Road trip from Boston to Des Moines
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Food & Drink
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Museums
Concerts & Shows
Shopping
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ITINERARY
24h 35m1,312 miles29 stops
1
Boston Public Garden
This Frederick Law Olmsted-designed park, famous for its Swan Boats, has over 600 varieties of trees and an ever-changing array of flowers. It is America's first public garden.
2
Boston Children's Museum
Highlights of this interactive museum include the "Science Playground," featuring giant soap bubble-making tools and the "New Balance Climb," which teaches kids the laws of physics while navigating through a two-story-high maze.
3
Hex: Old World Witchery
Salem Warlock Christian Day presents magical merchandise for both the curious and Witch alike. Whether you want a candle to bless your home, herbs and roots to make your own magic, a potion to attract love, the perfect ritual tool, a Voodoo doll made by a real practitioner, or to cast a spell at our authentic Witches' Altar, Hex is for those who believe in magic and those whose hearts beat with its fire.Be sure to visit our Witches' Altar of the Dead that stands at the Western wall of the shop. Here, countless visitors through the years have left messages, photos, and mementos in honor of departed loved ones in the spirit world. We welcome you to contribute to the magic!And, while there, have an authentic psychic reading with one of Salem's most talented Witches: Leanne Marrama, Laura Broderick, and Kyri Spencer!
4
Redemption Rock Brewing Co.
Redemption Rock Brewing Co. is a craft brewery, taproom, and cafe in Worcester, Mass. We make beer for people. "Beer for people" means beer enjoyed with a strong sense of community and camaraderie, and we aim to provide high-quality, fun beer in all its forms. Also, as a certified Benefit Corporation (B Corp), we’re dedicated to working for the community. It’s an essential part of our business, and we’re continually looking for new ways to support local organizations, partner with local businesses, and be a better kind of employer and corporate citizen. Finally, we’ve designed the Redemption Rock taproom to be the ultimate community gathering space. It’s bright, comfortable, and colorful and serves as both a coffeehouse and a bar. Visit us with your friends, come meet new friends, or even hold your private event here. We hope to see you soon.
5
DCU Center
6
Burnside Fountain
7
Rhode Island School of Design Museum of Art
This innovative and internationally renowned museum showcases more than 80,000 works of art from Paul Revere's silver and caricatures of 18th century Europe, to French Impressionists and the avant-garde works of recent alumni. A 12th-century Japanese Buddha has its own room with benches for meditating.
8
Owl Shop Cigar Lounge
9
Yale University Art Gallery
Yale University Art Gallery is the oldest college art museum in America. The Gallery’s encyclopedic holdings of more than 250,000 objects range from ancient times to the present day and represent civilizations from around the globe. Spanning a block and a half of the city of New Haven, Connecticut, the Gallery comprises three architecturally distinct buildings, including a masterpiece of modern architecture from 1953 designed by Louis Kahn through which visitors enter. The museum is free and open to the public.
10
New Haven Railroad Station
11
Marine Corps League NE Detachment Museum
12
Steamtown National Historic Site
This small museum is all about steam engines and their contribution to America's economy in the 19th century.
13
Basilica of Our Lady of Mount Carmel
14
Hollywood Gaming Mahoning Valley Race Course
15
Paladin Brewing
16
Lock 3
17
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
18
Sprucewood Shores Estate Winery
The Sprucewood Family warmly welcomes you to sample handcrafted 100% Ontario VQA wines at Ontario's only beachfront destination vineyard, winery and tasting room. We are situated on 45 Acres with access to gardens, a sandy beach, and picnic tables. Enjoy a glass of wine with a picnic basket and explore our grounds year round. Tasting room open 7 days a week 11am - 5pm (we occasionally close early due to special events. Please check our social media for daily updates @sprucewoodshores)
19
Allen County War Memorial Coliseum
20
Michigan Avenue Bridge
The view from the bridge is one of the best vistas the city has to offer.
21
Boystown
Located in Chicago's North Side, this vibrant neighborhood is known for its exciting nightlife and for being one of the largest LGBTQIA+ communities in the city. It's the host of the annual Chicago Pride Parade, and a must-see in the area is the Legacy Walk on Halsted Street, where you can learn about the contributions of the LGBTQIA+ community while admiring the colorful street art and rainbow crosswalks. Check out the unique shops and then grab a bite at one of the area's delicious Thai or Mexican restaurants. At night, visit one of the neighborhood's bars to enjoy a drag show, concert, and tasty cocktail. Consider taking a food or walking tour of Chicago that stops by Boystown. – Tripadvisor
22
1 Hundred West
1 Hundred West, in Davenport, IA, is the leading bar and grille serving Davenport and surrounding areas. We offer craft cocktails and a supper club inspired menu, along with drink specials, nightly features, wings, burgers, beer, family-style chicken fry, ribs, signature drinks, all you can eat fish fry and much more. For your next meal, visit 1 Hundred West in Davenport.
