Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Chicago, Illinois to Kamloops, British Columbia

Taking a trip from Chicago, Illinois, to Kamloops, British Columbia, by car can be a long, yet fulfilling adventure. The journey covers approximately 2,435 miles, and it takes about 36 hours of driving, excluding stops. The trip passes through beautiful sceneries, including mountains, forests, and numerous towns and cities. However, breaking the monotony of the long drive with unexpected stops can turn the journey into a memorable experience. Here are five unexpected places to stop while on a drive from Chicago to Kamloops.

Halfway Point: Estevan, Saskatchewan

Estevan is located in southeastern Saskatchewan, Canada, and serves as a perfect mid-point stop for those taking a road trip from Chicago to Kamloops. It is a calm town with friendly people and a welcoming atmosphere. Estevan has several attractions such as the Brenda Wildlife Museum and the Souris Valley Aquatic and Leisure Centre, which has a wave pool and a lazy river.

1. Badlands National Park, South Dakota

The Badlands National Park is a unique formation of rocks and multicolored canyons. The National Park is an excellent stop for tourists who enjoy hiking, bird watching, and wildlife watching. Tourists can enjoy the spectacular view by taking a loop road drive or hiking through the park. During the hiking or driving, tourists can see bison, pronghorns, and bighorn sheep. The Badlands National Park is also an excellent stop for stargazing. Visitors can camp and stay overnight to experience a night sky full of stars.

Favorite food to eat: Bison burgers

2. Billings, Montana

Billings is the largest city in Montana, which has everything for a perfect stopover, including excellent food and unique attractions. The city is located on the Yellowstone River, and tourists can visit the Pictograph Cave State Park, where they can see ancient rock paintings. Visitors can explore the Western Heritage Center, which houses collections of art, photographs, and historic artifacts. Food lovers can enjoy a local brew and a juicy burger at Montana Brewing Company.

Favorite food to eat: Bison meatloaf

3. Butte, Montana

Butte is a small city located in western Montana, with a rich history of mining and labor unions. Visitors can explore the city's mining history by visiting the Berkeley Pit or the World Museum of Mining. The city's historic Uptown district has preserved architecture, antique stores, and art galleries. Visitors can also visit the Mai Wah Museum, which is a tribute to Butte's Chinese immigrants. Food lovers can enjoy a meaty pasty, which is a baked pastry filled with meat, vegetables, gravy, and spices.

Favorite food to eat: Meaty pasty

4. Nelson, British Columbia

Nelson is a charming small city tucked into the Selkirk Mountains of British Columbia, Canada. Visitors can enjoy the stunning view of the Kootenay Lake and explore the city's historic architecture. Visitors can also hike and ski at the Whitewater Ski Resort, located in the Selkirk Mountains. Art lovers can visit the Oxygen Art Centre, which hosts exhibitions and workshops for artists. Food lovers can enjoy a bagel from Oso Negro Café, which has an extensive coffee and tea menu as well.

Favorite food to eat: Freshly baked bagels

5. Osoyoos, British Columbia

Osoyoos is a charming town located in the southern Okanagan valley of British Columbia, Canada, with a warm climate, stunning scenery, and numerous wineries. Visitors can enjoy the view of the Osoyoos Lake, which is Canada's warmest lake. Tourists can also visit the town's signature attraction, the Desert Centre, which features a self-guided interpretive trail featuring the unique desert ecosystem. Food lovers can enjoy the town's signature dessert, the Saskatoon berry, which is used in pies, jams, and other treats.

Favorite food to eat: Saskatoon berry pie

Taking a break from the long drive between Chicago and Kamloops by stopping at these unexpected places can transform the road trip into a memorable experience. Each stop offers unique attractions, sceneries, and food, which can add spice to the long journey. Therefore, travelers should consider visiting these places for an unforgettable road trip experience.