Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Celina, Texas to Plainfield, Illinois
Have you ever embarked on a long road trip and wanted to break up the monotony of the drive with some exciting pit stops along the way? Look no further! Here are five unexpected places to stop on a drive from Celina, Texas to Plainfield Illinois.
The route begins in Celina, Texas and covers approximately 915 miles, taking around 14 hours to complete with optimal traffic conditions. The journey takes you through picturesque countryside, rolling hills, and vibrant city life as you cross four states to reach your destination.
Halfway Point: Lebanon, MO
Before we dive into the five unexpected places to stop, let's highlight the midway point - Lebanon, Missouri. This historic city, situated on the I-44 corridor, is a great stop to relax, unwind, and recharge yourself. Lebanon has a rich Civil War history, quaint downtown shops, and plenty of eateries to fuel your journey ahead.
1. Wamego, KS
Wamego, situated in the northeast region of Kansas, is a small town with a big personality. This town boasts a vibrant downtown area with many shops and eateries, but the highlight is the Oz Museum. The museum celebrates all things "Wizard of Oz", with galleries devoted to Dorothy, the Wicked Witch, and other famous characters. Set aside an hour or two to explore the wonderfully magical museum before stopping by the Wizard of Oz-themed Toto's Tacoz for lunch. The joint serves delicious street tacos that will leave you coming back for more.
2. Lincoln, NE
Lincoln, Nebraska's capital city, is home to the University of Nebraska and boasts a diverse cultural scene. A hidden gem worth visiting is Morrill Hall, which houses the state's natural history museum. The museum has interactive exhibits, fossils, and full-size dinosaur skeletons that are sure to thrill visitors of all ages. After an adventure-filled morning, make your way to The Oven, an Indian restaurant known for its butter chicken and naan bread.
3. Des Moines, IA
Des Moines, Iowa, is the state capital and a cultural hub with several notable attractions. A unique stop is the Des Moines Art Center, which houses over 5,000 works of art from noted artists like Edward Hopper and Georgia O'Keeffe. The towering, geometric architectural design of the art center is a sight to behold. And while you're in town, indulge yourself with a donut (or two) from the famous Donut Hut.
4. Wisconsin Dells, WI
Wisconsin Dells, located in south-central Wisconsin, is a charming resort town known for its water parks, boat tours, and scenic areas. One standout attraction is the Kalahari Resort and Waterpark, which boasts a massive indoor water park that operates all year round. You can relax on the lazy river, ride exciting water slides, or simply soak up the sun on the beach. After a fun water-filled day, stop by Uno Pizzeria for a deep-dish pizza that is worth the trip.
5. Rockford, IL
Rockford, Illinois, located on the banks of the Rock River, has much to offer for travelers. One top destination is the Anderson Japanese Gardens, an authentic Japanese garden that offers visitors a serene escape in the middle of the city. The garden features walking paths, ponds, and stunning rock formations. After enjoying the tranquility of the gardens, head to Mary's Market for fresh pastries, sandwiches, and coffee.
In conclusion, this road trip from Celina, Texas to Plainfield, Illinois has amazing stops that provide a mix of history, culture, nature, and adventure. From the Oz Museum to Anderson Japanese Gardens, there is something for everyone along the way. These unexpected places will surprise and delight travelers who are willing to make a few pit stops off the beaten path. So, pack your bags and hit the road to create unforgettable memories.