23
Quad Cities Symphony Orchestra
24
Endless Brews
We are a bottle shop & craft beer bar with 20 taps and over 300 select bottles and cans for carry-out.
25
Bix Beiderbecke Museum & Archive
26
German American Heritage Center
27
Brenton Skating Plaza
28
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.
29
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.
Customize this Trip
OVERVIEW
1
Start:Boston Public Garden
Boston, Massachusetts·
4.5
(9979) review
This Frederick Law Olmsted-designed park, famous for its Swan Boats, has over 600 varieties of trees and an ever-changing array of flowers. It is America's first public garden.
2
Start:Boston Children's Museum
Boston, Massachusetts·
4.5
(994) review
Highlights of this interactive museum include the "Science Playground," featuring giant soap bubble-making tools and the "New Balance Climb," which teaches kids the laws of physics while navigating through a two-story-high maze.
3
Start:Hex: Old World Witchery
Salem, Massachusetts·
5.0
(1000) review
Salem Warlock Christian Day presents magical merchandise for both the curious and Witch alike. Whether you want a candle to bless your home, herbs and roots to make your own magic, a potion to attract love, the perfect ritual tool, a Voodoo doll made by a real practitioner, or to cast a spell at our authentic Witches' Altar, Hex is for those who believe in magic and those whose hearts beat with its fire.Be sure to visit our Witches' Altar of the Dead that stands at the Western wall of the shop. Here, countless visitors through the years have left messages, photos, and mementos in honor of departed loved ones in the spirit world. We welcome you to contribute to the magic!And, while there, have an authentic psychic reading with one of Salem's most talented Witches: Leanne Marrama, Laura Broderick, and Kyri Spencer!
4
Start:Redemption Rock Brewing Co.
Worcester, Massachusetts·
5.0
(9) review
Redemption Rock Brewing Co. is a craft brewery, taproom, and cafe in Worcester, Mass. We make beer for people. "Beer for people" means beer enjoyed with a strong sense of community and camaraderie, and we aim to provide high-quality, fun beer in all its forms. Also, as a certified Benefit Corporation (B Corp), we’re dedicated to working for the community. It’s an essential part of our business, and we’re continually looking for new ways to support local organizations, partner with local businesses, and be a better kind of employer and corporate citizen. Finally, we’ve designed the Redemption Rock taproom to be the ultimate community gathering space. It’s bright, comfortable, and colorful and serves as both a coffeehouse and a bar. Visit us with your friends, come meet new friends, or even hold your private event here. We hope to see you soon.
5
Start:DCU Center
Worcester, Massachusetts·
3.5
(93) review
50 Foster Street, Worcester, MA 01608-1305
6
Start:Burnside Fountain
Worcester, Massachusetts·
3.5
(8) review
Main St Behind City Hall, Worcester, MA 01608-1821
7
Start:Rhode Island School of Design Museum of Art
Providence, Rhode Island·
4.5
(981) review
This innovative and internationally renowned museum showcases more than 80,000 works of art from Paul Revere's silver and caricatures of 18th century Europe, to French Impressionists and the avant-garde works of recent alumni. A 12th-century Japanese Buddha has its own room with benches for meditating.
8
Start:Owl Shop Cigar Lounge
New Haven, Connecticut·
4.5
(9) review
268 College St, New Haven, CT 06510-2404
9
Start:Yale University Art Gallery
New Haven, Connecticut·
5.0
(984) review
Yale University Art Gallery is the oldest college art museum in America. The Gallery’s encyclopedic holdings of more than 250,000 objects range from ancient times to the present day and represent civilizations from around the globe. Spanning a block and a half of the city of New Haven, Connecticut, the Gallery comprises three architecturally distinct buildings, including a masterpiece of modern architecture from 1953 designed by Louis Kahn through which visitors enter. The museum is free and open to the public.
