The 4 Closest National Parks to Chicago

The closest national park to Chicago is Indiana Dunes National Park (~42 miles away). Other national parks near Chicago include Cuyahoga Valley National Park (~360 miles), Gateway Arch National Park (~300 miles), and Pullman National Monument (~20 miles).

The 4 closest national park to Chicago

1. Indiana Dunes National Park ~ 42 miles away (1 hour drive)
2. Pullman National Monument ~ 20 miles away (30 minutes drive)
3. Gateway Arch National Park ~ 300 miles away (4.5 hours drive)
4. Cuyahoga Valley National Park ~ 360 miles away (5.5 hours drive)

1. Indiana Dunes National Park (Indiana)

• Distance from Chicago: ~42 miles
• Driving Time: About 1 hour
• Highlights: Sand dunes, beaches, hiking trails, and a diverse ecosystem along Lake Michigan’s southern shore.

2. Pullman National Monument (Illinois)

• Distance from Chicago: ~20 miles
• Driving Time: Approximately 30 minutes from downtown
• Highlights: This historic district preserves the story of the Pullman Company, the first model industrial town in the U.S., and its role in labor history. Visitors can explore historic buildings and learn about the 1894 Pullman Strike

3. Gateway Arch National Park (Missouri)

• Distance from Chicago: ~300 miles
• Driving Time: About 4.5 hours
• Highlights: Located in St. Louis, this park features the iconic Gateway Arch and museums celebrating westward expansion.

4. Cuyahoga Valley National Park (Ohio)

• Distance from Chicago: ~360 miles
• Driving Time: Around 5.5 hours
• Highlights: Scenic waterfalls, the historic Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail, and rolling hills of forests and farmland.