Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Chicago, Illinois to Colorado Springs, Colorado

Chicago, Illinois is known for its beautiful architecture, deep-dish pizza, and sports teams, while Colorado Springs, Colorado features stunning views of the Rockies, outdoor adventures, and historic landmarks. A road trip from Chicago to Colorado Springs not only showcases the cultural differences of the Midwest and the West, but also offers plenty of must-visit destinations in between.

The halfway point of this trip is Goehner, NE, a small village in Seward County known for its 1906 train station and locally owned bakery. After exploring Goehner, continue on to these top five things to do:

1. Visit the Gateway Arch in St. Louis, Missouri

The Gateway Arch, also known as the Gateway to the West, is a 630-foot monument in St. Louis, Missouri that honors the pioneers who expanded westward from the city. Visitors can ride to the top of the arch for a bird's eye view of the Mississippi River and the surrounding area. Aside from the arch, St. Louis also boasts several other landmarks worth visiting, such as the City Museum and Forest Park.

Interesting fact: The Gateway Arch is the tallest man-made national monument in the United States.

2. Explore the Badlands National Park in South Dakota

The Badlands National Park in South Dakota features dramatic landscapes with unique rock formations and wildlife. Visitors can hike, camp, and even take a scenic drive through the park to fully appreciate its natural beauty. The park also offers ranger-led programs and educational exhibits.

Interesting fact: The Badlands were once home to ancient mammals like the rhinoceros and horse.

3. See Mount Rushmore in the Black Hills of South Dakota

Mount Rushmore is a famous landmark in the Black Hills of South Dakota that features the faces of four U.S. Presidents carved into the granite. Visitors can learn about the history of the monument and its creation at the nearby visitor center, and even participate in ranger-guided programs and hikes.

Interesting fact: The heads of the presidents are 60 feet tall.

4. Visit Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming

Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming is the oldest national park in the United States, and boasts hot springs, geysers, and impressive wildlife. Visitors can witness the famous Old Faithful, hike the trails, and even go on a guided tour to learn more about the park's unique characteristics.

Interesting fact: Yellowstone is home to half of the world's geothermal features.

5. Go biking in Colorado Springs, Colorado

Colorado Springs is known for its incredible natural beauty, and what better way to experience it than by biking? The city offers several bike rental options and trails for all experience levels, including the Pikes Peak Greenway Trail and the Garden of the Gods Park.

Interesting fact: Garden of the Gods Park features towering red rock formations that are over 300 million years old.

In conclusion, the road trip from Chicago, Illinois to Colorado Springs, Colorado offers a diverse range of landscapes, activities, and history. With its top five must-visit destinations, travelers can fully experience the heart of the United States before reaching their final destination. This trip took approximately 20 hours of driving time, but with the memories and experiences gained, it is well worth the journey.