Us Route 34 Map

Introduction

US Route 34 is a scenic highway that stretches across the United States, from Illinois to Colorado. This road trip is perfect for those who love to explore the beauty of nature, experience different cultures, and indulge in adventure sports. In this travel guide, we will cover the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports.

Top Attractions

US Route 34 offers numerous attractions that provide an insight into the cultural, historical, and natural heritage of the United States. Some of the top attractions along the route include the Rocky Mountain National Park, Chicago, Iowa City, and Denver.

Rocky Mountain National Park

The Rocky Mountain National Park is a must-visit destination along US Route 34. The park is home to numerous hiking trails, scenic drives, and wildlife. Visitors can also enjoy camping, fishing, and horseback riding in the park.

Chicago

Chicago is a vibrant city that offers numerous attractions, including the Willis Tower, Navy Pier, and Millennium Park. Visitors can also indulge in the city’s famous deep-dish pizza and hot dogs.

Iowa City

Iowa City is a cultural hub that offers numerous art galleries, museums, and theaters. Visitors can also explore the city’s historic downtown area and indulge in local food.

Denver

Denver is a city that offers a perfect mix of outdoor adventures and urban experiences. Visitors can explore the city’s numerous breweries, restaurants, and museums, and indulge in hiking, skiing, and rafting in the nearby mountains.

Hidden Gems

US Route 34 also offers numerous hidden gems that are off the beaten path but are worth exploring. Some of the hidden gems include the Great River Road in Illinois, the Iowa Scenic Byway, and the Pawnee Buttes in Colorado.

Great River Road

The Great River Road is a scenic drive that follows the Mississippi River in Illinois. The drive offers stunning views of the river, and visitors can also explore the numerous historic towns along the way.

Iowa Scenic Byway

The Iowa Scenic Byway is a 200-mile drive that offers stunning views of the state’s countryside. The drive also passes through several historic towns and state parks.

Pawnee Buttes

The Pawnee Buttes are two rock formations located in northeastern Colorado. The buttes offer stunning views of the surrounding prairie and are a popular destination for hiking and camping.

Food Scene

US Route 34 also offers a diverse food scene that ranges from local diners to fine dining restaurants. Some of the must-try foods along the route include deep-dish pizza in Chicago, Maid-Rites in Iowa, and green chili in Colorado.

Deep-Dish Pizza in Chicago

Chicago is famous for its deep-dish pizza, which is a thick pizza with a buttery crust, tomato sauce, and cheese. Some of the best places to try deep-dish pizza in Chicago include Lou Malnati’s and Giordano’s.

Maid-Rites in Iowa

Maid-Rites are a type of loose-meat sandwich that originated in Iowa. The sandwich is made with seasoned ground beef, onions, and pickles, and is served on a bun.

Green Chili in Colorado

Green chili is a popular dish in Colorado that is made with pork, green chilies, and spices. The dish can be found in numerous restaurants across the state, including the famous Casa Bonita in Denver.

Budget-Friendly Tips

US Route 34 can be a budget-friendly trip if planned carefully. Some of the budget-friendly tips include camping instead of staying in hotels, packing snacks instead of eating out, and taking advantage of free activities such as hiking and visiting museums.

Camping

Camping is a budget-friendly option along US Route 34. There are numerous campgrounds along the route, including those in the Rocky Mountain National Park and state parks.

Packing Snacks

Packing snacks is a great way to save money on food while on the road. Visitors can pack sandwiches, fruits, and snacks to avoid eating out at restaurants.

Free Activities

US Route 34 offers numerous free activities, including hiking, visiting museums, and exploring historic sites. Visitors can also take advantage of free events such as concerts and festivals.

Outdoor Adventures

US Route 34 is perfect for those who love outdoor adventures. Some of the outdoor activities along the route include hiking, camping, fishing, skiing, and rafting.

Hiking

US Route 34 offers numerous hiking trails, including those in the Rocky Mountain National Park and state parks. Visitors can also explore the Great River Road in Illinois and the Iowa Scenic Byway.

Camping

Camping is a popular activity along US Route 34. Visitors can camp in state parks, national parks, and private campgrounds.

Fishing

US Route 34 passes through numerous lakes and rivers that offer fishing opportunities. Visitors can fish for trout, bass, and other species in the Rocky Mountain National Park and other areas along the route.

Historical Landmarks

US Route 34 also offers numerous historical landmarks that provide an insight into the country’s past. Some of the historical landmarks along the route include the Lincoln Home National Historic Site, the Herbert Hoover National Historic Site, and the Mesa Verde National Park.

Lincoln Home National Historic Site

The Lincoln Home National Historic Site is located in Springfield, Illinois, and is the only home that Abraham Lincoln ever owned. Visitors can explore the home and learn about Lincoln’s life and presidency.

Herbert Hoover National Historic Site

The Herbert Hoover National Historic Site is located in West Branch, Iowa and is the birthplace and childhood home of President Herbert Hoover. Visitors can explore the home and learn about Hoover’s life and presidency.

Mesa Verde National Park

The Mesa Verde National Park is located in southwestern Colorado and is home to numerous ancient Native American cliff dwellings. Visitors can explore the dwellings and learn about the history of the area.

Family-Friendly Activities

US Route 34 also offers numerous family-friendly activities that are perfect for those traveling with children. Some of the family-friendly activities along the route include visiting amusement parks, exploring museums, and camping.

Amusement Parks

US Route 34 passes through numerous amusement parks, including Six Flags Great America in Illinois and Adventureland in Iowa. These parks offer numerous rides and attractions for all ages.

Museums

US Route 34 also offers numerous museums that are perfect for children, including the Children’s Museum in Denver and the Science Center of Iowa in Des Moines.

Camping

Camping is a great family-friendly activity along US Route 34. Children can explore the outdoors, learn about nature, and participate in activities such as fishing and hiking.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Experiences

US Route 34 also offers numerous off-the-beaten-path experiences that are perfect for those who want to explore the road less traveled. Some of the off-the-beaten-path experiences along the route include visiting ghost towns, exploring abandoned buildings, and taking scenic drives.

Ghost Towns

US Route 34 passes through numerous ghost towns, including Central City in Colorado and Buda in Illinois. These towns offer an eerie but fascinating glimpse into the past.

Abandoned Buildings

US Route 34 also offers numerous abandoned buildings that are perfect for urban explorers. Visitors can explore abandoned factories, hospitals, and schools along the route.

Scenic Drives

US Route 34 offers numerous scenic drives, including the Trail Ridge Road in Colorado and the Great River Road in Illinois. These drives offer stunning views of the countryside and are perfect for a leisurely afternoon drive.

Natural Wonders

US Route 34 also offers numerous natural wonders that are perfect for those who love to explore the beauty of nature. Some of the natural wonders along the route include the Rocky Mountains, the Mississippi River, and the Great Plains.

Rocky Mountains

The Rocky Mountains are a must-visit destination along US Route 34. Visitors can explore the mountains, hike, and ski.

Mississippi River

The Mississippi River is the second-longest river in the United States and offers numerous recreational opportunities, including fishing, boating, and camping.

Great Plains

The Great Plains offer stunning views of the open prairie and are perfect for those who love to explore the beauty of nature.

Vibrant Nightlife

US Route 34 also offers a vibrant nightlife that ranges from local bars to nightclubs. Some of the must-visit nightlife destinations along the route include Chicago, Des Moines, and Denver.