Uncovering the Beauty of Midwest Road Trips: A Guide to Exploring from Des Moines to Kansas City
If you're looking for a road trip that showcases the beauty of the Midwest, then look no further than the route from Des Moines to Kansas City. This scenic drive provides travelers with breathtaking views of rolling hills, picturesque farmland, and charming small towns. Whether you're a nature lover, a history buff, or a foodie, this road trip has something for everyone.
One of the main attractions along this route is the iconic Covered Bridges of Madison County. Fans of the novel and movie of the same name will appreciate the opportunity to see these historic wooden structures up close. Another must-see stop is the beautifully landscaped Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden, where you can stroll through lush gardens and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
No Midwest road trip would be complete without sampling some of the local cuisine. Along this route, you can indulge in BBQ, try famous corn fritters, and savor the flavors of homemade pies. It's no wonder that Midwestern comfort food is known around the world!
So gas up your car, pack your bags, and hit the road to uncover the hidden beauty of the Midwest. This guide will take you on an unforgettable journey through some of America's most charming and scenic destinations. Don't miss out on the chance to experience all that Iowa and Missouri have to offer on this stunning road trip!
Introduction
The Midwest region of the United States is often overlooked in favor of the more well-known tourist hotspots like New York, Los Angeles, or Miami. However, what the Midwest lacks in glitz and glamour, it makes up for with its charming small towns, rolling hills, and friendly locals. A road trip through the heartland can be an eye-opening experience, and we've put together a guide to help you discover the beauty of the Midwest as you travel from Des Moines to Kansas City.
Getting There
Des Moines is located in the heart of Iowa and is easily accessible by car via Interstate 80. From there, head south on Interstate 35 towards Kansas City, Missouri. The journey should take approximately 3 hours, but there are plenty of sights to see along the way, so allow yourself plenty of time.
Things to Do in Des Moines
Don't miss the chance to explore Des Moines, Iowa's capital city. Visit the State Capitol Building, which offers stunning views of the city from its observation deck. Take a stroll around Gray's Lake Park or explore the interactive exhibits at the science center.
Small Town Charm in Ames
As you continue south on Interstate 35, make a stop in Ames, a quaint college town with a bustling Main Street. Take a walk around Iowa State University's beautiful campus or visit the Reiman Gardens, a stunning botanical garden with over 27 acres of outdoor beauty to explore.
A Blast from the Past in Story City
For a taste of small-town nostalgia, take a detour to Story City, located just off Interstate 35. This charming town is home to the antique-filled Carousel Museum and the picturesque Story City Historical Society.
The Ultimate Pit Stop in Des Moines
Before continuing on your journey, be sure to stop by the Iowa 80 Trucking Museum, located off Interstate 80 in Walcott. This unique museum showcases the evolution of the trucking industry and features antique trucks, from horse-drawn delivery wagons to modern semi-trucks.
Diverse Dining in West Des Moines
West Des Moines is a great place to grab a bite to eat before continuing your journey. With its diverse range of dining options, there's something for everyone. From farm-to-table cuisine at Sage to delicious sushi at Wasabi Tao, you won't be disappointed.
The Beauty of Lake of Three Fires
As you approach Missouri, take a detour to visit Lake of Three Fires State Park. This scenic park offers hiking trails, fishing opportunities, and beautiful views of the lake.
Exploring Kansas City's Art Scene
As you enter Kansas City, be sure to explore its vibrant arts scene. Visit the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, which boasts an impressive collection of over 35,000 works of art, including pieces by van Gogh, Monet, and Rembrandt.
A Taste of Kansas City's BBQ
No trip to Kansas City would be complete without trying its famous BBQ. Head to Joe's Kansas City BBQ, which has been voted one of the best BBQ spots in the country by numerous outlets, including Anthony Bourdain.
Conclusion
A road trip through the Midwest may not be on everyone's travel bucket list, but it should be. The region offers endless small towns, charming scenery, and friendly locals, providing a truly authentic American experience. So pack your bags, hit the open road, and discover the beauty of the Midwest on a road trip from Des Moines to Kansas City.
| Des Moines | Ames | Story City | West Des Moines | Lake of Three Fires | Kansas City |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| State Capitol Building | Iowa State University | Carousel Museum | Sage | Hiking | Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art |
| Gray's Lake Park | Reiman Gardens | Story City Historical Society | Wasabi Tao | Fishing | Joe's Kansas City BBQ |
| Science Center | Lake Views |
Opinion: While there are many great road trips to take in the United States, a journey through the Midwest offers a unique glimpse into America's heartland. From the small towns to the scenic countryside, there's no shortage of beauty to be found in this often-overlooked region. So pack up your car and discover the charm of the Midwest for yourself.
Dear valued readers,
As we come to the end of our journey, we hope that you've found our guide to exploring the Midwest from Des Moines to Kansas City helpful in planning your own road trip. Our goal was to uncover the hidden gems and beauty of this often overlooked region of the United States.
From the sweeping landscapes of the Flint Hills to the charming small towns filled with history and culture, the Midwest has so much to offer for those willing to venture off the beaten path. We hope that our recommendations have inspired you to take a drive and explore this part of the country for yourself.
Thank you for joining us on this adventure. Remember to always be open to new experiences and see the beauty in the unexpected. Happy travels!
Are you planning a Midwest road trip? Check out our guide to exploring from Des Moines to Kansas City.
People Also Ask:
- What are some must-see attractions in Des Moines?
- What are some good restaurants to try in Des Moines?
- What are some scenic drives in Iowa?
- What are some must-see attractions in Kansas City?
- What are some good restaurants to try in Kansas City?
- What are some scenic drives in Missouri?
Some of the top attractions in Des Moines include the Iowa State Capitol, Pappajohn Sculpture Park, and the Science Center of Iowa.
For a classic Iowa experience, try the famous pork tenderloin sandwich at B&B Grocery, Meat & Deli. Other great options include Centro, Django, and Zombie Burger.
The Great River Road, Loess Hills Scenic Byway, and Bridges of Madison County are all beautiful drives in Iowa.
Kansas City has plenty to offer, including the National World War I Museum, the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, and the Country Club Plaza shopping district.
Kansas City is known for its barbecue, so be sure to try some at places like Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Que or Arthur Bryant's. Other great options include Q39, Jack Stack Barbecue, and Cafe Sebastienne.
The Katy Trail, Ozark National Scenic Riverways, and Route 66 are all scenic drives to consider in Missouri.