Top Five Places to Visit on a Trip between Cape May, NJ and Colorado Springs, CO

Are you planning a road trip from Cape May, NJ to Colorado Springs, CO? Well, we’ve got you covered! We’ve lined up the top five places to visit on the way, offering diverse experiences across the states of Illinois, Missouri, Kansas and Colorado.

Halfway Point: Pocahontas, Illinois

Pocahontas, Illinois, located at the halfway point of the trip, is a picturesque town of 800 people. As you approach the town, you’ll be greeted by the stunning Pocahontas Lake, providing a peaceful stop for a walk or a picnic. This town is steeped in history and has several historical landmarks that are worth visiting. One such landmark is the Old National Road Welcome Center- an 1830s rest stop on the National Road. For those interested in small town charm and history, Pocahontas is the perfect stop.

Stop 1: St. Louis, Missouri

The Gateway Arch: A Sky-high Spectacular

No visit to St. Louis, Missouri is complete without a stop at the Gateway Arch, affectionately known as the Gateway to the West. Built during the 1960s and standing at 630 feet high, the Arch is not only an engineering marvel but also offers visitors a breathtaking 360-degree view of the city below. Visitors can take a tram to the top of the Arch, where they can enjoy the view from the observation deck, visit the museum at the base, or enjoy a meal at the revolving restaurant at the top.

Stop 2: Kansas City, Missouri

The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art: An Art Lover’s Haven

Art enthusiasts, make sure to stop by the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art in Kansas City, Missouri. This museum houses a diverse range of art from across the world, including works by famous artists such as Monet and van Gogh. The museum’s collection is spread across several buildings, so make sure to allocate plenty of time to explore. Don’t forget to check out the massive sculpture garden on the grounds, which is a work of art in itself.

Stop 3: Wichita, Kansas

The Keeper of the Plains: A Marvelous Monument

Located at the confluence of the Arkansas and Little Arkansas Rivers, the Keeper of the Plains is a 44-foot-tall steel sculpture that is truly a sight to behold. Standing on a 30-foot pedestal, the Keeper represents the native American heritage of the region. Visitors can watch a stunning fire-and-water display every night as the Keeper is illuminated by fire pots. Make sure to take a walk across the pedestrian bridge that spans the Arkansas river for the best views.

Stop 4: Great Bend, Kansas

The Cheyenne Bottoms Wildlife Area: A Naturalist’s Paradise

The Cheyenne Bottoms Wildlife area in Great Bend, Kansas is an ecological marvel. This natural wetland is home to an impressive array of plant and bird species, making it a popular destination for birdwatchers. Visitors can take a self-guided auto tour through the area or explore on foot. A stop at the Kansas Wetlands Education Center provides insight on the wetland's ecosystems, their importance and how to protect them.

Stop 5: Denver, Colorado

Denver Botanic Gardens: A Flower Lover’s Dream

Finally, the Denver Botanic Gardens, located in the heart of the city, is a must-visit destination for nature lovers. The gardens’ impressive collection of plants, including distinctive native alpine plants, is arranged in 43 different gardens, covering 24 acres. The gardens also include several ponds and a conservatory, which houses tropical and subtropical plants. Denver Botanic Gardens is a beautiful and relaxing way to cap off your journey through four different states.

Whether you’re interested in nature, history, art or engineering marvels, these stops offer something for everyone. Don’t miss the opportunity to see diverse and beautiful places on your journey from Cape May to Colorado Springs.