Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Buena Vista, Colorado to Montgomery, Ohio
Driving from Buena Vista, Colorado to Montgomery, Ohio can be a long and daunting journey. The distance between the two cities is approximately 1271 miles, which is roughly a 19-hour drive without factoring in breaks. However, the good news is that there are several unexpected places to stop along the way that can make the journey more exciting and enjoyable. Here are five unexpected places to consider stopping during your next drive.
Halfway Point: Tonganoxie, KS
At roughly 10 hours into the drive, Tonganoxie, KS is the perfect place to stop, stretch your legs, and take a break. This small town, located off of I-70, is a hidden gem that many people overlook. Visitors can go to the Tonganoxie Water Park, which has various water slides and pools for all ages. There's also the Beatty Field, where families can play baseball and other sports.
Another stop is the Leavenworth County Farmers Market. It's open every Saturday from May until October, and it features fresh produce, homemade baked goods, arts and crafts, and much more. Lastly, visitors can explore one of the art galleries in Tonganoxie, such as Bella Roux and Prairie Bell. There is an excellent chance to find a piece of art that will perfectly fit your home.
Favorite food to eat: Dry-Rubbed Ribs at Bichelmeyer's Steakhouse
1. Kansas City, MO
About three hours east of Tonganoxie is Kansas City, MO. It's worth taking a detour from the main highway to visit this city. This is the birthplace of jazz; therefore, you can't miss visiting the American Jazz Museum, where you learn about jazz's history from its foundation to today. The museum restaurant, Blue Room Jazz Club, also has great food and live music.
Another famous spot to visit is the Kansas City Zoo, located near Swope Park. It is among the top-rated zoos globally and features a variety of animals, including polar bears, elephants, and penguins. The Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts is also a popular attraction worth visiting, which hosts shows such as operas, concerts, and ballets.
Favorite food to eat: Barbecue at Arthur Bryant's Barbeque
2. Indianapolis, IN
One of the most unexpected places to visit on the drive is Indianapolis, Indiana, located about three hours east of Kansas City. This city is widely known for hosting the Indy 500, but there are many reasons to stop by besides using the race tracks.
The Indianapolis Motor Speedway is an excellent stop for racing enthusiasts who want to know more about the history of motor sports. For art and museum lovers, the Indianapolis Museum of Art is a great choice. It has ancient and contemporary art, sculptures, textiles, and special exhibits. There is also the historic Garfield Park Conservatory and Sunken Gardens, perfect for nature lovers to relax and enjoy the surrounding beauty.
Visitors can grab a Hoosier Pork Tenderloin sandwich, available in most eateries and restaurants in Indianapolis, a local favorite.
Favorite food to eat: Hoosier Pork Tenderloin sandwich at Mug-n-Bun
3. Cincinnati, OH
Located in southern Ohio, Cincinnati is an excellent spot to visit on the drive from Indianapolis to Montgomery. The American Sign Museum is a delight for history buffs, encompassing signs from various brands, small businesses, and franchises from the early 20th century until today. History enthusiasts can also explore the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center, which features exhibits and stories about the Underground Railroad and freedom seekers in America.
However, to experience Cincinnati's culture and tradition, the Mustard Museum is the perfect stop to educate about the more than 100 varieties of mustard in the world and how they are made. Cincinnati-style chili, consisting of cooked spaghetti topped with chili sauce and cheese, is a popular local dish.
Favorite food to eat: Cincinnati-style chili at Camp Washington Chili
4. Paducah, KY
Paducah, KY, located about an hour and a half east of St. Louis, is another hidden gem that many people might not be aware of. Visiting the National Quilt Museum is a must, as it hosts an outstanding collection of handmade quilts from various eras, styles, and cultures.
Lowertown Arts District is an area worth visiting, as it features various art studios, boutiques, shops, and galleries. Additionally, the downtown farmers' market operates every Saturday from May until October.
Visitors should make sure they get a taste of Kentucky's best coffee, the Crimson Cup, at the coffee shops located in Paducah.
Favorite food to eat: Pulled Pork at Doe's Eat Place
Conclusion
The drive from Buena Vista, Colorado, to Montgomery, Ohio, is lengthy, but following this guide makes it worthwhile. Exploring these five unexpected spots provides a great opportunity to experience the incredibly diverse Midwestern culture, arts, history, and food. Going beyond the beaten path, discovering hidden gems, and exploring new places is what a memorable journey is all about.