Motorhome Rental & RV Hire in Chicago – Route 66, Great Lakes & Midwest Adventures

Chicago, the third largest city in the United States, is a vibrant metropolis. Known as the “Windy City” it sits on the shores of Lake Michigan and offers world‑class attractions. Visit the Art Institute of Chicago, stroll through Grant Park, or explore the Museum Campus with its famous trio: the Adler Planetarium, the Field Museum, and Shedd Aquarium.  Rent a motorhome in Chicago with CampingCar‑Online and begin your American road trip in comfort. Since 2001, our specialists have guided travelers step by step through the rental process, helping them explore the USA from Chicago with itineraries that include the legendary Route 66, the Great Lakes, and beyond.

→ Chicago is more than just a departure point — it’s a destination in itself and the perfect gateway to explore the Great Lakes, the Midwest, and the open road in your motorhome.

Why Rent a Motorhome in Chicago

• Gateway to Route 66, one of the most famous road trips in the world

• Easy access to the Great Lakes region and Lake Michigan’s sandy shores

• Explore the Midwest’s natural parks and charming small towns

• Campsites are plentiful and well‑equipped around the city and region

• Chicago itself is a vibrant destination worth a few days before hitting the road 

Must-See Road Trips from Chicago

1. Route 66 – The Mother Road

Start your journey on the legendary Route 66, heading southwest through Illinois toward St. Louis. Stop in Pontiac, IL, to visit the Route 66 Hall of Fame and Museum before continuing past classic diners and roadside Americana.

2. Great Lakes & Michigan

Drive north along Lake Michigan’s shoreline to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, famous for its towering sand dunes and sweeping lake views. Extend the trip to Traverse City for wineries and charming small‑town culture.

3. Wisconsin & Door County

Head into Wisconsin and follow the peninsula up to Door County, known for its lighthouses, cherry orchards, and shoreline parks. Peninsula State Park offers RV‑friendly campgrounds with hiking and lakefront views.

4. Amish Country & Central Illinois

Travel south to Arthur, Illinois, home to one of the largest Amish communities in the U.S. Experience horse‑drawn buggies, traditional markets, and handmade crafts in a setting that feels worlds away from the city.

5. Detroit & Cleveland – Industry and Culture

Drive east to Detroit to explore both the abandoned Packard Plant and the revitalized downtown with the Detroit Institute of Arts. Continue to Cleveland for the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and a vibrant lakeside city scene.

Events Worth Planning Around

• Spring: Tulips burst into bloom during the Tulip Time Festival in Holland, Michigan. Don't miss the St. Patrick’s Day Parade sees the Chicago River turn Green. 

• Summer: Taste of Chicago (July) – the largest food festival in the USA plus many music, art and cultural events throughout the city

• Fall/Autumn: the canyons and waterfalls of Starved Rock State Park glow with brilliant fall colors.

Which Vehicle Should You Rent in Chicago

• Campervans: compact and economical — ideal for couples or solo travelers

• Motorhomes (Class C RVs): spacious and family‑friendly — perfect for groups and longer journeys

→ All vehicles are modern, reliable, with professional 24/7 support.

Practical Info Before You Hit the Road

• A standard car license is all you need for all RV types in the USA

• Campsites are easy to find around Chicago and throughout the Midwest

• Roads are well‑suited for RV travel, with scenic highways and good infrastructure

•  Basic insurance is included in every rental

FAQ – Motorhome Rental Chicago

What are the most popular itineraries from Chicago? Route 66, the Great Lakes, Wisconsin's Great River Road, and Starved Rock State Park.

Can I rent a motorhome one‑way from Chicago? Yes — the classic Route 66 route with a one-way drop off in Los Angeles books up over a year in advance. Drop offs available to 42+ cities across the USA. 

What types of vehicles are available in Chicago? Campervans and Motorhomes (Class C RVs).

What’s the best season for a road trip from Chicago? Spring through fall (April–October) for the best weather, with autumn especially popular for foliage in Illinois and Wisconsin.

Why choose CampingCar‑Online?

• Specialists in Motorhome, RV and Campevan rentals in the USA since 2001

• Expert, responsive team passionate about travel and nature

• Modern fleet from trusted partners

• Custom itineraries: Route 66, Great Lakes, Midwest

• Fast, transparent quotes

→ With Campingcar Online, your adventure begins with expert support.

Ready to Hit the Road from Chicago

Rent your motorhome in Chicago today with CampingCar‑Online. From the skyscrapers of the Windy City to the open roads of Route 66, your American RV adventure starts here.

→ Request your free, fast online quote
→ Or schedule a free call with one of our expert advisors