Plan Your Chicago to Florida Road Trip With Kids
The Chicago to Florida road trip is a classic American journey covering over 1,100 miles through the heartland to sunshine. This multi-day adventure passes through incredible cities with amazing playgrounds and family attractions. SmartStops helps you plan perfect stops to keep everyone happy on this epic drive.
Route Stats
1,100-1,200 miles
Total Distance
16-18 hours driving
Drive Time
5-6 stops
Recommended Stops
2-3 days recommended
Total Trip Time
Spring or Fall
Best Season
Recommended Stops with Playgrounds
Stop 1: Indianapolis, IN
185 miles from Chicago • 3 hours from start
Holliday Park - Nature-themed playground with trails
Multiple options along I-65
Coat Check Coffee, Starbucks
Perfect first major stop. Great playground and the Children's Museum of Indianapolis is nearby if you want a longer break.
Stop 2: Louisville, KY
300 miles from Chicago • 4.5-5 hours from start
Louisville Waterfront Park - Massive playground with splash pad
Shell, BP along I-65
Please & Thank You, Starbucks
Excellent lunch stop with waterfront views. The playground is one of the best along this entire route.
Stop 3: Nashville, TN
470 miles from Chicago • 7-8 hours from start
Centennial Park - Near the Parthenon with great playground
Multiple options throughout city
Frothy Monkey, Starbucks
Consider an overnight here. Nashville has excellent family dining and the playground at Centennial Park is fantastic.
Stop 4: Chattanooga, TN
600 miles from Chicago • 9-10 hours from start
Coolidge Park - Carousel, playground, and walking bridge
Shell, BP near downtown
Mean Mug Coffeehouse, Starbucks
Great overnight option. The aquarium and rock climbing gym are perfect for active kids.
Stop 5: Atlanta, GA
720 miles from Chicago • 11-12 hours from start
Piedmont Park - Large playground with Atlanta skyline views
QT, Shell throughout metro
Octane Coffee, Starbucks
Perfect second night stop if splitting the trip over 3 days. Zoo Atlanta and World of Coca-Cola nearby.
Tips for This Route
Best Time to Leave Chicago
Leave early (5-6 AM) to clear Chicago traffic. Alternatively, leave after 9 AM and plan for a longer first day.
Weather Considerations
Weather varies significantly - pack for all conditions. Summer in Florida is hot and humid; winter in Tennessee can be cold.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don't try to do this drive in one day with kids. Plan for at least 2 nights on the road. Atlanta traffic can add 1-2 hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does Chicago to Florida take with kids?
We recommend 2-3 days for this trip. The drive is 16-18 hours without stops, but with kids, plan for 2 overnight stays - Nashville and Atlanta or Chattanooga are ideal.
Where should I stop between Chicago and Florida?
Best stops are Indianapolis (3 hrs), Louisville (4.5 hrs), Nashville (7-8 hrs), Chattanooga (9-10 hrs), and Atlanta (11-12 hrs). Each has excellent playgrounds.
What's the best route from Chicago to Florida with kids?
I-65 to I-24 to I-75 is the most popular route. It passes through cities with great family amenities. Avoid the I-65 to I-10 route through Alabama - fewer stops.
Plan This Route in SmartStops
Get turn-by-turn directions to every playground and family stop along your Chicago to Florida journey.