The Best Things to Do on a Road Trip from Cincinnati, Ohio and Urbandale, Iowa

Cincinnati, Ohio and Urbandale, Iowa are two cities on opposite ends of the Midwest, each with its unique charm and attractions. A road trip from one city to the other will take you through picturesque landscapes of the Heartland, quaint towns, and historical landmarks. The journey is approximately 700 miles, and a halfway point is Goodfield, IL, a small village with a population of 860 people. Here, you can recharge and explore quaint shops and friendly cafes. But the trip's real pleasure is the destinations along the way. Here are the top five things to do on a road trip from Cincinnati, Ohio to Urbandale, Iowa.

Visit the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland, Ohio

The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is located in Cleveland, Ohio, and is a must-visit tourist destination. Opened in 1986, it is a museum dedicated to rock and roll music, its history, and the most prominent musicians in the genre. The museum has more than 50 exhibits showcasing artifacts, costumes, and instruments that belonged to famous rock and roll icons.

Interesting fact: The first inductee into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame was Chuck Berry in 1986.

Taste Authentic Detroit-Style Pizza in Detroit, Michigan

Detroit-style pizza is characterized by its deep-dish style with a crispy crust and is said to be one of the best pizza styles globally. A stop at Detroit’s Buddy’s Pizza, the most famous pizzeria in the city, is highly recommended. Buddy’s Pizza, formerly known as Buddy’s Rendezvous, was established in 1946 and has been serving some of the best pizzas in the city for over 70 years.

Interesting fact: Detroit-style pizza was created in 1946 at Buddy’s Pizza under the name “Sicilian-style pizza.”

Explore the Windy City, Chicago, Illinois

Chicago is the third-largest city in the United States and has a never-ending list of attractions that makes it a fascinating place for tourists. The Navy Pier, Millennium Park, Willis Tower, and Wrigley Field are just a few of the must-visit destinations in Chicago. Lake Michigan, the Art Institute of Chicago, and the Magnificent Mile add to the attraction of the city.

Interesting fact: The Ferris wheel was created in 1893 for the World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago.

Walk the Campus of Notre Dame University in South Bend, Indiana

The Notre Dame University situated in South Bend, Indiana, is one of the most prestigious universities globally. With its magnificent buildings and statues, it is a beautiful place to walk around and take in the charming architecture. The famous university has been around since 1842 and has since become a symbol of academic excellence and tradition.

Interesting fact: Notre Dame University's football team has won 13 national championships.

Experience the Amana Colonies in Iowa

The Amana Colonies is a group of seven small villages in Iowa. The villages were originally settled by German Separatists in 1855 and have since become a tourist destination due to their unique history and traditions. Visitors can enjoy locally made cheese, wine, and beer, and shop in quaint shops, craft stores, and galleries, capturing a unique mid-western charm.

Interesting fact: The communal period of the Amana Colonies lasted from 1855 to 1932.

Trip Route and Duration

The road trip from Cincinnati, Ohio, to Urbandale, Iowa, offers an exciting array of destinations to explore. The journey can take around 12 hours, depending on traffic, stops, and the time spent at each location. With a mix of history, culture, and entertainment along the way, it is a fun, famil-friendly vacation. Whether you choose to embark on this trip alone, with friends or family, you are certain to create memories that will last a lifetime.