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MTTS 2012 Primary Route — Galena, IL to Des Moines, IA

Let’s face it…a MINI Takes the States (MTTS) 2012 transit from Chicago to Des Moines via I-80 on July 9th wouldn’t be a very memorable drive (unless you like large truck stops). Recognizing this fact, the good folks at MINI USA (using recommendations from your local Iowa MINI friends) are offering MTTS 2012 participants a great alternative to the interstate highways that will do wonders to spice up your trip.

The primary MTTS 2012 route is predicated on the expectation that the main MINI caravan departing Chicago will travel west on I-90 to Rockford, IL and then transition to US-20 west to a lunchtime stop in the beautiful hamlet of Galena, IL. Once in Iowa, the route heads southwest and passes through the Amana Colonies, significant for their unique communal history and one of the most popular stops in the State. From the Amanas, the route continues west through Newton (home of the Iowa Speedway) and then on into Des Moines.

The Google Map at the following link provides details of the route from Galena to Des Moines:

MTTS 2012 Primary Route Map — Galena, IL to Des Moines, IA

More information on Galena, IL: Visit Galena
…and on the Amana Colonies in Iowa: The Amana Colonies

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Optional MTTS 2012 Feeder Route to the Field of Dreams Movie Site

Several prospective MTTS travelers have contacted EIM about route recommendations to the Field of Dreams Movie Site. Our recommendation for a feeder route takes you through the city of Dubuque and through several wonderful, scenic, and winding Iowa roads. Plan on an additional 40 minutes of driving time, not counting time spent enjoying the site. The route eventually rejoins US-151 and the primary route at Cascade, IA.

The following Google Map shows the optional EIM recommended feeder route to the Field of Dreams:

EIM MTTS 2012 Optional Feeder Route Map — Field of Dreams Movie Site

More information on the Field of Dreams: Field of Dreams Movie Site

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Enjoy your trip through eastern Iowa!