Five unexpected places to stop on a drive from Chicago, Illinois and Longmont, Colorado

Are you planning a road trip from Chicago, Illinois to Longmont, Colorado? This drive takes you through five states: Illinois, Iowa, Nebraska, Wyoming, and Colorado. The distance of the trip is about 1,000 miles, depending on your route. The drive can take about 15 hours, depending on traffic and how often you stop. To make your trip memorable, here are five unexpected places to add to your itinerary.

Halfway point: Lincoln, NE

Before we dive into the unexpected stops, let's mention the halfway point of your journey: Lincoln, NE. This is a great spot to stretch your legs or stay overnight. Lincoln is the state capital of Nebraska and is located in the southeastern part of the state. Visitors can enjoy a variety of attractions, including the Nebraska State Capitol, Lincoln Children's Museum, and Pioneer Park Nature Center.

Stop 1: Effigy Mounds National Monument - Harpers Ferry, IA

Effigy Mounds National Monument is located in Harpers Ferry, Iowa. The site preserves more than 200 prehistoric mounds built by Native Americans. These mounds are shaped like animals, including bears, birds, and bison. Visitors can hike on more than 14 miles of trails and learn about the history of the site. The national monument is open year-round and is only a short detour from the main route.

Favorite food to eat - Pack a picnic and enjoy it at one of the designated picnic areas within the park.

Stop 2: The World's Largest Ball of Popcorn - Sac City, IA

Who doesn't love a quirky roadside attraction? The World's Largest Ball of Popcorn is exactly what it sounds like. This giant ball of popcorn weighs more than 2,000 pounds and is housed in the Sac County Museum in Sac City, Iowa. The popcorn ball was formed in 1951 and has been on display ever since. Visitors can take pictures next to the ball and learn about the history of popcorn in Iowa.

Favorite food to eat - Buy some fresh popcorn from the museum's gift shop and enjoy the snack while you continue your drive.

Stop 3: Carhenge - Alliance, NE

What do you get when you combine Stonehenge and cars? Carhenge! This unique attraction is located in Alliance, Nebraska and is a replica of Stonehenge made from cars. The artist, Jim Reinders, created Carhenge in 1987 as a tribute to his father. Visitors can walk around the cars and take pictures. The site also has other sculptures made from cars, including a covered wagon and a giant metal spider.

Favorite food to eat - Bring a picnic or grab something to eat at one of the nearby restaurants.

Stop 4: Independence Rock - Casper, WY

Independence Rock is a famous landmark located in Casper, Wyoming. The rock is named for the pioneers who passed by it on their journey westward. Visitors can hike around the rock and view the many signatures that are carved into it. The rock is an important part of American history and is a great spot to take a break from driving.

Favorite food to eat - Bring a portable grill and cook up some burgers before continuing your drive.

Stop 5: Garden of the Gods - Colorado Springs, CO

The Garden of the Gods is a public park located in Colorado Springs, Colorado. The park is known for its unique rock formations and breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains. Visitors can hike on more than 15 miles of trails and enjoy the beauty of nature. The park is free to visit and is open year-round.

Favorite food to eat - Indulge in some Colorado-style green chili and other local delicacies at one of the nearby restaurants.

Conclusion

If you're planning a road trip from Chicago to Longmont, make sure to add these unexpected stops to your itinerary. From the Effigy Mounds National Monument to the Garden of the Gods, each stop offers a unique experience that you won't want to miss. Whether you're a history buff, foodie, or nature lover, these stops are sure to make your trip even more memorable. So, pack your bags, fill up your gas tank, and hit the road for an adventure you'll never forget.