Points of Interest between Ames, Iowa to Salem, West Virginia

picture of Ames, Iowa

Best Places to See When Driving From Ames, Iowa to Salem, West Virginia

The United States is home to a vast and varied landscape, and driving from Ames, Iowa, to Salem, West Virginia, is a great way to experience it. This journey stretches across the Midwest and into the Appalachian Mountains, passing through several charming small towns, beautiful natural landscapes, and historical sites.

Whether it's your first time on this route or you're a seasoned veteran, there's nothing quite like the experience of hitting the open road. If you're looking for some inspiration for your journey, check out our list of the top places to see when driving from Ames, Iowa to Salem, West Virginia.

Explore Iowa

Iowa is a charming state with a rich history and beautiful natural areas. As you start your journey from Ames, make sure to check out some of these top spots:

  1. Reiman Gardens – located in Ames, this stunning botanical garden boasts over 17 acres of themed gardens, horticultural displays, and exciting events throughout the year.
  2. Effigy Mounds National Monument – located just over the border in eastern Iowa, this national monument is home to over 200 ancient Native American mounds, many of which were built in the shape of animals.
  3. The Amana Colonies – located in central Iowa, the Amana Colonies are a historic group of seven villages that were founded by German immigrants in the mid-19th century. Today, visitors can explore the traditional architecture, delicious food, and fascinating history of this unique community.

Cross Through Illinois

As you make your way across Illinois, take the time to explore some of the state's top attractions.

  1. Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum – located in Springfield, this museum and library is dedicated to the life and legacy of the 16th President of the United States. Here, you can explore exhibits, artifacts, and immersive experiences that bring Lincoln's story to life.
  2. Starved Rock State Park – located near Utica, this stunning state park is home to 18 canyons, beautiful waterfalls, and miles of hiking trails. If you're looking to stretch your legs and take in some breathtaking natural scenery, this is the perfect spot.

Check out Indiana

As you head into Indiana, there are plenty of interesting sites to explore.

  1. Indiana Dunes National Park – located along the southern shore of Lake Michigan, this national park is home to over 15,000 acres of sand dunes, forests, and wetlands. Whether you're interested in hiking, birdwatching, or just relaxing on the beach, this is a must-visit spot.
  2. Children's Museum of Indianapolis – located in the state capital, the Children's Museum of Indianapolis is the largest children's museum in the world. With exhibits on science, history, art, and more, this is a great spot to take the whole family for a day of learning and fun.

Drive Through Ohio

Ohio is a state with plenty of natural beauty and fascinating history.

  1. Cuyahoga Valley National Park – located in northeastern Ohio, this national park is home to stunning waterfalls, rolling hills, and miles of hiking and biking trails. It's the perfect spot to stretch your legs and take in some of the Midwest's natural beauty.
  2. Rock and Roll Hall of Fame – located in Cleveland, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is a must-visit spot for any music fan. With exhibits on everyone from Elvis Presley to Beyoncé, this museum offers an immersive look at the history of rock and roll.

Enter Through West Virginia

As you head into West Virginia, you're in for a treat.

  1. New River Gorge National Park and Preserve – located near Charleston, this stunning national park is home to the New River Gorge, one of the oldest and most beautiful canyons in the world. Whether you're interested in hiking, fishing, or just taking in the breathtaking views, this is a must-visit spot.
  2. Historic downtown Lewisburg – located in southern West Virginia, Lewisburg is a charming small town with a rich history and plenty of interesting sites to explore. Take a stroll along the historic district and check out the many shops, restaurants, and galleries that line the streets.

Conclusion

From the stunning natural beauty of Iowa and Indiana to the fascinating history of Ohio and West Virginia, there's plenty to see and experience on a road trip from Ames to Salem. With our list of top spots to visit, you're sure to make the most of your journey and create unforgettable memories along the way. Safe travels!