Best Tourist Attractions Along I-70: Part 1 (with map!)

Interstate 70 (I-70) is a major, cross-country highway that starts near Baltimore, Maryland and ends near Cove Fort, Utah. The highway spans many miles through iconic cities and dramatic changes in the landscape and is dotted with amazing places to visit, just short distances from the route itself.

I-70 crosses the States from east to west through several states including Pennsylvania, Ohio, Illinois, Kansas, Colorado and Utah. The 2,170-mile highway might sound like a long drive, but there are plenty of roadside attractions to keep you entertained.

Read on to learn about some of the most quirky, interesting attractions you can easily visit as you drive on I-70, how to get to these places and the best times to visit them. You can see the entire length of I-70 on the map below.

1. B&O Ellicott City Station Museum, Ellicott City, MD

What makes this attraction special: A must-visit for train enthusiasts, this museum is located in America's oldest surviving railroad station.

Not that this historic museum needs more reasons for visiting, but the fact that it is just a short drive north of I-70 makes this convenient detour worth making.

How to get there: Drive towards the outskirts of Baltimore and take Exit 87B.

How far the attraction is from I-70: The B&O Ellicott City Station Museum is conveniently located just a short drive from I-70. The drive will likely take around 10-15 minutes depending on traffic.

Fees: Admission to the museum is free.

Best time to visit: The museum is indoors and thus suitable for a year-round visit. However, Ellicott City itself can be a lovely place to explore on foot during the warmer months as it has a few displays outside, so you might consider this when planning your visit.

It is good to keep in mind that the museum is closed on January 1, Easter Sunday, Memorial Day, July 4, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day and December 25.

Where to park: There is a public parking lot near the museum, as well as street parking available in the surrounding area. The parking availability might be tighter during peak times or special events, so plan accordingly.

2. Antietam National Battlefield, Sharpsburg, MD

What makes this attraction special: A pivotal site in the American Civil War, the Antietam Battlefield is now a national park with several monuments and a visitor center. It's steeped in history and is located just a short drive off I-70.

How to get there: Take Exit 42 near Myersville and drive southwest, driving from Baltimore direction.

How far the attraction is from I-70: Traveling from I-70, it's a short detour to reach the park. Depending on traffic and the exact starting point, the drive will likely take around 20-30 minutes.

Fees: Per person: $10, per private vehicle: $20

Best time to visit: The park is open year-round from dawn to dusk, but the Visitor Center's operating hours vary by season so check their website before visiting.

The biggest event is the annual commemoration of the Battle of Antietam in September, which may include living history demonstrations, ranger-led tours, and other special programs.

Observing Memorial Day Commemoration is another activity you can participate in if you are visiting Antietam in May.

Where to park: There is ample parking at Antietam National Battlefield. The main parking area is located near the Visitor Center. From there, you can start your tour of the battlefield, visit the museum, or attend a ranger-led program.

In addition, there are smaller parking areas scattered throughout the park near key sites.

3. Washington Monument State Park, Boonsboro, MD

What makes this attraction special: Not to be confused with the more famous monument in DC, this stone tower was the first monument dedicated to George Washington. Not only a historical monument, but this tower also offers excellent views of the surrounding countryside.

How to get there: Another historic attraction very close to I-70, you will take Exit 42 near Myersville if you are driving from Baltimore direction, but drive north.

How far the attraction is from I-70: Driving from I-70, it takes approximately 15-20 minutes to reach Washington Monument State Park.

Fees: No admission fee but there is a $1 service fee to cover reservation service.

Best time to visit: The monument is open year-round except for December 25, Christmas Day and July 4.

Washington Monument State Park hosts various events throughout the year ranging from nature walks and bird-watching events to historical reenactments and holiday celebrations. For up-to-date information on events, it's best to check the park's official website.

If your aim is to dodge crowds, consider visiting the monument approximately an hour after opening, around 10-11am.

Where to park: The park has its own parking lot, which provides a convenient place for visitors to leave their vehicles.

4. Adventure Park USA, Monrovia, MD

What makes this attraction special: A family-friendly attraction just south of I-70, this park offers rides, games, go-karts, mini-golf, and even a wild west-themed area.

Whether you are traveling with family or wanting to let your inner child out, you will find something amazing to do at Adventure Park USA to break your drive on I-70.

How to get there: Driving from Baltimore direction, take Exit 62 in Monrovia.

How far the attraction is from I-70: Adventure Park USA is easily accessible from I-70, with a drive time of approximately 15-20 minutes depending on traffic.

Fees: All day pass: $29.95

Best time to visit: Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends. If you're looking to avoid larger crowds, plan your visit for a weekday. As for the time of day, the park often gets busier as the day goes on, so arriving earlier can give you a head start on the fun.

