French Lick to Des Moines Road Trip Guide: Midwest Crossings

This road trip connects two iconic American towns: French Lick, Indiana, birthplace of basketball legend Larry Bird and home to the historic French Lick Springs Hotel, with Des Moines, Iowa, a thriving capital city known for its agricultural roots and modern arts scene.

Spanning approximately 715 miles (1,151 km) via I-70 W and I-35 N, the drive takes roughly 10.5 hours without stops. But the real adventure lies in the journey through the Midwest's rolling farmlands, river valleys, and small-town charm.

For those wondering, how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities is a key skill. This guide provides a deep dive into must-see attractions, culinary stops, and practical tips.

Highlights include the Hoosier National Forest, the Indiana Dunes (a slight detour), and the Mississippi River crossing at Davenport. The route offers a mix of interstate efficiency and scenic backroads.

The route is safe with low crime rates. Wildlife like deer are common at dawn/dusk, especially in rural Indiana and Illinois. Reduce speed and use high beams where possible.

For families, top stops include the Children's Museum of Indianapolis (a slight detour) and the Putnam Museum in Davenport. The Living History Farms in Urbandale (near Des Moines) offer interactive history.

Pet-friendly stops: Many rest areas have designated pet exercise areas. The Mississippi River Trail in Davenport offers a great place to walk dogs. Hotels like La Quinta and Motel 6 are typically pet-friendly.

• Fatigue management: Stop every 2 hours. Use the Rest Areas on I-74 at mile markers 166 and 144.
• Hidden off-route spot: The website how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities can uncover places like the World's Largest Truckstop in Walcott, IA.
• Local culture: Visit the Amana Colonies in Iowa, a historic communal settlement with wineries and restaurants.

The primary route is I-70 W from Indianapolis to the Illinois border, then I-74 W to I-80 W near Davenport, and finally I-35 S into Des Moines. This is the fastest and most well-maintained route, with ample services.

An alternative scenic route is US-150/US-50 from French Lick to Vincennes, then US-41 to I-70, adding about an hour but offering historic towns like Vincennes and the George Rogers Clark Memorial.

Fuel stations are plentiful along interstates, but rural stretches on US routes may have sparse services. Plan to refuel when you hit half a tank.

• Tolls: Minimal on this route; only possible tolls near Chicago if you detour.
• Road quality: Excellent on interstates; some rural roads may have potholes in spring.
• Rest areas: Every 30-50 miles on interstates with clean restrooms and vending machines.
• Cell service: Strong along interstates; spotty in parts of Hoosier National Forest and rural Illinois.

The journey begins in the wooded hills of southern Indiana, part of the Hoosier National Forest. Here, you'll find the Patoka Lake Wildlife Area, home to bald eagles and deer. As you head west, the landscape flattens into the rich agricultural plains of Illinois, often called the Corn Belt.

Crossing the Mississippi River at Davenport is a highlight. The river is over a mile wide here, with riverboats and parks along the banks. Iowa's landscape is rolling green hills and endless cornfields, punctuated by wind turbines.

Local commerce includes farm stands selling sweet corn and tomatoes in summer, and artisan shops in small towns like Mount Pleasant, IA. Amish communities near Arthur, IL offer handcrafted furniture and baked goods.

• Hoosier National Forest: Scenic drives, hiking trails, and the Hickory Ridge Fire Tower.
• Mississippi River Overlook at Le Claire, IA: Buffalo Bill's birthplace and riverfront park.
• Iowa Speedway in Newton: NASCAR track with tours; check for race days.