Chicago is one of the world’s great cities and being the third-largest in the US, it's also a perfect place to rent an RV and start your road trip. With Motorhome Republic, you can quickly and easily compare motorhome rentals in Chicago and get a great deal. If you want to know what to expect from hiring an RV first, just check out our information below and you'll be well informed for your trip.
RV rental companies in Chicago, IL
There are several rental companies to choose from when finding an RV with Motorhome Republic, each of them offering a range of vehicles suited to families, groups, and couples.
Cruise America offers a huge fleet, including compact, standard and large motorhomes that sleep between 2 and 6 adults.
Road Bear RV has a newer fleet of RVs and is a reliable and affordable company. They also offer excellent customer service.
El Monte has locations nationwide with affordable vehicles. Their Class A and C RVs come in different sizes, so which one you need will depend on how many people you're traveling with.
You can also rent an RV in Chicago from suppliers like Indie Campers and Escape Campervans.
When choosing an RV, consider the size, how many people it can accommodate, it's features (such as toilet, unlimited mileage, cooking facilities etc), and age. These will all help narrow down your options.
Discover the city of Chicago in a motorhome
Before embarking on a tour of Chicago, it's wise to plan your entry into the city carefully. While some of the best campgrounds are located just an hour outside the city, parking options for oversized vehicles near downtown are both costly and scarce. For campers, leaving your motorhome at an RV park and utilizing local bus and train services to navigate the city's busy streets could be a more convenient and economical option.
Visit Downtown Chicago
Millenium Park
When you find yourself in downtown Chicago, make your way to Millennium Park, where you'll encounter contemporary art installations, playful interactive fountains, and the iconic Mirror Gate, a beloved landmark in The Windy City.
The Art Institute of Chicago
Chicago is also home to one of the best art museums in the country, The Art Institute of Chicago. The museum proudly showcases renowned works by both European and American artists, including masterpieces like "A Sunday on La Grande Jatte" by George Seurat and "American Gothic" by Grant Wood.
John Hancock Center
Another great spot for breathtaking views is the John Hancock Center. Visit the 360 CHICAGO observation deck on the 94th floor for panoramic vistas of the city and Lake Michigan.
Navy Pier
Hop in your RV rentals in Chicago and go to the famous Navy Pier. Ride the grand Ferris wheel, a landmark of the region, and enjoy stunning views of the city and Lake Michigan. Navy Pier also hosts numerous events, exhibitions, and family-friendly attractions.
Museum Campus
Dive into history and culture at Chicago’s Museum Campus. Home to three of the city’s most popular museums—the Field Museum, the Adler Planetarium, and the Shedd Aquarium—you can explore a wide range of historical artifacts and interactive displays.
Waterscapes Around Chicago
Lake Michigan
Your campervan adventure would not be complete without diving into the refreshing Lake Michigan. Experience the quaint charm of Oval Beach or hang out with the locals at Montrose Beach.
Lake Sara and Rend Lake
South of Chicago, both Lake Sara and Rend Lake beckon with tranquil acres of wetlands, meadows, and forests, inviting exploration and serenity. These lakes provide perfect spots for paddling, hiking, and enjoying nature.
Fox River
For a leisurely paddle, head your campervan rentals to the Fox River. This river offers a peaceful setting and scenic views, ideal for a calm and enjoyable day on the water.
Day trips for your Chicago RV rental
Vineyards of Southwest Michigan
For a relaxing day camper rental trip, head east on I-94 to the vineyards of southwest Michigan. This region, blessed with miles of coastline, provides a perfect climate for winemaking.
Anderson Japanese Gardens
The Anderson Japanese Gardens are only 1.5 hours from Chicago, and have even been named the finest Japanese gardens in the US. Here you can stroll through the beautiful setting, take a calligraphy class, or participate in a traditional tea ceremony.
Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum
Take a motorhome rental tour to the state’s capital, Springfield, to see the historic Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum. The city was the 16th President’s hometown, and also offers plenty of other fascinating historical sites just over three hours from Chicago.
Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site
The largest piece of prehistoric earthwork in the Americas can also be found in Illinois, roughly 4.5 hours from Chicago. The Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a National Historic Landmark, as it is where an estimated 10,000 – 20,000 inhabitants lived around AD 700 – 1400.
Other interesting destinations to explore
For one of the world’s ultimate road trips, the start sign of Route 66 can be a little difficult to find at corner of Michigan and Adams. It’s about 25 yards from the intersection on Adams. Jump out and walk to get your photos, as it’s a difficult area to pull over. This iconic route will drive you through Albuquerque, Grand Canyon and Los Angeles.
Drive your motorhome rental to Orlando to visit Disney World or travel to New York in your rental RV and see states on the east coast to complete your US tour. A visit to Philadephia in your camper rental is also ideal.
RV parks and campgrounds recommended for your Chicago tour
Chicago may be a big city, but the rural areas surrounding Chicago – Illinois, Indiana and Wisconsin – offer a wide range of RV camping options.
Indiana Dunes National Park
Located along the southern shore of Lake Michigan, Indiana Dunes State Park offers stunning natural beauty with its diverse ecosystems, including sandy beaches, dunes, wetlands, and forests. Campers can enjoy hiking, swimming, bird watching, and exploring over 16.5 miles of trails. This is one of the national parks in Chicago that features modern amenities, including electric hookups, restrooms, and showers, making it a comfortable retreat for nature enthusiasts.
Thousand Trails Pine Country
Thousand Trails Pine Country, situated in Belvidere, Illinois, provides a family-friendly camping experience with a variety of activities and amenities. This campground is part of the Thousand Trails network, known for its spacious RV sites, cabin rentals, and extensive recreational facilities, including a swimming pool, mini-golf, and organized events. It's an ideal destination for a fun-filled getaway with plenty of opportunities for relaxation and adventure.
Illinois Beach State Park
Illinois Beach State Park, located along the shores of Lake Michigan in northeastern Illinois, offers a unique camping experience with its diverse habitats, including beaches, dunes, prairies, and wetlands. The campground features both Class A (electric) and Class B (non-electric) sites, along with modern amenities like restrooms and showers. Campers can explore over six miles of sandy beaches, swim in the lake, hike the numerous trails, and observe a variety of wildlife, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor adventurers.
Kankakee River State Park
Kankakee River State Park, situated in northeastern Illinois, provides a scenic retreat along the Kankakee River. The campground offers a range of camping options, including tent and RV sites, as well as cabins. Visitors can enjoy fishing, canoeing, and kayaking on the river, as well as hiking and wildlife viewing in the surrounding woodlands.
