AXA Stories

This Denver to Chicago road trip itinerary explores iconic landmarks like Devil's Tower, the Chief Crazy Horse Monument, and Mount Rushmore while also stumbling upon whimsical attractions such as the World's Only Corn Palace, the Jolly Green Giant statue, and more.

The idea of a road trip had been simmering in my mind for a while. When my friend Lori suggested we take a journey from Denver to Chicago, I knew this was the perfect opportunity to explore some of America's hidden gems.
 

Planning our route from Colorado to Chicago

We mapped out a route that included iconic landmarks like Devil's Tower, the Chief Crazy Horse Monument, and Mount Rushmore. Little did we know, we would also stumble upon quirky attractions like the World's Only Corn Palace and the statue of the Jolly Green Giant and Sprout.

 

Our first stop, the Devil's Tower

Our journey began early in the morning as we packed our bags into Lori's trusty SUV and set off on our Denver to Chicago drive. The excitement was palpable as we hit the open road. Our first destination was Devil's Tower in Wyoming, a monolithic geological feature that had fascinated me since I first saw it in a documentary.

As we approached Devil's Tower, the landscape began to change dramatically. The flat plains gave way to the towering butte, standing alone against the sky. We spent the afternoon hiking around the base, marveling at the sheer size and the intricate columns of rock that formed this natural wonder. The air was crisp, and the scent of pine filled our lungs. It was the perfect start to our Denver to Chicago road trip.

Discovering the Chief Crazy Horse Monument

The next day, we continued our journey to South Dakota, where the Chief Crazy Horse Monument awaited us. This massive sculpture, still under construction, is a tribute to the Lakota leader and symbolizes the rich Native American heritage.

As we stood in awe of the monumental carving, we couldn't help but feel a deep respect for the cultural significance it held. The visitor center offered insights into the history and ongoing efforts to complete the monument, making our visit both educational and inspiring.
 

Awe-Inspiring Mount Rushmore

No trip to South Dakota would be complete without a visit to Mount Rushmore. The faces of Presidents Washington, Jefferson, Roosevelt, and Lincoln carved into the granite face of the mountain were even more impressive in person.

We spent hours walking the Presidential Trail, taking photos, and reflecting on the history and craftsmanship that went into creating this iconic American landmark. The evening lighting ceremony was particularly moving, as the monument was illuminated against the night sky.

The World's Only Corn Palace

As we continued our journey, Lori and I decided to take a slight detour to Mitchell, South Dakota, home to the World's Only Corn Palace. This quirky attraction, decorated annually with murals made entirely of corn, was a delightful surprise. Each year, the theme changes and the murals are reconstructed using different colors of corn. We toured the palace, learning about its history and enjoying the creativity on display. It was a whimsical stop that added a unique flavor to our Denver to Chicago drive.
 

Meeting the Jolly Green Giant in Blue Earth, Minnesota

Our next unexpected find was in Blue Earth, Minnesota, where we encountered the statue of the Jolly Green Giant and his sidekick, Sprout. Standing 55 feet tall, the Jolly Green Giant towered over the surrounding fields, a playful reminder of the iconic vegetable brand. We couldn't resist taking a few photos with the giant and Sprout, enjoying the lighthearted atmosphere. The adjacent museum provided a nostalgic look at the history of the brand, adding another layer of fun to our journey.
 

Reflecting on the journey in the final stretch

With our quirky stops behind us, we continued our drive towards Chicago. The road stretched out before us, and we found ourselves reminiscing about the incredible sights we'd seen. The changing landscapes, from the rugged beauty of Wyoming to the rolling plains of South Dakota and the farmland of Minnesota, had made the journey itself as memorable as the destinations.

As we finally approached Chicago, the familiar skyline came into view. Our road trip from Denver to Chicago had come to an end, but the memories we made would last a lifetime. We had traveled over a thousand miles, exploring landmarks both famous and obscure and discovering the beauty and diversity of America's heartland.

Looking back on our journey from Colorado to Chicago by road, it's clear that the journey was about more than just the destinations. It was about the experiences we shared, the laughter, and the sense of adventure that came with every twist and turn on the road. From the awe-inspiring sights of Devil's Tower and Mount Rushmore to the whimsical charm of the Corn Palace and the Jolly Green Giant, each stop added its own unique touch to our adventure.

Highlights of our Denver to Chicago road trip

One of the highlights of our trip was the sense of freedom and spontaneity that came with being on the road. We had a plan, but we allowed ourselves the flexibility to take detours and explore new places. This openness led us to some of the most memorable experiences of our journey, like the unexpected delight of the Corn Palace and the playful fun of the Jolly Green Giant.

Another aspect that made our trip special was the bond we strengthened along the way. Road trips have a way of bringing people closer, and this journey was no exception. Lori and I shared stories, listened to music, and enjoyed the simple pleasure of each other's company. The long hours on the road gave us time to reflect, dream, and laugh together, creating memories that would become the foundation of our friendship.

This trip also reminded us of the beauty of the American landscape and the rich tapestry of cultures and histories that make up this country. Each stop on our journey offered a glimpse into a different aspect of America's heritage, from the natural wonders of Devil's Tower to the historical significance of Mount Rushmore and the cultural tribute of the Chief Crazy Horse Monument.

A Journey to remember

In the end, our road trip from Colorado to Chicago was more than just a journey from one place to another. It was an adventure that filled our hearts with joy, our minds with new knowledge, and our spirits with a sense of wonder. As we settled back into our routines in Chicago, we carried with us the lessons and experiences of the road, knowing that the world is full of incredible places waiting to be discovered.

Looking forward, I am excited for the future adventures that await. This road trip taught me the value of embracing the journey, staying open to new experiences, and cherishing the moments shared with loved ones. Whether it's a road trip across the country or a simple weekend getaway, the spirit of adventure and the joy of discovery will always be a part of my travels.