Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Chicago, Illinois to Bakersfield, California

Imagine embarking on a road trip across the United States. You start in the bustling city of Chicago, Illinois, and head westward towards the sunny state of California. The journey takes you across deserts, mountains, and prairies, through small towns and big cities, and past iconic landmarks. This drive covers a distance of about 2000 miles and takes around 29 hours of driving time, depending on your route and stops. Although the drive itself is an adventure, there are plenty of unique and surprising places to explore along the way. In this article, we will highlight five unexpected places to stop on a drive from Chicago, Illinois to Bakersfield, California.

Halfway Point: Unnamed Road, Idaho Springs, CO 80452, USA

Before diving into the five unexpected places, we must mention the halfway point on this journey. Located in the state of Colorado, this spot offers breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains and plentiful opportunities for outdoor activities. Take a hike in the surrounding hills, relax with a picnic by one of the nearby creeks, or simply soak in the stunning scenery. You will find an unmarked road that leads to this lookout overlooking the valley and mountains. Stop here for a few hours to recharge for the rest of your journey.

1. Giant Praying Hands, Webb City, Missouri

Our first stop takes us to Webb City, Missouri, where you'll find a pair of giant praying hands that rise 20 feet into the air. The hands stand as a tribute to George Washington Carver, who was born nearby and made significant scientific contributions, particularly with respect to peanuts. These remarkable sculptures are a unique sight to behold and make for great photo opportunities. Be sure to grab some boiled peanuts from a nearby vendor and enjoy the local flavors.

2. Carhenge, Alliance, Nebraska

Located in the western reaches of Nebraska lies an iconic and eccentric sculpture that baffles and delights visitors. Carhenge is a replica of the famous Stonehenge in England, with one major difference: it is made entirely of cars! Built in 1987, the sculpture features 38 vintage cars arranged in a circle and was created as a tribute to the American automotive industry. Take a stroll around the site, learn about the history of the area in the nearby visitor's center, and enjoy a classic Nebraska hot dog from a nearby food truck.

3. World's Largest Pistachio, Alamogordo, New Mexico

Driving through the arid landscapes of New Mexico, you may spot something unexpected towering above miles of desert terrain. The World's Largest Pistachio is a 30-foot-tall sculpture located in Alamogordo, New Mexico. This enormous nut was built to commemorate the nearby pistachio farm and serves as a kitschy, fun roadside attraction. After taking a selfie with the giant pistachio, head to the farm store to pick up some fresh pistachios and other local goods.

4. Grand Canyon Caverns, Peach Springs, Arizona

The Southwest is known for its unique and striking landscapes, with the Grand Canyon being among the most famous. While driving through Peach Springs, Arizona, you can take a break from the open road and explore the Grand Canyon Caverns. These caverns were discovered in 1927 and contain a wealth of fascinating geological formations, prehistoric fossils, and even a motel room deep underground. Embark on a guided tour of this wonder of nature, then enjoy a meal at the on-site restaurant.

5. Solvang, California

Solvang, California, is a charming and surprising town nestled in the Santa Ynez Valley. Founded in 1911 by a group of Danish immigrants, the town evokes a feeling of being transported to a traditional Danish village, complete with windmills, half-timbered buildings, and quaint streets. Enjoy a traditional Danish pastry at one of the local bakeries, browse local artisan shops for souvenirs, or simply wander around and take in the picturesque views.

In conclusion, a drive from Chicago, Illinois to Bakersfield, California is an exciting adventure. Along the way, you can explore unique and unexpected places that will add to your memories. From giant praying hands and a car sculpture to an enormous pistachio and a deep underground cavern, these stops offer something for everyone. They are perfect for taking a break from the drive and experiencing the diversity of the American landscape. As you plan your next road trip, consider taking this route and stopping at these five unexpected places.