Top Five Places to Visit on a Road Trip Between Cedar Falls, Iowa and Leander, Texas

Looking for a fun and adventurous road trip between Cedar Falls, Iowa and Leander, Texas? We've got you covered with five fantastic places to visit along the way. From a historic covered bridge to quirky roadside attractions, this top five list will keep you entertained and give you a taste of Midwestern and Southern charm.

The Route and Halfway Point: Wellington, KS

Before we jump into the top five places to visit, let's take a quick look at the route and halfway point. Running south from Cedar Falls, Iowa to Leander, Texas, the drive is approximately 1,050 miles and takes roughly 17 hours. The halfway point is Wellington, Kansas, a charming city located just off of Highway 81. The city boasts several parks, a museum, and a historic courthouse. It's a great place to stretch your legs, enjoy a meal, and take in the local scenery.

1. The Bridges of Madison County - Winterset, Iowa

Our first stop is one of Iowa's most iconic landmarks, the Bridges of Madison County. Made famous by the bestselling novel and movie of the same name, these covered bridges make for a picturesque photo-op and offer a glimpse into Iowa's rural past. There are six bridges in total, each with its own unique story and beauty. One of the most visited is the 83-foot-long, 7-foot-wide, Cedar Covered Bridge, built-in 1875. There's also the historic Winterset Courthouse Square, which has welcomed visitors for over 150 years and features unique shops and boutiques.

2. The Keeper of the Plains - Wichita, Kansas

Next up, we have the Keeper of the Plains, a 44-foot, steel sculpture located at the confluence of the Big and Little Arkansas Rivers in Wichita, Kansas. The sculpture was designed by Native American artist Blackbear Bosin and serves as a symbol of Wichita's rich history and cultural heritage. Every night, visitors can witness a ring of fire, a symbolic tribute to the Native American ritual of keeping fires burning. The surrounding area, the Keeper Plaza, is full of interactive exhibits and walking paths, making it the perfect spot for a fun and educational stop.

3. Cadillac Ranch - Amarillo, Texas

Our third stop is a true Texas icon, Cadillac Ranch, located in Amarillo. This quirky roadside attraction features ten Cadillac cars buried nose-first in a field of dirt. Visitors are encouraged to bring spray paint and leave their own mark on the cars, which have become an ever-changing art installation. The cars were originally installed in 1974 by a group of art-minded Texans known as the Ant Farm, and it's been a must-see stop for road trippers ever since.

4. The National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum - Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Next, we have the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, located in Oklahoma City. This museum is dedicated to preserving and interpreting the history and culture of the American West. Visitors can view exhibits on topics such as Native American history, cowboy life, and Western art. There's even an authentic Old West town, complete with a saloon, schoolhouse, and jail. This is a great stop for anyone interested in Western history and the iconic cowboys and cowgirls of the past.

5. Magnolia Market at the Silos - Waco, Texas

Last but not least, we have Magnolia Market at the Silos, located in Waco, Texas. Made famous by the hit HGTV show Fixer Upper, this market and bakery complex is a must-stop for design and decor enthusiasts. The market features chic home decor, gourmet food products, and unique gifts. There's also a newly-added garden at the Silos, featuring a beautiful selection of homegrown plants and flowers. Finish off your road trip with a delicious pastry or a cup of coffee at the bakery and take in the charming atmosphere.

In conclusion, there's no shortage of fun and unique places to visit on a road trip between Cedar Falls, Iowa, and Leander, Texas. From famous landmarks like the Bridges of Madison County to quirky roadside attractions like Cadillac Ranch, each stop offers a glimpse of Midwestern and Southern charm. So hop in the car, crank up the tunes, and enjoy the adventure. Happy road tripping!