Where to park: The park features a large parking lot that can accommodate many vehicles, and parking is typically free for visitors. The parking lot is conveniently located near the entrance to the park, providing easy access to all the attractions.

5. Bushy Run Battlefield, Jeanette and Big Mac Museum, North Huntingdon, PA

What makes this attraction special: Bushy Run Battlefield, located in Jeannette, Pennsylvania, is a historical site where the decisive Battle of Bushy Run took place during the Pontiac's War in 1763. Here, you can learn about the rich history of the region and enjoy gorgeously scenic walking trails.

And if you've worked up an appetite walking around the historic battlefield, head to McDonald's and see the museum while you're at it (which houses a quirky Big Mac statue!).

How to get there: Take exit 75 in New Stanton.

How far the attraction is from I-70: The drive from I-70 to Bushy Run Battlefield typically takes around 30 minutes, depending on traffic.

Fees: Adults (aged 13-64): $5.00, reduced (aged 65+ and AAA-members): $4.50, youth (aged 3-12): $3.00, children under 3: free

Best time to visit: The battlefield is open year-round from dawn to dusk for self-guided tours. The Visitor Center and guided tours typically operate from May to October. If you wish to participate in a guided tour or visit the Visitor Center, plan your visit during these months.

The park hosts the annual reenactment of the Battle of Bushy Run in August.

The Big Mac Museum is located inside the McDonald's at 9061 US-30 in Irwin/North Huntingdon, PA which is open every day up 10pm.

Where to park: Parking is available at the park near the Visitor Center. It's free and usually sufficient for the number of visitors.

6. Kecksburg UFO Store and Kecksburg Space Acorn, Kecksburg, PA

What makes this attraction special: The Kecksburg Space Acorn commemorates a famous local incident. On December 9, 1965, a fiery object fell from the sky and landed in nearby woods, leading to speculation about extraterrestrial activity.

The large, acorn-shaped monument in the village was built to represent this mysterious object. The site has become a focal point for UFO enthusiasts and those interested in space and the unexplained, giving it a charm that's out of this world.

How to get there: Take Exit 75 in New Stanton and drive southeast past Nolvelt to reach Kecksburg. You can combine this detour with a visit to the Big Mac Museum (see above).

How far the attraction is from I-70: Driving to the UFO Store will take about 20-30 minutes once you leave I-70.

Fees: There is no fee to enter this attraction.

Best time to visit: The Kecksburg Space Acorn is an outdoor roadside attraction that can be visited at any time of the day, any day of the week. However, for the best experience and visibility, you might want to visit during daylight hours.

Where to park: Parking should be available on the nearby streets or public parking lots. As it's a small town, parking likely won't be an issue.

7. Fallingwater, Mill Run, PA

What makes this attraction special: Located in the Laurel Highlands of the Allegheny Mountains, this iconic house was designed by architect Frank Lloyd Wright and is considered a masterpiece of 20th-century architecture.

How to get there: Take Exit 91 in Donegal.

How far the attraction is from I-70: Driving from I-70, it takes about 30-40 minutes to reach Fallingwater, depending on the traffic.

Fees: Guided architectural tour: $35, guided grounds walking tour: $25, in-depth guided tour: $87

Best time to visit: Fallingwater is open from mid-March through the end of December.

The busiest times are generally during the fall foliage season in October and on weekends. Therefore, if you prefer to avoid crowds, consider visiting on a weekday or outside of the peak fall season (when the stunning golden and auburn foliage create a majestic show of scenery).

Where to park: Free parking is available to Fallingwater visitors. The lot is just a short walk from the Visitor Center, where tours begin.

8. Jackson the Elephant and Jenny Globe Tower, Somerset, PA

What makes this attraction special: If you are feeling peckish again, driving down I-70, why not stop at Eat'n Park in Somerset, PA? You will also meet the life-sized Jackson the Elephant here, a quirky statue located in the restaurant's parking lot.

You can also visit the Jenny Globe nearby and marvel at this giant rotating globe (though the real star here is Jackson!).

How to get there: Take Exit 110 as you are heading towards Zimmerman from Somerset.

How far the attraction is from I-70: These attractions are a short detour from the I-70, only 10 minutes away.

Fees: There is no fee to enter this attraction.

Best time to visit: Being located in a restaurant's parking lot, Jackson can be visited any time of the year.

The restaurant's hours or outdoor accessibility may be affected by severe weather conditions. In the case of snow or heavy rain, it might be best to check ahead.

Where to park: The main attraction here, Jackson, is actually located in the parking lot, so there is plenty of parking available!

9. The Big Coffee Pot, Bedford, PA

What makes this attraction special: This iconic piece of novelty architecture, constructed in 1927, stands at 18 feet tall and was originally built as a marketing gimmick to attract customers to a local service station.

