Top Five Popular Attractions Between Cedar Rapids, Iowa and Phoenix, Arizona

Are you ready for an adventure through the heartland of America? This road trip between Cedar Rapids, Iowa and Phoenix, Arizona offers a wide variety of sights and attractions along the way. Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or just looking for some good ole-fashioned fun, this trip has got you covered. So buckle up and let's hit the road!

Halfway Point: Guymon, OK

Our halfway point between Cedar Rapids and Phoenix is the charming town of Guymon, Oklahoma. Located in the Oklahoma panhandle, Guymon offers a glimpse into the unique history and culture of the American West. Visitors can explore the local museums, such as the No Man's Land Museum and the Cimarron Heritage Center, which showcase artifacts and stories from the pioneer days. For outdoor enthusiasts, the nearby Black Mesa State Park offers some of the best hiking and camping in the area. And don't miss the chance to sample some authentic cowboy cuisine at one of the local steakhouses.

Top Five Places to See

1. Tallgrass Prairie Preserve

Located just a few hours south of Guymon, the Tallgrass Prairie Preserve is a must-see for nature lovers. This 40,000-acre wildlife refuge is home to bison, elk, and over 300 species of birds. Visitors can hike the miles of trails, take a guided tour, or simply soak in the stunning views of the rolling hills and tallgrass prairie. Be sure to bring your camera, as this is one of the most picturesque spots in the Midwest.

2. Palo Duro Canyon State Park

If you're looking for some breathtaking scenery, look no further than Palo Duro Canyon State Park. Located just south of Amarillo, Texas, this park features towering red rock cliffs, deep canyons, and miles of hiking trails. Visitors can explore the park on horseback, mountain bike, or even take in a show at the outdoor musical theater. And for those looking for a unique camping experience, the park offers everything from traditional campsites to cozy cabins.

3. Cadillac Ranch

No road trip through the Southwest would be complete without a visit to the iconic Cadillac Ranch. Located just off Route 66 outside of Amarillo, this public art installation features ten Cadillac cars buried nose-first in the ground. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own spray paint and leave their mark on the cars, making it a colorful and ever-changing attraction. Whether you're an art lover or just looking for a fun photo op, Cadillac Ranch is not to be missed.

4. Petrified Forest National Park

As you near the Arizona border, be sure to stop at Petrified Forest National Park. This park is home to some of the world's most impressive collections of petrified wood, as well as stunning vistas of the Painted Desert and the iconic Route 66. Visitors can take a scenic drive through the park, hike the miles of trails, or even camp overnight under the stars. And for those looking to learn more about the unique geology and history of the area, the park offers ranger-led tours and educational programs.

5. Montezuma Castle National Monument

Our final stop on this road trip is the Montezuma Castle National Monument, located just outside of Phoenix. This incredible cliff dwelling was built more than 1,000 years ago by the Sinagua people and is one of the best-preserved examples of Native American architecture in the Southwest. Visitors can explore the site on a self-guided tour, learning about the daily life of the Sinagua and marveling at the ancient engineering that went into creating this remarkable structure.

Conclusion

This road trip between Cedar Rapids, Iowa and Phoenix, Arizona is full of adventure and excitement. Whether you're an outdoorsman, history buff, or just looking for a good time, there's something for everyone along this route. So why not hit the road and see where it takes you? The best route to take is to head south on I-380 to I-80 west, then south on I-35 through Des Moines and Kansas City before hopping on Route 66 through Oklahoma and Texas. From there, it's a short drive to the Southwest and the adventure of a lifetime. Happy travels!