Chicago To Zion National Park Road Trip: The Ultimate Guide

Chicago to Zion National Park road trip is one of the best journeys you can experience in the USA. The 1,634 miles of Chicago to Zion National Park drive takes around 23 hours and 51 mins without stops.

This article includes 27 tips that turn your Chicago to Zion National Park drive 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 Zion National Park, take your coffee and keep reading!

9 Best Hotels On The Road Trip From Chicago To Zion National Park

On the Chicago to Zion National Park road trip, you may want to stay at some points. Here are the top nine hotels on the Chicago – Zion National Park route!

1. Hotel Blackhawk, Autograph Collection

Hotel Blackhawk, Autograph Collection is one of the best hotels; you can stay on the Chicago to Zion National Park road trip. Driving from Chicago to Hotel Blackhawk, Autograph Collection might take around 2 hours and 44 mins.

Hotel Blackhawk, Autograph Collection in Davenport, Iowa is an ideal stop on your Chicago to Zion National Park road trip. The hotel is a beautifully restored building with all the modern amenities. It’s located just a few minutes walk away from the Mississippi riverfront. The rooms are spacious and comfortable. This hotel is a great place to stay while you make your way to Zion National Park.

Check the Hotel Blackhawk, Autograph Collection, one of the best hotels in Davenport, Iowa, on TripAdvisor and Booking.com for recent reviews, prices, and availability.

2. Surety Hotel

Another top hotel where you can choose the stay on the road trip to Zion National Park from Chicago is Surety Hotel. Located in Des Moines, Iowa, the hotel is 333 miles away from Chicago, and it would take 5 hours to drive.

Surety Hotel in Des Moines, Iowa is a great place to stay on the drive from Chicago to Zion National Park. The location is ideal as it’s within walking distance of restaurants and bars in downtown Des Moines. The hotel is classically designed, from the lobby and lounge to the modern bathrooms. It’s certainly an elegant place to stay that offers a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

If you want to learn more about the Surety Hotel, you can check it on TripAdvisor or Booking.com.

3. Residence Inn by Marriott Omaha Downtown/Old Market Area

Didn’t our first two hotel suggestions interest you? So we would like to introduce you to the Residence Inn by Marriott Omaha Downtown/Old Market Area. Residence Inn by Marriott Omaha Downtown/Old Market Area is located in Omaha, Nebraska, and it’s 467 miles away from Chicago. You can arrive there in 6 hours and 58 mins of non-stop driving.

Residence Inn by Marriott Omaha Downtown/Old Market Area is a great place to stay during a road trip to Zion National Park. This hotel is conveniently located in the financial district of central Omaha and offers comfortable rooms with a kitchenette and flat TV with HBO for guests. The separate seating area complete with a sofa bed is a bonus for anyone looking for a little more space and comfort. Residence Inn is a great place to stop for a night and rest up during a long drive to Zion National Park.

Check the TripAdvisor and Booking.com pages of Residence Inn by Marriott Omaha Downtown/Old Market Area, for more information.

4. South Platte Cabins & Kennels

If you are taking the road trip from Chicago to Zion National Park, Ogallala, Nebraska is must have a place you should visit. Plus, South Platte Cabins & Kennels is one of the best hotels in town. The hotel is 792 miles from Chicago, and it would take 11 hours and 28 mins to drive.

South Platte Cabins & Kennels is an ideal place to stay on a road trip from Chicago to Zion National Park. The 2-star hotel provides picturesque river views, and guests can make the most of a sun terrace. The hotel also offers stunning lake views, a well-equipped grill, and a 24-hour front desk to help with any needs. The staff is very accommodating and friendly, and the rooms are comfortable and clean. It’s the perfect place to spend a few nights when traveling on this route, and it’s conveniently located right off the highway.

If you need more info about the price and availability of South Platte Cabins & Kennels, check the TripAdvisor and Booking.com pages.

5. The Oxford Hotel

Our next hotel is The Oxford Hotel, Denver, Colorado. It will take 14 hours and 27 mins of car ride o reach this hotel from Chicago.

