5 days in Tennessee & Chicago Itinerary

Great Smoky Mountains National Park contains some of the highest mountains east of the Mississippi River, but it's the ease of access that makes this national park the United States' most visited.

On the 23rd (Wed), appreciate the history behind Rockefeller Memorial, admire all the interesting features of Newfound Gap Road, then take your sightseeing to a higher altitude at Clingmans Dome, and finally trek along Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail. Keep things going the next day: stroll around Chimneys Picnic Area, then identify plant and animal life at Roaring Fork, and then take a memorable drive along Little River Road.

To see photos, ratings, and other tourist information, read our Great Smoky Mountains National Park online journey planner.

Chicago to Great Smoky Mountains National Park is an approximately 3-hour flight. You can also drive; or do a combination of bus and subway. Due to the time zone difference, you'll lose 1 hour traveling from Chicago to Great Smoky Mountains National Park. While traveling from Chicago, expect somewhat warmer days and about the same nights in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, ranging from highs of 60°F to lows of 39°F. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 24th (Thu) to allow time to fly to Chicago.

A huge and vibrant city, Chicago is home to top-notch theaters, shops, museums, galleries, and restaurants.

Chicago is known for sightseeing, museums, and nightlife. Your trip includes some of its best attractions: admire the masterpieces at The Art Institute of Chicago, don't miss a visit to The Magnificent Mile, take in the waterfront at Navy Pier, and observe the fascinating underwater world at Shedd Aquarium.

For more things to do, traveler tips, photos, and tourist information, read our Chicago trip itinerary maker website.

Getting from Great Smoky Mountains National Park to Chicago by flight takes about 3 hours. Other options: drive; or do a combination of bus and subway. The time zone changes from Eastern Standard Time (EST) to Central Standard Time (CST), which is usually a -1 hour difference. When traveling from Great Smoky Mountains National Park in November, plan for slightly colder days in Chicago, with highs around 50°F, while nights are about the same with lows around 35°F. Cap off your sightseeing on the 27th (Sun) early enough to travel back home.