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Midwest College Tour: Exploring the Heart of America

Viewed by 93 travelers

Day 1: College Visits

Iowa City, IA / Des Moines, IA on March 24, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Hamburg Inn No. 2

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at this iconic diner known for its delicious pancakes and local charm. Open from 7:00 AM.
USD15, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit University of Iowa

Explore the beautiful campus of University of Iowa, known for its vibrant student life and historical architecture.
USD0, 2 hours

11:00AM

Travel to Drake University

Enjoy the scenic drive to Des Moines, approximately 1 hour.
USD0, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Zombie Burger + Drink Lab

Delight in an inventive lunch at this quirky eatery famous for its gourmet burgers and milkshakes. Open from 11:00 AM.
USD20, 1 hour

1:00PM

Visit Drake University

Take a guided tour of Drake University's picturesque campus and its renowned facilities.
USD0, 2 hours

3:00PM

Check in at Hotel in Des Moines

Relax and freshen up at your hotel in Des Moines.
USD0, 1 hour

4:00PM

Walk around Downtown Des Moines

Enjoy a stroll through the vibrant downtown area, exploring local shops and parks.
USD0, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Centro

Indulge in a farm-to-table dinner at Centro, offering a variety of Italian-inspired dishes. Open till 10:00 PM.
USD30, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Iowa City

Day 2: College Exploration

Grinnell, IA / Lawrence, KS on March 25, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Maytag Dairy Farms

Savor a breakfast of cheese and local produce at this charming spot that opens at 8:00 AM.
USD15, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Grinnell College

Discover the picturesque campus of Grinnell College, noted for its liberal arts curriculum and beautiful campus.
USD0, 2 hours

11:00AM

Travel to University of Kansas

Drive to Lawrence, approximately 2 hours through nice scenery.
USD0, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Free State Brewing Company

Enjoy a laid-back lunch with a variety of local brew options and delicious pub fare. Open from 11:00 AM.
USD20, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit University of Kansas

Explore the sprawling campus and its various attractions, including the Natural History Museum.
USD0, 2 hours

4:30PM

Check in at Hotel in Lawrence

Settle into your accommodation and relax for a bit.
USD0, 1 hour

5:30PM

Walk around Downtown Lawrence

Discover local shops and cafes in Lawrence’s lively downtown area.
USD0, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Oread

Enjoy exquisite dining at this hotel restaurant with beautiful panoramic views. Reservations recommended.
USD35, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Grinnell

Day 3: Collegiate Adventures

Manhattan, KS / Columbia, MO on March 26, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Sunrise Bistro

Start your day with a delicious breakfast, including local pastries and fresh coffee. Open from 7:00 AM.
USD15, 1 hour

9:00AM

Travel to Kansas State University

A short drive to Manhattan, about 1 hour to visit Kansas State.
USD0, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Kansas State University

Check out Kansas State’s beautiful campus, notable for its commitment to research and agriculture.
USD0, 2 hours

12:00PM

Travel to University of Missouri

Enjoy a scenic drive toward Columbia, roughly 30 minutes.
USD0, 30 minutes

12:30PM

Lunch at Flat Branch Pub & Brewing

Savor a casual lunch at this popular spot known for craft beer and tasty bites. Open from 11:00 AM.
USD20, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit University of Missouri

Experience the expansive University of Missouri campus with an emphasis on its diverse programs.
USD0, 2 hours

3:30PM

Check in at Hotel in Columbia

Rest and recharge at your hotel in Columbia.
USD0, 1 hour

4:30PM

Explore the Mizzou Botanical Garden

Stroll through the stunning botanical garden, perfect for relaxing and enjoying nature.
USD0, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Szechuan House

Enjoy flavorful Chinese cuisine at this local favorite. Open till 9:00 PM.
USD25, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Manhattan

Day 4: St. Louis Sightseeing

St. Louis, MO on March 27, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Farmhaus

Start your day with a farm-to-table breakfast featuring seasonal ingredients. Open from 7:30 AM.
USD20, 1 hour

9:00AM

Travel to St. Louis

Drive to St. Louis, which takes about 2 hours.
USD0, 2 hours

11:00AM

Visit Gateway Arch

Experience the iconic Gateway Arch, with its visitor center and tram to the top for panoramic views. Open from 9:00 AM.
USD15, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Pappy's Smokehouse

Taste mouth-watering Memphis-style barbecue in this beloved establishment. Open from 11:00 AM.
USD20, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit Washington University in St. Louis

Explore the beautiful, environmentally-friendly campus known for its exceptional programs.
USD0, 2 hours

4:30PM

Visit Saint Louis University

Take a walk around Saint Louis University, known for its strong community and diverse academics.
USD0, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Iron Barley

Indulge in innovative comfort food in this trendy spot with a fun atmosphere. Open till 9:30 PM.
USD30, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in St. Louis

Day 5: Return Journey

Chicago, IL on March 28, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Blueberry Hill

Enjoy a classic American breakfast at this vibrant diner known for its breakfast specials. Open from 7:00 AM.
USD15, 1 hour

9:00AM

Travel back to Chicago

Begin your return journey to Chicago, about 4.5 hours drive.
USD0, 4.5 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Al's #1 Italian Beef

Grab a quick and delicious Italian beef sandwich from this Chicago favorite, perfect for a return trip. Open till 8:00 PM.
USD10, 30 minutes

2:00PM

Continue Travel to Chicago

Complete your drive back home, reflecting on the wonderful college tour experiences.
USD0, 2.5 hours
Find Hotels in Chicago
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