Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Albuquerque, New Mexico to Kentwood, Michigan

Driving cross-country can be quite an adventure, offering the opportunity to explore towns and cities that one might not typically visit. Recently, a group took a road trip from Albuquerque, New Mexico to Kentwood, Michigan, a journey spanning approximately 1600 miles. In this article, we’ll share five unexpected places that we stopped at along the way, dispersing hidden gems and local haunts throughout the trip! So, buckle up and get ready to embark on a journey from the southwest to the midwest.

Halfway Point: Carthage, MO

Carthage, Missouri marks the halfway point of the journey. This charming town is known for the historic Route 66 which runs through it. The town is small but perfectly formed with numerous boutique shops, cafes, and restaurants that beckon visitors. One of the most fascinating places to visit in Carthage is the Precious Moments Fountain. The fountain features more than 70 Precious Moments characters, and visitors can take pictures with them in front of the fountain. The town is proud of its connection to the mother road and their historic downtown area is worth exploring.

1. Amarillo, TX – Cadillac Ranch

Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo, Texas is an art installation and a must-see attraction for those embarking on a cross-country trip. Located on Route 66, the landscape is famous for ten Cadillac cars buried nose-down in the ground. Visitors are encouraged to bring spray paint and leave their mark on the cars, although it should be noted that there are rules against defacing the adjacent farmland. Visitors should come prepared to take pictures and maybe even have a picnic.

Must-Try Food: The Big Texan Steak Ranch offers fresh-cut ribeye steaks which is worth trying when in Amarillo.

2. St. Louis, MO – Missouri Botanical Garden

The Missouri Botanical Garden in St. Louis, Missouri is a beautiful retreat in the city. The garden was first established in 1859 and spans 79 acres. There are many distinct gardens within the complex, including a Chinese garden, a Japanese garden, and a colonial garden. The garden also features a conservatory which houses extensive collections of rare orchids, cacti, and tropical plants. The Missouri botanical garden is a place for a relaxing walk or a picnic amidst the flora and fauna.

Must-Try Food: Gooey butter cake is a favorite of St. Louisians and can be found in many bakeries in the city.

3. Indianapolis, IN – The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis

The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis is the world's largest children's museum with over 470,000 square feet of space entirely dedicated to young people. The museum has various themed exhibits, including a paleontology exhibit featuring dinosaur fossils and skeletons and an exhibit featuring dinosaurs and prehistoric creatures. If you aren't travelling with children, you can still visit and tap into your inner child.

Must-Try Food: The city of Indianapolis is known for breaded pork tenderloin sandwiches, which can be found at multiple restaurants in the city.

4. Sandusky, OH – Cedar Point Amusement Park

Cedar Point Amusement Park in Sandusky, Ohio is known as the “Roller Coaster Capital of the World” and is an unexpected stop on this trip. With 18 world-class roller coasters and several family-friendly rides, there is something for people of all ages. Apart from the rides, the park offers other attractions such as shows and restaurants.

Must-Try Food: The Cedar Point Boardwalk features several dining options, but the king of them all is the famous cheese-on-a-stick.

5. Grand Rapids, MI – Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park

The Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park in Grand Rapids, Michigan offers an outdoor space where art and nature intersect. The 158-acre park features impressive sculptures interspersed throughout botanical gardens, woodlands, meadows, and wetlands. This place gives visitors the opportunity to relax and reconnect with nature in a tranquil setting.

Must-Try Food: Grand Rapids is known for its beer, having many breweries in the city. Brewery Vivant offers and affordable and unique experience with great beer and a European inspired menu.

Conclusion

While some long drives can be boring and tiring, a road trip from Albuquerque, New Mexico to Kentwood, Michigan is anything but that with unique places worth stopping at and trying out some local food options. Whether it's stopping in Carthage, MO halfway through the trip, reaching the artistic Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo, the beautiful and expansive Missouri Botanical Gardens in St. Louis, the large and fun-filled The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis, the thrilling Cedar Point Amusement Park in Sandusky or Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park in Grand Rapids offers a chance to relax and reconnect with nature. This journey is an experience worth embracing, and one that is sure to stay with you forever.