers Band in the 1960s (not to mention their song “Ramblin Man,” which mentions the highway). But it’s also home to the  Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park , an aspiring national park with Indigenous mounds dating back thousands of years. 

Crossing into Florida , it feels like you’re in the heyday of the highway. While many of the classic roadside attractions have come and gone, many still remain like  Weeki Wachee , a natural spring with a famous mermaid show, which is well worth the detour. Closer to the highway,  Devil’s Den is a privately-owned spring for cave diving.

White Springs is a look into Old Florida, with its old-fashioned hardware store and charming Victorian homes. The  Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park is named for the composer and has miles of trails and river access for kayaking, plus a museum of dioramas inspired by his songs.

Dunnellon to Miami, Florida (309 miles)

Central and south Florida are where you’ll find plentiful ranches and farmland with stands to pick up your favorite citrus products. Driving into Tampa, you can’t miss the city’s Cuban restaurants like  Brocato’s Sandwich Shop , where you can have one of the famous sandwiches without a detour. If you have time, tour the Ybor City neighborhood and its converted cigar factories.

The  Showmen’s Museum in Riverview and the  Ringling Museum in Sarasota honor the region’s longstanding history of carnivals and circuses. In Fort Myers, see where American inventors vacationed next door to one another at the  Ford Edison Winter Estates , where the Model T brings to mind early American road trips.

In South Florida, US-41 is called the Tamiami Trail, an alternative to the stretch of I-75 nicknamed “Alligator Alley," which cuts through the  Everglades and Seminole tribal land. The tribe runs its own attractions, including swamp tours and buggy rides through the forest. The small town of Ochopee and the  Skunk Ape Headquarters , a nod to Florida’s version of Bigfoot, are funky detours.

The last stop on US-41 is the Little Havana neighborhood of Miami, where it’s the main thoroughfare. You’ll see famous landmarks of the Cuban neighborhood, including the famous  Versailles Restaurant , open since 1971, and Maximo Gomez Park, where you’ll find locals playing dominoes. The highway ends on Brickell Avenue, where you can spend many more days soaking up sunshine—or continue further south to the Florida Keys .

Last-minute trip from Florida for the total eclipse? Here's the closest large city in the path

The first total solar eclipse of 2024 is Monday, April 8 and it will be the only solar eclipse this year that will have a path of totality stretching across the U.S. And it’s been nicknamed “The Great North American Eclipse.”

Florida isn’t in the path of totality, but depending on where you are in the state, you might be able to see a little over half of the sun being covered by the moon. Although, if you’re up for an impromptu road trip this weekend, the closest big city in the path of totality is a 14-hour drive from Orlando.

Here’s how visible the April 8 total solar eclipse will be from Florida and where the closest big city in the path of totality is.

Can you see the solar eclipse in Florida 2024?

Florida isn’t in the direct path of the total eclipse.

The path of totality of the Great North American Eclipse will start between New Zealand and Mexico in the South Pacific Ocean, pass from Mexico into Oklahoma, and travel northeast (diagonally) across the country. The path of totality will cross the New England region of the U.S. and then a portion of Canada, before ending in the Atlantic Ocean near the French and Spanish coasts.

While we're not in the path of totality, we'll still be able to see a partial eclipse from Florida. From just over half of the sun to over 3/4 of it will be obscured by the moon from our angle, depending on where you are in the state.

Explore these interactive maps: How long will the solar eclipse darkness last in your city?

What major cities are in the path of totality 2024?

A recent study from online fishing and hunting guidebook Captain Experiences mapped the biggest cities with the best view of the total solar eclipse in the path of totality.

“Due to the unique path of the 2024 eclipse, Texas stands out as the state hosting the top four largest cities within the totality path and eight of the top 15,” the study said.

“Notably, among the five largest cities in Texas — Houston, San Antonio, Dallas, and Austin — only Houston will not experience the total solar eclipse this year.”

Here’s Captain Experiences’ list of the largest cities in the path of totality:

• San Antonio, Texas
• Dallas, Texas
• Austin, Texas
• Fort Worth, Texas
• Columbus, Ohio
• Indianapolis, Indiana
• Arlington, Texas
• Cleveland, Ohio
• Plano, Texas
• Buffalo, New York
• Toledo, Ohio
• Irving, Texas
• Garland, Texas
• Rochester, New York
• Little Rock, Arkansas

Hudson Valley eclipse outlook: New solar eclipse totality map now excludes some NY towns.

Which city in the eclipse path of totality is closest to Florida?

If you want to drive to see the eclipse in its path of totality, it’s a long drive, but it’s possible. And you'd need to make the trip this weekend or pull an all-nighter on Sunday to make it.

Of the biggest cities in the 2024 total solar eclipse path of totality, Little Rock, Arkansas is closest to Florida.

Depending on where you are in Florida, the drive to Little Rock takes around 10 hours (from Tallahassee), to 17 hours (from Miami).

Will Little Rock, Arkansas be in the path of totality 2024?

Yes! Little Rock, Arkansas is in the path of totality for the total solar eclipse on Monday, April 8. The window of totality in Little Rock is anticipated to be 2 minutes and 29 seconds of complete darkness.

According to Time and Date , the eclipse will begin around 12:33 p.m. in Little Rock, reach maximum darkness at around 1:52 p.m. and it will end around 3:11 p.m.

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Ohio english teacher faces firing for using sick days to attend nashville concert.

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An Ohio school teacher could get axed for calling out sick for two days — so she could attend a concert in Nashville.

Eileen Washburn, an English teacher at Lakota West High School in Beckett Ridge, was placed on unpaid leave as the Lakota Local School District investigates whether she violated her teachers’ union contract to attend the concert.

Washburn allegedly “falsified sick leave” for February 8 and 9 to attend the out-of-state performance, telling several colleagues where she was going, according to a Resolution to Consider Termination obtained by WXIX.

