Road Trip with RVshare Boston to Rockford

On your Boston to Rockford road trip, you'll have outdoor adventures galore with visits to breathtaking destinations at Acadia National Park, the Adirondack Mountains, and Indiana Sand Dunes National Park. Stops in a few bustling cities along the way take you on exciting and delicious excursions as you experience some of their best eateries and sightseeing hotspots such as Portillo's Hot Dogs and Navy Pier in Chicago, The Grotto and Niagara Falls in Buffalo, and the Flying Fig and the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland. You'll also immerse yourself in a real-live mystery at the Museum of Intrigue and enjoy a real doozy of a time on an Untouchable Tour of Chi-Town's historic "wise guy" haunts. 

Road Trip Planner: Stops Along Your Route

Buffalo

Get ready to check off a bunch of your bucket list must-sees as you travel through the lively city of Buffalo. Start your time here with a Maid of the Mist tour that features up-close views of Niagara Falls, and then, set off on a delicious adventure down the Niagara Wine Trail, which spans three counties and offers numerous opportunities to sample local blends and the region's iconic ice wine. If you're in the mood for a few history lessons, check out Buffalo Naval Park and Old Fort Niagara. For sensational eats, head to Mulberry Italian Ristorante, The Grotto, and Bacchus Wine Bar and Restaurant. 

Branches of Niagara Campground & Resort is located on a sprawling, woodland property on Grand Island. Some of the activities you'll enjoy are ziplining, laser tag, mini-golf, swimming, and hiking, in addition to amenities that include a general store, activity center, three heated bathhouses, a dump station, laundry facilities, and a dog park. 

Cleveland

In Cleveland, you can experience the history of music on a fully immersive tour of the iconic Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and relish the unique vibe of the city at West Side Market, its oldest indoor/outdoor market space that features over 100 vendors. Explore the famous residence of the holiday movie classic "A Christmas Story" on a guided tour or overnight stay, and then, wander through The Arcade, a historic Victorian-era building with cool shops, cafés, and restaurants. During the day, get going with a savory breakfast from Grumpy's Café, or do lunch at the Flying Fig followed by an inspirational walk around the Cleveland Museum of Art. 

Woodside Lake Park is a scenic 100-acre campground near Cleveland that features a relaxing beach, hiking trails, a huge lake, and game room. There's also a dump station and convenience store on the premises so that you can stock up on supplies for your Boston to Rockford RV road trip. 

Chicago

Chicago invites you to experience some of the Windy City's most famous sights, sounds, and tastes as you tour Willis Tower, enjoy eating extravaganzas at Navy Pier, and catch live performances at the Chicago Theatre. Leisurely walks through Millennium Park followed by a relaxing picnic with treats from the Chicago French Market hits the spot before a fabulous night out at Berlin and the Debonair Social Club. You'll also want to check out a game at Wrigley Field, stuff your face with Chicago-style hot dogs at Wolfy's, and snap a few selfies in front of the Buckingham Fountain. 

Chicago Northwest KOA offers campers spacious sites with full hookups in a lush wooded area that's just 55 miles north of downtown Chicago. Amenities include walking trails, a dog park, mini-golf, weekend bingo, swimming, and ice cream socials. You'll also have access to free Wi-Fi, a clean dump station, and firewood. 

National Parks

Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park is located off the coast of Maine, and is only four hours and 35 minutes north of Boston. At this spectacular park, you'll have 158 miles of hiking trails to enjoy as you trek to mountains, over marshlands, and along scenic stretches of New England shoreline. Outdoor activities include everything from tide pooling and leaf-peeping to horseback riding, fishing, and climbing. There are also a variety of historic places to visit as you explore Acadia's 45,000 acres. Camping here is stellar, and there are several campgrounds to choose from. 

Cuyahoga Valley National Park

Cuyahoga Valley National Park has something for everyone. Here, you can view the local wildlife and birdwatch while walking along the historic Ohio and Erie Canal Towpath Trail before enjoying a leisurely train ride aboard the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad. Kayaking and fishing are available on the Cuyahoga River, and questing adventures in the forest are a great way to experience the beauty of the park. In the evening, head out on a stargazing excursion to Beaver Marsh, one of the best places in the Cuyahoga Valley to observe the stars and lunar eclipses. 

Indiana Sand Dunes National Park

Indiana Sand Dunes National Park welcomes you to the sandy shores of Lake Michigan with outdoor adventures aplenty. Start by checking out the dunes on an exciting hiking challenge, or ranger-led walk or talk, and then, head to the beach for a day of fun in the sun. Further exploration of the park takes you to a few historical sites such as the Chellburg Farm and the Bailly Homestead in addition to five World Century of Progress Homes. Indiana Sand Dunes also features 14 different trail systems with various types of terrain to suit every skill level. 

Nearby State Parks

Schodack Island State Park

Schodack Island State Park allows you to explore over 1,000 lush acres of woods that lie along the Hudson River and Schodack Creek. Some of the activities you'll enjoy are biking, kayaking, swimming, and boating. This park is also a state estuary and is home to a bird conservation area where you can view bald eagles and blue herons in their natural habitat. 