The Oxford Hotel is a great place to stay during your road trip from Chicago to Zion National Park. Located in the popular Lower Downtown of Denver, this historic hotel has been open since 1891. It is within walking distance of some of the best restaurants, shops, and businesses in the area, and a perfect spot to return to after a day of sightseeing. Our room was very clean and spacious, and the staff was friendly and helpful. We had a great time at the Cruise Bar, with our helpful bartender Sarah. Breakfast was limited but healthy and delicious. Housekeeping was also excellent. All in all, The Oxford Hotel is a great place to stay for a night on your road trip.

Check The Oxford Hotel on TripAdvisor and Booking.com pages of The Oxford Hotel for reviews, prices, and availability.

6. Glenwood Springs Inn

Another hotel you can accommodate on the road trip from Chicago to Zion National Park is Glenwood Springs Inn. It’s possible to arrive at this hotel, located in Glenwood Springs, Colorado within 16 hours and 54 mins drive from Chicago.

Glenwood Springs Inn is an ideal stop on any drive from Chicago to Zion National Park. Clean, affordable rooms make this a great value, and the location is unbeatable. Just a short walk from downtown Glenwood, you’ll be able to explore all the sights and sounds of the city. And for those looking to start their morning right, the continental breakfast includes a selection of delicious pastries, bagels, juice, and coffee. But the best part of Glenwood Springs Inn is the unbeatable combination of convenience, comfort, and affordability. I would highly recommend it to anyone taking a road trip to Zion National Park.

Before making the reservation, we suggest you read the latest reviews on TripAdvisor and Booking.com.

7. River Terrace Inn, Green River

Another hotel that deserves to be on the list is River Terrace Inn, Green River. It’s located in Green River, Utah and it is 1,340 miles from Chicago. You can arrive there within 19 hours and 28 mins of car drive.

River Terrace Inn, Green River is an affordable and comfortable lodging option for those taking a road trip from Chicago to Zion National Park. The rooms are pleasant and the outdoor area has plenty of shade for a break from the sun. There’s also a hot tub and a lovely pool to make the most of the warm Utah weather. Situated around 45 minutes from Arches National Park and other popular vacation spots in the south of the state, the River Terrace Inn is a great place to stay on the drive.

If you need further information, you can check the TripAdvisor and Booking.com pages of River Terrace Inn, Green River.

8. Quality Inn Bryce Canyon

Located in Panguitch, Utah, Quality Inn Bryce Canyon is another hotel where you can stay on the Chicago to Zion National Park road trip. Quality Inn Bryce Canyon is 1,547 miles from Chicago and will take 22 hours and 37 mins of non-stop driving.

Quality Inn Bryce Canyon is an excellent place to stay during a road trip from Chicago to Zion National Park. The hotel is located 25 minutes away from Bryce Canyon, allowing you to be there in time for sunrise and back in time for breakfast. The room was surprisingly nice, given the price, and much more pleasant compared to other Quality Inns. The outside of the hotel is quite scenic but could benefit from a bit of paint. Inside, the room was spotless and the breakfast had a lot of choices. The only downside was the lack of a swimming pool, which my kids found disappointing. All in all, Quality Inn Bryce Canyon is an excellent value for money and a great place to stay on the drive.

Check the TripAdvisor and Booking.com pages of Quality Inn Bryce Canyon for more information.

9. Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort

As we approach the end of our list, another hotel we would like to introduce to you is the Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort hotel. Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort, Zion National Park, Utah is 1,607 miles from Chicago, and you can arrive there with 23 hours and 45 mins of non-stop driving.

Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort is a great place to stay during your road trip from Chicago to Zion National Park. It’s situated in a stunning area, surrounded by Ponderosa pine trees, and is well-maintained. The Vacation Homes, Cabins Suites, Cowboy Cabins, Conestoga Wagons, and RV / Tent Campground offer great lodging options, while the communal showering facilities are always spotless and warm. The activities team, especially Brandi and Parker, are excellent and offer great horse-riding and canyoneering experiences. I highly recommend their horse-riding and canyoneering tours, as they helped me conquer my fear of heights and repelling. The only downside to this place is the attitude of some staff members in the reception and the food at the main restaurant. However, overall, Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort is a great place to stay during your road trip and offers many wonderful activities and experiences.