The educator is also accused of not providing information to school officials when asked during a meeting after her trip was discovered.

“During her predisciplinary meeting, she refused to answer questions regarding her whereabouts or specifics on her alleged need for sick leave.”

Lakota West High School is 20 miles north of Cincinnati.

The school board, under the direction of newly sworn-in Interim Superintendent Elizabeth Lolli, unanimously voted to begin Washburn’s termination process during a board meeting Tuesday.

The vote also kept the teacher on unpaid leave until the board votes on her employment status in a subsequent meeting scheduled for April 22.

Washburn can submit a written demand for a hearing before the April 22 vote.

Along with violating the teachers’ contract, Washburn was found in violation of the state code for “Termination of contract by board of education” and multiple board policies that included sick leave and staff ethics.

“Her actions also violated the Licensure Code of Professional Conduct for Ohio Educators,” the proposed termination legislation stated.

Washburn serves as an ESL teacher, according to the school’s website.

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She is also a board member for the nearby Loveland City School District.

While there’s no indication which concert Washburn attended in Nashville, several large shows took place in the Music City during the weekend in question, including Drake and J. Cole’s performance at the Bridgestone Arena on Feb. 8.

Washburn isn’t the only teacher to be fired in the Midwest for enjoying music, as a Michigan charter school teacher was fired after a parent complained about her growing rapping career.

Domonique Brown, who performs under the pseudonym Drippin Honey, was a US history teacher at Taylor Preparatory High School in metro Detroit before she was fired last month.

Brown, a former “teacher of the month,” revealed on social media she was canned because of “a single parent’s disapproval.”

The parent’s complaint was submitted anonymously in October, after she released her song “Drippin 101,” resulting in several months of meetings with school administrators.

In a final act of defiance, Brown shot a music video with some of her students singing and dancing to her song on her last day at the school.

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How to get from O'Hare International Airport to downtown Chicago

Chicago is arguably one of the greatest cities in the world. If you have never been to Chicago, stop reading this and book a trip now. Once you do that, return to read this guide, so you can know how to access this city.

To start, know that the Windy City has two airports — O'Hare International Airport (ORD) in the northwest suburbs and Midway International Airport (MDW) on the city's South Side.

The two airports are approximately 30 miles apart. The majority of international flights are serviced by ORD, with 100 daily flights to 60 cities abroad .

If you are flying into ORD, this guide is for you; here are the fastest ways to get from ORD to the city of Chicago.

Visitors can commute across Chicago via the Chicago Transit Authority 's elevated train, called the L, which provides service directly to and from ORD via the Blue Line. However, if you have a lot of checked luggage, note that the trains do not have luggage racks, and some of the stations are only accessible via stairs.

Depart from : Catch the Blue Line directly from Terminal 1, 2 or 3, or via a free airport shuttle train from Terminal 5.

Possible destinations : From ORD, you can take the Blue Line to and through downtown en route to Forest Park or UIC-Halsted, depending on the time of day.

Hours of operation : The L runs 24 hours a day between ORD and Forest Park, with overnight service operating approximately every 15 to 30 minutes.

Transit time : It will take you roughly 40 to 45 minutes to get downtown via the Blue Line.

Estimated cost : A single-trip Ventra pass from ORD costs $5, is valid for up to three rides within two hours of use and can be purchased at the O'Hare station. You can also buy a three-day pass that includes unlimited rides for $15. Note that you can use contactless payment (contactless bank cards and Google, Apple or Samsung Pay), cash or a credit card to pay for your pass. Reduced rates from O'Hare for students younger than 12 are available for 75 cents during designated student fare hours and $1.25 at all other times.

Taxis are available from the airport and can accommodate most groups with sedans and larger-size cabs.

Depart from : There are taxi stands outside of baggage claim on the lower level at each terminal and the inner commercial lane at Terminal 5.

Possible destinations : You can use taxis to reach downtown Chicago and its suburbs.

Hours of operation : Taxis are available 24 hours a day.

Transit time : When using a taxi, expect the trip to take between 25 and 90 minutes, depending on your destination. Trips to downtown neighborhoods, including Streeterville, River North and Gold Coast, take roughly 30 to 40 minutes.

Estimated cost : Cab companies offer a flat rate for rides downtown , which is a straight meter fare plus one-half of the straight metered fare plus a $4 airport departure tax. From ORD to the city, cabs are approximately $40. It's standard practice to tip cab drivers in Chicago, so consider factoring this into your budget, too. Generally speaking, a 20% tip should suffice.

Uber and Lyft

A popular (albeit pricey, depending on the time of day) way to get from O'Hare to central Chicago is via ride-hailing services like Uber and Lyft.

Depart from : Specific Uber and Lyft pickup areas can be found in Terminal 2. They're located on the upper level between doors 2A and 2E.

Waiting areas are color-coded as follows: Black Zone A, Black Zone B, Orange Zone C and Green Zone D. Passengers should proceed to the colored zone serving as their designated pickup location for both Uber and Lyft.

Once booked, your respective app will tell you which pickup area to use to meet your car. Although you can book a ride via a ride-hailing service upon deplaning, your car will not be reserved until you reach the assigned pickup area.

Possible destinations : You can use services like Uber and Lyft to get to downtown Chicago and its suburbs from O'Hare.

Hours of operation : Ubers and Lyfts are available 24 hours a day.

Transit time : Rides will take between 25 and 90 minutes, depending on your chosen destination. Trips to downtown neighborhoods, including Streeterville, River North and Gold Coast, usually require roughly 30 to 40 minutes to reach.

Estimated cost : From ORD to the city, ride-hailing services generally charge between $35 and $60, depending on the destination. Know, though, that surge pricing during busy periods like rush hour can cause prices to climb to $140.

