Motorhome at the start of Route 66 near Chicago

Route 66 & the Great Lakes

RV & Motorhome Rental Chicago

Chicago is where historic Route 66 begins — making it a landmark start for the ultimate American road trip. It’s also the gateway to the Great Lakes, with Michigan’s dunes and Wisconsin’s Door County within easy reach.

Prices are shown in US Dollars (USD) — the currency of the country where the RV is hired.

CamperCompare compares the major RV brands from Chicago so you can find the right vehicle whether you’re chasing the Mother Road to California or looping the Great Lakes.

RV Brands in Chicago

Compare 4 leading RV rental brands operating from Chicago, side by side, for the best price and vehicle for your trip:

Cruise America El Monte RV Road Bear RV Escape Campervans

Road Trips

Popular RV Routes from Chicago

Chicago → Route 66 → Los Angeles

The legendary 2,400-mile Mother Road across the heart of America — the ultimate 2–3 week one-way trip.

Chicago → Lake Michigan Circle

Dunes, beaches and lakeside towns around the Great Lakes.

Chicago → Wisconsin Dells & Door County

North to the Midwest’s favourite lake and forest country.

When to Rent in Chicago

Late spring to early autumn (May–September) is the RV season, with warm weather and open campgrounds. Winters are harsh and not suited to RV travel, so plan for the warmer months.

Pick-Up Tips

  • A one-way Route 66 rental to Los Angeles or Las Vegas is popular — confirm the one-way fee up front.
  • Collect the RV outside the downtown Loop to avoid city traffic.
  • Summer weekends are busy at Great Lakes campgrounds — reserve ahead.

Chicago RV Rental FAQs

Yes — historic Route 66 officially begins in downtown Chicago and runs 2,400 miles to Santa Monica, California, making Chicago a classic starting point.

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