Big trip to the Midwest

[rainperimeter]

Hi y'all. Sometime in mid July I'm looking to start a ride to Minneapolis. Go visit friends. I have a month off. I have a new, custom built touring bike. I'm out of school for the summer.

So...who has ridden this general ride (a long trip from here to MN and beyond)? What route was taken? The Adventure Cycling route? What would you avoid? What would you change? How long did it take?

I asked this question on AskMetaFilter and the question quickly got buried. I'm experienced at touring, solo and with others. I have all the gear. I don't need newbie tips. I'd like specifics about riding this general direction and your experiences. I know it's gonna be hot, I know it gets desolate, etc.