Road trip from Alexandria to Des Moines
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Fun & Games
Nightlife
Food & Drink
Sights & Landmarks
Nature & Parks
Museums
Shopping
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Concerts & Shows
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ITINERARY
19h 7m1,021 miles34 stops
1
AMC Worldgate 9
2
Escape Room Loudoun
An exciting new escape room establishment in Loudoun County! Escape Room activities are an exciting way to foster collaborative thinking and problem solving. Each group must work together to solve problems; ranging from small and simple, to complex and multi-part problems.
3
Ball's Bluff Battlefield and National Cemetery
A poignant and sobering reminder of a disastrous Union defeat during the Civil War.
4
Black Walnut Brewery
5
King's Tavern and Wine Bar
In colonial days, a traveler stopping at a tavern not only would receive a good meal and a glass of spirits, but would likely hear a good story or two while he puffed on his long clay pipe. In those days, a tavern was more than just a place to eat and drink, it was an experience. It still is today at The King’s Court Tavern. The King’s Court Tavern, at 19 South King Street in historic Leesburg retains the genteel atmosphere and ambiance that was enjoyed by our forefathers. The tavern offers you a special gathering place, where the best food and drink are served in a comfortable, friendly ale-house setting with nightly entertainment. Open for lunch, dinner, or light snacking everyday. Happy Hours are Monday through Friday from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m
6
Casanel Vineyards & Winery
We are a small, family-owned and operated boutique winery located in Loudoun County. We specialize in small lot and experimental craft wines grown in the Middleburg American Viticultural Area. Reservations required for all limos and buses, as well as for groups of 8 or more. We provide a quiet atmosphere providing Virginia grown and made wine. Last call is 30 minutes before closing. Call our tasting room and or visit our website for our events, seasonal and holiday closings, and to schedule a visit!
7
1623 Brewing Company
8
Howard Peters Rawlings Conservatory and Botanic Gardens of Baltimore
9
Baltimore Spirits Company
Be the master blender for the day! Blend your own bottle of Epoch Maryland Rye, Baltimore's first Maryland Rye to be produced in the city since the 1970s. In this unforgettable experience, your tour and blending experience will take between 1.5 and 2 hours. The highlight of the afternoon will be to taste and evaluate four of our barrel-finished Maryland Rye whiskeys, and then to create your own custom blended bottle of the spirits. Epoch Rye won Double-Gold Medals at both the 2018 and 2020 San Francisco World Spirits Competition. We take care of you from the time you walk in the door to ensure your perfect date, afternoon with friends, or a great gift for a whiskey fan. In addition to creating your own custom blend of our award-winning Pot-Distilled Maryland Rye, attendees also receive: • One delicious welcome cocktail • A compelling history lesson of Maryland Rye (15 minutes) • An up-close and personal distillery tour of our production facility and 650+ barrel rickhouse.
10
Hubert V. Simmons Museum of Negro Leagues Baseball, Inc.
We are a non-profit, charitable, 501(c)(3) corporate Museum with programs and resources available to all interested in exploring the multi-layered significance of the Negro Leagues Baseball Teams, Players, Owners and Coaches; in addition to their contributions to baseball generally, and the African-American culture specifically.
11
Alamo Drafthouse Cinema
12
Discovery Station at Hagerstown
Discovery Station at Hagerstown, Inc. is a hands-on museum that provides life-long learning experiences to thousands of children and families each year. We create an environment that stimulates curiosity for discovery, exploration, and further investigation through exhibits and programs that focus on Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math (STEAM) principles.
13
Sideling Hill Overlook & Rest Area
14
Rocky Gap State Park
Park that offers swimming beaches, campsites and boat rentals.
15
Trophy Guide Service
16
Cathedral of Learning
17
Point State Park
Serving as a key strategic spot during the French and Indian War, this National Historic Landmark and park offer stunning views of the city and a variety of outdoor recreation.
18
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
19
Allen County War Memorial Coliseum
20
Wrigley Field
Get a behind-the-scenes look at the legendary home of the Chicago Cubs with Wrigley Field Tours. Built in 1914, this must-see Chicago attraction houses more than 100 years of history. New this year, fans can join us on a non-gameday Ivy Tour which includes the opportunity to take a photo in front of Wrigley Field’s historic ivy wall.
21
Escape Artistry - The Railcar
Chicago's Original Escape Games are built by local artists and tell Chicago stories for all to enjoy. The Railcar is Escape Artistry's Flagship escape room game, built in 2015, it has garnered attention from across the world of escape game enthusiasts. Tucked into the maze of art that is the Flat Iron Arts Building, The Railcar itself is an art installation with a twist. Modeled after the EL cars you can see from the studio's windows, The Railcar is built out of recycled materials and is approximately 3/4 the size of a proper CTA train car. This puzzling adventure is a hit for corporate teams, families, bachelor/bachelorette parties, birthdays, and rainy days. Can your team escape in time?