Maumee Bay State Park

Located on the northside of Toledo, Maumee Bay State Park has a ton of fun, outdoor activities that include a golf course with a pro shop, fishing, and boating on Lake Erie, an archery range, and five scenic hiking trails. You can also enjoy swimming at two lovely beaches, camp, and mountain bike. 

Big Foot Beach State Park

Big Foot Beach State Park is just one hour and 15 minutes north of Rockford on the shores of Lake Geneva in Wisconsin. Here, you'll have plenty of outdoor fun as you explore five miles of hiking trails, fish, and swim on Lake Geneva and camp the night away. 

Along the Way

The Adirondacks

A visit to the Adirondack Mountains is a must as you drive through New York on your road trip from Boston to Rockford. These majestic beauties are a quick two-hour and 10-minute drive north of Schenectady. Once you arrive, stop at Adirondack Experience - The Museum on Blue Mountain Lake to learn about the early settlers and cultural history of the area before feasting on a hearty steak or bowl of lamb stew at the Salt of the Earth Bistro. Get outdoorsy on jaunts to Whiteface Mountain, the Ausable Chasm, and Saratoga Spa State Park, and then, pick up some locally sourced products at Nori's. 

Museum of Intrigue

At the Museum of Intrigue, you'll put your problem-solving skills to the test on an exciting adventure of your choosing. All stories feature full access to the 9,000-square-foot mystery space that leads you through areas such as the Crypt, the Speakeasy, the Rainforest, and many more. 

Untouchable Tour

Experience Chicago like never before on an Untouchable Tour that highlights infamous mobster sites such as the Holy Name Cathedral, the St. Valentine's Day massacre spot, and the Biograph Theatre. On your bus ride back to the heyday of organized crime, you'll also hear stories about the exploits of real wise guys like Al Capone, John Dillinger, and Bugs Moran from your perfectly suited tour guides, and if you're in the mood for a taste of Chicago, Portillo's Hot Dogs is right across the street. 

When you follow this road trip itinerary from Boston to Rockford, you will enjoy historic locations and beautiful scenery along the way. If you want to travel in comfort and style, consider an RV rental from RVshare. From large motorhomes to compact campervans, there is a rig that will meet your travel and budget needs. Once you hit the road, you are protected by our renter guarantee and 24/7 roadside assistance. Find the perfect vehicle for your travel needs in Boston or Rockford.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I plan an RV road trip from Boston to Rockford?

To plan an RV road trip from Boston to Rockford, start by mapping your route using Google Maps or a trip planner that supports RV navigation. Consider road types, fuel stops, campgrounds, and attractions along the way. Our RV rental specialists can help you choose the best vehicle and route based on your travel dates and preferences.

What type of RV should I rent for my trip?

The ideal RV depends on your travel style, group size, and destination. For couples, a camper van or Class B RV offers flexibility and easy driving. Families often prefer Class C motorhomes for more space and amenities. If you’re staying longer or need extra comfort, a Class A RV might be your best choice. Learn more about the different RV classes.

How much does it cost to rent an RV for a road trip?

RV rental prices vary based on vehicle size, rental duration, season, and mileage. On average, RV rentals range from $100–$300 per night, with discounts for weekly or monthly bookings. We also offer one-way rentals if you’re traveling from Boston to Rockford without returning to the starting point.

Can I pick up my RV in one city and drop it off in another?

Yes! Many travelers love our one-way RV rental option. If the inventory is available for your route, you can pick up your RV in one location and drop it off in another, which is perfect for cross-country adventures or long-distance road trips.

What should I pack for an RV trip?

Pack essentials like bedding, toiletries, cooking supplies, and outdoor gear. Most of our RVs come equipped with kitchenware and basic amenities. Don’t forget to bring a first-aid kit, maps, and camping chairs for your outdoor setup. Keep this packing list handy to ensure you don’t leave anything behind!

Do I need a special license to drive an RV?

A standard driver’s license is all you need to rent and drive an RV. Keep in mind that you must be 25 to rent an RV.

Where can I park or stay overnight during my road trip?

You can stay at RV parks, national park campgrounds, or designated boondocking areas. Our team can recommend safe and scenic stops along your route from Boston to Rockford. Be sure to reserve campgrounds in advance during peak travel seasons.

How do I handle fuel and hookups during my trip?

Most RVshare RVs are equipped for electric, water, and sewer hookups at most campgrounds. Keep track of your fuel stops and learn how to connect utilities before you hit the road. We provide a full orientation before departure to make setup easy.

Is insurance included in my RV rental?

Yes, basic insurance coverage is included with every rental. You can also purchase additional protection plans for peace of mind during your journey. We’ll explain all coverage options when you book your RV.

Can I travel with pets in my RV rental?

Absolutely! Many of our RVs are pet-friendly, so your furry friends can enjoy the adventure too. Use the filters to search for RVs that welcome pets on board.

What are the best road trip routes for RV travelers?

Popular RV routes include scenic coastal drives, national park loops, and cross-country highways. For beginners, you may want to try a long weekend trip where you don’t have to drive quite as far. Just remember to follow the 3-3-3 rule of RVing!