10
Start:New Haven Railroad Station
New Haven, Connecticut·
4.0
(97) review
50 Union Ave, New Haven, CT 06519-1754
11
Start:Marine Corps League NE Detachment Museum
Scranton, Pennsylvania·
5.0
(8) review
1340 Alder Street, Scranton, PA
12
Start:Steamtown National Historic Site
Scranton, Pennsylvania·
4.5
(902) review
This small museum is all about steam engines and their contribution to America's economy in the 19th century.
13
Start:Basilica of Our Lady of Mount Carmel
Youngstown, Ohio·
4.5
(7) review
343 Via Mount Carmel Ave, Youngstown, OH 44505-3037
14
Start:Hollywood Gaming Mahoning Valley Race Course
Youngstown, Ohio·
3.5
(83) review
655 N Canfield Niles Rd, Youngstown, OH 44515-1102
15
Start:Paladin Brewing
Austintown, Youngstown, Ohio·
4.5
(9) review
6520 Mahoning Ave, Austintown, Youngstown, OH 44515-2012
16
Start:Lock 3
Akron, Ohio·
4.5
(98) review
200 S Main St, Akron, OH 44308-1315
17
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
18
Start:Sprucewood Shores Estate Winery
Harrow, Essex, Ontario·
4.5
(97) review
The Sprucewood Family warmly welcomes you to sample handcrafted 100% Ontario VQA wines at Ontario's only beachfront destination vineyard, winery and tasting room. We are situated on 45 Acres with access to gardens, a sandy beach, and picnic tables. Enjoy a glass of wine with a picnic basket and explore our grounds year round. Tasting room open 7 days a week 11am - 5pm (we occasionally close early due to special events. Please check our social media for daily updates @sprucewoodshores)
19
Start:Allen County War Memorial Coliseum
Fort Wayne, Indiana·
4.0
(99) review
4000 Parnell Ave, Fort Wayne, IN 46805-1414
20
Start:Michigan Avenue Bridge
Chicago, Illinois·
4.5
(985) review
The view from the bridge is one of the best vistas the city has to offer.
21
Start:Boystown
Chicago, Illinois·
4.5
(98) review
Located in Chicago's North Side, this vibrant neighborhood is known for its exciting nightlife and for being one of the largest LGBTQIA+ communities in the city. It's the host of the annual Chicago Pride Parade, and a must-see in the area is the Legacy Walk on Halsted Street, where you can learn about the contributions of the LGBTQIA+ community while admiring the colorful street art and rainbow crosswalks. Check out the unique shops and then grab a bite at one of the area's delicious Thai or Mexican restaurants. At night, visit one of the neighborhood's bars to enjoy a drag show, concert, and tasty cocktail. Consider taking a food or walking tour of Chicago that stops by Boystown. – Tripadvisor
22
Start:1 Hundred West
Davenport, Iowa·
4.0
(8) review
1 Hundred West, in Davenport, IA, is the leading bar and grille serving Davenport and surrounding areas. We offer craft cocktails and a supper club inspired menu, along with drink specials, nightly features, wings, burgers, beer, family-style chicken fry, ribs, signature drinks, all you can eat fish fry and much more. For your next meal, visit 1 Hundred West in Davenport.
23
Start:Quad Cities Symphony Orchestra
Davenport, Iowa·
4.5
(8) review
327 Brady St, Davenport, IA 52801-1508
24
Start:Endless Brews
Davenport, Iowa·
4.5
(9) review
We are a bottle shop & craft beer bar with 20 taps and over 300 select bottles and cans for carry-out.
25
Start:Bix Beiderbecke Museum & Archive
Davenport, Iowa·
5.0
(8) review
129 N Main St Red Stone Building, Corner of Main and Second Streets, Davenport, IA 52801
26
Start:German American Heritage Center
Davenport, Iowa·
4.5
(84) review
712 W 2nd St, Davenport, IA 52802-1410
27
Start:Brenton Skating Plaza
Des Moines, Iowa·
4.5
(9) review
520 Robert D Ray Dr, Des Moines, IA 50309-1824
28
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.
29
Start:Wrigley Field
Chicago, Illinois·
4.5
(9953) 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.
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 Boston and Des Moines?
The distance is 1,312 miles
What's the travel time between Boston and Des Moines?
The driving time can vary depending on traffic conditions, but it is typically 24h 35m mins in normal traffic
What are some of the best cities to visit between Boston 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
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Weather in Des Moines in October
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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!
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Where else can I travel to if I'm starting my trip in Boston?
We have a lot of great trip options for Boston! See the links below for all the itineraries we created for you