Unexpectedly Delightful Places to Stop on a Drive from Chicago, Illinois to Council Bluffs, Iowa

Driving can be uneventful, especially when the route is familiar and the destination is set. However, taking a road trip from Chicago, Illinois, to Council Bluffs, Iowa, promises the intrigue of surprises along the way. The journey covers a distance of 447 miles, which should take a little over seven hours non-stop, but there are places dotted along the way that are worth a visit. Here are five unexpected stops that should enrich the voyage, and the best food to try in each place.

Williamsburg, IA (Halfway Point)

As the halfway point of the journey, Williamsburg, Iowa, serves as the perfect place to take a break from driving. The small town has all the charm one expects, with friendly people and plenty of conveniences. The most notable attraction in Williamsburg is the Tanger Outlet Mall, where shoppers can take a break from the driving and indulge in retail therapy. The mall has over 50 stores offering high-end brands like Michael Kors and Coach.

Favorite Food in Williamsburg: For a quick meal, stop by the Airliner Drive-In. Try the classic Loose Meat Sandwich, a delicious staple in the Midwest.

1. Mississippi River Distilling Company - Le Claire, IA

Le Claire, Iowa, is a charming town with a population of less than 4,000. It is the birthplace of Buffalo Bill Cody and Mark Twain's inspiration for "Life on the Mississippi." The town is also home to the Mississippi River Distilling Company, where visitors can learn about the distilling process, taste the goods, and even take home a bottle of their own. Tastings are available every day of the week, and tours are available Friday through Sunday.

Favorite Food in Le Claire: End a visit to Le Claire with a trip to the Faithful Pilot Cafe and Spirits. Try their famous pork belly tacos, or their award-winning Iowa Chop.

2. Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum - West Branch, IA

As the home state of Herbert Hoover, a visit to the Hoover Presidential Library and Museum is an excellent stop on the drive from Chicago to Council Bluffs. The library is in West Branch, Iowa, just a few miles less than an hour north of Williamsburg. The museum showcases Hoover's life from his childhood to his public service. The museum houses around 300,000 documents from Hoover's life, including handwritten notes, letters, and photographs.

Favorite Food in West Branch: The Hamburger Inn is a family-owned diner that offers the freshest food in West Branch. Their classic hamburger is a must-try.

3. Kerndt Brothers Savings Bank - Lansing, IA

It is not often that a bank becomes a tourist attraction, but the Kerndt Brothers Savings Bank located in Lansing, Iowa, is no ordinary bank. The venue is a beautiful remnant of the architecture of the 19th century. Visitors can take a free tour of the bank, which features a breathtaking skylight, hand-carved woodwork, and old safe-deposit boxes. The bank also has a museum that displays interesting artifacts, including an old phone that was used to make transactions.

Favorite Food in Lansing: The Red Barn in Lansing offers a fantastic menu, but the must-try is their taco pizza, which is topped with lettuce, cheese, salsa, and tortilla chips.

4. Grotto of the Redemption - West Bend, IA

The Grotto of Redemption in West Bend, Iowa, is a one-of-a-kind religious site. If you're looking for a unique and contemplative stop, this is the place. The grotto has nine separate grottos, each dedicated to a different event in the life of Christ. The grotto is the creation of one man, Father Paul Dobberstein, who built it from 1912 until his death in 1954. Today, the Grotto of Redemption is an impressive display of a man's faith and devotion to his religion.

Favorite Food in West Bend: The Water's Edge grille in the neighboring town of Algona serves delectable dishes, but the one to try is their famous walleye sandwich.

Conclusion

A road trip from Chicago, Illinois, to Council Bluffs, Iowa, is an adventure that is sure to bring many delights. With these unexpected stops, the trip becomes more than just a commute but also a chance to explore and learn about the people and places that define this portion of the United States. Each stop offers something new to see, learn and experience, and each has its own unique culinary delights. So why not pack a bag, buckle up, and take this scenic drive that is full of surprises.