Check the TripAdvisor and Booking.com pages of Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort for more information about the Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort hotel.

In this part, we explained nine hotels you can stay at on the road trip from Chicago to Zion National Park. You can pick one of them that suits your taste. Don’t forget to share your experience by commenting on this post. It will help people who will take Chicago to the Zion National Park route.

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

9 Best Restaurants On The Chicago To Zion National Park Road Trip

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

1. Cafe Marie

We would like to start our restaurant recommendation list on Chicago to Zion National Park road trip with Cafe d’Marie. Cafe Marie is located in Davenport, Iowa, and is 175 miles from Chicago. It would take 2 hours and 45 mins of driving.

Cafe Marie in Davenport, Iowa is a hidden gem. Located in a quaint Victorian house alongside the railroad tracks, this restaurant is a must-visit on a road trip between Chicago and Zion National Park. The food is delicious and the variety is impressive. The drinks are also top-notch. The atmosphere is cozy and intimate, and the staff is friendly and helpful. All in all, Cafe d’Marie is a great place to stop for a bite to eat and a refreshing beverage on your road trip.

For more information about Cafe d’Marie, you can visit the TripAdvisor or Google Maps pages of Cafe d’Marie.

2. Fong’s Pizza

Another top restaurant you can choose to eat at on the road trip to Zion National Park from Chicago is Fong’s Pizza. Located in Des Moines, Iowa, Fong’s Pizza is 333 miles from Chicago and would take 4 hours and 59 mins of driving.

Fong’s Pizza in Des Moines, Iowa is a great place to make a pit stop during a road trip from Chicago to Zion National Park. The restaurant offers a mix of classic pizzas and ones with Chinese flavors. The decor is cozy and inviting, and the staff is friendly and welcoming. The pizzas are tasty, and the atmosphere is super relaxed. It’s the perfect place to take a break and fuel up before continuing your drive.

If you want to learn more about Fong’s Pizza, you can check it on TripAdvisor or Google Maps.

3. M’s Pub

Another restaurant that can be preferred by those who are fond of food is M’s Pub. It will take 6 hours and 56 mins of car drive to take 466 miles from Chicago to M’s Pub, Omaha, Nebraska.

M’s Pub in Omaha, Nebraska is a great place to stop and refuel on a road trip between Chicago and Zion National Park. It has a classic décor and a warm, inviting atmosphere that make dining a truly pleasant experience. There is something for everyone on the menu, which has a wide variety of options that can suit all tastes. The staff is friendly and welcoming, creating a fun and relaxed environment. All in all, M’s Pub is an excellent spot to take a break on the drive and enjoy some good food!

You can check M’s Pub, TripAdvisor, or Google Maps for more information.

4. Open Range Grill, Ogallala

Open Range Grill, Ogallala deserves to be on our list. It is one of the most recommended restaurants in Ogallala, Nebraska.

Open Range Grill in Ogallala, Nebraska is a great place to stop on your drive from Chicago to Zion National Park. The restaurant has a modern and inviting atmosphere and offers a simple menu with plenty of options to please everyone. The staff is friendly and incredibly helpful. The food is delicious and the portions are generous. We left this restaurant feeling well-fed and content. Highly recommended!

Open Range Grill, Ogallala is 793 miles from Chicago, and it would take 11 hours and 30 mins of non-stop car driving. If you want to learn more about Open Range Grill, Ogallala, you can check it on TripAdvisor or Google Maps.

5. Corinne Restaurant

If you enjoy dining, Corinne Restaurant would be an excellent choice in Denver, Colorado. It’s 1,002 miles from Chicago and would take 14 hours and 31 mins of car driving.

