Museums, Parks, and Landmarks to Visit on a Road Trip from Cedar Rapids, Iowa to Santa Claus, Indiana
Road trips are always a great way to see some of the America's most beautiful landscapes, and visiting some of the best museums, parks, and landmarks is a bonus. This road trip from Cedar Rapids, Iowa to Santa Claus, Indiana is no exception.
Interestingly, the route covers approximately 530 miles, and it takes about eight hours to complete. It is a journey across the central plains of the United States, mostly following scenic byways and twisting roads.
Halfway between Cedar Rapids and Santa Claus is Wentzville, MO — a small town with a population of about 40,000 people. It is home to some popular attractions, including the General Daniel Bissell House, the Quail Ridge Park, and the Wabash Frisco and Pacific Railroad Association Museum.
The road trip from Cedar Rapids, Iowa to Santa Claus, Indiana is packed with fun and exciting things to do and see. From the numerous museums to the breathtaking parks that offer an escape from the scorching sun, there is something for everyone. Here are the top five places to visit on this road trip:
- The Field of Dreams movie site, Dyersville, Iowa: The Field of Dreams movie site is where the famous baseball movie was filmed over 30 years ago. Visitors can walk around the diamond, step on the magical first base and stroll through the cornfields that surround it. This attraction is one of the most popular in the Cedar Rapids area, with thousands of tourists visiting every year to experience a little bit of movie magic.
Point of interest recommendation: The site features an array of souvenirs and artifacts from the movie, which visitors can purchase as a memory of their trip.
- The Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum, Hannibal, Missouri: The Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum is located in the charming town of Hannibal, Missouri. It is the childhood home of the legendary author Samuel Clemens, famously known as Mark Twain. The home is a reconstruction of the house Twain grew up in and is filled with artifacts and exhibits that bring to life his stories.
Point of interest recommendation: Visitors can take a tour of the home with a costumed guide, who tells the story of Twain's life and career.
- Gateway Arch National Park, St. Louis, Missouri: The Gateway Arch is one of the most famous landmarks in America and has loomed over St. Louis since it was completed in 1965. Visitors can take a ride to the top and enjoy breathtaking views of the city. The park offers guided tours, which give a glimpse into the history of the arch and the role it played in the country's westward expansion.
Point of interest recommendation: The park has numerous picnic areas and outdoor spaces perfect for a break during the road trip.
- Lincoln Boyhood National Memorial, Lincoln City, Indiana: The Lincoln Boyhood National Memorial is in Lincoln City, Indiana, and is a fitting tribute to the 16th President of the United States, Abraham Lincoln. The site features a historic wilderness called Spencer County, which was home to the Lincoln family in the early 19th century. Visitors can explore the boyhood home and the surrounding landscape, take part in ranger-led activities, and learn about the life and times of the beloved president.
Point of interest recommendation: The Spencer County courthouse, which is opposite the memorial, is also worth a visit. It's where Abraham Lincoln's parents, Thomas and Nancy Hanks Lincoln, exchanged marriage vows.
- Holiday World & Splashin' Safari, Santa Claus, Indiana: Holiday World & Splashin' Safari is the last stop on this road trip. It is a holy grail for families, offering a mix of thrilling roller coasters and water rides. The park has several themed sections, and each offers rides and attractions suited for different ages.
Point of interest recommendation: The park hosts "Halloween Weekends," where visitors can enjoy Halloween-themed rides, attractions, and activities.
In conclusion, the road trip from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, to Santa Claus, Indiana, offers an excellent adventure for travelers who want to experience the heartland of America. It's also a great opportunity for travelers to explore a diverse range of attractions, from historical landmarks to thrilling amusement parks. With its scenic beauty and numerous points of interest, this road trip is a must-do for families, friends, and anyone who loves a great American adventure.