The Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Chicago, Illinois and Carbondale, Colorado

Chicago, Illinois and Carbondale, Colorado are two iconic destinations in the United States. A road trip between these two cities is an excellent way to explore the heartland of America. The trip, which covers a distance of nearly 1,100 miles, offers a unique opportunity to experience the diverse landscapes, cultures and attractions of the United States. The Midwestern states of Illinois, Iowa, Nebraska and the mountain states of Wyoming and Colorado have a lot to offer for travelers. The halfway point for the trip is Aurora, NE, which is a small and charming town with a population of around 4,200 people.

Top Five Things to do on the Trip

1. Visit the Field of Dreams in Dyersville, Iowa

The Field of Dreams is a must-visit attraction for all sports fans. The site was used as the set for the movie "Field of Dreams," which was released in 1989. Visitors can walk on the same field where the iconic scene was filmed, which Kevin Costner's character played catch with his father. The field is open year-round, and visitors can also take guided tours of the property and see some of the memorabilia from the movie.

Interesting Fact: The Field of Dreams attracts more than 200,000 visitors every year from all over the world.

2. Explore Chimney Rock National Historic Site in Bayard, Nebraska

Chimney Rock is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the United States. The rock formation played a significant role in the history of the United States as it served as a landmark for pioneers heading westward. Visitors can explore the site, which includes a visitor center that offers information about the history of the region, guided tours of the surrounding area, and a hiking trail that leads to the top of Chimney Rock.

Interesting Fact: Chimney Rock was designated as a National Historic Site in 1956.

3. Experience the Wild West at the Buffalo Bill Museum in Cody, Wyoming

The Buffalo Bill Museum offers a unique opportunity to experience the Wild West. The museum is dedicated to the life and legacy of William F. Cody, who is popularly known as Buffalo Bill. Visitors can explore the museum, which features a vast collection of artifacts, exhibits, and interactive displays that showcase the history of the Wild West and the life of Buffalo Bill. The museum offers something for everyone, from history buffs to families with kids.

Interesting Fact: Buffalo Bill held his first Wild West show in Omaha, Nebraska, in 1883.

4. Take a Scenic Drive through Rocky Mountain National Park in Estes Park, Colorado

Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the most scenic destinations in the United States. The park offers breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains and is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. Visitors can take a scenic drive through the park, which includes the famous Trail Ridge Road, which winds through the mountain passes and offers stunning vistas. The park also offers hiking trails, wildlife spotting opportunities, and picnic areas.

Interesting Fact: The peak of Rocky Mountain National Park's Longs Peak is 14,259 feet, making it one of the tallest mountains in the United States.

5. Soak in the Hot Springs Pool in Glenwood Springs, Colorado

The Hot Springs Pool in Glenwood Springs is the largest hot springs pool in the world. The pool gets its water from natural hot springs that are rich in minerals. Visitors can relax in the hot springs, which are kept at a comfortable 104 degrees, even during the winter. The pool also has a water slide, a diving board, and a kiddie pool.

Interesting Fact: The hot springs in Glenwood Springs were originally used by the Ute Native Americans for their curative properties.

Conclusion

A road trip from Chicago, Illinois, to Carbondale, Colorado, is a journey full of adventure, history, and natural beauty. The trip covers a distance of nearly 1,100 miles and takes around 18 hours to complete. Along the way, travelers can explore iconic attractions such as the Field of Dreams, Chimney Rock National Historic Site, Buffalo Bill Museum and Rocky Mountain National Park. They can also relax in the world's largest hot springs pool in Glenwood Springs. The diversity of attractions and landscapes make this a road trip that travelers will never forget.