The Best Things to Do on a Road Trip from Chicago, Illinois and Bayard, Nebraska

Chicago to Bayard may not be the most popular road trip, but it is a journey that offers stunning views of the American Midwest. The 899 mile-drive is filled with beautiful landscapes, charming towns, and exciting landmarks. The halfway point of the trip is in Underwood, Iowa, a small town where visitors can rest and recharge before continuing the journey. Here are the top five things to do on this scenic road trip.

Visit the Field of Dreams movie site

The Field of Dreams movie site in Dyersville, Iowa, allows visitors to walk in the footsteps of the famous 1989 movie. The Field, located on Lansing Road, remains a nostalgic spot for baseball fans. The Field of Dreams is home to the famous cornfield where Ray Kinsella, played by Kevin Costner, builds a baseball diamond. Visitors can walk on the actual field, play catch with family and friends, or attend a game hosted by the Field.

Interesting fact: In 2019, thousands of fans visited the Dyersville site to celebrate the Field of Dreams' 30th anniversary.

Explore Nebraska's Chimney Rock

Chimney Rock rises 300 feet above the North Platte River Valley in Bayard, Nebraska. Formed around 34 million years ago, Chimney Rock has been an important landmark for both Native Americans and pioneers traveling in covered wagons along the Oregon Trail. Visitors can take a guided tour to learn more about the fascinating history of this rock formation.

Interesting fact: Chimney Rock is featured on the back of the Nebraska state quarter.

Get wild at the Omaha Henry Doorly Zoo

The Omaha Henry Doorly Zoo is one of the world's largest zoos, spanning over 130 acres. With over 17,000 animals representing over 962 species, visitors can explore magnificent exhibits, including the Scott Aquarium, the Hubbard Gorilla Valley, and the Desert Dome. Visitors can also take a safari ride to experience the wildlife in an African savanna setting.

Interesting fact: The Desert Dome is the largest indoor desert in the world.

Discover Iowa's Living History Farms

Iowa's Living History Farms in Urbandale, Iowa, provides visitors with an interactive experience of life on an Iowa farm from the 1700s to the 1900s. The site has three working farms showcasing different eras in the state's history. Visitors can watch interpreters in period costumes demonstrate farming techniques, tour authentic farmhouses, and learn about the challenges faced by early settlers.

Interesting fact: The museum is named after Iowa native William Jones, who founded the Living History Farms in 1970.

Stand on top of the John Wayne Birthplace Museum & Learning Center

The John Wayne Birthplace Museum and Learning Center in Winterset, Iowa, celebrates the life and legacy of the famous actor. The museum presents many artifacts including the original house where Wayne was born and the largest collection of Wayne memorabilia. Visitors can stand on top of the museum's tower to enjoy a panoramic view of Madison County.

Interesting fact: John Wayne was born Marion Robert Morrison, but later adopted the name John Wayne.

This unforgettable road trip from Chicago to Bayard is approximately 15 hours of driving. Travelers can experience fascinating history, beautiful landscapes, and explore nature when they visit top attractions, including the Field of Dreams movie site in Dyersville, Iowa. Chimney Rock in Bayard, Nebraska, is an impressive and essential landmark to understand the rich history of the American Midwest. Visitors should not forget the impressive Omaha Henry Doorly Zoo, Iowa's Living History Farms, and the John Wayne Birthplace Museum & Learning Center in Winterset, Iowa. The route is sure to leave visitors feeling inspired and in awe.