Corinne Restaurant in Denver, Colorado was an excellent dining experience. The service was amazing, and the decor was beautiful with seating, tables, and lighting. We started with the beet salad and Caeser salad and they were generous portions. For our main, we had the truffle bucatini which was so creamy and light, and my partner had the filet mignon and said it was the best he’s ever had. We would recommend this restaurant for a special occasion, or for anyone taking a road trip from Chicago to Zion National Park as it is a great place to stop.

If you want to learn more about Corinne Restaurant you can check it on TripAdvisor or Google Maps.

6. Riviera Scratch Kitchen

Another restaurant we recommend you visit on the road trip from Chicago to Zion National Park is Riviera Scratch Kitchen, Glenwood Springs, Colorado. It will take 16 hours and 52 mins of driving to reach Riviera Scratch Kitchen from Chicago.

Riviera Scratch Kitchen is a great place to stop on the Chicago to Zion National Park road trip. This multiple award-winning and top-rated restaurant has a unique interior, an extensive wine list, and inventive cocktails. The menu is seasonally designed with fresh and local ingredients. The atmosphere is cozy and inviting and the staff is friendly and helpful. The food is fresh and delicious, with plenty of options for all kinds of appetites. Whether you’re looking for a light snack or a full meal, Riviera Scratch Kitchen is sure to satisfy you.

For more information about Riviera Scratch Kitchen, you can check the TripAdvisor or Google Maps pages of the restaurant.

7. Tamarisk Restaurant

Ranked seventh on our list, Tamarisk Restaurant appeals to those who want to turn their Zion National Park vacation into a memorable experience. Located in Green River, Utah 1,340 miles away from Chicago, and it’ll take 19 hours and 28 mins of driving.

Tamarisk Restaurant in Green River, Utah is a great spot on the drive from Chicago to Zion National Park. With its beautiful views of the Green River, friendly service, and delicious dishes made from scratch, it’s a place you don’t want to miss. Dining here will grant you a lovely view of the river, along with exceptional service and tasty bread. It’s an ideal spot for lunch or dinner when traveling to Zion National Park.

If you want to learn more about Tamarisk Restaurant you can check it on TripAdvisor or Google Maps.

8. Cowboy’s Smokehouse Cafe

Cowboy’s Smokehouse Cafe is an excellent restaurant that is 1,541 miles away from Chicago. Cowboy’s Smokehouse Cafe is located in Panguitch, Utah, and you can reach there after 22 hours and 29 mins of car driving.

Cowboy’s Smokehouse Cafe in Panguitch, Utah is an excellent stop on a road trip from Chicago to Zion National Park. We had the pleasure of stopping here for dinner and were very pleased with the quality of the food. The salmon and trout fillet were both cooked to perfection, moist and flavourful. The friendly and hardworking staff made sure we were well taken care of during our extended wait time of over 30 minutes. This restaurant serves up classic American barbecue cuisine and is great for lunch, dinner, or late-night snacking.

If you want to discover the menu and more information about Cowboy’s Smokehouse Cafe, you can check it on TripAdvisor or Google Maps.

9. Oscar’s Cafe, Springdale:

Eating is a serious business. Another restaurant that can be preferred by those who take this job seriously is Oscar’s Cafe, Springdale, Springdale, Utah. It is 1,633 miles from Chicago and would take around 23 hours and 48 mins of car driving.

Oscar’s Cafe, Springdale is a great spot on the road trip from Chicago to Zion National Park. The restaurant offers a variety of Mexican-American cuisine, allowing you to experience the local flavors. Breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner options are available, so you can grab a meal at any time of the day. The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, making it the perfect spot to take a break during your travels. The service is top notch and the prices are quite reasonable. All in all, Oscar’s Cafe, Springdale is a great spot to enjoy a delicious meal while on your road trip.

You can visit the official TripAdvisor and Google Maps pages of Oscar’s Cafe, Springdale, for detailed information.

This section lists our nine restaurant recommendations for your road trip from Chicago to Zion National Park. We hope these suggestions will help you turn your 1,634 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 Zion National Park 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 Zion National Park. Keep reading.