You can stop by this quirky landmark for a memorable photo opportunity and to appreciate a unique piece of Americana.

How to get there: Traveling from the direction of Napier, take Exit 146 to reach the quirky coffee-pot-shaped building.

How far the attraction is from I-70: It will take about 10 minutes to drive to the Big Coffee Pot from I-70.

Fees: There is no fee to enter this attraction.

Best time to visit: Since it's an outdoor attraction, it can be visited at any time of the day, but for the best experience and photo opportunities, try to visit when the sun is high, around noon.

The Bedford County Fair typically occurs in late July and offers a variety of events, exhibits, and attractions, so you can combine your visit with the fair if you'd like to!

Where to park: You should be able to find parking nearby, as it's adjacent to the Bedford County Fairgrounds.

10. Prabhupada's Palace of Gold, Moundsville, WV

What makes this attraction special: Located near Moundsville, this impressive palace is often considered the "Taj Mahal of the West" and rightfully so. This beautiful estate was originally built by the Hare Krishna community as a home for their spiritual leader.

How to get there: Driving east to west on I-70, take Exit 5 as you approach Wheeling to reach the Palace of Gold.

How far the attraction is from I-70: It will take about 20 minutes to reach the Palace of Gold from I-70.

Fees: Adults: $12, children: (6-12) $7

Best time to visit: In January and February, the tours are by appointment only. The Palace of Gold opens at 10am.

The Palace hosts fabulous brunches in its Rose Garden on Sundays during warmer months. Check their calendar before visiting to see if you can visit and fill up on delicious food.

Where to park: There is ample parking on-site for visitors.

11. Grave Creek Mound, Moundsville, WV

What makes this attraction special: One of the largest conical-type burial mounds in the United States, this impressive mound is a testament to the complex societies that once inhabited the Ohio River Valley. This site is a must-visit for any archeology enthusiast or history buff.

How to get there: Driving in the east-west direction, take exit 1B in Moundsville.

How far the attraction is from I-70: Grave Creek Mound is about 20 minutes from I-70.

Fees: Admission to the museum is free.

Best time to visit: The Grave Creek Mound Archaeological Complex, which includes a museum, is typically open year-round, from Tuesday through Saturday.

The outdoor mound itself can be visited at any time. Early fall and late spring are often the most comfortable times to visit due to moderate weather.

Where to park: There should be plenty of parking available onsite for visitors.

12. Longaberger, Newark, OH

What makes this attraction special: This is a unique architectural marvel, which originally served as the headquarters for the Longaberger Basket Company, the building is shaped like the company's biggest seller, the Medium Market Basket, only 160 times larger.

The seven-story building is a testament to the creativity of architecture and a great photo opportunity. It's a must-see for those who appreciate unusual structures and Americana kitsch.

How to get there: Take Exit 132 as you approach Harbor Hills, driving from east to west on I-70.

How far the attraction is from I-70: This huge basket-shaped building is about 20 minutes from I-70.

Fees: There is no fee.

Best time to visit: Since you can only view this fascinating building from the outside, weather could factor into your visit. Ohio experiences four seasons, so keep in mind that the weather can be hot in the summer and cold in the winter.

Where to park: There are no big parking lots nearby but you should be able to find nearby street parking to snap a quick photo of the building.

13. Hartman Rock Garden, Springfield, OH

What makes this attraction special: The garden was created during the Great Depression by a local man named Ben Hartman and is composed of thousands of stones arranged into intricate displays, including miniatures of famous buildings and a Last Supper tableau.

Visitors will marvel at the level of detail and dedication evident in each piece, making it a fascinating and inspiring stop.

How to get there: Take Exit 52A in Springfield.

How far the attraction is from I-70: This amazing folk art installation is about 10 minutes' drive from I-70.

Fees: There is no admission charge to visit, though donations are appreciated.

Best time to visit: The Garden is open from dawn to dusk year-round. The best time to visit would generally be during daylight hours so you can fully appreciate the intricacies of the stone structures.

Where to park: There's street parking available nearby.

14. Field of Corn, Dublin, OH

What makes this attraction special: For an art installation like no other, the Field of Corn in Dublin, Ohio, is a quirky pit stop. Featuring 109 concrete ears of corn that stand eight feet tall, the installation pays tribute to the region's agricultural history.

It sparks thoughts about humanity's impact on nature and provides a surreal and memorable backdrop for photographs.

How to get there: Take Exit 93 as you drive from east to west through Columbus, Ohio.

How far the attraction is from I-70: The Field of Corn is located 10 minutes from I-70.

Fees: There is no admission fee.

Best time to visit: Since it's an outdoor attraction, you can visit at any time, though daylight hours will offer the best views for photographs.