Metra, shuttles and coaches

Various private shuttle and limo services, including Go Airport Shuttle , can also be booked from the airport. This service starts at $75 for trips to downtown Chicago.

Alternatively, Peoria Charter operates a bus from Terminal 2 to the city center twice daily, with tickets costing $50 for roughly an hour ride.

While there is a Metra station for commuter rail services called the O'Hare Transfer stop , most locals do not advise taking it, as the schedule is random and there is no on-site agent should you need help.

Bottom line

Having commuted downtown from O'Hare more times than I can count, I can confirm that each way — the train, cabs and ride-hailing services — can take around the same length of time, and that time will depend on the time of day and traffic, or any service disruptions for the L.

The only real guarantee is that the L will be the cheapest option, but as they say, time is money. Regardless of the traffic you sit in, I promise the ride is worth it.

Related reading:

• Sky-high luxury: A review of the new St. Regis Chicago
• Chicago's Midway Airport to get its first lounge
• What it's like staying at the historic Chicago Athletic Association, part of Hyatt's Unbound Collection
• High-speed rail in Chicago; Amtrak making travel in the Midwest faster and easier
• The 17 best Chicago hotels
• Ferris Bueller's Chicago: Reliving the '80s in a city that never stands still

Indiana interstates will likely be packed on eclipse day. How to prepare and what to expect

With the total solar eclipse approaching and Indiana being prime real estate for sky-watching, police are anticipating packed roads and heavy traffic conditions.  

“We've likened it to having the Indy 500 in the Evansville area, Bloomington area, here in Indy and then in the northeast,” said Capt. Ron Galaviz of Indiana State Police. 

State Police anticipate traffic will snarl before, during and after the event, which will occur April 8. Galaviz said the police agency will have “all hands on deck” when it comes to staffing troopers on the state’s highway and particularly its interstate system.  

More: Road-tripping to Indy for the eclipse? Here are some destinations to check out on the way

At the same time, motorists are asked to prepare ahead of time for traffic jams as thousands descend into the state. Filling up vehicles with gas ahead of time is advised as well as having food and water supplies in anticipation of long waits.

"Exercise patience," Galaviz said.

Police: Don't stop on the interstate to watch the eclipse

During the event, state police are also urging drivers not to stop, park, or watch the solar activity on the interstates.

“In Indiana, it’s against the law to stop, stand or park along the side of the interstate. Let alone, on the interstate itself in one of the lanes of travel,” Galaviz said.  

How to avoid traffic during the eclipse

To gauge road congestion during and after the eclipse, drivers can visit 511in.org which shares the latest traffic patterns across the state and possibly find alternative routes.

Where is the eclipse path of totality

2024 solar eclipse map: See the path of totality in Indiana, U.S.

City-by-city solar eclipse timing: Where you can see the total solar eclipse in Indiana, when, and how long it's visible

Contact reporter Sarah Nelson at [email protected]

Total solar eclipse April 8, 2024 facts: Path, time and the best places to view

In the U.S., 31 million people already live inside the path of totality.

Scroll down to see the list of U.S. cities where the April 8 total solar eclipse will be visible, the duration of the eclipse in those locations and what time totality will begin, according to GreatAmericanEclipse.com .

"Eclipse Across America," will air live Monday, April 8, beginning at 2 p.m. ET on ABC, ABC News Live, National Geographic Channel, Nat Geo WILD, Disney+ and Hulu as well as network social media platforms.

On April 8, 2024, a historic total solar eclipse will cast a shadow over parts of the United States, prompting a mass travel event to the path of totality -- from Texas to Maine and several states and cities in between.

A total solar eclipse occurs when the moon passes between the sun and the Earth and, for a short time, completely blocks the face of the sun, according to NASA .

The track of the moon's shadow across Earth's surface is called the path of totality, and to witness the April 8 total solar eclipse, viewers must be within the 115-mile-wide path. To discover when to see the solar eclipse in totality or the partial eclipse in locations across the U.S. outside of the path, check out NASA's Eclipse Explorer tool .

Eclipse travel

In the U.S., 31 million people already live inside the path of totality, bringing the celestial phenomenon to their doorsteps, Michael Zeiler, expert solar eclipse cartographer at GreatAmericanEclipse.com told ABC News.

MORE: Eclipse glasses: What to know to keep your eyes safe

But for individuals outside of the path, investing time and money are needed to experience the event in totality.

Eclipse chasers, or umbraphiles, are individuals who will do almost anything, and travel almost anywhere, to see totality, according to the American Astronomical Society .

"There's a very active community of solar eclipse chasers and we will go to any reasonable lengths to see solar eclipses anywhere in the world," Zeiler said. "All of us are united in pursuing the unimaginable beauty of a total solar eclipse."

MORE: The surprising reason why a Texas county issued a disaster declaration ahead of April total solar eclipse

Bringing together both eclipse experts and novice sky watchers, the total solar eclipse on April 8 is projected to be the U.S.'s largest mass travel event in 2024, according to Zeiler, who likened it to "50 simultaneous Super Bowls across the nation."

"When you look at the number of people expected to come to the path of totality for the solar eclipse, we estimate those numbers are roughly the equivalent of 50 simultaneous Super Bowls across the nation, from Texas to Maine," he said.

Eclipse map, path of totality

In the U.S., the path of totality begins in Texas and will travel through Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine. Small parts of Tennessee and Michigan will also experience the total solar eclipse, according to NASA.

Best times, places to view eclipse

Below is a list of some American cities where the April 8 total solar eclipse will be most visible -- pending weather forecasts -- the duration of the eclipse in those locations and what time totality will begin, according to GreatAmericanEclipse.com.