9 Places To Visit On The Chicago To Zion National Park Drive

A unique experience awaits you in Zion National Park. However, there are also some unique destinations like Davenport, Iowa on your road trip. We want to explain the top nine destinations we recommend on the Zion National Park route.

1. Figge Art Museum

Figge Art Museum will be the first destination we recommend you stop by on your Chicago to Zion National Park road trip. Located in Davenport, Iowa, Figge Art Museum is 176 miles away from Chicago, and it would take 2 hours and 44 mins to drive.

Figge Art Museum is an amazing place to explore on your trip. Its collection of artworks, spanning from the 15th century to the present, is simply breathtaking. The building itself is beautiful, with its grand staircases, marble walls, and glass elevators. The view from the upper levels offers a spectacular view of the Mississippi River. There are also interactive exhibits and activities for both kids and adults. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing place to take a break from your road trip or a stimulating and educational experience, the Figge Art Museum is the perfect place to visit. There’s something for everyone and it’s a great way to break up the road trip and explore the area. The museum is well worth a visit, and it’s a great spot to make a stop on the drive to Zion National Park.

If you want to learn more about the Figge Art Museum, you can check it on TripAdvisor or the official website.

2. Capitol Building, Des Moines

Capitol Building, Des Moines, Des Moines, Iowa is one of the destinations we recommend you stop by on the Chicago to Zion National Park route. It’s 332 miles from Chicago, and it’ll take about 4 hours and 58 mins of driving.

Capitol Building in Des Moines, Iowa is a must-see on a road trip from Chicago to Zion National Park. It is a historically significant site, beautifully preserved, and exudes a grandeur that will take your breath away. From the majestic dome to the original flooring, the building is a masterpiece and makes you feel like you’ve stepped into the past. The intricate architecture of the building will surely impress you and make you want to explore the area further. It is also a great place to take photos and capture the beauty of the building. The Capitol Building is a great place to stop and explore on your drive from Chicago to Zion National Park. It is a great historical site, and the perfect way to break up the long drive. If you have the time, it is worth a visit.

If you want to learn more about Capitol Building, Des Moines, you can check it on TripAdvisor or their website.

3. Old Market

One of the stops you should not neglect to stop by when you take the road trip from Chicago to Zion National Park in Omaha, Nebraska. And if you visit Omaha, Nebraska, we suggest you visit Old Market. You can arrive at Old Market after 6 hours and 56 mins of driving.

Old Market in Omaha, Nebraska is a great stop for a road trip from Chicago to Zion National Park. This unique market offers something for everyone, from shopping and dining to entertainment. Visitors can find a variety of stores, including a bookstore, a holiday shop, and a museum of haunted items. The restaurants are varied and tasty, and the people are friendly and welcoming. It’s a great place to take a break on the journey and explore the city. The overall experience is always enjoyable and it’s a must-visit on any road trip. Whether you’re looking for a snack, souvenirs, or a fun activity, Old Market in Omaha is the perfect spot to check out.

You can visit TripAdvisor and the official site of Old Market for more information.

4. Lake McConaughy

Do you also like to travel and experience new things? Then, it would be best to visit Lake McConaughy, Ogallala, Nebraska on the Chicago to Zion National Park road trip. Lake McConaughy is 801 miles from Chicago, and you can arrive there after the 11 hours and 43 mins of drive.

Lake McConaughy is an incredible stop on a road trip from Chicago to Zion National Park. It’s a great way to break up the journey and enjoy the beautiful outdoors. The lake is stunning and the state does a great job of keeping it in perfect condition. Both sides of the dam have unique attractions and offer a variety of activities such as swimming, fishing, and boating. The campgrounds are clean and well-maintained, and there are plenty of options for tent camping and RV camping. The lake is also stocked with fish each year, so it’s a great spot for fishing. And the views of the lake and the surrounding area are simply breathtaking. All in all, Lake McConaughy is an ideal place to stop on a road trip from Chicago to Zion National Park. Whether for a night or two or just for a few hours, it’s a great place for travelers to stretch their legs and take in the sights.

In addition, you should check TripAdvisor and the official website of Lake McConaughy before going there.

