From Chicago to Seattle via Route 66
I’ve been lucky enough to visit the USA many times over the years, and every single trip still teaches me something new. No two places are ever quite the same, which is exactly what makes it such an exciting destination for me to design holidays for. I’ve just returned from an incredible Brand USA educational trip and it really reinforced that. From the vibrant streets of Chicago to the nostalgia of Route 66 and the cool, creative energy of Seattle, the journey was packed with unforgettable moments and fresh insights that I can now share directly with my clients. Experiences like this are so important. They allow me to see destinations first-hand, go beyond the guidebooks and make sure the advice I give is genuinely personal, honest and tailored to how you like to travel.
Chicago: The Perfect City Break
My USA adventure began in Chicago, a city that blends culture, architecture and
big-city energy perfectly. From ticking off “The Bean” in Millennium Park to
gliding along the Chicago River on an architecture cruise, it felt as though
every moment was iconic. A highlight was cheering on the White Sox at a
baseball game, soaking up the locals’ passion. Evenings meant skyline views and
cocktails at 360 Chicago’s CloudBar, watching the sun set over Lake Michigan
before the city lit up below. Chicago is ideal for a vibrant, experience-packed
city break, whether you are travelling as a couple, with friends, or building
it into a wider USA itinerary.
Springfield, Illinois: History and Route 66 Charm
Next came Springfield, Illinois, where Route 66 nostalgia meets key chapters of
American history. I began at the Ace Sign Company, discovering the craft behind
neon signage and classic roadside Americana, then delved into the life and
legacy of Abraham Lincoln at the Presidential Museum, which brings history to
life in a surprisingly emotional way. Dinner was a classic Route 66 experience
at Motorheads, surrounded by vintage memorabilia, before ending the day at the
famous Route 66 sign, a fitting moment on this legendary highway.
St. Louis: Iconic Landmarks and Memorable Moments
Arriving in St. Louis on a Cardinals game day was the perfect introduction,
with the whole city buzzing. We tucked into excellent BBQ at Salt + Smoke,
explored the Cardinals Hall of Fame, then headed to the Gateway Arch for
breathtaking views over the Mississippi from the top. A private tour of the St.
Louis Art Museum and a relaxed drink at The Gin Room rounded off the day in
style. The next morning started at Spencer’s Grill in Kirkwood, a classic Route
66 diner, followed by a tour of the Budweiser Brewery. A brief tornado alert
paused our visit and made it an experience I will never forget, before we
continued with lunch at Balkan Treat Box and Ted Drewes’ famous frozen custard.
Route 66: Classic Americana All the Way
Continuing along Route 66, I crossed back into Illinois for the final stretch.
Highlights included the beautifully restored Ambler’s Texaco Gas Station in
Dwight, the towering Gemini Giant in Wilmington and the Joliet Area Historical
Museum and Route 66 Welcome Center. It was the perfect place to reflect on just
how special this road is. Whether you drive it end to end or weave shorter
sections into a wider trip, Route 66 adds nostalgia, character and that
unmistakable Americana road-trip feel.
Seattle: A Fitting Finale
My final stop was Seattle, a cool and creative contrast to the Midwest. We
started with big views from the Seattle Great Wheel and an immersive FlyOver
experience showcasing the Pacific Northwest. At Pike Place Market, I joined a
hosted experience at Atrium Kitchen, sampled local flavours and watched the
famous fish throwing in full swing. Other highlights included visiting the
original Starbucks, a scenic boat trip and the stunning Chihuly Garden and
Glass, a must for anyone who loves art and design. We finished with two of
Seattle’s most iconic experiences: riding the Monorail and taking in sweeping
views from the Space Needle, a perfect finale to an unforgettable journey.
Why This Trip Matters for My Clients
This journey really underlined how diverse the USA is, with something for every
style of traveller: big-city thrills, historic routes, foodie finds and coastal
culture. Because I have experienced these places first-hand, I can offer
honest, personal recommendations, insider insight on the best areas and
experiences, and tailor-made itineraries that match your pace, interests and
travel style, using trusted partners and special touches to make your trip feel
unique.
Ready to Plan Your Own USA Adventure?
I have travelled to the States many times over the years and still find
something completely different on every visit. Whether you are drawn to
Chicago’s buzz, the nostalgia of Route 66, the sport and culture of St. Louis
or the cool, coastal creativity of Seattle, I would love to help you create a
trip that reflects what you love to see and do. From short city breaks to
multi-centre road trips, I can design a personalised USA itinerary that fits
your wish list, budget and timings, and support you every step of the way.
