Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Chicago, Illinois to Telluride, Colorado

Chicago, Illinois to Telluride, Colorado is a stunning drive, spanning 1,400 miles and offering picturesque views of the heartland of America. The route takes approximately 18 hours, so it's worth it to plan some stops along the way to break up the journey. The drive offers a great mix of urban and rural landscapes, as well as some unexpected and delightful spots to explore.

Lexington, NE At the halfway point between Chicago and Telluride lies the charming town of Lexington, Nebraska. This small town is a wonderful place to stop and stretch your legs. Take a stroll through the heart of downtown and admire the beautiful, historic architecture. Visit the Heartland Museum of Military Vehicles, where you can see an impressive collection of military vehicles from various time periods. Don't forget to grab a bite to eat at one of the local diners for some hearty Midwestern fare.

Favorite food: Enjoy a classic Nebraskan steak dinner at one of the local steakhouses in town.

Wichita, KS Wichita is the largest city in Kansas and is a fantastic place to visit for a quick detour. It's known for its Old Town district, where visitors can find a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. Make sure to visit the Wichita Art Museum, which houses an impressive collection of American art, including works by Edward Hopper and Winslow Homer. After exploring, be sure to indulge in some delicious BBQ at one of the local smokehouses.

Favorite food: Indulge in some mouthwatering BBQ ribs and brisket at a classic Kansas BBQ joint.

Pueblo, CO Pueblo, Colorado, is a city with a rich history and plenty of attractions to offer. Take a stroll along the Riverwalk, a beautiful waterfront area with shops, restaurants, and art installations. If you're a history buff, check out the El Pueblo History Museum, where you can learn about the city's fascinating past. Don't forget to sample some of the local green chile, a Pueblo specialty.

Favorite food: Try some delicious green chile, a Pueblo staple, in the form of a hand-held green chile and pork burrito.

Salida, CO Salida, Colorado, is a small town nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, making it a perfect stop for nature lovers. Take a drive up to the nearby Monarch Pass for breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, or go for a hike in the San Isabel National Forest. If you're feeling adventurous, consider trying whitewater rafting on the Arkansas River. After a day of outdoor activities, enjoy a meal at one of the town's local breweries.

Favorite food: Treat yourself to a delicious craft beer and a hearty burger at one of Salida's local breweries.

Durango, CO Before reaching your final destination of Telluride, make sure to spend some time in Durango, Colorado. This city is famous for the Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, a historic steam train that offers scenic rides through the mountains. If you're a history buff, visit the Animas Museum to learn about the area's past. And of course, no visit to Durango is complete without trying some authentic southwestern cuisine.

Favorite food: Feast on some mouthwatering enchiladas or street tacos at a local Mexican restaurant.

In conclusion, a road trip from Chicago to Telluride offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore a diverse array of landscapes, history, and culture. By making some unexpected stops along the way, travelers can enhance their journey and create lasting memories. So, pack your bags, hit the open road, and embark on an unforgettable adventure from the heart of the Midwest to the stunning vistas of the Rocky Mountains.