And on the lighter side, any good places to stop between Chicago and Houston for good sightseeing and the like?
As to what to do/see, what do you and your GF like to do and/or see when you travel generally?
We often drive hard and long one direction, and take our time coming home the other direction when we do road trips, and we stop when and where we'd like. The car is always serviced prior to the trip, and I always tell the shop what I intend to do (i.e., drive 2K miles) so they check all necessary components. We've also rented a car with unlimited miles since it's often been inexpensive, especially with coupons.
Enjoy filming or photographing as much as you want without TSA arses in the picture or being screamed at that such activities are prohibited. And entire cans of sodas when you want 'em! No baggage fees so be sure to pack everything and the kitchen sink! You are prohibited from taking along quart sized zip-lock baggies unless they are filled with sandwiches or snacks with peanutty goodness.
Anyway, sounds like fun! Enjoy the planning and the trip!