Road Tripping from Chicago, Illinois to Cedar Rapids, Iowa

Are you ready for a road trip from the bustling city of Chicago to the charming Cedar Rapids in Iowa? This exciting journey will take you through picturesque landscapes, make you discover hidden gems, and experience small-town charm. Read on to discover the best places to visit on this route.

Did you know that the first ever Ferris wheel was unveiled in Chicago? The Columbian Exposition of 1893 brought together the world's industrial advancements and showcased Chicago as a leading cultural and economic center. Today, the city remains a hub of American culture with its skyscrapers, museums and diverse neighborhoods.

At the halfway point on this road trip, you will pass by the small town of Morrison, Illinois. It's a great place to take a pit stop and grab a bite or explore the town's unique attractions, such as the Morrison Rockwood State Park, a place known for its abundant wildflowers and plenty of outdoor activities.

The drive from Chicago to Cedar Rapids is roughly 221 miles and takes around 3 hours to get to your destination. There are several exciting places to stop and explore along the way! Here are our top five picks.

1. Starved Rock State Park, Oglesby, IL

Arguably Illinois' most visited natural attraction, Starved Rock State Park is home to 18 canyons carved out of the sandstone cliffs formed by glacial meltwaters. The park is also home to several hiking trails, waterfalls, and some of the best views of the Illinois River. Visitors flock to the park during winter to see the frozen waterfalls and during spring to see the wildflowers.

Point of Interest: Don't miss out on the seasonal cruises and boat tours that take you along the Illinois River to appreciate the stunning views.

2. John Deere Pavilion, Moline, IL

A must-see for anyone interested in farming machinery, John Deere Pavilion tells the story of the company's evolution and impact on farming. It showcases a range of tractors, including some futuristic-looking ones, as well as other iconic machines. The pavilion also has interactive displays and simulators, making it an engaging place for the whole family.

Point of Interest: Take a stroll on the nearby river walk and admire the Mississippi River as it flows southwards.

3. Amana Colonies, Amana, IA

Amana Colonies is an enchanting place that is famous for its architecture and German heritage. It consists of seven villages, where you can sample delicious cuisine, handicrafts, and even furniture made by local artisans. Take a guided tour of the colony’s Winery, Brewery or Distillery, and discover the secrets behind their excellent Amana wine, beer, or spirits.

Point of Interest: Stop by the Little Red Wagon Creamery shop in Amana and grab some handcrafted ice cream and cheese curds.

4. Effigy Mounds National Monument, Harpers Ferry, IA

The Effigy Mounds National Monument is a unique testament to the Native American culture and history of the Midwest. It consists of over 200 bird and animal-shaped mounds that were constructed by the Effigy Mound culture. The visitor center has excellent displays, and the well-maintained hiking trails offer views of the surrounding countryside.

Point of Interest: Visit the Harpers Ferry Fish Hatchery and feed the rainbow trout in their tour ponds.

5. Cedar Rapids Museum of Art, Cedar Rapids, IA

One of the city's best cultural gems is the Cedar Rapids Museum of Art, which boasts an extensive collection of works by Grant Wood, a celebrated Iowa artist. The museum also houses a remarkable collection of contemporary Slovak, Czech, and Moravian artwork.

Point of Interest: Take the kids to the nearby Science Station and engage with interactive exhibits and experiments.

The drive from Chicago to Cedar Rapids is an alluring and fun-filled experience that offers an insight into the heart of the Midwest. The trip takes about three hours, and we guarantee it's worth it! You'll discover some of the state's hidden treasures, experience local culture, sample delicious food, and witness the beauty of the Midwest along the way. So, are you ready for an unforgettable road trip experience?