The Road Trip of the Midwest: Cedar Rapids, Iowa to Palos Park, Illinois

Are you planning a Midwest getaway? Look no further than the road trip from Cedar Rapids, Iowa to Palos Park, Illinois. Whether you’re looking to take a scenic drive or get to your destination quickly, there are a few options to choose from that can cater to your travel needs.

The Direct Route

The most direct route from Cedar Rapids to Palos Park is via I-80 East. This 288 mile journey takes roughly 4 hours and 30 minutes, with straightforward driving through the heartland of the Midwest. While there may not be many scenic stops along the way, it’s the quickest option to get you to your destination the fastest.

The Scenic Route

If you’re looking to take a more scenic route, try taking U.S. 30 East. This route is 370 miles long and will take you through various small towns and rural areas. The drive time is roughly 6 hours, but if you have the time to spare, it’s worth the extra time on the road to see the sights. Some notable stops along the way include the Herbert Hoover Presidential Library & Museum in West Branch, Iowa, the French Icarian Colony Museum in Corning, Iowa, and the American Pickers Antique Archaeology store in LeClaire, Iowa.

The Historic Route

For history buffs, take U.S. 20 East. This route is 397 miles long and will take you through several historic towns including Galena, Illinois, which was home to Ulysses S. Grant. The drive time is roughly 7 hours, but you’ll have plenty of opportunities to take in the historic sights and scenery. Some notable stops along the way include the Field of Dreams movie site in Dyersville, Iowa and the John Deere Historic Site in Grand Detour, Illinois.

The Foodie Route

If you’re a foodie, take the route via I-88 East. This 375 mile journey takes roughly 5 hours and 45 minutes and will take you through various cities and towns with great food options. Some notable stops along the way include the Exile Brewing Company in Des Moines, Iowa, the Quad Cities for their famous pork tenderloin sandwiches, and the legendary Gene & Jude’s Hot Dogs in River Grove, Illinois.

No matter which route you decide to take, there are plenty of great places to stop along the way. From historic landmarks to local eateries, there’s something for everyone on this Midwest road trip. Safe travels!