The Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Cedar Rapids, Iowa to Orange Beach, Alabama

Cedar Rapids, Iowa, a city located in the heart of the Midwest, is known for its beautiful landscapes, parks, and museums. And Orange Beach, Alabama, a small seaside city, is famous for its white sandy beaches, vibrant nightlife, and delicious seafood. A road trip from Cedar Rapids to Orange Beach is an excellent opportunity to explore the beauty of the Midwest and the Southern US. The 900-mile journey takes you through some of America's most iconic tourist destinations, from the Mississippi River to the Gulf of Mexico. The halfway point is Dyersburg, TN, a small town known for its rich musical heritage and charming streets.

Top 5 Things to Do on a Road Trip from Cedar Rapids to Orange Beach

1. Gateway Arch, St. Louis, MO

The Gateway Arch, a monument to the westward expansion of the United States, is one of the most iconic landmarks in the country. The Arch stands 630 feet tall and offers an incredible view of the city of St. Louis and the Mississippi River. Besides the view, visitors can learn about the history of the monument and the westward movement. The Gateway Arch is a must-visit attraction for anyone driving through St. Louis.

Interesting fact: The Gateway Arch is made up of 142 stainless steel triangles that form a catenary curve.

2. Country Music Hall of Fame, Nashville, TN

Nashville, the capital of Tennessee, is known as the Music City for good reasons. The Country Music Hall of Fame is the ultimate destination for music lovers. The museum houses an impressive collection of music memorabilia, including instruments, costumes, and recordings from legends like Johnny Cash and Dolly Parton. Visitors should plan to spend a few hours exploring the museum or catching a live concert in the Hall of Fame.

Interesting fact: The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum has a vault that stores over 2.5 million artifacts, including Elvis Presley's guitar and Hank Williams' handwritten lyrics.

3. Bourbon Street, New Orleans, LA

Bourbon Street in New Orleans is famous for its vibrant nightlife, jazz music, and delicious Cajun and Creole cuisine. A walk along this famous street is a sensory experience that every traveler should have. Visitors can sample New Orleans's famous beignets, explore art galleries, listen to street performers, and enjoy the party atmosphere that makes this street so unique.

Interesting fact: Bourbon Street was named after the French Bourbon dynasty, who ruled France during New Orleans' colonial period.

4. USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park, Mobile, AL

The USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park in Mobile, Alabama, is a living museum that honors the brave men and women who served in World War II. Visitors can explore the USS Alabama battleship and learn about its history, from its participation in the Pacific Theater to its decommissioning in 1962. In addition to the battleship, the park also showcases a collection of aircraft, tanks, and other military equipment.

Interesting fact: The USS Alabama served in ten major battles during World War II and was never hit by a torpedo or bomb.

5. Gulf Shores Beach, Gulf Shores, AL

Orange Beach's neighbor, Gulf Shores, has some of the best beaches in the country. Gulf Shores Beach, in particular, is known for its soft white sand, clear blue waters, and picturesque sunsets. The beach is home to several local restaurants and bars and is an excellent place for water activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing.

Interesting fact: Gulf Shores is home to the Hangout Music Festival, a three-day music festival featuring some of the biggest names in the music industry.

Conclusion

The road trip from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, to Orange Beach, Alabama, is an unforgettable experience that takes you through historic landmarks, vibrant cities, and beautiful landscapes. From the Gateway Arch in St. Louis to Gulf Shores Beach in Alabama, there's something for everyone in this 900-mile journey. The trip typically takes around 14 hours of driving time, but it's worth the effort to experience some of America's most exciting destinations.