Road trip from Akron to Des Moines
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Nature & Parks
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Water & Amusement Parks
Nightlife
Museums
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All Category
Sights & Landmarks
Nature & Parks
Shopping
Water & Amusement Parks
Nightlife
Museums
Fun & Games
Outdoor Activities
Concerts & Shows
Spas & Wellness
Zoos & Aquariums
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ITINERARY
12h 43m686 miles42 stops
1
Lock 3
2
Gorge Metro Park
3
SouthPark Mall
For shopping near Cleveland, the SouthPark Mall is a favored destination. The mall hosts Dillard's and Macy's department stores, over 175 restaurants and shops and a Cinemark movie theater in Strongsville, OH. Find the shopping center at Royalton and Howe, just west of I-71.
4
Museum of Contemporary Art Cleveland
5
Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland: Education and Learning Center
Ever wonder how money works or what the Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland does as part of the central bank of the US? Visit our Education and Learning Center featuring more than 25 fun, hands-on exhibits that answer these questions and more! We have interactive games, visual exhibits, creative stations, and illuminating films that explain everything about money you can think of, from how we use it, to why it looks the way it looks. Come see our historic lobby, take pictures with our money tree, trade coconuts on Barter Island, identify counterfeit bills, and even make your own money! All this in the heart of Cleveland, just steps away from downtown attractions. Admission is free and photos are welcome.
6
Great Northern Mall
Great Northern Mall near Cleveland hosts shopping, Macy's and JCPenney department stores, Dick's Sporting Goods store, and over 120 more shops and restaurants. The mall is twelve miles southwest of Cleveland on I-480. Find convenient family parking near the H&M and Dillard's mall entrances.
7
Rock & Roll Hall of Fame
Headquartered in a boldly designed building on Lake Erie's shore, The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is a 150,000-square-foot museum featuring ever-changing exhibits documenting the history of rock and roll, from Elvis to our days. You’ll see hundreds of original artifacts, from Jimi Hendrix outfits to The Beatles’ handwritten lyrics. Experience the excitement of a Rock Hall induction night at the Power of Rock Experience or have your very own jam session at the Garage. You can also watch a concert while you're here, so check out the Rock Hall’s schedule and plan ahead. – Tripadvisor
8
Cedar Point
More than just an amusement park, Cedar Point features hotels, restaurants, beautiful grounds along with an impressive variety of thrill-rides.
9
Fish Point Nature Reserve
10
Port Clinton Lighthouse
11
The Lerner Theatre
12
Hesston Steam Museum
13
Old Lighthouse Museum
Explore the history of Michigan City and its relationship to Lake Michigan. Learn about lighthouses and their keepers, the harbor, shipwrecks and Indiana's lakeshore.
14
Chapel of the Resurrection
15
Shedd Aquarium
Get ready for unforgettable encounters with belugas and bluegills, stingrays and sturgeons, sea stars and sea otters — and so many more animals from aquatic environments around the world! See penguins fly through chilly waters, spot sleek sharks cruising overhead and count the suckers on an octopus’ legs. At Shedd, you can look nature in the eye, investigate and discover. Get ready for beauty that surprises, mesmerizes, inspires and moves you!
16
Odyssey Fun World
We’re Odyssey Fun World and we've been a premier children's amusement center in Tinley Park, IL, since 1994. Our business offers a wide variety of activities like a zip line, arcade, game floor, and batting cages. We look forward to providing consumers in the Matteson, Frankfort, and Crestwood area with a fun-filled environment. Stop by Odyssey Fun World for a guaranteed day of excitement. **The last day for our outdoor park will be September 17th 2023.
17
Berwyn Route 66 Museum
18
Escapology Orland Park
Escapology Orland Park is the area's leading escape room serving the southwest suburbs. We offer a variety of escape room scenarios for private events, birthday parties, team building, family entertainment and much more. We can accommodate up to 8 people per room and also have gift cards available! For more information, contact Escapology Orland Park.