5. Denver Botanic Gardens

Located in Denver, Colorado, Denver Botanic Gardens ranks fifth in our list of tourist destinations on the road trip from Chicago to Zion National Park. You must take 14 hours and 36 mins of driving to arrive at Denver Botanic Gardens.

Denver Botanic Gardens is an absolute must-see on any road trip from Chicago to Zion National Park. Spanning over 24 acres, this botanic garden is a sight to behold. Featuring a wide array of gardens and collections from all corners of the world, the beauty of this place is undeniable. You can find everything here, from local plants to tropical selections. The numerous water features, ponds and lily pads, and the cactus house are the cherry on top. Not to mention, the prices are reasonable and the parking is free. In short, Denver Botanic Gardens exceeded all my expectations. It’s a great place to explore and marvel at the beauty of nature on your trip.

If you want to learn more about Denver Botanic Gardens, you can check it on TripAdvisor or the official website.

6. Hanging Lake Trail

Another attraction you can visit on the road trip from Chicago to Zion National Park is Hanging Lake Trail, Glenwood Springs, Colorado. Hanging Lake Trail is 1,154 miles from Chicago, and it would take 16 hours and 51 mins to drive.

Hanging Lake Trail in Glenwood Springs, Colorado is a great place to spend a few hours and while on a road trip to Zion National Park. The trail is a popular destination for hikers and sightseers alike, and it’s no wonder why. With its stunning views of the surrounding canyon walls, turquoise waters of the lake, and impressive waterfalls, it’s a great place to take in some of Colorado’s natural beauty. The trail is relatively short, but it’s still a good workout. For those who prefer a more leisurely hike, the trail can easily be accessed from the parking lot. The trail is well-maintained and easily navigable. There are plenty of benches and scenic overlooks along the way to rest and take in the views. Of course, the highlight of the trail is the lake itself. Its crystal clear waters, cascading waterfalls, and lush vegetation make it a picturesque spot to take a break and enjoy the scenery. With its location on the way to Zion National Park, Hanging Lake Trail is the perfect place to stop and stretch your legs while taking in some of Colorado’s finest scenery.

For more information about Hanging Lake Trail, you can check their TripAdvisor page or official website.

7. Goblin Valley State Park

You can visit many destinations on your Chicago to Zion National Park journey. One of these destinations is Goblin Valley State Park located in, Green River, Utah. You can arrive at Goblin Valley State Park after 20 hours and 14 mins of driving.

Goblin Valley State Park is an interesting and unique stop on the drive from Chicago to Zion National Park. Set in the desert of Green River, Utah, this park is a fascinating showcase of geologic history. The exposed cliffs are composed of layers of rock that have been eroded over time. The variation in hardness of the sandstone has led to a particularly interesting landscape, with many strange and whimsical shapes. The softer material has been removed by wind and water, leaving behind thousands of goblins – unique rock formations that have been shaped and smoothed by the elements. Visitors to the park can take in the unique landscape, explore the strange shapes, and get up close to the geologic history of the area. Goblin Valley State Park is worth a stop on the road trip from Chicago to Zion National Park. It’s a great place to stretch your legs, explore, and marvel at the power of nature.

If you want to read the reviews of previous visitors about Goblin Valley State Park you can visit Goblin Valley State Park’s TripAdvisor page or its website.

8. Red Canyon

As we near the end of our list of the top 9 best places to visit on the road trip from Chicago to Zion National Park, it would be unfair not to mention Red Canyon. Red Canyon locates in Panguitch, Utah, 1,550 miles from Chicago, and it takes 22 hours and 40 mins drive from Chicago to get there.

Red Canyon is a must-see stop on any road trip from Chicago to Zion National Park. Located right off Highway 12, the Red Canyon offers an incredible variety of sights and experiences. From the turnouts allowing for easy parking to the clean bathrooms at the visitor’s center, Red Canyon is a great place for a stop. The area is full of vibrant colors and wildlife, making for a great morning hike. With breathtaking views and plentiful wildlife, Red Canyon is a great place to explore and take in the sights. Be sure to bring a camera to capture the amazing sunset views. Overall, Red Canyon is a great place to take a break on a road trip – it’s worth the stop.