• Eagle Pass, Texas, 1:27 p.m. CDT: 4 minutes, 23 seconds
• Uvalde, Texas, 1:29 p.m. CDT: 4 minutes, 16 seconds
• Kerrville, Texas, 1:32 p.m. CDT: 4 minutes, 23 seconds
• Austin, Texas, 1:36 p.m. CDT: 1 minute, 53 seconds
• Killeen, Texas, 1:36 p.m. CDT: 4 minutes, 17 seconds
• Fort Worth, Texas, 1:40 p.m. CDT: 2 minutes, 34 seconds
• Dallas, Texas, 1:40 p.m. CDT: 3 minutes, 47 seconds
• Little Rock, Arkansas, 1:51 p.m. CDT: 2 minutes, 33 seconds
• Jonesboro, Arkansas, 1:55 p.m. CDT: 2 minutes, 24 seconds
• Poplar Bluff, Arkansas, 1:56 p.m. CDT: 4 minutes, 8 seconds
• Cape Girardeau, Missouri, 1:58 p.m. CDT: 4 minutes, 6 seconds
• Carbondale, Illinois, 1:59 p.m. CDT: 4 minutes, 8 seconds
• Mount Vernon, Illinois, 2:00 p.m. CDT: 3 minutes, 40 seconds
• Evansville, Indiana, 2:02 p.m. CDT: 3 minutes, 2 seconds
• Terre Haute, Indiana, 3:04 p.m. EDT: 2 minutes, 57 seconds
• Indianapolis, Indiana, 3:06 p.m. EDT: 3 minutes, 46 seconds
• Dayton, Ohio, 3:09 p.m. EDT: 2 minutes, 46 seconds
• Wapakoneta, Ohio, 3:09 p.m. EDT: 3 minutes, 55 seconds
• Toledo, Ohio, 3:12 p.m. EDT: 1 minute, 54 seconds
• Cleveland, Ohio, 3:13 p.m. EDT: 3 minutes, 50 seconds

Pennsylvania

• Erie, Pennsylvania, 3:16 p.m. EDT: 3 minutes, 43 seconds
• Buffalo, New York, 3:18 p.m. EDT: 3 minutes, 45 seconds
• Rochester, New York, 3:20 p.m. EDT: 3 minutes, 40 seconds
• Syracuse, New York, 3:23 p.m. EDT: 1 minute, 26 seconds
• Burlington, Vermont, 3:26 p.m. EDT: 3 minutes, 14 seconds
• Island Falls, Maine, 3:31 p.m. EDT: 3 minutes, 20 seconds
• Presque Island, Maine, 3:32 p.m. EDT: 2 minutes, 47 seconds

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ABC News Live

24/7 coverage of breaking news and live events

Watch CBS News

Flying during the solar eclipse? These airports could see delays, FAA says

By Khristopher J. Brooks

Edited By Anne Marie Lee

March 28, 2024 / 7:04 PM EDT / CBS News

Air travel was already expected to pick up next week because of Spring Break, but Federal Aviation Administration officials  said  now until mid-April will be increasingly busy due to "the Great North American Eclipse."

Many Americans are planning on flying on April 8, the day when the U.S. will experience a total solar eclipse that will track across the sky from Texas to Maine. While some eclipse chasers will be heading toward states in its main path, others are timing flights to view it while airborne.

The eclipse "will likely mean crowded parking lots at airports and long lines at security checkpoints," Marisa Garcia, a senior contributor at Forbes,  told  CBS News. 

"It's going to be hectic but fun," she added. "Go with the mindset that it's going to be busy and pack light and pack carefully. Be patient and pleasant with everyone."

Passengers on the day of the eclipse should expect air traffic delays and an unusually high number of drones in the skies, FAA Senior Technical Advisor Kevin Morris said in an advisory  video . 

According to the FAA, these airports could see delays on April 8:

• Little Rock, Arkansas
• Indianapolis
• Kansas City, Missouri
• Toledo, Ohio
• Erie, Pennsylvania
• Austin, Texas
• San Antonio, Texas
• Burlington, Vermont

Garcia said American Airlines could see the biggest delays at Dallas-Fort Worth, the airline's main hub, which is squarely within the eclipse's path of totality  — where it can be seen in full. 

Officials in Erie, Pennsylvania, said they expect roughly 250,000 people to flock to the area for the eclipse. Meanwhile, tourism for the big event is expected to bring $1 billion to Texas . 

• Federal Aviation Administration

Khristopher J. Brooks is a reporter for CBS MoneyWatch. He previously worked as a reporter for the Omaha World-Herald, Newsday and the Florida Times-Union. His reporting primarily focuses on the U.S. housing market, the business of sports and bankruptcy.

More from CBS News

How to watch the solar eclipse in Pittsburgh? Here's everything you need to know

Pittsburgh photographer shares tips for protecting your camera lens during the eclipse

Popular diabetes medication Mounjaro will be in short supply through April

"Long Island Medium" Theresa Caputo bringing live show to Pittsburgh

Find cheap flights from Chicago to Tampa from $27

This is the cheapest one-way flight price found by a kayak user in the last 72 hours by searching for a flight from chicago to tampa departing on 8/21. fares are subject to change and may not be available on all flights or dates of travel. click the price to replicate the search for this deal., search hundreds of travel sites at once for deals on flights to tampa.

