Road Trip: Museums, Parks, and Landmarks from Cedar Rapids, Iowa to Lisle, Illinois
Are you ready for a road trip filled with outdoor adventures and cultural exploration? Buckle up and get ready to discover the top museums, parks, and landmarks along the route from Cedar Rapids, Iowa to Lisle, Illinois.
Did you know that the distance between Cedar Rapids and Lisle is approximately 258 miles, which can be covered in around 4 hours and 15 minutes of driving time? This journey offers a scenic drive with plenty of attractions and activities to keep you entertained and engaged.
Just past the halfway point of the journey, in Lyndon, IL, you will find Frog Pond Marsh Nature Preserve - a beautiful spot for bird-watching and hiking. Keep an eye out for Bald Eagles, Great Blue Herons, and a variety of waterfowl that inhabit the marshes and ponds in this natural area.
Taking your time along this route is recommended as there are many incredible places to visit, spread across this distance. Here are five must-visit stops for your next adventure from Cedar Rapids to Lisle:
1. Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum - West Branch, IA
The Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum celebrates the life and leadership of the 31st President of the United States, Herbert Hoover. This museum exhibits Hoover's legacy of promoting humanitarian aid, technological progress, and international peace initiatives. The museum features interactive exhibits, personal artifacts, and an archive of presidential documents.
Point of interest recommendation: Visit the Hoover National Historic Site nearby for a chance to see the humble surroundings of Hoover’s birthplace home and his family's Quaker meetinghouse.
2. Field of Dreams Movie Site - Dyersville, IA
If you're a fan of classic movies, then you'll love this stop. The Field of Dreams movie site is a must-see destination for movie buffs who want to relive the iconic scenes from the 1989 Kevin Costner film of the same name. The famous baseball diamond is still intact and visitors are welcome to play catch with their loved ones.
Point of interest recommendation: Walk along the nearby nature trail, which winds through scenic farmland and is bordered by cornfields, that inspired the movie's landscapes.
3. Starved Rock State Park - Utica, IL
Starved Rock State Park is a nature lover's paradise. A hiker's dream, this state park offers 13 miles of trails that lead to beautiful waterfalls, scenic viewpoints, and historical landmarks. The park also offers plenty of recreational activities, such as fishing, camping, kayaking, and bird-watching.
Point of interest recommendation: Check out the breathtaking views of the Illinois River on Eagle Cliff Overlook with its stunning pine groves
4. Illinois Railway Museum - Union, IL
The Illinois Railway Museum is a living history museum that showcases the history of trains and railroads in America. Visitors can ride a historic trolley or train while learning about various milestones in railroad history through interactive exhibits and personal accounts.
Point of interest recommendation: Watch the volunteers in action in the working Blacksmith shop, as they show off their metalworking skills.
5. Morton Arboretum - Lisle, IL
The Morton Arboretum is a stunning natural area that covers 1700 acres. With over 222,000 live plants, it is an ideal place for nature lovers to explore and experience different habitats and ecosystems. Visitors can walk or bike through the trails, admire beautiful sculptures and botanical displays, and even participate in nature-themed classes and programs.
Point of interest recommendation: check out the different themed gardens like the Hedge Collection, Asian Collection, Schulenberg Prairie and the Children’s Garden.
In conclusion, the road trip from Cedar Rapids to Lisle is a journey that offers a diverse range of attractions, from presidential museums to nature reserves to historic landmarks. It's a journey that will leave you feeling enlightened and inspired. Don't forget to take your time, enjoy the scenery, and explore all of the fun stops along the way.