Road Trip from California to Iowa: Museums, Parks, and Landmarks to Visit
Are you planning a road trip from California to Iowa? If so, you're in for a treat! This route offers some of the most breathtaking scenery and fascinating attractions in the country. In this article, we'll share the top five places to visit on your journey and provide a few helpful tips to make your trip truly memorable.
Fun Fact: Did you know that California and Iowa are over 1,800 miles apart? That's roughly the same distance as a flight from Los Angeles to Honolulu!
If you're seeking a midway point, consider stopping in Silt, Colorado. This charming town is located approximately 40 miles west of Glenwood Springs and features several great hiking trails and scenic parks, such as Harvey Gap State Park.
The road trip from California to Iowa is a lengthy one, spanning over two thousand miles. Depending on the route you choose, the trip can take anywhere from 30 to 40 hours of driving time. However, this trip offers an opportunity to see some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the United States.
Here are the top five places to visit along the way:
- Grand Canyon National Park The Grand Canyon is perhaps the most iconic landmark of the American Southwest. Whether you're an avid hiker or simply looking for stunning vistas, the Grand Canyon is a must-see destination. Visitors can explore the vast array of trails, campgrounds, and visitor centers to learn more about the park's unique history and geology.
- Point of Interest: Watch the sunrise or sunset at Mather Point for a truly unforgettable experience.
- Mount Rushmore National Memorial Located in South Dakota's Black Hills, Mount Rushmore features the faces of four of America's most celebrated presidents: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Abraham Lincoln, and Theodore Roosevelt. Visitors can enjoy a host of activities, including ranger-led tours, hiking, and educational programs.
- Point of Interest: Check out the evening lighting ceremony, which takes place every night during the summer months (May through September).
- Chicago Museum Campus Home to the Field Museum, the Shedd Aquarium, and the Adler Planetarium, the Chicago Museum Campus offers a wealth of educational and cultural experiences. With interactive exhibits and hands-on activities, this is a great destination for families and history buffs alike.
- Point of Interest: Make sure to check out the Sue exhibit at the Field Museum, which features a complete T. rex skeleton!
- Gateway Arch National Park Located in St. Louis, Missouri, the Gateway Arch is a towering monument to the westward expansion of the United States. Visitors can take an elevator to the top for stunning views of the Mississippi River and the city skyline. In addition to the Arch, the park also features a museum and visitor center, offering a wealth of historical information about this iconic landmark.
- Point of Interest: Take a riverboat cruise on the Mississippi River for a unique perspective of this iconic landmark.
- The Children's Museum of Indianapolis With over 470,000 square feet of space, the Children's Museum of Indianapolis is one of the largest children's museums in the world. Featuring exhibits ranging from ancient civilizations to space exploration, this museum offers a wealth of interactive and educational activities for children of all ages.
- Point of Interest: Check out The Dinosphere exhibit, which features a range of life-sized dinosaur skeletons and interactive displays.
Conclusion: In conclusion, a road trip from California to Iowa offers an opportunity to explore some of the most iconic landmarks and natural wonders in the United States. Whether you're seeking adventure or history, this route has something for everyone. While the trip can be lengthy, with careful planning and a willingness to explore, you're sure to have an unforgettable experience.