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Cheap flight deals from Chicago to Tampa

Flights from chicago to tampa - travel insights & trends, get data-powered insights and trends into flights from chicago to tampa to help you find the cheapest flights, the best time to fly and much more., what is the cheapest chicago to tampa flight route, our data shows that the cheapest route for a one-way flight from chicago to tampa cost $34 and was between chicago midway airport and tampa. on average, the best prices are found if you fly this route. the average price for a return flight for this route is $78., what’s the cheapest day of the week to fly from chicago to tampa, for chicago to tampa, tuesday is the cheapest day to fly on average and sunday is the most expensive. flying from tampa back to chicago, the best deals are generally found on saturday, with sunday being the most expensive., what is the cheapest month to fly from chicago to tampa, the cheapest month for flights from chicago to tampa is october, where tickets cost $141 on average. on the other hand, the most expensive months are march and december, where the average cost of tickets is $288 and $267 respectively., how far in advance should i book a flight from chicago to tampa, to get a below average price on the flight from chicago to tampa, you should book around 1 week before departure. for the absolute cheapest price, our data suggests you should book 47 days before departure., which airlines provide the cheapest flights from chicago to tampa, in the past 3 days, the cheapest one-way tickets to tampa from chicago were found on frontier ($27) and spirit airlines ($36), and the lowest round-trip tickets were found on frontier ($50) and spirit airlines ($74)., which airlines fly most frequently between chicago and tampa, chicago and tampa are connected by different airlines. the airlines that fly that route the most regularly are united airlines (6 flights per day), southwest (5 flights per day), and american airlines (3 flights per day)., which airlines fly non-stop between chicago and tampa, there are 5 airlines that fly nonstop from chicago to tampa. they are: american airlines, frontier, southwest, spirit airlines and united airlines. the cheapest price of all airlines flying this route was found with spirit airlines at $48 for a one-way flight. on average, the best prices for this route can be found at spirit airlines., how many flights are there between chicago and tampa per day, each day, there are between 15 and 19 nonstop flights that take off from chicago and land in tampa, with an average flight time of 2h 42m. the most common departure time is 6:00 pm and most flights take off in the morning. each week, there are 123 flights. the most frequent day of departure is thursday, when 15% of all weekly flights depart. the fewest flights depart on a wednesday., which cabin class options are there for flights between chicago and tampa, there are 4 cabin class options for the route. these are first, business, economy and prem economy. perform a search on kayak to find the latest prices and availability for all cabin fares, which differ across airlines., how long does a flight from chicago to tampa take, the average nonstop flight takes 2h 36m, covering a distance of 1,002 miles., what’s the earliest departure time from chicago to tampa, early birds can take the earliest flight from chicago at 5:45 am and will be landing in tampa at 9:20 am., what’s the latest departure time from chicago to tampa, if you prefer to fly at night, the latest flight from chicago to tampa jets off at 8:40 pm and lands at 12:10 am., good to know, when to book flights from chicago to tampa, faqs for booking flights from chicago to tampa, which is the best way to get to downtown tampa from tpa.

Tampa International Airport (TPA) lies about 9.3 miles from the city center of Tampa. The best way to get there is to hop onto a Hillsborough Area Regional Transit-operated bus, covering this stretch in around 11min. These buses are located at the TPA Post Office and will drop you off at Florida Avenue in downtown Tampa.

Are there ATMs at Tampa International Airport (TPA)?

Travelers landing in TPA with depleted wallets who are looking for ways to recharge them will find several ATM outlets around. They’re situated at the Landside and Airside in all concourses, and in Tampa Bay Galleria. Specifically, the Sun Trust Bank branch runs an ATM booth near Marriott hotel in the passenger terminal, shopping arcade side.

Are there spas at Tampa International Airport (TPA)?

Travelers arriving at TPA while fatigued can seek to calm their emotions before transiting to their next destination. You’ll get a Getaway Spa in every terminal of this establishment. Head to Airsides C and E for manicures, pedicures and massages in a relaxing environment ideal for self-indulgence.

Are there car rentals at TPA?

About four car rental agencies operate from the main terminal at TPA, ensuring that you get a car to move around with as you explore the area’s hidden attractions. The Rental Car Center is situated just south of the Economy Parking Garage, and SkyConnect will get you there from the main terminal.

What amenities does Chicago O’Hare International Airport have for kids?

In addition to diaper changing stations in almost every public bathroom, Chicago O’Hare International Airport also has several Mother’s Rooms that contain TVs, sinks, and power outlets. Terminal 2 is home to the The Kids On The Fly exhibit, which contains an aviation-themed playground.

What dining options are there at Tampa International Airport?

If you would like to have a meal after your flight has landed at Tampa International Airport, head to the Main Terminal, as this is where most of the dining options are located. The Hard Rock Cafe is located on level 3 and serves traditional American food, while P.F Chang’s is located next door and has Asian-inspired meals.

What are some good hotels near Tampa International Airport?

The Tampa Airport Marriott is a contemporary 4-star hotel that is directly connected to Tampa International Airport and is a 15-minute drive from the city’s downtown. The Hampton Inn is a comfortable choice that is less than a 3-minute drive from the airport and a 6-minute drive from the popular Cypress Point Park trails.

Are there any designated smoking areas at Chicago Midway International Airport?

At this time, there are currently no designated smoking rooms or areas located inside of the terminals of Chicago Midway International Airport. If you would like to smoke, you will instead have to do so before you are officially through security, such as in an official zone located outside of the airport’s doors near the Arrivals terminal. These areas are clearly marked with airport signs and contain ashtrays and trash cans.

What is the cheapest flight from Chicago to Tampa?

In the last 3 days, the lowest price for a flight from Chicago to Tampa was $27 for a one-way ticket and $50 for a round-trip.

Do I need a passport to fly between Chicago and Tampa?

Even though you are not required to have a passport, keep in mind that an official ID is needed to board the airplane.

Which airports will I be using when flying from Chicago to Tampa?

When flying out of Chicago you will be using one of these airports: Chicago Midway, Chicago O'Hare Intl, or Chicago Greater Rockford. You will be landing at Tampa.

Which airlines offer Wi-Fi service onboard planes from Chicago to Tampa?

American Airlines, and Delta offer inflight Wi-Fi service on the Chicago to Tampa flight route.

Which aircraft models fly most regularly from Chicago to Tampa?

The Boeing 737-800 is the aircraft model that flies most regularly on the Chicago to Tampa flight route.

