Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Chicago, Illinois to West Sacramento, California

Driving from Chicago, Illinois to West Sacramento, California takes you through some of the most picturesque scenery that the United States has to offer. This 2,000-mile journey takes around 30 hours to complete, giving travelers the perfect opportunity to explore some of the hidden gems that lie along the route. With plenty of small towns, nature reserves, and roadside attractions to discover, this trip is a traveler's dream come true.

After around 1,000 miles of driving, the halfway point is the charming town of Centennial, WY. Centennial is nestled in the foothills of the Snowy Range Mountains. It is a great place to stop and explore the Snowy Range Scenic Byway where you can see stunning views of the mountains, lakes, and forests, making it the perfect place for any nature lover to get their fix.

1. Ogallala, NE

Ogallala, NE, is a small town located on the banks of Lake McConaughy. The lake is a man-made reservoir that provides various opportunities such as boating, swimming, and fishing. Visitors can also enjoy the numerous wetlands found along the shores of the lake. There are bird watching tours to see a variety of birds, including the majestic bald eagle. You also can't miss out on the chance to try a classic steak dinner at The Ole's Big Game Steakhouse and Lounge.

2. Lusk, WY

Lusk, WY, is a small ranching town with a population of around 1,500 people. It boasts some authentic western vibes, with the opportunity for visitors to explore the many parks and nature reserves in the nearby area. If you are looking for adventure, hike in the Lusk Municipal Park or ride in the internationally recognized Black Hills Wild Horse Sanctuary. For those looking for a bite to eat, Otte's Cafe is the go-to restaurant in town. They are known for their hearty breakfasts and great lunch specials.

3. Thermopolis, WY

Thermopolis, WY, is a small town with a population of around 3,000 people. This town is perfect for anyone who loves hot springs since it has one of the largest natural hot springs in the world. Visitors can bathe in the soothing mineral-rich waters that remain at a comfortable temperature of around 100°F. Additionally, the area has seen the deposition of various mineral formations, which can be seen at the nearby Hot Springs State Park. When in Thermopolis, Wyoming, don't forget to grab a slice of pizza from One Eyed Buffalo Brewing Company.

4. SLC, UT

Salt Lake City, UT, is more than just the home of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It boasts various outdoor activities, cultural events, and stunning views. Visitors can hike in the Wasatch Mountains or visit the Natural History Museum of Utah. Salt Lake City also has many delicious food options, but we recommend grabbing some barbecue at R&R BBQ.

5. Goldfield, NV

Goldfield, NV, is a small town with a population of around 250 people. The town sits on a historic mining site, and visitors can explore the ghost town which has a museum and various historic sites. The area is abundant in natural beauty, with several iconic desert landscapes and a chance to catch a glimpse of wild burros. The Gemfield Gem claims are a fun experience where visitors can dig up their quartz or opal gems. You can't visit Goldfield without trying the famous burgers at The Dinky Diner.

In conclusion, the drive from Chicago, Illinois to West Sacramento, California is one of the great American road trips. With many small towns, nature reserves, and roadside attractions on offer, the route provides travelers endless opportunities for adventure and exploration. Why wait? Start planning today!