Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Cedar Rapids, Iowa to South Bend, Indiana
If you are planning a road trip from Cedar Rapids, Iowa to South Bend, Indiana, there are numerous places to explore en route to your destination. The journey takes approximately six hours and can be quite monotonous without the proper breaks. The good news is that there are plenty of unexpected places to stop and enjoy everything that America's heartland has to offer. This article has compiled a list of five unexpected places that are well worth the stop.
Halfway Point: Peru, IL
Peru, Illinois, is located halfway between Cedar Rapids and South Bend, making it the perfect pit stop to stretch your legs and refuel before continuing on the road. There are many options for food and drink, including Peru Pizza House, which offers a variety of pizzas, pasta, sandwiches, and soups. You can also enjoy a cold beer at Tangled Roots Brewing Company, which offers a selection of locally crafted brews.
1. St. Louis, MO
St. Louis, Missouri, may not be directly on the way to South Bend, but it's worth the slight detour. The city is known for its famous Gateway Arch, a 630-foot monument that symbolizes the westward expansion of the United States. Additionally, St. Louis is home to the Anheuser-Busch Brewery, which offers free guided tours and samples of their infamous beers.
When in St. Louis, a must-try food is the toasted ravioli, a St. Louis specialty made up of breaded and deep-fried ravioli served with marinara sauce.
2. Indianapolis, IN
Indianapolis, Indiana, is the capital of the state and home to many significant cultural and historical attractions, such as the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum and the Indiana State Capitol. The city is also known for its vibrant food scene, which includes everything from farm-to-table cuisine to mom-and-pop diners.
A local classic to try in Indianapolis is the Hoosier Tenderloin, a breaded tenderloin sandwich served with various toppings such as lettuce, tomatoes, onions, and cheese.
3. Lafayette, IN
Lafayette, Indiana, is home to the Wolf Park, a research facility that studies the behavior and interaction of wolves. Visitors can observe wolves and coyotes up close or even participate in one of the park's howls. The park also offers various educational programs and events suitable for adults and children alike.
While in Lafayette, be sure to stop by the Triple XXX Family Restaurant. It is a classic drive-in diner that serves up delicious burgers, fries, and shakes.
4. Michigan City, IN
Michigan City, Indiana, situated on the coast of Lake Michigan, is a great place to stop if you want to stretch your legs and enjoy the beach. The city offers several parks and beaches, such as Washington Park Beach and Dunbar Beach, that are perfect for spending an afternoon soaking up some sun.
Michigan City is also known for its fresh seafood, especially the Lake Perch. Many restaurants in the area serve the dish, but one of the most famous is Bridges Waterside Grill, which offers fantastic views of the marina as you dine on fresh fish.
5. Elkhart, IN
Elkhart, Indiana, is known as the "RV Capital of the World" because it is home to many large RV manufacturers. Visitors can tour the factories and see how RVs are made. Additionally, Elkhart offers plenty of outdoor attractions, including the RiverWalk, a three-mile trail that follows the banks of the Elkhart River.
If you visit Elkhart, make sure to try the corned beef hash at the Golden Egg Pancake House. It is a local favorite and is sure to be a filling meal before hitting the road again.
Conclusion
The drive from Cedar Rapids, Iowa to South Bend, Indiana, may be long, but with these stops, it is sure to be enjoyable. From the Gateway Arch in St. Louis to the RV factories in Elkhart, there are plenty of unique and exciting places to explore along the way. And, of course, the delicious food options – from toasted ravioli in St. Louis to the corned beef hash at the Golden Egg Pancake House in Elkhart – will keep your belly full and happy throughout the journey. So, next time you embark on this trip, make sure to take some time to visit these unexpected places along the way.