If you want to learn more about Red Canyon, you can check it on TripAdvisor or the official website.

9. The Narrows

Now, we would like to introduce you to another vibrant restaurant on the Zion National Park trip. Located in Zion National Park, Utah, The Narrows is 1,642 miles from Chicago, and it would take 1 day to drive.

The Narrows is an unforgettable experience that you won’t want to miss when you’re on a Chicago to Zion National Park road trip. This stunning hike is truly unlike any other and is a must-see for any adventure seeker. We visited in November, and the temperature was a pleasant 55 degrees. We rented dry pants and canyoneering boots from Zion Outfitters, however, this was not the best choice. Unfortunately, the equipment did not keep our feet dry, and our toes were numb after a few miles. If you’re planning on visiting in the summer, you may want to rent your gear from Zion Guru by the La Quinta Inn, as their dry pants are connected to the sock and foot part, providing a much better level of waterproofing. You could also opt out of dry pants in the middle of the summer, but it’s still recommended to bring wooden walking poles and canyoneering boots as they provide extra grip on the rocks. The Narrows is Zion National Park’s most popular and dangerous hiking trail due to the risks of flash flooding, so make sure to take the necessary precautions when visiting. All in all, this was an incredible and unforgettable experience, and

If you want to learn more about The Narrows, you can check it on TripAdvisor or the official website.

FAQ of the Road Trip From Chicago to Zion National Park

Here we are answering the frequently asked questions about the Chicago to Zion National Park drive.

How Long Is The Road Trip From Chicago To Zion National Park?

• With ideal traffic and weather conditions, the Chicago to Zion National Park road trip takes approximately 23 hours and 51 mins to drive. The driving distance between Chicago to Zion National Park is 1,634 miles.
• If you want to make the Chicago to Zion National Park road trip by bike, the time you spend on the road will be 6 days and 6 hours.
• If you are crazy enough and plan to walk the Chicago-Zion National Park route, then you will have to walk for 22 days 7 hours.

Where Do You Stop On Driving From Chicago To Zion National Park?

There are many beautiful pits stops along the way to Zion National Park. You can visit Davenport, Iowa; Des Moines, Iowa; Omaha, Nebraska; Ogallala, Nebraska; Denver, Colorado; Glenwood Springs, Colorado; Green River, Utah; Panguitch, Utah; Zion National Park, Utah; Springdale, Utah on the road. Here we list nine places to visit for you. For more information about the best places on the Chicago to Zion National Park journey, you can check the 9 Best Places To Visit On The Chicago To Zion National Park Road Trip.

1. Figge Art Museum: 176 miles / 2 hours and 44 mins to drive from Chicago | 1,472 miles / 21 hours and 30 mins of driving to Zion National Park.
2. Capitol Building, Des Moines: 332 miles / 4 hours and 58 mins to drive from Chicago | 1,303 miles / 19 hours of driving to Zion National Park.
3. Old Market: 466 miles / 6 hours and 56 mins to drive from Chicago | 1,172 miles / 17 hours of driving to Zion National Park.
4. Lake McConaughy: 801 miles / 11 hours and 43 mins to drive from Chicago | 859 miles / 12 hours and 47 mins of driving to Zion National Park.
5. Denver Botanic Gardens: 1,001 miles / 14 hours and 36 mins to drive from Chicago | 637 miles / 9 hours and 39 mins of driving to Zion National Park.
6. Hanging Lake Trail: 1,154 miles / 16 hours and 51 mins to drive from Chicago | 489 miles / 7 hours and 12 mins of driving to Zion National Park.
7. Goblin Valley State Park: 1,390 miles / 20 hours and 14 mins to drive from Chicago | 317 miles / 4 hours and 51 mins of driving to Zion National Park.
8. Red Canyon: 1,550 miles / 22 hours and 40 mins to drive from Chicago | 70.1 miles / 1 hour and 33 mins of driving to Zion National Park.
9. The Narrows: 1,642 miles / 1 day and to drive from Chicago | 8.2 miles / 24 mins of driving to Zion National Park.