Which airline alliances offer flights from Chicago to Tampa?

oneworld, and Star Alliance are the airline alliances operating flights between Chicago and Tampa, with Star Alliance being the most commonly used for this route.

On which days can I fly direct from Chicago to Tampa?

There are nonstop flights from Chicago to Tampa on a daily basis.

Which is the best airline for flights from Chicago to Tampa, Southwest or Delta?

The two airlines most popular with KAYAK users for flights from Chicago to Tampa are Southwest and Delta. With an average price for the route of $260 and an overall rating of 8.2, Southwest is the most popular choice. Delta is also a great choice for the route, with an average price of $281 and an overall rating of 8.0.

How does KAYAK find such low prices on flights from Chicago to Tampa?

KAYAK is a travel search engine. That means we look across the web to find the best prices we can find for our users. With over 2 billion flight queries processed yearly, we are able to display a variety of prices and options on flights from Chicago to Tampa.

How does KAYAK's flight Price Forecast tool help me choose the right time to buy my flight ticket from Chicago to Tampa?

KAYAK’s flight Price Forecast tool uses historical data to determine whether the price for a flight to Tampa from Chicago is likely to change within 7 days, so travelers know whether to wait or book now.

What is the Hacker Fare option on flights from Chicago to Tampa?

Hacker Fares allow you to combine one-way tickets in order to save you money over a traditional round-trip ticket. You could then fly to Tampa with an airline and back to Chicago with another airline.

What is KAYAK's "flexible dates" feature and why should I care when looking for a flight from Chicago to Tampa?

Sometimes travel dates aren't set in stone. If your preferred travel dates have some wiggle room, flexible dates will show you all the options when flying to Tampa from Chicago up to 3 days before/after your preferred dates. You can then pick the flights that suit you best.

Top tips for finding a cheap flight from Chicago to Tampa

• Looking for a cheap flight? 25% of our users found flights on this route for $51 or less one-way and $140 or less round-trip.
• Travelers flying American Airlines from Chicago to Tampa should keep in mind that the airline’s hub is at Tampa International Airport (TPA). You’ll arrive through Airside F. Still, the airline’s Admirals Club is located on Concourse F, adjacent to gate 85. Access to this lounge is based on membership or possession of registered cards. However, any traveler can access them after paying for a day pass.
• Those departing via Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW) should know that the establishment has a road system linking the terminal to the secure area. Transfer between the two buildings is via a pedestrian bridge. Nevertheless, travelers must seek clearance from the security in the terminal building before walking to the concourse.
• Delta Airlines flying between Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) and Tampa International Airport (TPA) allows pets on board. Some of the pets allowed in the cabin include cats, dogs and rabbits. However, the four-legged friends must have valid health licenses and certified vaccination certificates. Besides, you must confine them in their kennels.
• The distance between Downtown Chicago and Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW) is about 10.7 miles. Numerous public transportation options connect the two points. However, the Orange Line train is the best way to travel from city center of Chicago to MDW. The train has regular departures, taking about 20-25min to complete the journey.
• Before your voyage from Chicago to Tampa, you might wish to escape to a secluded place to pray for a safe journey. If you’re departing through ORD, remember that there’s a prayer suite away from the noisy terminals to have a private session with the Almighty. You can locate the airport’s chapel on the Mezzanine level of Terminal 2, above the Delta Air Lines ticket counters.
• Chicago currently has two primary airports that flights from Chicago to Tampa can fly out of. If you are located in the south of Chicago or near the city center, Chicago Midway is the most practical airport to use. If you are in the north of the city or the suburbs, Chicago O’Hare will be a more convenient choice.
• To save time and make your travels as simple as possible, look for direct flights from Chicago to Tampa. Spirit Airlines offers many daily flights between these two locations at budget-friendly prices, while American and United Airlines have in-flight entertainment and complimentary drinks and snacks.
• Hoping to unwind after a long day of traveling? Head to one of the several spas in Tampa International Airport. Rick’s Massage offers a variety of massages and facials, while Terminal Getaway Spa offers manicures, pedicures, waxing, and massages.
• If you find flying to be stressful, make sure to spend some time in the yoga room, which is located in Concourse C of Chicago Midway International Airport. Access to this room is free, and you can find complimentary yoga mats and DVDs that teach you how to do the most famous yoga poses.
• To exercise and burn off some calories before being cooped up on a plane, purchase a pass for the Health Club at Chicago O’Hare International Airport. In addition to standard workout equipment, such as treadmills, ellipticals, and weights, this gym also has a sauna, jacuzzi, and several swimming pools.

Prefer to fly non-stop from Chicago to Tampa?

Find which airlines fly direct from Chicago to Tampa, which days they fly and book direct flights.

Nonstop departures

Chicago to Tampa

ANA, Air Canada, Air New Zealand, +17 more

ANA, Air Canada, +18 more

Nonstop returns

Tampa to Chicago

ANA, Air Canada, Air New Zealand, +19 more

ANA, Air Canada, +20 more

Top 5 airlines serving from Chicago to Tampa

public website still broken for years randomly blocking browsers with privacy options active after loading a page maybe once. check-in on laptop was almost impossible but eventually randomly worked. had to print pass at airport since couldn't get back in to load digital pass on mobile firefox or chrome. red eye flight so smooth onboarding, plenty of room to spread out, easy offboarding. onboard wifi instructions mention vpn can cause problems connecting but fails to also mention private dns. no printed or built in menu list, seems weird to require personal device to point at qr code link for menu which does not even allow direct ordering. people with health condition risk related dietary restrictions trying to avoid for example cholesterol and sugar are left guessing what they can order either way without nutritional info highlights (cranberry juice was minute maid cocktail with as much suger as typical can of soda). tap to pay wasn't working and always seems sketchy to manually enter card info. good movie variety, so limited tv was okay.

