Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Chula Vista, California and Amherstburg, Ontario

If you're embarking on a road trip from Chula Vista, California to Amherstburg, Ontario, you're in for an exciting journey. This 3,100-mile drive can take up to 47 hours of driving time, depending on your route and how often you stop. While you may plan to stop at the typical tourist destinations like Las Vegas or the Grand Canyon, there are a number of hidden gems worth visiting that may surprise you. Here are five unexpected places to stop during your trip.

1. Ghost Town Museum - Colorado Springs, CO

Located in Colorado Springs, the Ghost Town Museum is a unique attraction that showcases life in a 19th-century Colorado town. The museum is set up like a small town, complete with a general store, barbershop, blacksmith shop, and schoolhouse. Visitors can also pan for gold and silver, ride a burro, and explore the museum's extensive collection of artifacts and memorabilia from the Wild West. Don't miss out on trying a bag of fresh-made kettle corn, or grab a Buffalo burger from the food truck in the parking lot.

2. Mammoth Site - Hot Springs, SD

The Mammoth Site of Hot Springs South Dakota is a fascinating place to visit if you're interested in paleontology. This unique indoor attraction is a working paleontological dig site, where scientists have uncovered the remains of over 61 mammoths, and counting. Visitors can take an hour-long guided tour of the dig site, watch a film about the history of the site, and explore the museum's exhibits of Ice Age fossils, interactive exhibits, and hands-on activities. Finish off your visit by stopping at the onsite café for a bison burger and a hand-dipped ice cream cone.

3. Corn Palace - Mitchell, SD

In Mitchell, South Dakota, you can't miss the Corn Palace. This famous building is covered entirely in murals made out of corn and other grains. The murals are changed out every year, highlighting different themes and a variety of imaginative designs. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the Palace, visit the small museum, and shop for souvenirs like corn cob hats and popcorn. Don't forget to try the popcorn itself, which has been grown in the area since the 1800s and is available in a variety of flavors.

4. World's Largest Truck Stop - Walcott, IA

The World's Largest Truck Stop in Walcott, Iowa is a must-visit destination for truckers and travelers alike. This massive truck stop covers 75 acres and features a variety of restaurants, a trucking museum, a chapel, a movie theater, and plenty of souvenir shops. Visitors can also take a stroll through the antique truck and engine museum, which houses more than 40 antique trucks, including one that dates back to 1910. While at the truck stop, indulge in the famous Iowa pork chop sandwich at the Iowa 80 Kitchen.

5. Adventure Bay Family Water Park - Windsor, ON

Located in Windsor, Ontario, Adventure Bay Family Water Park is the perfect destination to cool off after a long road trip. This indoor park offers a variety of water slides, a wave pool, a lazy river, and a splash pad for kids. Visitors can also relax in one of the park's hot tubs or take part in the daily activities and events. When it's time for a snack, head to the Beach Club for some fish and chips or a hotdog.

After visiting these five unexpected places, there's no doubt that the Chula Vista to Amherstburg drive will be a unique and unforgettable experience. From the Wild West in Colorado Springs to the adventure in Windsor, there's a variety of destinations worth stopping for. So pack your bags, grab some snacks, and hit the open road with a sense of adventure and wonder.