Wide, open skies. Less traffic. Sudden spikes and drops in temperature. There’s a lot to love about road tripping through the middle of the U.S, as well as a few challenges to keep you on your toes. Research the journey as much as the destination, and you can have the experience of a lifetime surrounded by surprisingly diverse natural beauty.
Our Highly Diverse Landscapes
Out on the open road, the rich natural habitat extending from Ohio to the Dakotas is a big part of what makes the Midwest worth exploring on four wheels. It also makes road trips through these parts different from anywhere else. Late spring and early summer drives offer a relaxing and highly photogenic experience thanks to the region’s expansive prairies, rolling farmland, and even some dramatic ice age rock formations further north.
From Auto Services to EV Stations: Prepare Before Leaving
The last thing you want is a fine due to a lack of upkeep with the duller side of driving, like stickers and other licensing details. Take care of those items at your nearest CFSC Auto Services before heading out.
Gas prices vary quite a bit from state to state, and even within states. One way to save a few dollars on gas is to pinpoint stations with lower prices on your route and make sure they will be open when you arrive. We have plenty of EV stations, too, and it’s helpful to know their locations in advance.
Natural Habitats in Late Spring and Summer
Unlike the mountainous terrain of the West or the dense forests of the East, the Midwest’s gently undulating landscapes create a tranquil, open-sky feeling. Travelers may find themselves passing endless fields dotted with red barns and small-town grain elevators. The uninterrupted views of the sky make sunrises and sunsets especially vivid.
That said, two things drivers should prepare for:
Expect some rain and drive cautiously. It’s not all flat land. The unpredictable weather and hilly conditions can lead to dangerously slippery roads. Unexpected thunderstorms fueled by clashing warm and cool fronts this time of year may create dramatic weather changes that can be a challenge for anyone behind the wheel.
Prepare for allergy season: Our wildflowers are a sight to see. By late spring, black-eyed Susans and coneflowers will be blooming on roadsides and in nature preserves. But all that lush greenery can bring on stronger allergies than when sitting at home. Pack some tissues, roll up the windows if necessary, and enjoy the view.
Surprisingly Scenic Midwestern Routes
The best road trips are designed around picturesque byways, even if it takes a bit longer to get to your destination. All this humidity leads to robust ecosystems worth exploring on foot if you can. Spend some time reviewing the options to get a realistic sense of driving times.
The Midwest comprises twelve states spanning about a thousand miles corner to corner. Whether you’re traveling solo or have a spouse and kids in tow, four roads in particular are well worth exploring:
1. Great River Road (Illinois/Iowa/Wisconsin/Minnesota, etc.)
This National Scenic Byway traces the path of the Mississippi River for over 3,000 miles, with some of its most beautiful segments running through the bluff country of Wisconsin and Iowa. The small towns and local festivals are perfect for impromptu stops, but gas stations may be sparse in rural stretches.
2. Flint Hills Scenic Byway (Kansas)
This one runs through the largest remaining tallgrass prairie in North America. Winds can be strong and constant, and cell service may be patchy. Bring water and a physical map, and take time to stop at the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve near Strong City.
3. North Shore Scenic Drive (Minnesota)
This 154-mile route along Lake Superior offers stunning views of the lake and waterfalls. It also provides access to several state parks, including Gooseberry Falls and Split Rock Lighthouse. The weather can be cool and foggy, even in summer, so pack accordingly. Drivers need to watch out for moose, especially in the early morning or early evening.
4. Ohio River Scenic Byway (Indiana/Ohio/Illinois)
This byway follows one of the country’s most historic rivers and passes by Underground Railroad sites and through charming historic towns like Madison, Indiana. The road can be curvy and narrow in places, especially once you get into the hills. Control your speed and be ready for sudden changes in elevation and visibility.
CFSC Auto Services in Illinois & Wisconsin
Are you and your vehicle road trip ready? Head to CFSC Auto Services to take care of your title, registration, plates, stickers, and a range of personal finance services.
