Road Trippin' from Cedar Rapids to Marseilles

If you're planning a road trip from Cedar Rapids, Iowa to Marseilles, Illinois, buckle up and sit tight. We've got some great tips on the different routes you can take and the time it takes to get to your destination.

The Straight Shot Route

The most direct route is to take I-380 South to I-80 East and drive for approximately 250 miles. This is the quickest route but it can be a bit monotonous. The good news is that it will only take you about 4 hours to get there.

The Rural Route

If you're looking for a more scenic route, try taking Highway 30 East towards Clinton, Iowa. From there, take the Great River Road, also known as Highway 84. This route takes you through the quad cities and along the Mississippi River. The drive is approximately 300 miles and should take about 5 hours. Take your time and enjoy the beautiful views along the way.

The Foodie Route

If you're a foodie or you just love to eat, we recommend taking the I-80 East route and making a stop in Chicago. The drive will take about 4 and a half hours. Once you're in Chicago, take a food tour or try some of the famous Chicago-style pizza. After your foodie adventure, get back on I-80 East and drive for another hour and a half until you reach Marseilles.

The Historic Route

If you're a history enthusiast, this route is for you. Take Highway 30 East towards Clinton, Iowa, and make a detour towards Rock Island Arsenal. The Arsenal is a National Historic Landmark and tells the story of the Army's role in protecting our country dating back to before the Civil War. From there, take the Great River Road towards Marseilles. The drive is approximately 320 miles and will take about 6 hours.

The Quirky Route

Want to add some quirkiness to your drive? Take I-80 East towards Des Moines, Iowa, and make a pit stop at the World's Largest Truck Stop. From there, continue on I-80 East and stop at the Grotto of the Redemption in West Bend, Iowa. This unique attraction is a collection of nine grottos showcasing different scenes from the life of Jesus. The drive along this route is approximately 5 and a half hours.

Conclusion

No matter which route you decide to take, the drive from Cedar Rapids to Marseilles is sure to be an adventure. Plan your stops ahead of time and enjoy the journey. Safe travels!