Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Brookfield, Illinois to San Luis Obispo, California
If you're looking for a scenic and unique road trip, driving from Brookfield, Illinois, to San Luis Obispo, California, is an excellent choice. This 2,000-mile journey takes you through some of the most breathtaking scenery in the United States. From the rolling hills of the Midwest to the expansive deserts of the Southwest to the rugged coastline of California, this drive offers a little bit of everything. The journey takes about 33 hours if driving nonstop, but it's recommended to make it a multi-day trip to fully enjoy the sights and experiences along the way.
The halfway point of this journey is the charming mountain town of Eagle, Colorado. This is an excellent opportunity to stop and stretch your legs, grab some lunch, and explore the picturesque town. Eagle is located in the heart of the Colorado Rockies and surrounded by stunning mountains, making it a perfect spot to take in some fresh air and scenery. And if you're lucky, you might even spot some wildlife along the way.
1. Mitchell, South Dakota: Home of the World's Only Corn Palace
If you're driving through South Dakota, Mitchell is a must-visit destination. This unique attraction is a palace made entirely of corn, and it's the only one of its kind in the world. The Corn Palace attracts over half a million visitors each year and is a true testament to America's love for corn. The palace's murals are made up of 13 different colors of corn, and its design changes every year. Although the Corn Palace is open year-round, it's recommended to visit during the annual Corn Palace Festival held every August.
Don't forget to try: Sweet corn. Whether it's roasted, boiled, or grilled, South Dakota sweet corn is some of the best in the world.
2. Jackson Hole, Wyoming: A Gateway to the Wild West
Jackson Hole is a charming town in the heart of Wyoming, surrounded by some of the country's most beautiful and rugged national parks. A visit to Jackson Hole is a chance to step back in time and experience the Wild West's spirit. This town is an excellent base for exploring Grand Teton National Park, Yellowstone National Park, and the Bridger-Teton National Forest. Don't forget to take a stroll through the town square and admire the antler arches.
Don't forget to try: Bison burgers. Bison is a healthier and leaner alternative to beef, and it's commonly found on local restaurant menus.
3. Moab, Utah: The Adventure Capital of the Southwest
Moab is an adventure lover's paradise. Located in southeastern Utah, Moab is a gateway to some of the region's most stunning national parks, including Arches and Canyonlands. Moab is famous for its world-class mountain biking trails, scenic hikes, and off-road adventures. The red rock landscape is unlike anything in the world, and it's guaranteed to take your breath away.
Don't forget to try: Navajo tacos. These are a traditional Native American dish consisting of fry bread, beans, and taco toppings.
4. Sedona, Arizona: A Spiritual Oasis in the Desert
Sedona is a hidden gem in the heart of the Arizona desert. This town is known for its rust-colored landscape, stunning rock formations, and spiritual energy. Sedona is a spiritual mecca for many, and it's a great place to relax, rejuvenate, and reconnect with yourself. The town is surrounded by stunning natural beauty and offers plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking, and exploring the Red Rock State Park.
Don't forget to try: Prickly pear margaritas. These are a regional specialty, and there's no better way to cool off from the desert heat.
5. Pismo Beach, California: A Slice of Paradise on the Central Coast
Pismo Beach is a charming beach town located on the Central Coast of California. This town is known for its stunning beaches, world-class surfing, and laid-back vibe. Take a stroll down the Pismo Beach Pier, relax on the sandy beaches, or take a scenic drive along the Pacific Coast Highway. This is the perfect spot to unwind and take in the stunning coastal scenery before arriving in San Luis Obispo.
Don't forget to try: Clam chowder. Pismo Beach is known for its fresh seafood, and clam chowder is a must-try dish when visiting this town.
Conclusion
Traveling from Brookfield, Illinois, to San Luis Obispo, California, is an exciting and unforgettable journey that offers some of the country's most scenic and unique attractions. Stop in Eagle, Colorado, to break up the journey, and then visit the five unexpected places along the way: the World's Only Corn Palace in Mitchell, South Dakota; Jackson Hole, Wyoming, the gateway to the Wild West; Moab, Utah, the adventure capital of the Southwest; Sedona, Arizona, a spiritual oasis in the desert; and finally, Pismo Beach, California, a slice of paradise on the Central Coast. With these attractions and delicious local foods, it's a road trip you won't want to miss.