#Best Things to Do on a Road Trip from Burlington, Iowa and Ankeny, Iowa
The summer is here, and many folks are choosing a road trip as an alternative to flying. It's a chance to explore new destinations, enjoy the scenic views, and bond with loved ones. One popular route for road trips is from Burlington to Ankeny in Iowa.
This trip is an adventure of approximately 155 miles that takes around two and a half hours. It passes through several towns, including Ottumwa, which is the halfway point. The journey offers an opportunity to enjoy several beautiful attractions along the way.
#Top 5 Things to Do on the Road Trip
##1. Snake Alley in Burlington
Snake Alley is a world-renowned street in the Historic Heritage Hill of Burlington. It is a narrow street with a tight corkscrew pattern that leads to an impressive view of the Mississippi River and the valley. Visiting Snake Alley is an opportunity to explore the unique design of the road and its rich history.
Fun Fact: Snake Alley was constructed in 1894 and achieved international recognition in 2017 by being named the 4th crookedest street in the world by the Ripley's Believe It or Not.
##2. The Iowa 80 Trucking Museum in Walcott
The Iowa 80 Trucking Museum, located in Walcott, is a must-visit on a road trip through Iowa. The museum is home to a vast collection of vintage trucks, cars, and other fascinating exhibits that tell the story of the trucking industry's evolution. Visitors can witness the advancements that have taken place in the industry and how they have shaped modern-day transportation.
Fun Fact: The Iowa 80 Trucking Museum was founded by Bill Moon, the late owner of the Iowa 80 Truck Stop, which is the largest truck stop in the world.
##3. The Amana Colonies in Amana
The Amana Colonies offer visitors a unique experience of the Amish Culture in Iowa. It is a group of seven villages that were established in 1855 by German settlers who wanted to practice their religious beliefs freely. Visitors can enjoy touring the colonies, shopping for handcrafted goods, and dining in restaurants serving traditional German dishes.
Fun Fact: The Amana Colonies were originally planned as a religious utopia with a communal way of living, but the practice was discontinued in the 1930s.
##4. The John Wayne Birthplace and Museum in Winterset
The John Wayne Birthplace and Museum in Winterset is a dream destination for movie lovers and John Wayne enthusiasts. The museum houses an extensive collection of memorabilia and personal items of The Duke. Visitors can take a tour of the birthplace and explore the exhibits that depict Wayne's life and career.
Fun Fact: John Wayne was born in Winterset, Iowa, in 1907, and his real name was Marion Robert Morrison.
##5. The Bridges of Madison County in Winterset
The Bridges of Madison County is a romantic novel that was later adapted into a movie. The movie brought attention to the bridges in Madison County as they were the movie's main setting. The Holliwell Covered Bridge, one of the bridges in the county, is the highlight of the trip. Visitors can enjoy a picnic near the bridge, take pictures, and walk through it.
Fun Fact: There are six covered bridges in Madison County, and they were all constructed between 1870 and 1880.
#Conclusion
The road trip from Burlington to Ankeny, Iowa, offers an unforgettable adventure, with several unique attractions along the way. Visitors can explore Snake Alley, visit the Iowa 80 Trucking Museum, The Amana Colonies, John Wayne Birthplace, and The Bridges of Madison County. These attractions offer visitors a chance to experience Iowa's rich history, culture and create lasting memories. The trip takes around two and a half hours and covers 155 miles, with the halfway point at Ottumwa. Plan your next road trip through Iowa, and enjoy the scenic beauty of the state.