Stage 10: Chicago to NYC

This was the "Queen Stage" of our tour of the USA. At nearly 800 miles total, the journey from the Second City to the Big Apple is substantial--to attempt it in one day, a time trial of epic proportions.

our path

With real estate appointments pending the next morning, we decided to go for it. So it was, on James's 30th birthday, Team Batdog would attempt its most audacious drive.

We rolled through Chicago, past Millenium Park and museums, through the city's south side, and into the heartland again. Indiana and Ohio were both larger than expected and reminiscent of Minnesota or Wisconsin.

As night fell, we still had hours to go before we'd sleep...but we persisted. We were treated to one last amazing sunset looking back over the Allegheny Mountains and miles of semi-delirious conversation and joking as we ground out the final miles.

Coming into New York, we were perhaps too exhausted to really enjoy the skyline at night from the George Washington Bridge. But we did feel a real sense of accomplishment and joy at having successfully and happily completed our unforgettable journey.

Total mileage: 4,103.8

We want to say thanks to those of you who supported this journey, as so many of you did in direct and indirect ways. Thanks also to those who have followed our story through this website. Even though we're done with this adventure, a new one is just around the corner, so stay tuned.