Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Chicago, Illinois, to San Angelo, Texas

Are you looking to take a road trip from the windy city to the heart of Texas? Look no further than this list of five unexpected places to stop along the way. The journey will take approximately 17 hours with a one-night stay in between. The halfway point, Miami, Oklahoma, offers a perfect place to rest your head and recharge before continuing on your adventure.

Miami, OK (Halfway Point)

Miami, Oklahoma, situated at the foot of the Ozark Mountains, offers a perfect pit stop for tired travelers. Take a few hours to explore the town's history by visiting the Coleman Theater, built-in 1929, which looks like it belongs on a Hollywood set. The Coleman Theater hosts events year-round, and if you're lucky, you might catch a movie or live performance. End your visit with a quick stop at Waylan's Ku-Ku Burger, serving up delicious, authentic burgers and fries.

Amarillo, TX

Welcome to the land of cowboys, boots, and the famous 72-ounce steak challenge. Amarillo, Texas, is a must-stop destination on your road trip through the Lone Star State. You'll find artwork displayed all over the city, including the famous Cadillac Ranch and the tunnel of light installation. Don't miss the opportunity to fill up on the iconic Big Texan Steak Ranch's juicy steaks. If you're brave enough, take on the 72-ounce steak challenge, and it's free if you can finish within an hour.

Roswell, NM

If you're curious about alien encounters and UFO sightings, Roswell, New Mexico, should be on your bucket list. The city has fully embraced its extraterrestrial reputation, with numerous museums and shops dedicated to the topic. Don't miss the International UFO Museum and Research Center, which offers an in-depth look at the iconic Roswell Incident. For the ultimate Roswell experience, visit the Alien Zone, a gift shop/museum where alien fans can buy souvenirs, participate in photo ops, and watch alien-themed movies.

Carlsbad Caverns National Park

Exploring the underground wonders of Carlsbad Caverns National Park is a can't-miss experience. Descend 750 feet below the surface to discover the park's stunning limestone caves. The park offers guided tours and hiking opportunities to experience the beauty of the underground rock formations. After the adventure, grab lunch at the park's only restaurant, or pack a picnic and enjoy the scenic views.

Marfa, TX

The artsy town of Marfa, Texas, offers a one-of-a-kind experience for travelers. The town has become a hot spot for artists, with galleries and studios scattered throughout the city. Make sure to check out the famous Prada installation, a replica of a Prada store located in the middle of the desert. For a delicious meal, visit Stellina, a restaurant serving up modern Italian cuisine with a southwest twist.

Conclusion

Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Chicago, Illinois, to San Angelo, Texas, and make sure to stop at these five unexpected destinations along the way. From the halfway point of Miami, Oklahoma, to exploring the extraterrestrial Roswell, New Mexico, and the surrealist town of Marfa, Texas, every stop offers a unique and unforgettable experience. Don't forget to try the delicious food at each destination, from Waylan's Ku-Ku Burger in Miami, OK, to the Prada-inspired Stellina restaurant in Marfa, TX. With so much to see and do, this road trip promises a memorable adventure that will last a lifetime.