The Ultimate Road Trip: Best Places to Witness When Driving from Anamosa, Iowa to Columbia, South Carolina

Looking for a perfect road-trip this summer? Well, pack your bags and get ready to witness the beauty of some of the most picturesque cities and small towns en route from Anamosa, Iowa to Columbia, South Carolina. The journey covers around 980 miles, taking roughly 16 hours by car. However, given the incredible natural beauty, cultural and historical significance, and vibrant urban attractions of the region, you may want to stretch this journey into a week-long odyssey.

To help you plan your trip, we have prepared a list of the top places you shouldn't miss out on this route. So, fasten your seat belts, grab a map, and let’s get started!

Route Highlights

Cedar Rapids, Iowa

The first stop on our journey is Cedar Rapids, Iowa - a flourishing metropolis bursting with things to see and explore. Be sure to check out the Cedar Rapids Museum of Art, home of the world's most significant collection of artwork by Grant Wood, Iowa's most famous painter. If you're looking for outdoor activities, pay a visit to the Cedar Rapids Kernels minor league baseball stadium or take a stroll around the Indian Creek Nature Center.

Springfield, Illinois

After a few more hours of driving, we arrive at Springfield, Illinois - the state capital and hometown of President Abraham Lincoln. The historic Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum is one of the most popular tourist attractions here, as well as the home of the Lincoln Home National Historic Site. Visitors can also take a guided tour of the Old State Capitol, which served as a political hub for Lincoln and his colleagues during the 1850s and 60s.

Top Places You Must Visit En Route

St. Louis, Missouri

As we head south towards Columbia, we can't miss the world-famous city of St. Louis, Missouri. Home to the iconic Gateway Arch, St. Louis is bursting with history, culture, and, of course, great food. During your visit, make sure to ascend the Gateway Arch to take in breathtaking views of the city and the Mississippi River. Alternatively, head to the famous City Museum, a massive indoor playground that’s sure to delight both kids and adults alike.

Nashville, Tennessee

Next on our list is the music capital of the USA- Nashville, Tennessee. Visitors can take a stroll down Broadway, packed with fantastic honky-tonks and country-music-inspired souvenirs. Other popular attractions include the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum and the famous Ryman Auditorium - former home of the massively popular Grand Ole Opry show. Don't forget to try out the local specialty dish, Nashville's Hot Chicken, which is sure to add some spice to your road trip snacks!

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Now, this is one place that you absolutely can't miss during your road trip. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a living testament to the diversity of the Appalachian Mountains, with over 100 species of native trees, more than 1,500 different flowering plant species, and a wide variety of wildlife. Visitors can enjoy scenic drives, hiking trails, cascading waterfalls, and mesmerizing vistas throughout the national park. Just make sure to pack some warm clothes if you're planning to visit in the winter!

Charleston, South Carolina

Finally, as we head towards our final destination, we get to visit the charming city of Charleston, South Carolina. One of America's most historic cities, Charleston is famed for its pastel-colored antebellum architecture, cobblestone streets, and beautiful gardens. Be sure to visit the historic Battery, a defensive seawall used during the Civil War, and the charming French Quarter, with unique boutiques and restaurants to boot. Also, don't forget to take a tour of the USS Yorktown, a World War II aircraft carrier that's now a National Historic Landmark.

Conclusion

Well, that concludes our journey from Anamosa, Iowa to Columbia, South Carolina. We hope that this article has inspired you to start planning your next road trip. From the buzzing metropolises of Cedar Rapids and St. Louis to the stunning scenery of the Great Smoky Mountains and the charming streets of Charleston, this route is packed with diverse and exciting options for every traveler. So, embrace the open road, create unforgettable memories, and enjoy every beautiful view along the way!