Points of Interest between Ankeny, Iowa to Tucker, Georgia

picture of Ankeny, Iowa

The Ultimate Road Trip: Top Places to See From Ankeny, Iowa to Tucker, Georgia

Are you planning a road trip from Ankeny, Iowa to Tucker, Georgia, and wondering which places to visit along the way? Look no further! From scenic drives to beautiful parks and unique landmarks, this route has it all. Whether you’re a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or a foodie, we’ve got recommendations for everyone.

So buckle up and get ready to explore the top places to see from Ankeny to Tucker!

Scenic Drives

  1. Natchez Trace Parkway - This 444-mile scenic drive will take you through three states: Mississippi, Alabama, and Tennessee. Along the way, you can admire the beautiful views of the forests, fields, and streams. Make sure to stop at Ross Barnett Reservoir for camping, fishing, or boating. You can also visit the Mississippi Craft Center, where you can learn about the state’s art and craft traditions.

  2. Great River Road - As the name suggests, this drive follows the path of the Mississippi River. It spans 10 states from Minnesota to Louisiana, but you can take a portion of it from Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin to St. Louis, Missouri. Along the way, you can visit the National Eagle Center, where you can see live eagles up close, or the Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum in Hannibal, Missouri.

National Parks and Monuments

  1. Badlands National Park - Located in South Dakota, this park showcases a unique landscape of sharp peaks, deep canyons, and prairie grasslands. You can drive through the park and admire the colorful formations or hike one of the trails to explore further. Don’t miss the chance to see the bison, pronghorns, or bighorn sheep that roam the area.

  2. Mammoth Cave National Park - You may think that caves are just dark and boring, but Mammoth Cave will change your mind. This park in Kentucky has the world’s longest known cave system, with over 400 miles of explored passages. You can join a guided tour to see the stunning rock formations, or take a hike or bike ride on the surface trails.

Historic Sites and Museums

  1. National Museum of American History - This museum in Washington, D.C. showcases the history and culture of the United States. You can see the original Star-Spangled Banner, the First Ladies’ Inaugural Gowns, or the ruby slippers from The Wizard of Oz. Don’t miss the exhibit about American innovation, which includes the first electric toaster and the Model T Ford.

  2. Wright Brothers National Memorial - This site in Kill Devil Hills, North Carolina, commemorates the first successful powered flight by the Wright brothers. You can see the replica of their 1903 airplane, explore the museum exhibits, or climb the 90-foot-tall granite monument. Make sure to catch the ranger-led talks and demonstrations to learn more about the brothers’ achievements.

Local Delicacies

  1. Fried Chicken in Nashville - Nashville is known for its hot chicken, which is fried chicken with a spicy kick. You can try it at Hattie B’s or Prince’s Hot Chicken Shack, both of which offer various levels of heat. If you’re not a fan of spicy food, you can also try the traditional Southern-style fried chicken at Arnold’s Country Kitchen.

  2. Peaches in Georgia - Georgia is the Peach State, and you can taste the delicious fruit at various places along the way. Stop by Pearson Farm in Fort Valley for some fresh peaches or peach ice cream, or visit Jaemor Farms in Alto for a u-pick experience. You can also try some peach cobbler or pie at Mary Mac’s Tea Room in Atlanta.

Conclusion

From stunning landscapes to fascinating history and mouth-watering food, the route from Ankeny, Iowa to Tucker, Georgia offers a wide range of experiences. Whether you have a few days or a few weeks to spare, you can find something to enjoy along the way. So pack your bags, hit the road, and have a great trip!