Top Five Places to Visit on a Road Trip from Champaign, IL to Houston, TX

Looking for an adventure on the road? A trip from Champaign, Illinois, to Houston, Texas, is a fantastic way to experience the open road and all the interesting places in between. This route covers over 900 miles and can take over 13 hours of driving, but it's also a great opportunity to check out some exciting attractions. Here are our top five places to visit on this trip!

Hazen, AR: Halfway Point

Hazen, AR, marks the halfway point on this journey. Take a breather and explore the town for a bit. With a population of just over 1,400, this quaint town offers a welcome change of pace from the road. The town center boasts a park with a walking trail, playground, and picnic area. Make sure to also visit the nearby Wattensaw Wildlife Management Area, which offers ample opportunities for fishing and hunting.

Memphis, TN: Graceland

No trip to Memphis is complete without visiting Graceland, the iconic mansion of Elvis Presley. Experience the King of Rock and Roll's world, with tours of his mansion, his car collection, and his airplanes. You can even visit his grave on the property. Graceland has so much to offer, including restaurants and shops, so plan to spend several hours exploring this unforgettable attraction.

Little Rock, AR: Clinton Presidential Center

The Clinton Presidential Center in Little Rock, Arkansas, is a must-visit for anyone interested in American history. It houses exhibits showcasing Bill Clinton's presidency, including documents, photographs, and other artifacts. Don't forget to check out the Oval Office replica and the presidential limousine. Even if you're not the biggest political buff, you'll love this unique and engaging experience.

Baton Rouge, LA: USS Kidd

The USS Kidd is a World War II-era destroyer that is now stationed in Baton Rouge. Turn your road trip into a history lesson with a tour of this incredible vessel. Explore the ship's many spaces, including the engine room, captain's quarters, and the bridge. Even better, this museum is affordable, so anyone can have the chance to learn about our country's military history.

Houston, TX: Space Center Houston

Houston, Texas, is the final stop on this epic journey. There are plenty of things to see in Houston, but none quite compare to Space Center Houston. This attraction offers an immersive look into the world of space exploration, featuring everything from a shuttle replica to a space experience ride. You'll get an up-close-and-personal look at real spacecraft, meet astronauts, and have the chance to explore exhibits covering space exploration throughout history. Truly an out-of-this-world experience!

Whether you're fascinated by history, music, or space, there is something for everyone on a road trip from Champaign, IL, to Houston, TX. Take a break from the road, stretch your legs, and explore these amazing attractions along the way. A journey is just as much about the stops as it is about the destination, and with these five attractions, you'll have a trip to remember.