Road Tripping from Buckley, IL to Burlington, IA

If you're looking for a scenic trip through the Midwest, consider the journey from Buckley, Illinois to Burlington, Iowa. There are several routes, each offering beautiful views and unique stops along the way. Here are the options for your journey and estimated travel times.

Route 1: Via I-74 W

Distance: 160 miles Travel Time: 2 hours, 30 minutes

This route takes you northwest on I-57 before merging onto I-74 W. You'll pass through the cities of Champaign, Bloomington-Normal, and East Moline before crossing the Mississippi River at Moline and arriving in Burlington.

Recommendations: Stop in Bloomington-Normal to visit the David Davis Mansion State Historic Site, a beautifully restored 19th century mansion that belonged to Abraham Lincoln's friend and political ally. In East Moline, check out the John Deere Pavilion, a museum dedicated to the history of the iconic American tractor manufacturer.

Route 2: Via US-136 W

Distance: 180 miles Travel Time: 3 hours

This route takes a more rural path through central Illinois, passing through small towns and farm country. You'll eventually reach the Mississippi River town of Keokuk, Iowa before heading north to Burlington.

Recommendations: Stop in the town of Pontiac, Illinois to see the Route 66 Association Hall of Fame & Museum, which celebrates the history of the famous highway that crossed the nation from Chicago to Los Angeles. In Keokuk, visit the Lock and Dam No. 19 Overlook, which provides a panoramic view of the Mississippi River and its traffic.

Route 3: Via I-55 S and US-34 W

Distance: 235 miles Travel Time: 3 hours, 45 minutes

This route starts by heading south on I-57 before merging onto I-55 S. You'll pass through Springfield, the capital of Illinois, before turning west on US-34 towards Burlington.

Recommendations: Stop in Springfield to explore the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, which tells the life story of America's 16th president. In Galesburg, Illinois, check out the Orpheum Theatre, a restored 1920s movie palace that now hosts live performances.

Route 4: Via I-72 W and US-61 N

Distance: 225 miles Travel Time: 3 hours, 30 minutes

This route takes you west on I-72 before turning north on US-61, which follows the Mississippi River. You'll pass through Hannibal, Missouri, the boyhood home of Mark Twain, before crossing into Iowa and arriving in Burlington.

Recommendations: Stop in Hannibal to visit the Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum, which includes Twain's childhood home and a museum dedicated to his life and works. In Fort Madison, Iowa, see the historic Santa Fe Swing Span Bridge, a unique railroad bridge that spans the Mississippi River.

No matter which route you choose, you'll enjoy a scenic and memorable trip through the heartland of America. So pack your bags, hit the road, and enjoy everything this trip has to offer!