Top Places to See When Driving From Bakersfield, California to Decorah, Iowa

Are you planning on taking a road trip from Bakersfield, California to Decorah, Iowa? This is an exciting journey that will take you through stunning views of the country's midwest. This route covers more than 1,800 miles, which means there are plenty of attractions and beautiful places to visit along the way. Whether you're an adventure seeker, nature lover, or history buff, you'll find something satisfying on this trip. To help you out, here are some of the top places to visit when driving from Bakersfield, California to Decorah, Iowa.

Enjoy the Scenic Views of the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, CA

If you're starting from Bakersfield, California, you'll drive more than 300 miles to reach San Francisco. But it will be worth the effort as this city offers a wide range of activities to see and do. One of the most popular attractions in San Francisco is the Golden Gate Bridge. From the bridge, you can experience breathtaking views of the city's skyline, the bay, and the Pacific Ocean. Take your time and snap plenty of pictures so that you'll never forget the experience.

Make a Stop at the Great Salt Lake in Utah

As you continue your journey towards Decorah, Iowa, you'll come across the majestic Great Salt Lake. The lake covers about 1,700 square miles, making it the largest saltwater lake in the western hemisphere. You can enjoy the salty waters, float effortlessly in them, and if you're lucky, you may even see some wildlife such as shorebirds and bison.

Experience the Amish Culture in Shipshewana, IN

As you travel towards your final destination, make a stop in Shipshewana, Indiana and experience the unique Amish culture. In this small town, you'll learn and experience how the Amish people live, their farming practices, and their beliefs. You can take a guided buggy tour, visit an Amish household, and attend some of their auctions and markets. Shipshewana is a welcoming place that will give you a glimpse of their traditional yet extraordinary lifestyle.

Visit the Lincoln Home National Historic Site in Springfield, IL

As you drive toward Decorah, Iowa, make a stop in Springfield, Illinois, and visit the Lincoln Home National Historic Site. This site consists of a four-block area around the Lincoln Home, which was the residence of Abraham Lincoln and his family for 17 years. You'll learn about Lincoln's life, his presidency, and his family's daily life. This site is an excellent opportunity to connect with American history and immerse yourself in the life of the famous President.

Take a Step Back in Time in Hannibal, MO

Hannibal, Missouri, is a small town that's loved by many for its connections to one of America's greatest literary legends, Mark Twain. This town has a plethora of fun-filled activities related to the life of Mark Twain. You can visit his childhood home, take a riverboat tour, and paddle down the Mississippi river. In addition, you can also participate in some of their lively festivals, including the National Tom Sawyer Days and the Folklife Festival.

Experience the Beauty of Mississippi Palisades State Park, IL

Located along the Mississippi River, the Mississippi Palisades State Park is a spectacular site that's worth a visit. The park has various trails to explore, but the most popular one is the Sentinel Trail which takes you on a steep hike along the bluffs of the river. From the cliffs, you'll see breathtaking views of the river and the surrounding valleys. You can also enjoy the park's picnic areas, campgrounds, and fishing spots.

Conclusion

Driving from Bakersfield, California to Decorah, Iowa is undoubtedly an incredible experience that has a lot to offer. From the stunning natural attractions to the historic sites, you'll create some unforgettable memories along the way. While we've highlighted some of the best places to visit, there's still plenty more to discover and explore. Get behind the wheel, hit the open road, and explore the country's midwest to create memories that will last a lifetime.