19
Cermak Plaza Shopping Center
20
Orland Square
The newly renovated Orland Square Mall® is conveniently located in the south suburbs of Chicago and is an upscale shopping destination serving the affluent communities of Orland Park, Tinley Park, Homer Glen, Mokena, and Frankfort. This indoor climate controlled mall boasts three major department stores, food court, children's play area, and a variety of specialty shops ranging from jewelry to women's fashions to workout gear. Among the 150 shops at Orland Square Mall®, we feature great retailers including Apple, Akira, Alex and Ani, Pandora, Coach, Dry Goods, Garage, and Urban Outfitters. Dining options include Texas De Brazil, The Cheesecake Factory and Dave & Busters, as well as grab-and-go choices such as Great Steak & Potato Co., Panda Express, Suki Hana, and more. Orland Square Mall® is conveniently located at the intersection of 151st Street and La Grange Rd.
21
Bottle & Bottega by Painting with a Twist
Painting with a Twist brings wine, art and fun together in a unique experience. Painting with a Twist has events every week, check out the calendar, or plan a private gathering for Birthdays, Team Building or Bridal Parties!
22
Graue Mill & Museum
23
Konow's Corn Maze
24
Pinstripes
25
Sandbox VR
26
Yorktown Center
27
Richard Petty Driving Experience
Get behind the wheel in one of our 8 – 80 lap driving programs or Ride-Along shotgun for 3 high-speed laps at over 20 tracks nationwide – including Chicagoland Speedway!
28
Rock Bottom - Warrenville
29
Arista Spa & Salon
Arista Spa & Salon in Naperville, Illinois has been artfully designed with attention to the finest details to soothe the body and enrich the soul. In this special place we bring together ancient Mediterranean healing with modern innovation, cherished rituals for cleansing and wellness with the best science has to offer your skin, hair and body. All in inspiring surroundings with a staff that is both nurturing and world class. The Arista Spa & Salon and its services have been crafted to meet the needs of both men and women. You may also enjoy our inspiring couples' room, allowing you to experience complete relaxation with someone special.
30
Family Museum of Arts and Science
Exploration is encouraged at this museum.
31
Wharton Field House
32
Radicle Effect Brewerks
33
Quad City Botanical Center
34
Coralville Lake visitor center
35
Black's Gaslight Village
36
Riverside Theatre
Riverside Theatre is a professional theatre and non-profit, 501 (c)(3) organization that connects artists and audiences through intimate, engaging, and provocative productions from the classics to new works, and provides an artistic home for regional theatre professionals. Riverside Theatre was founded by Ron Clark, Jody Hovland and Bruce Wheaton in 1981 and is now in its 42nd season. From September through May we produce a full season of work at our theatre on Gilbert Street. In June and July, we produce a summer season centered around the classics. We are affiliated with Actors’ Equity Association, the union of professional actors and stage managers in the United States, employing actors and designers from all over the country and provide housing, salary, and transportation to visiting actors and directors during their employment at Riverside.
37
Iowa Book
38
Dragon's Lair Family Adventure Center
Immerse yourself in your favorite video game for real. Play classic games like capture the flag, defuse the bomb and VIP. To name a few of our ever growing selection of games. Test out our realistic weapons and wireless sensors. They will put you in the middle of the action. Come and experience the Lair.
39
Downtown Pella District
In the heart of downtown Pella, you will find European charm, influenced heavily by the city’s Dutch Heritage. A foodie lover’s dream featuring bakeries, coffee shops, restaurants, and tons of shopping.
40
Lake Ahquabi State Park
41
Brenton Skating Plaza
42
Fitness Sports
Iowa's first Specialty Running & Walking store with a emphasis on personal service. Ou r stone motto is "Where You have the Right to B-Fit". Est. in 1984.
Customize this Trip
OVERVIEW
Akron to Des Moines
1
Start:Lock 3
Akron, Ohio·
4.5
(98) review
200 S Main St, Akron, OH 44308-1315
2
Start:Gorge Metro Park
Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio·
4.5
(99) review
1160 Front St., Cuyahoga Falls, OH
3
Start:SouthPark Mall
Strongsville, Ohio·
4.0
(94) review
For shopping near Cleveland, the SouthPark Mall is a favored destination. The mall hosts Dillard's and Macy's department stores, over 175 restaurants and shops and a Cinemark movie theater in Strongsville, OH. Find the shopping center at Royalton and Howe, just west of I-71.
