Top Places to See When Driving From Arlington Heights, Illinois to Wanblee, South Dakota

Driving is one of the most comfortable options for travel across the country, providing the best opportunity to see the beauty of the country from all angles. The road from Arlington Heights, Illinois to Wanblee, South Dakota is filled with spectacular scenery, historical sites, and popular tourist spots. This blog post will take you on an incredible journey through the top places to visit on your road trip from Arlington Heights to Wanblee. Buckle up and put on your seat belts, let's explore!

Road Tripping from Arlington Heights to Wanblee: Places to See

1. Chicago Botanic Garden, Chicago, Illinois

The Chicago Botanic Garden is a perfect place to start your road trip. Located in the heart of Illinois, this botanic garden covers more than 385 acres of land. The garden is filled with flowers, plants, and trees from around the world that make it one of the most scenic routes you'll pass through on your trip. Stroll through the Japanese Garden, the Bonsai Collection, the English Walled Garden, and the Heritage Garden. Don't forget to explore the walkways of the Aquatic Garden, filled with water lilies and lotus blossoms.

2. Corn Palace, Mitchell, South Dakota

Welcome to the world's biggest corn palace. This building is constructed every year with a mix of new and old corn, and it's a must-visit place on your road trip from Arlington Heights to Wanblee. Mitchell's Corn Palace is decorated in multicolored corn murals, and it's a festival of corn in itself, but also features fascinating events and exhibitions. This building, which was first built-in 1892, has been the center of numerous events in Mitchell.

3. Badlands National Park, South Dakota

Renowned for its unique rock formations and breathtaking landscapes, the Badlands National Park, situated in southwestern South Dakota, will get your adrenaline pumping with its rugged hiking trails and outdoor adventures. The park boasts a bounty of diverse wildlife, including prairie dogs, coyotes, bison, and eagles. While hiking, don't skip Thompson Canyon and the Fossil Exhibit Trail. Stay in the park's campgrounds or make reservations at a nearby hotel if you want to experience this glorious natural beauty.

4. Mount Rushmore National Memorial, Keystone, South Dakota

Known as one of the most well-known landmarks in America, this man-made masterpiece, situated approximately 30 minutes from Rapid City, is a colossal carving of the faces of four famous American presidents: George Washington, Abraham Lincoln, Thomas Jefferson, and Theodore Roosevelt. This breathtaking memorial draws over two million visitors per year, making it an unforgettable experience for all who pass through. There are various opportunities to explore and indulge in presentations, exhibits, and walks, guided hiking, or audio tours. Mount Rushmore is also a perfect spot to watch the sunset, providing amazing photo opportunities.

5. Custer State Park, South Dakota

Last but not least, no road trip through South Dakota would be complete without a visit to Custer State Park. This park covers over 71,000 acres of stunning natural scenery, including prairies, rolling hills, mountains, and lakes. Bison herds are one of the park's major attractions, and it has numerous hiking and biking trails as well as several camping spots to enjoy. Make a point to unwind in the Sylvan Lake, play some golf, or visit the Stockade House Exhibit and learn about the park's history.

Conclusion

With its charming small towns and breathtaking natural backdrop, the road trip from Arlington Heights, Illinois, to Wanblee, South Dakota, offers an unforgettable experience. Traveling by car allows for a complete view of the splendor of the United States. Explore the best spots on the way, take the time to snap photographs, try local foods and enjoy the picturesque views while you make memories that will last a lifetime.