Road Trip Delight: Navigating from Des Moines to Savannah

Planning an adventurous drive from Des Moines, Iowa to Savannah, Georgia? Buckle up; you’re in for quite the journey filled with stunning landscapes, charming towns, and so much fun along the way! The distance from Des Moines to Savannah is approximately 800 miles, and depending on your chosen route, you'll spend an average of 12 to 15 hours on the road. Let's dive into the different routes and explore fun stops to enrich your travel experience!

The Quick Route: I-40 E

If you’re on a bit of a time crunch and prefer to hit the road quickly, take I-40 E. This route covers about 830 miles and usually takes around 12 hours of non-stop driving. However, tedium is not on the agenda! Along the way, treat yourself to an invigorating pit stop in St. Louis, Missouri. Known for its iconic Gateway Arch, this city offers delicious food options and a vibrant downtown scene. Just hop off I-70 for some well-deserved sightseeing and local cuisine.

As you press on towards Tennessee, don't forget to stop by Nashville! This lively city bustles with music, fantastic barbecue, and a chance to explore the Country Music Hall of Fame. After a little Nashville hospitality, you’ll continue toward Savannah, eager to dive into its Southern charm.

The Scenic Route: I-70 E and I-75 S

For those who appreciate a picturesque drive, consider taking the I-70 E and I-75 S route, which covers around 850 miles and typically takes about 14 to 15 hours. This slightly longer journey offers beautiful backroads and charming small towns worth exploring. A perfect stop along this route is Indianapolis, Indiana. Known for its rich motorsports history, you can visit the Indianapolis Motor Speedway or simply enjoy the scenic canal walk downtown.

Continue on Interstate 75, and make sure to swing by Atlanta, Georgia. Known for its friendly locals and tantalizing Southern cooking, Atlanta is a fantastic place to recharge before entering Savannah. Enjoy some classic fried chicken or a slice of peach cobbler to keep your energy up!

The Adventurous Route: I-35 S and I-20 E

For the true road-trip adventurers, the I-35 S to I-20 E route offers excitement while clocking in at roughly 900 miles and requiring around 15 hours to complete. This route meanders through different states, presenting a unique opportunity to discover hidden gems. Making your way through Kansas City, Missouri, you can dive into delicious Kansas City-style barbecue. There’s something nostalgic about indulging in local eats while exploring a new city!

After a flavorful stop, continuing south on I-35 will take you through Texas before heading East on I-20. You might want to make another stop in Birmingham, Alabama, known for its civil rights history and vibrant food scene. This town’s friendly atmosphere ensures a fun break before the final stretch to Savannah.

Final Thoughts

Whether you choose the quicker, scenic, or adventurous route, the journey from Des Moines to Savannah has something for everyone. With a mix of city stops, picturesque rural landscapes, and mouth-watering food options, your road trip will surely be memorable. So grab some snacks, pick your favorite playlist, and get ready to create delightful memories along the way. Safe travels!