Roadtrip from Atlanta, Georgia to Decatur, Illinois
Planning a road trip from Atlanta, Georgia to Decatur, Illinois? Well, you have come to the right place. Read on to discover some of the must-visit museums, parks, and landmarks along the way.
Fun Fact: Did you know that Georgia state produces the most peanuts in the United States? So, don't forget to try some peanut butter or peanut soup during your visit to Georgia.
If you are halfway through your trip, stop by Clarksville, TN, a vibrant city that offers an outdoor expedition and an art scene. The Clarksville Greenway, a lush and lengthy trail through a dense forest, is waiting to be explored. And for art lovers, the Downtown Artists Co-op is the place to be! You can admire and even purchase beautiful art pieces made by local artists.
The 673 miles long trip could take around 11 hours of driving, but that's if you don't make stops along the way. However, the stops are what make a road trip worth it, so it might take a bit longer for you to cover the distance.
Below are the top five places to visit during your road trip from Atlanta, Georgia, to Decatur, Illinois:
1. Chattanooga, TN
Chattanooga is a picturesque city with a scenic mountain skyline, located at the base of Lookout Mountain. It's a perfect place to stop and explore the city's iconic attractions like the Tennessee Aquarium and the Lookout Mountain Incline Railway, the world's steepest passenger railway. The railway gives a breathtaking view of Lookout Mountain and Chattanooga's downtown area.
Point of interest: Make a stop and indulge in mouth-watering sandwiches at The Choo Choo Cafe, a 1920's restored dining car featuring an all-day breakfast menu and a specialty coffee bar.
2. St. Louis, Missouri
St. Louis is a fascinating city that offers diverse entertainment options for everyone. A must-visit stop is the Gateway Arch, which stands 630 feet above the ground, making it the tallest arch in the world. Take the journey to the top and savor the view of the Mississippi River. For a fun-filled evening, a stop at the St. Louis Science Center is the best place to learn and discover some current scientific topics.
Point of interest: Venture out on the Delmar Loop, a six-block street in University City packed with vintage stores, unique restaurants, and a theatre.
3. Lincoln, Nebraska
Lincoln has plenty of opportunities to explore the outdoors, especially the Pioneers Park and Nature Center. It's an excellent spot to unwind, hike, bike, and take scenic walks. The museum at the park is exceptional, featuring fascinating exhibits that explore the natural history of the Park. For sports enthusiasts, taking in a Nebraska Cornhuskers game at Memorial Stadium is a must-do.
Point of interest: Make sure to stop by Lazlo's Brewery & Grill in the historic Haymarket District for a refreshing cold one and some great pub grub.
4. Iowa City, Iowa
Iowa City is a perfect stopover during the trip. Located on the banks of the Iowa River, it is a robust and modern city. Iowa City's vintage downtown district features unique architecture that makes for excellent sight-seeing. A must-visit is the Old Capitol Museum, which was completed in 1842 and served as the Capitol building until 1857. The University of Iowa is also based here, making it a college town that is perfect for exploring new breweries, cafes, and trying out different cuisines.
Point of interest: Make a stop at Hamburg Inn No. 2, a diner where many presidential candidates have made appearances over the years. Here, make sure to try a classic breakfast item, the "Pie Shake," a slice of pie blended into your shake.
5. Springfield, Illinois
Springfield is Illinois's capital, and it's full of significant historic sites that tell of America's past. Here, you can immerse yourself in the life and history of Abraham Lincoln, a good example is the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum. Visitors can explore Lincoln's legacy through interactive exhibits and artifacts that journey through the Civil War years.
Point of interest: Visit the Cozy Dog Drive-In, a historic restaurant where the corn dog was invented, to enjoy a delicious Cozy Dog and chips.
In conclusion, the road trip from Atlanta, Georgia to Decatur, Illinois offers treasures of fun and adventure along the way. With the top five places listed above, you can take in everything from outdoor activities, scenic drives, historical landmarks, and delicious food. It's a memorable journey well worth taking your time to enjoy.