Five unexpected places to stop on a drive from Beloit, Wisconsin and Norwood, Colorado
The road trip from Beloit, Wisconsin, to Norwood, Colorado, is a 17-hour journey covering a distance of over 1040 miles. The route takes you through six states: Wisconsin, Illinois, Iowa, Nebraska, Kansas, and Colorado. While the open road offers stunning views of the countryside, it is worth taking a few stops along the way. This article presents five unexpected places to take a break during the journey and what makes them worth visiting.
Halfway point: Gothenburg, NE
The midway point of the journey is Gothenburg, Nebraska, a small town of about 1,500 people. The town was established in 1882 and named after Gothenburg, Sweden. Gothenburg offers a range of recreational activities, including golfing, fishing, and hiking. Be sure to visit the Pony Express Museum, which showcases the history of the Pony Express, an icon of the Old West. Visitors can watch a video presentation and view an exhibit of the original Pony Express rider's saddle, mailbag, and other memorable artifacts.
1. The Ames Monument, Laramie, WY
Located a few miles off I-80, Laramie, Wyoming, is home to the Ames Monument, an imposing 60-foot-tall pyramid dedicated to the Ames brothers, Oakes and Oliver, who were instrumental in building the transcontinental railroad. The monument sits on a hilltop, offering a panorama of the surrounding mountain range. It is a sight to behold, especially given that the monument was built in 1882 and has survived for over a century. Visitors can park at the rest stop opposite the monument and stroll over to marvel at its grandeur.
Recommended food: Stop by the Crowbar and Grill in downtown Laramie for a delicious burger that locals rave about
2. The Golden Spike Tower and Visitor Center, North Platte, NE
The Golden Spike Tower and Visitor Center is a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in trains and their history. Located in North Platte, Nebraska, the tower provides a panoramic view of Bailey Yard, which is the largest rail yard in the world. Visitors can watch thousands of rail cars pass through the yard, carrying everything from mail to automobiles to grain. The tower's five floors contain exhibits documenting the history of Bailey Yard and other CPR facilities that helped shape American railroading.
Recommended food: Grab a breakfast burrito from the Biscuit Basket Cafe, a cozy mom-and-pop diner just a few blocks from the Golden Spike Tower.
3. The Dwight D. Eisenhower Presidential Library and Museum, Abilene, KS
The Dwight D. Eisenhower Presidential Library and Museum was established in 1954 in Abilene, Kansas, the hometown of the 34th U.S. President, Dwight Eisenhower. The museum contains exhibits covering Eisenhower's life and career, including his time as Supreme Commander of Allied Forces in Europe during World War II and his presidency. Visitors can view artifacts such as the desk used by Eisenhower in the Oval Office, his 1956 campaign bus, and a replica of the Oval Office.
Recommended food: Stop by Kirby's Sandwich Shop, a local favorite since 1984, for a juicy burger or a sandwich piled high with fresh ingredients.
4. The Airplane Restaurant, Colorado Springs, CO
The Airplane Restaurant is an unusual diner located in Colorado Springs, Colorado, adjacent to the Colorado Springs airport. The restaurant is housed in a real Boeing KC-97 tanker airplane, which was retired from service in 1973. Visitors can dine inside the plane, with the cockpit serving as the bar. The decor oozes aviation nostalgia, with aviation-themed artifacts and photos throughout the space.
Recommended food: Try the Flight Line Grill, featuring appetizers such as jet wings and air traffic control fries, or the air boss burger, made with a double patty and topped with bacon and blue cheese.
5. Mesa Verde National Park, CO
Mesa Verde National Park is a World Heritage Site that preserves the history and culture of the Ancestral Pueblo People, who inhabited the region between AD 600 and 1300. Located in southwestern Colorado, Mesa Verde is famous for its well-preserved cliff dwellings, which are ancient stone structures built under overhanging cliffs. Visitors can take guided tours, watch a movie about the history of the Ancestral Pueblo People, and hike trails providing panoramic views of the region.
Recommended food: Take a scenic drive to Mancos, Colorado, and enjoy a locally sourced meal at Olio, a Mediterranean-inspired bistro featuring fresh salads, wood-fired pizzas, and creative cocktails.
In conclusion, this road trip from Beloit, Wisconsin, to Norwood, Colorado, is more than just a drive through the heartland of America. It's an opportunity to explore fascinating and unexpected places and learn about the history and culture of the region. From the Pony Express Museum in Gothenburg, Nebraska, to the Airplane Restaurant in Colorado Springs, Colorado, these stops offer something for every traveler. So, pack up the car, hit the road, and embark on a journey through the heartland.