Road Trip from Charleston, WV to Amarillo, TX

Are you looking to embark on a road trip from Charleston, West Virginia to Amarillo, Texas? Then read on to discover the top museums, parks, and landmarks to visit along the way!

Did you know that the distance between Charleston and Amarillo is approximately 1400 miles? This journey is an adventure that will take you through eight states, each with its own unique landscapes and attractions. It's the perfect opportunity to see more of the United States.

Halfway between Charleston and Amarillo is the small city of Richland, MO. This charming town offers visitors a range of experiences from historical museums to scenic hiking trails. Be sure to take a stroll through their historic downtown area and enjoy a cup of coffee in one of their quaint cafes.

This road trip will take approximately 22 hours of driving, depending on traffic and your preferred route. However, taking a few days to explore the different stops will make the trip more enjoyable and relaxing.

Top Five Places to Visit

1. Gateway Arch, St. Louis, Missouri (Stop One)

The Gateway Arch is a must-see landmark located in the heart of St. Louis. The arch stands at 630 feet tall, making it the tallest arch in the world. Visitors can take a ride up to the top in a tram for spectacular views of the city. The Gateway Arch is also home to the Museum at the Gateway Arch, which tells the story of the famous Lewis and Clark expedition.

Point of Interest: The City Museum is an eclectic and interactive museum especially popular with kids. It features caves, tunnels, and a circus, all made from recycled materials.

2. Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma (Stop Two)

The Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum is a memorial to the victims of the 1995 bombing of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building. The museum tells the story of the bombing and its aftermath through a series of exhibits, photographs, and artifacts. The memorial also includes a reflecting pool and a field of empty chairs, each representing a person who died in the bombing.

Point of Interest: The Myriad Botanical Gardens is a scenic urban park located in downtown Oklahoma City. The gardens feature a variety of plants, flowers, and fountains, making it a perfect spot for a picnic or a leisurely walk.

3. Cadillac Ranch, Amarillo, Texas (Stop Three)

Cadillac Ranch is a unique art installation located just outside of Amarillo. The installation features ten Cadillac cars buried nose first in the ground. Visitors are welcome to bring their own spray paint and add their own artistic touch to the cars. Cadillac Ranch is a vibrant and colorful stop for those looking for something unusual and Instagram-worthy.

Point of Interest: The Palo Duro Canyon State Park is the second-largest canyon in the United States and is located just 25 miles outside of Amarillo. The canyon offers hiking, camping, and scenic drives for outdoor enthusiasts.

4. San Antonio River Walk, San Antonio, Texas (Stop Four)

The San Antonio River Walk is a popular destination located in downtown San Antonio. The River Walk is a network of walkways along the San Antonio River, lined with shops, restaurants, and bars. Visitors can take a boat tour of the River Walk, which is especially stunning at night when it is lit up with colorful lights.

Point of Interest: The Alamo is a historic mission and fortress located in the heart of San Antonio. It played a crucial role in the Texas Revolution in 1836 and is now a museum and shrine to Texan independence.

5. Carlsbad Caverns National Park, Carlsbad, New Mexico (Stop Five)

Carlsbad Caverns National Park is a must-see destination for nature lovers. The park includes more than 100 caves, some of which are open to the public. Visitors can take a guided tour of the famous Carlsbad Caverns, which boasts stunning stalactites and stalagmites. Wildlife is also abundant in the park, and visitors can spot everything from bats to snakes to coyotes.

Point of Interest: The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens State Park is an outdoor museum and botanical garden located in the Chihuahuan Desert. The park features exhibits on desert wildlife and plant life, as well as a greenhouse full of cacti and succulents.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the road trip from Charleston, West Virginia to Amarillo, Texas is a journey of over 1400 miles. Along the way, there are many interesting places to stop, including the Gateway Arch in St. Louis, Cadillac Ranch near Amarillo, and Carlsbad Caverns National Park in New Mexico. This road trip allows you to experience the best of the Midwest and Southwest while taking in beautiful landscapes and historic landmarks. Good luck and safe travels!