A Road Trip from Chester, Virginia to Estes Park, Colorado: Top Five Popular Attractions to See
Are you planning a road trip from Chester, Virginia to Estes Park, Colorado? With stunning views, refreshing breezes, and exciting new destinations to explore, this road trip across America's heartland promises to be a memorable experience. To make the most of your trip, here are the Top Five Popular Attractions you must see between Chester, Virginia, and Estes Park, Colorado.
Halfway Point: New Florence, MO
The halfway point of your journey is the charming town of New Florence, MO. This small town boasts some great food, quaint shops, and lovely accommodations for you to stay in if you decide to make a stop. You can experience the rich culture of Missouri by visiting the local wineries and distilleries, taking a hike at the Cuivre River State Park, and enjoying some local cuisine at the historic Mill Restaurant. Also, you can visit the historic Graham Cave State Park, which is home to several well-preserved historic sites showcasing the unique history of the state.
Top Five Places to See List
1. Gateway Arch, St. Louis, MO
Constructed in 1965, this iconic structure is a must-see attraction in St. Louis. The gateway to the West stands at 630 feet tall, making it the tallest man-made monument in the United States. Visitors can take the elevator to the top for an incredible view of the city and Mississippi River.
2. Rocky Mountain National Park, CO
If you're a naturalist traveler, then visiting Rocky Mountain National Park should be your top priority. This iconic national park, which lies between Estes Park and Grand Lake, offers a variety of activities for visitors to experience, including camping, hiking, and stunning scenic drives.
3. Shenandoah National Park, VA
Located just outside of Chester, VA, the Shenandoah National Park is a must-see destination for nature lovers. With over 200,000 acres of unspoiled wilderness, visitors can take in stunning mountain views, hike the trails, and take a scenic drive along Skyline Drive.
4. Mammoth Cave National Park, KY
Located in central Kentucky, Mammoth Cave National Park is home to the world's longest known cave system. Visitors can take guided tours of the cave system and learn about the history and geology of this incredible underground labyrinth. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes, as the tours can be quite challenging.
5. Gateway to the West Museum, Kearney, MO
The Gateway to the West Museum, located in Kearney, MO, is a fascinating museum dedicated to exploring the history of the Missouri River. Visitors can view artifacts and exhibits that include Native American and pioneer life, the Lewis and Clark Expedition, and the Civil War.
Conclusion
The best route for this road trip would be to start in Chester, VA and follow I-64 west to St. Louis, MO. From there, take I-70 west to the Gateway to the West Museum in Kearney, MO. Afterward, continue on I-70 to the halfway point of New Florence, MO. Then take US-50, which will take you to the Gateway Arch in St. Louis. Travel on US-50 farther west to Kentucky to visit Mammoth Cave National Park. From there, continue west to Shenandoah National Park in Virginia, and then end the trip at Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado. By following this route, you can explore the rich history, stunning scenery, and natural wonders of America's heartland.