Where to park: Parking is available at the site in a small lot.

15. Jungle Jim's International Market, Fairfield, OH

What makes this attraction special: Jungle Jim's is more than just a grocery store - it's a shopping experience. Spanning over 6 acres, the store carries around 200,000 products from over 70 countries.

With sections like "Hot Sauce Fire Truck", it's not just about buying groceries; it's about the thrill of discovering something new. The animatronic displays and unique decorations make it a fun family visit.

How to get there: Take Exit 10 past Dayton to reach Jungle Jim's.

How far the attraction is from I-70: This is the farthest you will have to travel from I-70 covering a 1-hour drive, but it will be an unforgettable detour!

Fees: No, but you might end up buying stuff you didn't even know existed while there!

Best time to visit: Jungle Jim's is open seven days a week, and the hours are typically from morning until late evening.

There is always something going on at Jungle Jim's, check their website for up-to-date information on events.

Where to park: There is plenty of parking available on-site.

16. Warm Glow Candle Outlet and the World's Largest Candle, Centerville, IN

What makes this attraction special: The Warm Glow Candle Outlet is hard to miss due to the 18-foot-tall model of a candle positioned outside. This place is not just a candle shop, but an experience, offering over 70 unique fragrances of their homemade candles.

There's also a large selection of home decor, sweet treats, and bath and body products. It's a great place for unique souvenirs or gifts, and the candle itself is a fun photo opportunity.

How to get there: Take Exit 145 in Centerville.

How far the attraction is from I-70: This is one of the closest attractions to I-70, so close that it will only take you 5 minutes to reach there!

Fees: There is no admission fee.

Best time to visit: Warm Glow Candle Outlet is open seven days a week, year-round, except for major holidays like Christmas, Thanksgiving, and Easter.

Warm Glow hosts several special events throughout the year, such as their Spring Open House, Fall Festival, and Christmas Open House, where they offer special sales, entertainment, and activities.

Where to park: The store has a parking lot.

17. Clara's Pizza King, Richmond, IN

What makes this attraction special: Clara's Pizza King offers a taste of nostalgia with its vintage "carhop" style dining experience. You can order from old-fashioned phones at your table and enjoy family-friendly fare and there is even a double-decker English bus with tables inside!

But it's not just the ambiance that's worth the visit; their pizza is absolutely delicious as well. It's a fun, kitschy stop for a meal, and a chance to step back in time while enjoying some great pizza.

How to get there: Driving east to west on I-70, switch to Williamsburg Pike and head into Richmond.

How far the attraction is from I-70: This restaurant is about 10-15 minutes from the interstate, depending on the traffic.

Fees: There is no fee to enter.

Best time to visit: Clara's Pizza King is open every day from 11am to 12pm.

Where to park: The restaurant has a big parking lot for its guests.

18. Who North America, Camby, IN

What makes this attraction special: This is the only store in the United States solely dedicated to Doctor Who and its related merchandise. Here you'll find an extensive collection of items, from costumes and collectibles to home decor and DVD box sets.

The back of the shop houses the "Doctor Who Museum," featuring displays of memorabilia, including life-sized Daleks, TARDIS replicas, and autographs from various actors who have portrayed the Doctor and his companions.

How to get there: Use Exit 66 in Plainfield to reach the museum and store.

How far the attraction is from I-70: This shop and museum is only 10 minutes from I-70.

Fees: There is no fee to enter.

Best time to visit: The attraction is open every day except Sunday from 11am.

Where to park: There is plenty of parking outside.

19. Indianapolis Motor Speedway, IN

What makes this attraction special: As I-70 goes directly through Indianapolis, you can make a quick pitstop (pun intended!) at Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Known as "The Racing Capital of the World," the speedway is the home of the famous Indianapolis 500.

The on-site museum offers a chance to explore the history of motorsports with an impressive collection of cars that have raced here over the years, from classic Indy 500 winners to modern NASCAR vehicles. You'll also find exhibits detailing the history of the sport and the Speedway itself.

How to get there: Take Exit 77 in Indianapolis to reach the famous Speedway.

How far the attraction is from I-70: The speedway is only 10 minutes from I-70, depending on traffic.

Fees: Adults: $15, seniors (62+): $14, youth (6-15): $8, children (0-5): $2 (Prices are for the IMS Museum)

Best time to visit: The IMS Museum is typically open seven days a week, year-round, except for major holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas.

The Speedway hosts numerous racing events throughout the year, with the Indianapolis 500 in May being the most famous. Other events include the NASCAR Cup Series, concerts, and various car shows. For a list of scheduled events, it's best to check their official website.

Where to park: There is parking available onsite, though availability can vary based on events and races happening at the Speedway.