Need info on various cities across the country please - road trip!!?

We're being relocated from the east coast to the west coast. Rather than fly, we're choosing to drive across from NY to CA. The map shows we'll p through cities such as Chicago, Des Moines, Lincoln, Cheyenne, Salt Lake City, Reno, Sacramento & Cleveland. Can anyone suggest interesting things to see or places to visit along the way? We'll be travelling with 2 teenagers and a 7-year old as well. We'd like to make the most out of this trip for everyone but have no clue where to start. The web mostly gives you tourist trap type places. Any info is appreciated! Thanks!