4
Start:Museum of Contemporary Art Cleveland
Cleveland, Ohio·
3.5
(93) review
11400 Euclid Ave, Cleveland, OH 44106-3926
5
Start:Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland: Education and Learning Center
Cleveland, Ohio·
4.5
(95) review
Ever wonder how money works or what the Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland does as part of the central bank of the US? Visit our Education and Learning Center featuring more than 25 fun, hands-on exhibits that answer these questions and more! We have interactive games, visual exhibits, creative stations, and illuminating films that explain everything about money you can think of, from how we use it, to why it looks the way it looks. Come see our historic lobby, take pictures with our money tree, trade coconuts on Barter Island, identify counterfeit bills, and even make your own money! All this in the heart of Cleveland, just steps away from downtown attractions. Admission is free and photos are welcome.
6
Start:Great Northern Mall
North Olmsted, Ohio·
4.0
(93) review
Great Northern Mall near Cleveland hosts shopping, Macy's and JCPenney department stores, Dick's Sporting Goods store, and over 120 more shops and restaurants. The mall is twelve miles southwest of Cleveland on I-480. Find convenient family parking near the H&M and Dillard's mall entrances.
7
Start:Rock & Roll Hall of Fame
Cleveland, Ohio·
4.5
(9964) review
Headquartered in a boldly designed building on Lake Erie's shore, The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is a 150,000-square-foot museum featuring ever-changing exhibits documenting the history of rock and roll, from Elvis to our days. You’ll see hundreds of original artifacts, from Jimi Hendrix outfits to The Beatles’ handwritten lyrics. Experience the excitement of a Rock Hall induction night at the Power of Rock Experience or have your very own jam session at the Garage. You can also watch a concert while you're here, so check out the Rock Hall’s schedule and plan ahead. – Tripadvisor
8
Start:Cedar Point
Sandusky, Ohio·
4.5
(9258) review
More than just an amusement park, Cedar Point features hotels, restaurants, beautiful grounds along with an impressive variety of thrill-rides.
9
Start:Fish Point Nature Reserve
Pelee Island, Ontario·
4.5
(92) review
McCormick Rd, Ontario N0R 1M0 Canada
10
Start:Port Clinton Lighthouse
Port Clinton, Ohio·
4.0
(92) review
399 E Perry Street, Port Clinton, Ohio, Port Clinton, OH 43452
11
Start:The Lerner Theatre
Elkhart, Indiana·
5.0
(95) review
410 South Main Street, Elkhart, IN 46516
12
Start:Hesston Steam Museum
La Porte, Indiana·
4.5
(92) review
1201 E 1000 N, La Porte, IN 46350-8642
13
Start:Old Lighthouse Museum
Michigan City, Indiana·
4.5
(99) review
Explore the history of Michigan City and its relationship to Lake Michigan. Learn about lighthouses and their keepers, the harbor, shipwrecks and Indiana's lakeshore.
14
Start:Chapel of the Resurrection
Valparaiso, Indiana·
5.0
(92) review
Valparaiso University, Valparaiso, IN
15
Start:Shedd Aquarium
Chicago, Illinois·
4.0
(9907) review
Get ready for unforgettable encounters with belugas and bluegills, stingrays and sturgeons, sea stars and sea otters — and so many more animals from aquatic environments around the world! See penguins fly through chilly waters, spot sleek sharks cruising overhead and count the suckers on an octopus’ legs. At Shedd, you can look nature in the eye, investigate and discover. Get ready for beauty that surprises, mesmerizes, inspires and moves you!
16
Start:Odyssey Fun World
Tinley Park, Illinois·
2.5
(73) review
We’re Odyssey Fun World and we've been a premier children's amusement center in Tinley Park, IL, since 1994. Our business offers a wide variety of activities like a zip line, arcade, game floor, and batting cages. We look forward to providing consumers in the Matteson, Frankfort, and Crestwood area with a fun-filled environment. Stop by Odyssey Fun World for a guaranteed day of excitement. **The last day for our outdoor park will be September 17th 2023.