22
Rosa's Lounge
Rosa's Lounge operates in the hallowed tradition of Chicago blues lounges, family owned and operated by an Italian immigrant who came to Chicago three decades ago.
23
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!
24
Wilder Park Conservatory
25
Yorktown Center
26
Wine With Me
27
Family Museum of Arts and Science
Exploration is encouraged at this museum.
28
Quad City Botanical Center
29
Isle Casino Hotel Bettendorf
30
Black's Gaslight Village
31
Iowa Book
32
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.
33
Brenton Skating Plaza
34
Chauffeurs of Distinction
Limousine service and executive transportation. Recognized as Des Moines' best by CityView readers. Reliable chauffeured services, from airport transfers to event and group travel. Reliable, quality, clean and safe. Comfort and safety a priority; vehicles are regularly inspected; properly licensed and insured.
Customize this Trip
OVERVIEW
Alexandria to Des Moines
1
Start:AMC Worldgate 9
Herndon, Fairfax County, Virginia·
4.0
(98) review
13025 Worldgate Dr, Herndon, VA 20170-4374
2
Start:Escape Room Loudoun
Sterling, Loudoun County, Virginia·
4.5
(99) review
An exciting new escape room establishment in Loudoun County! Escape Room activities are an exciting way to foster collaborative thinking and problem solving. Each group must work together to solve problems; ranging from small and simple, to complex and multi-part problems.
3
Start:Ball's Bluff Battlefield and National Cemetery
Leesburg, Loudoun County, Virginia·
4.0
(98) review
A poignant and sobering reminder of a disastrous Union defeat during the Civil War.
4
Start:Black Walnut Brewery
Leesburg, Loudoun County, Virginia·
4.5
(9) review
210 S King St, Leesburg, VA 20175-3010
5
Start:King's Tavern and Wine Bar
Leesburg, Loudoun County, Virginia·
3.5
(9) review
In colonial days, a traveler stopping at a tavern not only would receive a good meal and a glass of spirits, but would likely hear a good story or two while he puffed on his long clay pipe. In those days, a tavern was more than just a place to eat and drink, it was an experience. It still is today at The King’s Court Tavern. The King’s Court Tavern, at 19 South King Street in historic Leesburg retains the genteel atmosphere and ambiance that was enjoyed by our forefathers. The tavern offers you a special gathering place, where the best food and drink are served in a comfortable, friendly ale-house setting with nightly entertainment. Open for lunch, dinner, or light snacking everyday. Happy Hours are Monday through Friday from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m
6
Start:Casanel Vineyards & Winery
Leesburg, Loudoun County, Virginia·
4.5
(94) review
We are a small, family-owned and operated boutique winery located in Loudoun County. We specialize in small lot and experimental craft wines grown in the Middleburg American Viticultural Area. Reservations required for all limos and buses, as well as for groups of 8 or more. We provide a quiet atmosphere providing Virginia grown and made wine. Last call is 30 minutes before closing. Call our tasting room and or visit our website for our events, seasonal and holiday closings, and to schedule a visit!
7
Start:1623 Brewing Company
Eldersburg, Maryland·
4.5
(7) review
5975 Exchange Dr Ste H-L, Eldersburg, MD 21784-9261
8
Start:Howard Peters Rawlings Conservatory and Botanic Gardens of Baltimore
Baltimore, Maryland·
4.5
(99) review
3100 Swann Dr Druid Hill Park, Baltimore, MD 21217
9
Start:Baltimore Spirits Company
Baltimore, Maryland·
5.0
(9) review
Be the master blender for the day! Blend your own bottle of Epoch Maryland Rye, Baltimore's first Maryland Rye to be produced in the city since the 1970s. In this unforgettable experience, your tour and blending experience will take between 1.5 and 2 hours. The highlight of the afternoon will be to taste and evaluate four of our barrel-finished Maryland Rye whiskeys, and then to create your own custom blended bottle of the spirits. Epoch Rye won Double-Gold Medals at both the 2018 and 2020 San Francisco World Spirits Competition. We take care of you from the time you walk in the door to ensure your perfect date, afternoon with friends, or a great gift for a whiskey fan. In addition to creating your own custom blend of our award-winning Pot-Distilled Maryland Rye, attendees also receive: • One delicious welcome cocktail • A compelling history lesson of Maryland Rye (15 minutes) • An up-close and personal distillery tour of our production facility and 650+ barrel rickhouse.
10
Start:Hubert V. Simmons Museum of Negro Leagues Baseball, Inc.
Owings Mills, Maryland·
5.0
(6) review
We are a non-profit, charitable, 501(c)(3) corporate Museum with programs and resources available to all interested in exploring the multi-layered significance of the Negro Leagues Baseball Teams, Players, Owners and Coaches; in addition to their contributions to baseball generally, and the African-American culture specifically.
