Top Five Popular Attractions between Brodhead, WI and Smithfield, VA

If you're planning a road trip between Brodhead, WI and Smithfield, VA, you may be wondering what sights and attractions you should check out along the way. Here are our top five picks for must-see places that you won't want to miss.

The Route and Halfway Point

First, let's talk about the route itself. This road trip covers a distance of about 900 miles and takes around 14 hours to drive straight through. The halfway point of this journey is North Jackson, OH, which offers a good stopping point for a meal, a stretch, or an overnight stay. This small town has a few restaurants, gas stations, and budget-friendly hotels to choose from.

Now, onto the main event: the top five popular attractions between Brodhead and Smithfield.

1. Mall of America (Minneapolis, MN)

Located in Bloomington, MN (a suburb of Minneapolis), the Mall of America is one of the largest shopping centers in the United States, spanning over 5 million square feet. In addition to the hundreds of stores, the mall also houses an amusement park, an aquarium, a miniature golf course, and several restaurants and bars. It's definitely a destination that you can spend an entire day (or more) exploring.

2. Badlands National Park (South Dakota)

Located in southwestern South Dakota, Badlands National Park is a breathtaking landscape of rock formations, canyons, and prairies that looks almost otherworldly. There are several scenic drives and hiking trails to explore, as well as ranger-led programs that showcase the park's unique geology, wildlife, and history.

3. Gateway Arch (St. Louis, MO)

A symbol of St. Louis and a tribute to America's westward expansion, the Gateway Arch stands at 630 feet tall and is the world's tallest arch. Visitors can take a tram ride to the top for panoramic views of the city and the Mississippi River, or explore the museum and visitor center at the base of the arch.

4. Mammoth Cave National Park (Kentucky)

Mammoth Cave National Park is home to the world's longest known cave system, with over 400 miles of explored and mapped underground passageways. Guided tours offer a fascinating look into this subterranean world, with options ranging from easy, family-friendly tours to more challenging crawls through narrow passages.

5. Colonial Williamsburg (Virginia)

A living history museum and national historic landmark, Colonial Williamsburg offers a glimpse into life in 18th-century America. Visitors can explore restored and reconstructed buildings, including homes, taverns, and shops, as well as learn about the daily life of colonists through interpretive programs and firsthand experiences.

Conclusion

While this road trip covers a lot of ground, it also offers a wide range of experiences and sights to see along the way. From the modern-day marvel of the Mall of America to the historic charm of Colonial Williamsburg, there's something for everyone to enjoy. To make the most of your trip, we recommend taking a few days to explore each of these attractions, as well as taking time to detour off the main route to see other nearby sights. Happy travels!