Where Should You Stay On The Road Trip From Chicago To Zion National Park?

There are many excellent hotels during your road trip from Chicago to Zion National Park. We have selected nine hotels for you. These hotels are listed below. Remember, you can find detailed information about these hotels in the 9 Best Hotels On The Road Trip To Zion National Park From Chicago section.

• Hotel Blackhawk, Autograph Collection: 176 miles / 2 hours and 44 mins to drive from Chicago | 1,471 miles / 21 hours and 32 mins of driving to Zion National Park.
• Surety Hotel: 333 miles / 5 hours to drive from Chicago | 1,302 miles / 18 hours and 59 mins of driving to Zion National Park.
• Residence Inn by Marriott Omaha Downtown/Old Market Area: 467 miles / 6 hours and 58 mins to drive from Chicago | 1,172 miles / 17 hours of driving to Zion National Park.
• South Platte Cabins & Kennels: 792 miles / 11 hours and 28 mins to drive from Chicago | 844 miles / 12 hours and 29 mins of driving to Zion National Park.
• The Oxford Hotel: 1,001 miles / 14 hours and 27 mins to drive from Chicago | 636 miles / 9 hours and 36 mins of driving to Zion National Park.
• Glenwood Springs Inn: 1,156 miles / 16 hours and 54 mins to drive from Chicago | 480 miles / 7 hours of driving to Zion National Park.
• River Terrace Inn, Green River: 1,340 miles / 19 hours and 28 mins to drive from Chicago | 294 miles / 4 hours and 31 mins of driving to Zion National Park.
• Quality Inn Bryce Canyon: 1,547 miles / 22 hours and 37 mins to drive from Chicago | 69.0 miles / 1 hour and 33 mins of driving to Zion National Park.
• Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort: 1,607 miles / 23 hours and 45 mins to drive from Chicago | 19.8 miles / 45 mins of driving to Zion National Park.

Where To Eat Between Chicago to Zion National Park?

If you are thinking of taking a break and having a nice meal on your Chicago to Zion National Park drive, 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 Chicago To Zion National Park Road Trip.

1. Cafe d’Marie: 175 miles / 2 hours and 45 mins to drive from Chicago | 1,472 miles / 21 hours and 29 mins of driving to Zion National Park.
2. Fong’s Pizza: 333 miles / 4 hours and 59 mins to drive from Chicago | 1,303 miles / 19 hours of driving to Zion National Park.
3. M’s Pub: 466 miles / 6 hours and 56 mins to drive from Chicago | 1,172 miles / 17 hours of driving to Zion National Park.
4. Open Range Grill, Ogallala: 793 miles / 11 hours and 30 mins to drive from Chicago | 845 miles / 12 hours and 30 mins of driving to Zion National Park.
5. Corinne Restaurant: 1,002 miles / 14 hours and 31 mins to drive from Chicago | 636 miles / 9 hours and 38 mins of driving to Zion National Park.
6. Riviera Scratch Kitchen: 1,155 miles / 16 hours and 52 mins to drive from Chicago | 480 miles / 7 hours of driving to Zion National Park.
7. Tamarisk Restaurant: 1,340 miles / 19 hours and 28 mins to drive from Chicago | 294 miles / 4 hours and 31 mins of driving to Zion National Park.
8. Cowboy’s Smokehouse Cafe: 1,541 miles / 22 hours and 29 mins to drive from Chicago | 75.0 miles / 1 hour and 38 mins of driving to Zion National Park.
9. Oscar’s Cafe, Springdale: 1,633 miles / 23 hours and 48 mins to drive from Chicago | 1.2 miles / 3 mins of driving to Zion National Park.

Conclusion

So, there you have it- a complete guide to planning a road trip from Chicago to Zion National Park. We have listed nine hotels, nine restaurants, and nine places to visit on the Chicago to Zion National Park drive. 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 Zion National Park as enjoyable as possible.

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