Looking for a thrilling weekend getaway from Chicago? We've curated a list of six fantastic road trips, all within a six-hour drive from the Windy City. Whether you're seeking a beach getaway, a city break, or a tranquil park, these destinations will captivate you. Choose between a Tesla Model Y Long Range or a Tesla Model 3 Long Range and hit the road.

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1. Door County, Wisconsin

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Distance from Chicago: 4 hours

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Head north on I-94 and take the scenic route along Lake Michigan towards Door County, Wisconsin. Known for its shoreline, lighthouses, and vibrant arts scene, Door County offers a delightful escape from the city.

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Visit Peninsula State Park for breathtaking views of Lake Michigan, go hiking or biking along its scenic trails, and don't miss the stunning Eagle Bluff Lighthouse. Indulge in local delicacies at Al Johnson's Swedish Restaurant, famous for its traditional Swedish pancakes and goats grazing on the roof. The Door County Maritime Museum in Sturgeon Bay is a must-visit, offering fascinating exhibits on Great Lakes history and shipwrecks.

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Cana Island Lighthouse, located on a picturesque island accessible via a narrow causeway, is an iconic symbol of Door County. Take a leisurely kayak tour along the coastline or enjoy delectable pastries at Bayside Coffee in Fish Creek.

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There is no shortage of charging points around Door County. Re-charge at any of the Superchargers near North Bay, Sturgeon Bay, Bailey’s Harbor or Fish Creek. Remember, charging is hassle-free when you rent with UFODRIVE– simply use the app to navigate to the nearest available energy station.

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2. Galena, Illinois

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Distance from Chicago: 3 hours

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Embark on a stunning drive west from Chicago on US-20 to reach Galena, Illinois. This historic town, nestled amidst rolling hills and steeped in 19th-century charm, offers a perfect weekend retreat. Take a guided tour of Ulysses S. Grant Home, the former residence of the 18th U.S. President. Stroll along the Main Street lined with quaint shops, art galleries, and delicious eateries. Galena Historical Society & Museum showcases the town's rich history through fascinating exhibits and artifacts.

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Explore the beauty of Galena by hiking or biking the Galena River Trail, offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Treat yourself to a delightful dining experience at Fried Green Tomatoes, known for its delectable Southern cuisine. Stop by Stella's Café & Catering for a delicious breakfast or lunch, featuring locally sourced ingredients.

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There is one level 2 and two level 1 charging stations in Galena on the UFODRIVE network. The app will lead you to the most convenient place to recharge.

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3. Indianapolis, Indiana

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Distance from Chicago: 3.5 hours

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Travel southeast on I-65 to reach the vibrant city of Indianapolis, Indiana. Known for its rich sports heritage, cultural attractions, and diverse culinary scene, Indianapolis offers an exciting urban getaway. Discover the iconic Indianapolis Motor Speedway, home to the world-famous Indy 500. Visit the Indianapolis Museum of Art, showcasing a remarkable collection of artworks spanning various periods. The Children's Museum of Indianapolis is a must-visit for families, offering interactive exhibits and educational programs.

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Monument Circle, dominated by the towering Soldiers and Sailors Monument, serves as the heart of downtown Indianapolis. Rent bikes and explore the Indianapolis Cultural Trail, a world-class urban bike and pedestrian pathway connecting the city's major cultural districts. Enjoy contemporary American cuisine at St. Elmo Steak House, renowned for its mouthwatering steaks and famous shrimp cocktail. Visit Provider Coffee for a specialty coffee experience, crafted with precision and care.

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If you need to recharge, there are two level 2 chargers and one level 3 charger around the Wholesale District or use the app to navigate to any charger in the UFODRIVE network.

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4. Saugatuck, Michigan

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Distance from Chicago: 2.5 hours

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Drive north on I-94 and take I-196 to reach the coastal town of Saugatuck, Michigan. With its scenic beauty, artistic community, and gorgeous dunes, Saugatuck offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Book a room at Wickwood Inn, a boutique hotel known for its warm hospitality and elegant decor.

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Spend a day at Oval Beach, one of the most stunning beaches in the Great Lakes region, known for its pristine sand dunes and breathtaking sunsets. Explore the vibrant art galleries and boutique shops in downtown Saugatuck. The Saugatuck Dune Rides offer thrilling excursions through towering sand dunes, providing a unique perspective of the area's natural beauty. The Saugatuck Chain Ferry, a hand-cranked vessel, has been ferrying passengers across the Kalamazoo River since 1838.

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Enjoy a delicious meal at The Southerner, offering Southern-inspired cuisine with a modern twist. Stop by Uncommon Coffee Roasters for freshly brewed coffee and artisanal pastries in a cozy atmosphere.

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There is a level 1 charger just off Blue Star-Hwy which you can use to recharge before heading back or check the map in the UFODRIVE app as there are plenty of charging stations along the route.

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5. Lake Geneva, Wisconsin

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Distance from Chicago: 2 hours

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Head northwest on I-90 to reach the serene lakes of Lake Geneva, offering a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Enjoy fishing, boating, or simply relaxing by the tranquil shores. For a change of activities indulge in watersports or take a leisurely boat tour. Don't miss the beautiful Yerkes Observatory in Williams Bay, a historic astronomical observatory known for its impressive telescope.

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Big Foot Beach State Park, situated on the shores of Lake Geneva, offers scenic trails and a sandy beach. Explore the downtown area of Lake Geneva and browse through its boutique shops and art galleries. Dine at the Grandview Restaurant for a delicious meal paired with handcrafted beers. Enjoy a cup of coffee and homemade pastries at Simple Cafe in Lake Geneva.

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You will find two UFODRIVE level 3 chargers and one level 2 charger along Grand Geneva Way. As always, use the UFODRIVE app to find the most convenient spot to charge.

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6. Starved Rock State Park, Illinois

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Distance from Chicago: 1.5 hours

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For a nature-filled weekend getaway, drive southwest on I-55 to reach Starved Rock State Park in Illinois. Known for its towering canyons, cascading waterfalls, and scenic trails, this park offers a perfect outdoor escape. Book a room at Starved Rock Lodge, a rustic yet comfortable hotel nestled within the park. Hike the park's numerous trails, including the popular Starved Rock Trail and French Canyon Trail, for breathtaking views of the Illinois River and magnificent waterfalls. Birdwatching and picnicking are also popular activities.

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Visit the historic Illinois & Michigan Canal Visitor Center in Utica, showcasing the history and importance of the canal in the region's development. Starved Rock, a towering sandstone butte overlooking the Illinois River, is the park's iconic landmark. Take a relaxing riverboat cruise along the Illinois River to enjoy the scenic beauty and learn about the area's history. Enjoy a meal with a view at The Lone Buffalo, offering delicious farm-to-table cuisine and craft beers. Grab a quick bite or a cup of coffee at Stone Jug Barbeque, known for its mouthwatering BBQ sandwiches and homestyle sides.

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There are numerous options also along the route on the way back. Simply check the UFODRIVE charging map and you will have no trouble finding somewhere to recharge.

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Taking a road trip from Chicago in your UFODRIVE car rental allows you to explore these wonderful destinations while reducing your carbon footprint. With increasing availability of EV chargers at boutique hotels and popular attractions, you can enjoy the convenience of charging your EV while indulging in memorable experiences. With UFODRIVE offering free additional drivers, transparent insurance costs and a network of over 200k integrated chargers, plan your next weekend getaway today and hit the road!

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