17
Start:Berwyn Route 66 Museum
Berwyn, Illinois·
4.0
(8) review
7003 Ogden Ave, Berwyn, IL 60402-3652
18
Start:Escapology Orland Park
Orland Park, Illinois·
5.0
(840) review
Escapology Orland Park is the area's leading escape room serving the southwest suburbs. We offer a variety of escape room scenarios for private events, birthday parties, team building, family entertainment and much more. We can accommodate up to 8 people per room and also have gift cards available! For more information, contact Escapology Orland Park.
19
Start:Cermak Plaza Shopping Center
Berwyn, Illinois·
3.0
(8) review
Cermak Road and Harlem Avenue, Berwyn, IL
20
Start:Orland Square
Orland Park, Illinois·
4.0
(73) review
The newly renovated Orland Square Mall® is conveniently located in the south suburbs of Chicago and is an upscale shopping destination serving the affluent communities of Orland Park, Tinley Park, Homer Glen, Mokena, and Frankfort. This indoor climate controlled mall boasts three major department stores, food court, children's play area, and a variety of specialty shops ranging from jewelry to women's fashions to workout gear. Among the 150 shops at Orland Square Mall®, we feature great retailers including Apple, Akira, Alex and Ani, Pandora, Coach, Dry Goods, Garage, and Urban Outfitters. Dining options include Texas De Brazil, The Cheesecake Factory and Dave & Busters, as well as grab-and-go choices such as Great Steak & Potato Co., Panda Express, Suki Hana, and more. Orland Square Mall® is conveniently located at the intersection of 151st Street and La Grange Rd.
21
Start:Bottle & Bottega by Painting with a Twist
La Grange, Illinois·
4.5
(8) review
Painting with a Twist brings wine, art and fun together in a unique experience. Painting with a Twist has events every week, check out the calendar, or plan a private gathering for Birthdays, Team Building or Bridal Parties!
22
Start:Graue Mill & Museum
Oak Brook, DuPage County, Illinois·
4.5
(80) review
3800 York Rd, Oak Brook, IL 60523-2738
23
Start:Konow's Corn Maze
Homer Glen, Illinois·
3.5
(9) review
16849 S Cedar Rd, Homer Glen, IL 60491-9719
24
Start:Pinstripes
Oak Brook, DuPage County, Illinois·
4.0
(87) review
7 Oakbrook Ctr, Oak Brook, IL 60523-1809
25
Start:Sandbox VR
Oak Brook, DuPage County, Illinois·
2.5
(8) review
560 Oakbrook Ctr, Oak Brook, IL 60523-9008
26
Start:Yorktown Center
Lombard, DuPage County, Illinois·
4.5
(95) review
203 Yorktown Shopping Ctr Highland Avenue & Butterfield Road, Lombard, IL 60148-5555
27
Start:Richard Petty Driving Experience
Joliet, Illinois·
5.0
(9) review
Get behind the wheel in one of our 8 – 80 lap driving programs or Ride-Along shotgun for 3 high-speed laps at over 20 tracks nationwide – including Chicagoland Speedway!
28
Start:Rock Bottom - Warrenville
Warrenville, DuPage County, Illinois·
4.0
(9) review
28256 Diehl Rd, Warrenville, IL 60555-3835
29
Start:Arista Spa & Salon
Naperville, DuPage County, Illinois·
4.0
(9) review
Arista Spa & Salon in Naperville, Illinois has been artfully designed with attention to the finest details to soothe the body and enrich the soul. In this special place we bring together ancient Mediterranean healing with modern innovation, cherished rituals for cleansing and wellness with the best science has to offer your skin, hair and body. All in inspiring surroundings with a staff that is both nurturing and world class. The Arista Spa & Salon and its services have been crafted to meet the needs of both men and women. You may also enjoy our inspiring couples' room, allowing you to experience complete relaxation with someone special.
30
Start:Family Museum of Arts and Science
Bettendorf, Iowa·
4.5
(95) review
Exploration is encouraged at this museum.