11
Start:Alamo Drafthouse Cinema
Winchester, Virginia·
4.0
(96) review
181 Kernstown Commons Blvd, Winchester, VA 22602-5364
12
Start:Discovery Station at Hagerstown
Hagerstown, Maryland·
4.5
(95) review
Discovery Station at Hagerstown, Inc. is a hands-on museum that provides life-long learning experiences to thousands of children and families each year. We create an environment that stimulates curiosity for discovery, exploration, and further investigation through exhibits and programs that focus on Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math (STEAM) principles.
13
Start:Sideling Hill Overlook & Rest Area
Cumberland, Maryland·
4.5
(99) review
I-68, Cumberland, MD
14
Start:Rocky Gap State Park
Cumberland, Maryland·
4.5
(223) review
Park that offers swimming beaches, campsites and boat rentals.
15
Start:Trophy Guide Service
Huntingdon, Pennsylvania·
2.5
(6) review
12001 Simon Fox Rd, Huntingdon, PA 16652-7701
16
Start:Cathedral of Learning
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania·
4.5
(979) review
4200 5th Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15260
17
Start:Point State Park
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania·
4.5
(951) review
Serving as a key strategic spot during the French and Indian War, this National Historic Landmark and park offer stunning views of the city and a variety of outdoor recreation.
18
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
19
Start:Allen County War Memorial Coliseum
Fort Wayne, Indiana·
4.0
(99) review
4000 Parnell Ave, Fort Wayne, IN 46805-1414
20
Start:Wrigley Field
Chicago, Illinois·
4.5
(9954) review
Get a behind-the-scenes look at the legendary home of the Chicago Cubs with Wrigley Field Tours. Built in 1914, this must-see Chicago attraction houses more than 100 years of history. New this year, fans can join us on a non-gameday Ivy Tour which includes the opportunity to take a photo in front of Wrigley Field’s historic ivy wall.
21
Start:Escape Artistry - The Railcar
Chicago, Illinois·
5.0
(929) review
Chicago's Original Escape Games are built by local artists and tell Chicago stories for all to enjoy. The Railcar is Escape Artistry's Flagship escape room game, built in 2015, it has garnered attention from across the world of escape game enthusiasts. Tucked into the maze of art that is the Flat Iron Arts Building, The Railcar itself is an art installation with a twist. Modeled after the EL cars you can see from the studio's windows, The Railcar is built out of recycled materials and is approximately 3/4 the size of a proper CTA train car. This puzzling adventure is a hit for corporate teams, families, bachelor/bachelorette parties, birthdays, and rainy days. Can your team escape in time?
22
Start:Rosa's Lounge
Chicago, Illinois·
5.0
(90) review
Rosa's Lounge operates in the hallowed tradition of Chicago blues lounges, family owned and operated by an Italian immigrant who came to Chicago three decades ago.
23
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!
24
Start:Wilder Park Conservatory
Elmhurst, DuPage County, Illinois·
3.5
(9) review
225 S Prospect Ave, Elmhurst, IL 60126-3219
25
Start:Yorktown Center
Lombard, DuPage County, Illinois·
4.5
(95) review
203 Yorktown Shopping Ctr Highland Avenue & Butterfield Road, Lombard, IL 60148-5555
26
Start:Wine With Me
Itasca, DuPage County, Illinois·
4.5
(9) review
111 Gigi Gruber Ln, Itasca, IL 60143
27
Start:Family Museum of Arts and Science
Bettendorf, Iowa·
4.5
(95) review
Exploration is encouraged at this museum.
28
Start:Quad City Botanical Center
Rock Island, Illinois·
4.5
(91) review
2525 4th Ave, Rock Island, IL 61201-9008
29
Start:Isle Casino Hotel Bettendorf
Bettendorf, Iowa·
3.5
(71) review
1777 Isle Pkwy, Bettendorf, IA 52722-4967
30
Start:Black's Gaslight Village
Iowa City, Iowa·
3.0
(8) review
422 Brown St, Iowa City, IA 52245-5859
31
Start:Iowa Book
Iowa City, Iowa·
3.5
(8) review
8 S Clinton St, Iowa City, IA 52240-3912
32
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.
33
Start:Brenton Skating Plaza
Des Moines, Iowa·
4.5
(9) review
520 Robert D Ray Dr, Des Moines, IA 50309-1824
34
Start:Chauffeurs of Distinction
Des Moines, Iowa·
(0) review
Limousine service and executive transportation. Recognized as Des Moines' best by CityView readers. Reliable chauffeured services, from airport transfers to event and group travel. Reliable, quality, clean and safe. Comfort and safety a priority; vehicles are regularly inspected; properly licensed and insured.
CHECKLIST
GPS device or app
Download Offline Map
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 Alexandria and Des Moines?
The distance is 1,021 miles
What's the travel time between Alexandria and Des Moines?
The driving time can vary depending on traffic conditions, but it is typically 19h 7m mins in normal traffic
What are some of the best cities to visit between Alexandria 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
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Where else can I travel to if I'm starting my trip in Alexandria?
We have a lot of great trip options for Alexandria! See the links below for all the itineraries we created for you