Horrible. Flight ORD to CGH was okay, but Paris was a nightmare. Old planes, delays, involuntary downgrades, broken planes, terrible communication. CGH to CPT was my worst flight ever.

Boarding super slow with people allowed to linger in aisles

There were choices for the snacks. Good choices and tasty lunch and breakfast as well.

First time travel in economy and the worst experience I ever had ! Shame on paying 600 dollars to be in a tuna can ! Service was terrible no even water no even class no even matters your flight attendants were lazy and sloppy very bad experience! After all these years traveling in first and once I try this cause I need to go to a destination for an emergency wow shame on you !

Everything was smooth and easy to fly. No complains and a lot of thanks!

More space in the cabin. The guy in front of me leaned his seat back and I felt he was sitting in my lap.

The boarding process was terrible especially with an indirect flight Chicago to Seattle to San Diego was terrible talking about we overbooked a flight idk if I’d take this airline ever again we got off our flight from Chicago to Seattle and we traveled for business and they told us our connecting flight was over booked and their was no seats asking people to take a delayed next flight and they don’t tell anyone coughing to wear masks seats 30A-B were terrible during the flight no one wants to sit next to people coughing all around I don’t want to be sick traveling for work or get sick anytime it’s very upsetting the staff doesn’t take this stuff serious to tell them to wear masks when they see people coughing and sneezing

We checked one bag. That was fast and the agent was fast and super nice. At the gate, boarding was fast and efficient. Flight was uneventful which was great because it was early in the morning and most folks were sleeping. Landing was great. Delta does a really good job of making the flying experience better all around considering you are sitting in such a small space on a plane for several hours. Flight from ALT to Panama City was short and uneventful as well. No entertainment but no need since it was such a short flight.

The announcements about boarding were unclear and har.d to understand I almost missed the flight even though I wa in the boarding area. .

The flight experience was very good! Especially the United Club!

The crew were really great, but the 4 hour delay in small chunks was the worst.

I was not able to buy food in the flight. They refer to include your Credit card in the APP, and if you are not from USA (i have a credit card form Canada) it is not possible

The flight from Ottawa to Chicago took a lot longer due to DC in Ottawa. We got to Chicago and went to our gate to catch our flight. We only had nine minutes I found that very stressful.

Good boarding. Crew started quick with drinks and food. They came around several times for trash which I really liked. Other than turbulence due to storms in the area, flight was great.

Seats are way too snug for my hip to knee ratio and the recline on the seat in front of me made my experience worst. My legs had no room at all. Not a plane for people 6 ft or over unless you fly first class.

The control panel for the seat back screen did not work at all after takeoff.

Plane was so old it had cigarette butt trays in the seat

Everything was good, hard to really comfortable on a flight that long.

Unfortunately our flight was delayed by 45 minutes due to Kate arriving aircraft. Once we stated everything was great.

5 hour flight - full flight - not enough room to use my computer - slightly delayed - Admirals club was excellent quality food, drink made up for flight seating. No food offerred on flight, you ahd to prebook.

Excellent- plan was barely populated. I cannot remember a flight where I was able/encouraged to stretch out!

Great flight. Boarding was efficient and quick. On time departure and smooth flight. Flight arrived early at destination. Good experience.

Had technical issue which delayed the flight period. Flight crew knew there was 5 passengers that the connecting flight was within 15 minutes once at the gate. Rather than identify the 5 passengers to assure they got first. The flight attended mentioned it but didn't assist to assure passengers with connecting flights off first. This caused a hardship and our party of 3 missed the connecting flight.

Overall a fiasco. My first flight was delayed so late that I would have missed my connection. I had to cancel the flight and reschedule for the next morning. I took over half an hour to retrieve my luggage. I already paid $30 for checked in luggage for the flight I didn't take. When I checked in for my new flight on app I paid another $30. I went to the kiosk for my luggage tags and was charged $40. (My baggage didn't make it on the connecting flight but was delivered at 10:00 that night.) Later that day I requested a refund of the baggage fees. I received an email stating my refund was complete in the amount of $234.62. I didn't realize that meant my return flight was canceled until I tried to check in at the counter. They had refunded the wrong thing. It costed me $381.10 to book a new flight home. At least my baggage made it home with me.

Flight was delayed due to crew not being there, besides that it was a normal flight.

I don't like that I have to pay if I want extra leg room. The seats are so expensive; I sit in normal seats and my legs and knees cramp the entire flight. I never feel comfortable on AA flights.

Staff were very helpful to my dad in a wheelchair. Thank you.

Flight was delayed at departure due to weather and the need for de-icing. The flight was smooth but there was a delay at arrival due to weather. We were in a hold for 20 minutes or more. The flight arrived more than 30 minutes late. Airlines have no control over the weather and I'm glad that they follow all safety procedures. Had to wait a long time for my checked luggage. Whole process was slow and the bags arrived wet due to the rain. The onboard wifi and entertainment access was spotty and the signal was dropped several times. Otherwise the crew was great and friendly. They tried to get everyone's bags stowed and seated so we could take off.

Regarding the boarding: it needs more efforts to make it more convenient

Actual CLT experience was rough. I've never seen the airport as bad in regards to security lines and wait. (For not being a holiday) A lot of folks missed their flight this morning. Spirit is fine. But wasnt offered a beverage somehow. No worries but some how I missed it.

Flight from Tampa to Houston was canceled. SPIRIT rebooked me and they double booked my seat. Conclusion I COULD NOT TRAVEL TO HOUSTON. I MISSED MY GRANDDAUGHTER BIRTHDAY. I would not recommend this company. I will file a complaint. I will never consider SPIRIT as an airline . It’s a faker.

