We have driven too, from joliet! And even have stopped at dalton But then you are stuck several hours in the mess leading through or bypassing atlanta. So our alternative is, definately drive to dalton, stop and eat, revive yourself walk a little if its past rush hour then continue driving till your on the other side of atlanta! See how you feel, either stop then or try to mack it to macon. There is a great straigt shot to macon, the speeds are higher there than up here, and it only took over an hour or so, after got out past atlanta. Also if its late and there is not much traffic, go through atlanta not the bypass! It is much quicker, and most people think it will be worse so they avoid this, and use the bypass. Good luck. I also recommend 57 in illinois compared to indiana. There is virtually no traffic on this highway, and if anything its boring. This has you miss indianapolis & lexington. Only going through paducka ky. and your in tenn. before you know it. Have a great time, and be safe!