The Best Things to Do on a Road Trip from Charlottesville, VA to Manhattan, KS
The road trip from Charlottesville, Virginia to Manhattan, Kansas takes you through several states and exciting destinations. The road trip covers approximately 1,100 miles and takes approximately 17 hours to complete. The trip offers incredible experiences as you travel through major U.S. cities, small towns, and iconic natural landmarks. The halfway point is Evansville, IN, which offers several attractions worth visiting. Here are some of the best things to do on a road trip from Charlottesville, Virginia to Manhattan, Kansas.
1. Visit the Gateway Arch in St. Louis, MO
The Gateway Arch in St. Louis, MO, is a marvel of engineering and an iconic symbol of the city. The 630-foot high arch dominates the skyline and provides incredible views of the city and the Mississippi River. Visitors can take a tram ride to the top of the arch and enjoy the breathtaking views. The Gateway Arch is also a national park that offers visitors opportunities to learn about the westward expansion of the United States.
Interesting Fact: The Gateway Arch is the tallest national monument in the United States.
2. Explore the National Corvette Museum in Bowling Green, Kentucky
The National Corvette Museum in Bowling Green, Kentucky, is a must-visit destination for car enthusiasts. The museum showcases the history of the Corvette and displays some of the rarest and most iconic models ever produced. Visitors can stroll through the museum, admiring the beauty and power of these sleek sports cars. The museum also offers guided tours and interactive exhibits, where visitors can learn about the manufacturing process and the technological advancements that have made the Corvette a legendary car.
Interesting Fact: The National Corvette Museum is home to the one-millionth Corvette ever produced.
3. Discover Mammoth Cave National Park in Kentucky
Mammoth Cave National Park in Kentucky is home to the world's longest known cave system, with over 400 miles of explored caves. Visitors can take guided tours of the caves, where they can marvel at the incredible rock formations and underground waterways. The park also offers several outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing.
Interesting Fact: Mammoth Cave is home to several rare and endangered species, including the Kentucky Cave Shrimp.
4. Experience the Ozark National Scenic Riverways in Missouri
The Ozark National Scenic Riverways in Missouri offer visitors a chance to immerse themselves in some of the most beautiful natural scenery in the country. The park includes two of the most renowned waterways in the Midwest, the Current and the Jacks Fork Rivers. Visitors can take canoe or kayak trips through the crystal-clear waters, and enjoy some of the best scenic views in the region. The park also offers several hiking trails that wind through the rugged hills and woods surrounding the rivers.
Interesting Fact: The Ozark National Scenic Riverways is home to over 200 species of fish, making it an angler's paradise.
5. Visit the Flint Hills Discovery Center in Manhattan, Kansas
The Flint Hills Discovery Center in Manhattan, Kansas, is the perfect destination for families and nature enthusiasts. The center offers exhibits and interactive displays that highlight the unique ecosystem of the Flint Hills region. Visitors can also take guided tours of the Flint Hills area, where they can learn about the wildlife, geology, and history of the region. The center also offers several outdoor activities, including hiking and bird-watching.
Interesting Fact: The Flint Hills is the largest remaining tallgrass prairie in the world.
Conclusion
The road trip from Charlottesville, Virginia to Manhattan, Kansas offers travelers a chance to discover some of the most exciting destinations in the United States. From the Gateway Arch in St. Louis to the Flint Hills Discovery Center in Manhattan, there are countless opportunities to explore natural wonders, iconic landmarks, and unique cultural attractions. The trip takes approximately 17 hours to complete, and the halfway point is Evansville, IN, which has several attractions worth visiting. Whether you're a car enthusiast, nature lover, or history buff, this road trip has something for everyone.