The flight attendants were very personable, extremely friendly, and had a very good feeling of the energy around them not to mention they’re very funny and engaging. What made up for the discomfort of the seats and the fact that the plane sat for a long time on the Turmac. Not sure if the pilot was new, but the landing was very rough sort of like I was at a magic mountain theme park ride that was built in 1959

Flight was delayed 2+ hours missed a concert because of it…

Small water and small chips 10 dollars is insane. Pluse almost 200 for a carry on and luggage also crazy. Otherwise was on time that's good

It should be possible to get a cup of water at no cost. Not even asking for a whole bottle.

Seats could use more padding. Kind of hard on the tush.

Whoever is in charge of the desk and door to the plan on both ends was an A**hole. I know they have to deal with a lot if stupid peple but come on. No one wants to get onto a plane angry. smh

Amazed that Spirit can even get planes in the air, would never use again.

The flight was really great I was surprised with Spirit.

It was impossible to change a carry-on for a checked bag after the initial selection. The flight was delayed 14 hours "to allow for a late arriving aircraft." The seats were shockingly uncomfortable. This was only the second time I've seen seats that didn't recline in an airline. The first was in an East Bloc airline before the fall if the Iron Curtain.

Was just ok with over selling I guess. A lot of people in a short space and when we finally arrive i20 minutes, waiting to get out from the plain because we were waiting authorization for out boarding? Something like that.

First time flying Frontier, I am not sure the Ala Carte menu of options is for me.

I liked getting off the plane. Everything else was well below standards. Not even offering a bag of peanuts for free for a 4 hours flight is ridiculous.

There was no wifi, there was no usb charger on the planes Frontier lowered the weight limit on suitcases from 50 to 40 pounds Frontier now charges for a seat...really? If i don't pay for a basic seat, do i stand the whole flight? Frontier now charges for the carry on, just like for the checked suitcase The bundle pricing is way over priced.

They changed my flight and did not want to accommodate me or try to help me in any way. They do not care about their customers.

Bought seats on the flight and they were supposed to be 2 and a jumpseat. Plane clearly changed and it was a regular 3 seat row. Asked for a refund and was denied. If I wanted to sit next to someone else I wouldn't have bought the seats..

Flying frontier reminded me of flying with my family in the 80’s in all of the worst ways possible. From poor customer service to little to no technology. The plane was dirty old and also stuck in the 80’s. From their seatbelts to not having anywhere to charge our phones the seats and the equipment I wasn’t sure if I was being punked or thrown back in time. Needless to say I don’t see myself flying frontier ever again.

Everything was on time and smoothly run. All employees appeared happy and enjoying their job. The delay in take-off was unrelated to anything in Frontier’s control. I wish there were a caffeine-fee, sugar free soda drink option besides water. There are multiple zero sugar caffeine free options.

Everything was on time and smoothly run. All employees appeared happy and enjoying their job. The delay in take-off was unrelated to anything in Frontier’s control.

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When will solar eclipse reach your town? These maps show path's timing, how long it lasts.

Hundreds of cities in 13 u.s. states fall directly on the april 8 eclipse's path of totality as the moon blocks the sun's disc and ushers in darkness. these interactive maps offer a closer look..

Come Monday, millions of Americans from Texas to Maine will stop what they're doing to step outside and spend a few minutes gazing skyward .

Few celestial events have the power to capture our collective attention the way this upcoming total solar eclipse has managed to do. And for those making time to witness it, two questions are bound to be on their mind : Will totality reach my area and if so, how long will the resulting darkness last?

Most people across the country are bound to experience the eclipse in some form, but only 13 states fall directly on the path of totality, where the moon will appear large enough to shield all but the sun's outermost layer, the corona.

As you make your eclipse-viewing plans, these interactive maps should help you chart the time and duration for when totality will occur in cities along the path.

Solar eclipse experiment: Here's why NASA is launching 3 sounding rockets into space during the total solar eclipse

Total solar eclipse path of totality map

The 115-mile-wide path of totality will pass from southwest to northeast over portions of Mexico the United States and Canada.

Mexico's Pacific coast will be the first location in continental North America to experience totality, which will occur at about 11:07 a.m. PDT,  according to NASA .

As the moon's shadow travels northeast, totality in the U.S. will begin at 1:27 p.m. CDT in Eagle Pass, Texas. From there, the path will cut diagonally across the country before ending around 3:35 p.m. EDT in Lee, Maine.

Remember: If you plan to witness the eclipse, proper eyewear is a must until the eclipse reaches totality, then it can be viewed with the naked eye.

Here's a map of some of the larger cities in each of the 13 states on the path to show how the duration of totality will vary:

Cities, states on the path of totality

All told, nearly 500 cities in 13 U.S. states are located on the eclipse's path of totality. Here are some of the major cities in each of the 13 states:

• Dallas and San Antonio, Texas
• Idabel, Oklahoma
• Poplar Bluff, Missouri
• Little Rock, Arkansas
• Paducah, Kentucky
• Indianapolis and Evansville, Indiana
• Carbondale, Illinois
• Cleveland and Toledo, Ohio
• Buffalo, Rochester and Syracuse, New York
• Burlington, Vermont
• Lancaster, New Hampshire
• Caribou, Maine
• Erie, Pennsylvania

This interactive map provides a closer look at cities along the path, when totality will arrive there and how long totality will last:

Eclipse watch parties, festivals

Such a rare event is sure to attract skygazing tourists unlucky enough to live outside the path of totality. Fortunately, many cities that will experience the total eclipse are planning plenty of festivities for tourists and locals alike.

This map , courtesy of Kristian Campana at festivalguidesandreviews.com , includes locations of watch parties, music festivals and more all tied to the eclipse's arrival:

2024 total solar eclipse interactive map with zip code search

Perhaps the easiest way to see how the eclipse will impact your city or town, is to put your zip code into USA TODAY's interactive eclipse map .

Eric Lagatta covers breaking and trending news for USA TODAY. Reach him at [email protected]