Top Places to Visit from Chicago in Summer with Van Rentals

18 Mar-2026

Summer is road-trip season, and a rented van is the perfect way to explore from Chicago with the whole group. Here are the best summer trips by distance, from quick weekends to longer getaways.

Within a couple of hours

For a quick escape, Lake Geneva, Wisconsin and the canyons of Starved Rock State Park, Illinois are easy, scenic drives — perfect for a summer weekend.

A few hours out

With a little more time, hit the family fun of the Wisconsin Dells, the beaches and charm of Holland, Michigan, or the historic streets of Galena, Illinois.

Longer summer getaways

Up for more miles? Sleeping Bear Dunes, Michigan and Door County, Wisconsin deliver stunning shoreline scenery — or take the classic Route 66 road trip starting right in Chicago.

Why a van for summer

One van keeps the group together with room for beach and camping gear, splits the cost across everyone, and lets you set your own pace all summer long.

Go the distance

Because we’re Illinois-based, you can drive our vans anywhere across the USA and into Canada — no special license needed for personal use, and up to three additional drivers free.

Which van should you pick?

For comfort, the 15-passenger Mercedes-Benz Sprinter; for value, the 15-passenger Ford Transit. Browse the full fleet.