31
Start:Wharton Field House
Moline, Illinois·
5.0
(9) review
1800 20th Avenue, Moline, IL
32
Start:Radicle Effect Brewerks
Rock Island, Illinois·
4.0
(9) review
1340 31st St College Hill West District, Rock Island, IL 61201-2949
33
Start:Quad City Botanical Center
Rock Island, Illinois·
4.5
(91) review
2525 4th Ave, Rock Island, IL 61201-9008
34
Start:Coralville Lake visitor center
Iowa City, Iowa·
4.0
(8) review
2850 Prairie Du Chien Rd NE Follow Signs, Iowa City, IA 52240-7820
35
Start:Black's Gaslight Village
Iowa City, Iowa·
3.0
(8) review
422 Brown St, Iowa City, IA 52245-5859
36
Start:Riverside Theatre
Iowa City, Iowa·
5.0
(8) review
Riverside Theatre is a professional theatre and non-profit, 501 (c)(3) organization that connects artists and audiences through intimate, engaging, and provocative productions from the classics to new works, and provides an artistic home for regional theatre professionals. Riverside Theatre was founded by Ron Clark, Jody Hovland and Bruce Wheaton in 1981 and is now in its 42nd season. From September through May we produce a full season of work at our theatre on Gilbert Street. In June and July, we produce a summer season centered around the classics. We are affiliated with Actors’ Equity Association, the union of professional actors and stage managers in the United States, employing actors and designers from all over the country and provide housing, salary, and transportation to visiting actors and directors during their employment at Riverside.
37
Start:Iowa Book
Iowa City, Iowa·
3.5
(8) review
8 S Clinton St, Iowa City, IA 52240-3912
38
Start:Dragon's Lair Family Adventure Center
Cedar Rapids, Iowa·
4.5
(8) review
Immerse yourself in your favorite video game for real. Play classic games like capture the flag, defuse the bomb and VIP. To name a few of our ever growing selection of games. Test out our realistic weapons and wireless sensors. They will put you in the middle of the action. Come and experience the Lair.
39
Start:Downtown Pella District
Pella, Iowa·
4.5
(9) review
In the heart of downtown Pella, you will find European charm, influenced heavily by the city’s Dutch Heritage. A foodie lover’s dream featuring bakeries, coffee shops, restaurants, and tons of shopping.
40
Start:Lake Ahquabi State Park
Indianola, Iowa·
4.5
(43) review
1650 118th Avenue, Indianola, IA 50125
41
Start:Brenton Skating Plaza
Des Moines, Iowa·
4.5
(9) review
520 Robert D Ray Dr, Des Moines, IA 50309-1824
42
Start:Fitness Sports
Des Moines, Iowa·
5.0
(9) review
Iowa's first Specialty Running & Walking store with a emphasis on personal service. Ou r stone motto is "Where You have the Right to B-Fit". Est. in 1984.
CHECKLIST
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Car charger and portable battery
Water bottles and snacks
Travel pillow and blanket
Sunglasses and sunscreen
First-aid kit
Trash bags
Hand sanitizer and wet wipes
Driver’s license and vehicle registration
Cash and cards
Camera or smartphone
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FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the driving distance between Akron and Des Moines?
The distance is 686 miles
What's the travel time between Akron and Des Moines?
The driving time can vary depending on traffic conditions, but it is typically 12h 43m mins in normal traffic
What are some of the best cities to visit between Akron and Des Moines?
Some popular stops include
Are there any cool sights or attractions I shouldn't miss on my drive to Des Moines?
There are plenty! Here are some stops you shouldn’t miss on your way to Des Moines
What’s the weather like in Des Moines?
The weather in Des Moines is generally mild year-round, with warm, dry summers and cool, wet winters. See the links below for more information
Weather in Des Moines in January
Weather in Des Moines in February
Weather in Des Moines in March
Weather in Des Moines in April
Weather in Des Moines in May
Weather in Des Moines in June
Weather in Des Moines in July
Weather in Des Moines in August
Weather in Des Moines in September
Weather in Des Moines in October
Weather in Des Moines in November
Weather in Des Moines in December
Interested in a detailed plan for your time in Des Moines?
Plan your dream Des Moines trip with our daily itineraries featuring must-see attractions! See them here!
A 1-day itinerary in Des Moines
A 2-day itinerary in Des Moines
A 3-day itinerary in Des Moines
A 4-day itinerary in Des Moines
A 5-day itinerary in Des Moines
A 6-day itinerary in Des Moines
Where else can I travel to if I'm starting my trip in Akron?
We have a lot of great trip options for Akron! See the links below for all the itineraries we created for you