#Best Things to Do on a Road Trip from Cedar Rapids, Iowa to Westminster, Colorado
Cedar Rapids, Iowa, to Westminster, Colorado, is an ideal route for those looking for stunning natural landscapes, iconic monuments, and exciting outdoor activities. This beautiful journey of about 1015 miles takes approximately 16 hours of driving time. The road trip features breathtaking views of the plains, mountain ranges, and quaint towns along the way. The halfway point of the journey, Grand Island, NE, offers visitors a chance to stretch their legs and grab a quick bite before hitting the road again.
##Top 5 Things to Do:
###1. Mount Rushmore National Memorial One of the most famous landmarks in the United States and a bucket list destination for any road trip enthusiast, the Mount Rushmore National Memorial, is a must-visit site on this journey. Located in Keystone, South Dakota, this man-made marvel features the faces of four of America's greatest presidents - George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln- carved into a mountain. Visitors can learn about the history of the sculpture, explore the exhibits, take in the stunning views, and attend the nightly lighting ceremony. Fun Fact: The construction of Mount Rushmore took over 14 years to complete.
###2. Badlands National Park Located in western South Dakota, the Badlands National Park features an impressive array of rugged terrain, sharp peaks, and deep canyons. The park is home to an extensive collection of fossils, abundant wildlife, and stunning vistas, making it a top destination for hikers and nature lovers. Visitors can explore the park's trails, participate in ranger-led programs, and view the park's famous sunsets and starry nights. Fun Fact: The Badlands got their name from the Native American Lakota People, who referred to the area as "mako sica," meaning "land bad" due to the difficult terrain.
###3. Garden of the Gods The Garden of the Gods is a stunning geological wonder situated in Colorado Springs, Colorado. It is home to towering red sandstone formations that have been sculpted over millions of years. Visitors can take a stroll on the scenic trails, go rock climbing, explore the Visitor and Nature Center, and take a guided Jeep tour. The picturesque views are nothing short of breathtaking. Fun Fact: Garden of the Gods was designated a National Natural Landmark in 1971.
###4. Pikes Peak Explore the beauty of Colorado's Front Range by driving to the summit of Pikes Peak. Standing at over 14,000 feet above sea level, Pikes Peak offers visitors a panoramic view of the surrounding area. The drive up offers visitors a unique chance to experience the changes in altitude and climate as they climb higher and higher. Visitors can take in the views of the surrounding mountains, hike the trails, or take the cog railway up and down the mountain. Fun Fact: Pikes Peak inspired Katherine Lee Bates to write "America the Beautiful" in 1893.
###5. Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre Located in Morrison, Colorado, Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre, is a geological wonder that has been a draw for tourists and concert-goers for over a century. Red Rocks boasts two red sandstone cliffs that form an acoustically perfect amphitheater and also features various hiking trails, picnic areas, and a museum. Visitors can take a guided tour of the park or stroll the trails to take in the stunning vistas. Fun Fact: Red Rocks Amphitheater is the only naturally occurring acoustically perfect amphitheater in the world.
This trip route offers a unique opportunity to explore some of the most stunning natural wonders in the United States. From the iconic Mount Rushmore National Memorial to the stunning Pikes Peak, visitors will experience a range of diverse landscapes and activities. The trip takes approximately 16 hours of driving time, but visitors can choose to spend more time in each destination. The journey offers something for everyone, and those that embark on this voyage will undoubtedly experience the trip of a lifetime.