Car Rental Illinois

This well-connected state is served by an extensive network of Interstates, helping to get you from A to B in no time. But if you’re looking to explore further there are a number of smaller routes that make for a fascinating road trip.

These stretches often include the best places to see and stop for a quick visit. Many of these roads take in a big chunk of the legendary staple of Americana: Route 66.

Chicago is in the very north-east of the state and many of the main Interstates fan out from here. The I-55 will take you down through the centre of Illinois to Springfield, the capital of the state – worth dropping in to visit the Abraham Lincoln Library and Museum. Continue on I-55 to reach St. Louis, just over the border in Missouri.

The I-57 runs along the eastern side of the state, cutting through Illinois’ tech-hub Champaign, into the south of Missouri. The great east to west routes are found by using the I-90 in the far north, the I-80 that connects Iowa with Indianapolis and, further south, the I-70.

It’s a relatively simple state to navigate, with plenty of landmarks to visit and places of great natural beauty to appreciate on your travels.

Follow the signposted speed limits – shown in miles per hour – which incorporate both maximum and minimum speed limits on some roads. On rural interstate highways, there’s a top speed of 70mph (113km/h) and a minimum speed of 45mph (72km/h).

There are some toll roads in the state – such as the I-90 Jane Addams Memorial Tollway in Chicago – and a few local driving laws to be aware of. For instance, headlights must be turned on from sunset to sunrise and at times when the weather has made you turn on your windscreen wipers.

If you want to see what this wonderful state has in store for you, car rental in Illinois is the best way to get around.

Chicago is the main lure for many visitors, a cultured city that combines skyscrapers with world-class sports and an abundance of proud culture. Head further south and west, however, and you’ll come across some equally memorable places.

The Windy City

Arrive in Chicago and you won’t know whether to look up or down. Looming skyscrapers dominate the sky with aesthetically beautiful designs, while a range of urban and public art charms and delights on Chicago’s streets. The city boasts brilliant restaurants, serving Chi-Town classics like deep dish pizza, as well as more refined establishments.

Chicagoans love their sports. Head to Wrigley Field to watch the Chicago Cubs, or catch the Chicago Bears in NFL action at Soldier Field.  Don’t worry if you can’t come across a ticket. The city stops when the teams are playing, so park up for the night and join them in a local bar. You’ll be made welcome no matter your affiliation. Well, unless you’re a Green Bay Packers fan…

If you’re looking for an art fix, make for the Art Institute in The Loop. This comprehensive gallery houses thought-provoking pieces from Seurat, Dali, Magritte, Chagall, Picasso and more. It’s only a short way from here to ‘The Bean’. Cloud Gate, to give it its proper name, is a striking silver sculpture that has become a landmark of Chicago.

Get your kicks

The world-famous Route 66 begins in Illinois – this section of highway was the first fully-paved highway in the state. If you plan on driving from start to finish, all the way across to Los Angeles, begin your US road trip on the edge of Lake Michigan.

On your way you’ll pass markers that depict the Route 66 of the past – traditional street car restaurants, giant signs (look out for Tall Paul the Muffler Man, cradling a huge hot dog) – while there’s a Route 66 Hall of Fame Museum in Pontiac. You’ll still find drive-thrus and drive-ins, perfect places to stop off for a slice of vintage America.

In search of Springfield

First up – The Simpsons don’t live here unfortunately. Second, this is the state capital, a place brimming with history. Most notably, it’s where former US president Abraham Lincoln lived for a good portion of his life – he was actually born in Kentucky.

When you visit, you can explore his home, classroom and even his tomb at Oak Ridge Cemetery. For a real sense of the man and his work, however, make a beeline for the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library.

Lincoln isn’t the only story in town, however – the most beautiful building in town is the Dana-Thomas House, designed and built by Frank Lloyd Wright at the dawn of the 20^th century. Take a tour of the house, with its perfectly preserved interior.

For architecture of a different kind, stop by the famed Cozy Dog Drive-In on Springfield’s stretch of Route 66. You can savour a mouth-watering burger or grilled cheese sandwich here – its an Illinois staple for hungry travellers.

Rent a car in Illinois and you’ll be able to explore the best of the state at your own pace.