Road Trip from Colorado Springs, Colorado to Perry, Oklahoma: Discover the Best Things to Do
Overview
Get ready to hit the road on an exciting journey from Colorado Springs, Colorado to Perry, Oklahoma! This road trip offers a scenic adventure through mesmerizing landscapes and amazing attractions. Spanning approximately 645 miles, this route is packed with fantastic stops along the way. One of the highlights of this journey is the halfway point in Ellis, KS, where weary travelers can take a break and relax before continuing their trip.
Top Five Things to Do
1. Explore the Rocky Mountain National Park in Estes Park, CO
Description: Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Rocky Mountains at the picturesque Rocky Mountain National Park in Estes Park, Colorado. Discover breathtaking vistas, serene lakes, and remarkable wildlife as you hike the park's many trails. Whether you choose a leisurely stroll or a challenging hike, this national park offers an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts.
Interesting Fact: Did you know that the highest road in the United States can be found in Rocky Mountain National Park? The Trail Ridge Road reaches an astonishing elevation of 12,183 feet, providing visitors with awe-inspiring views.
2. Experience Old West Charm in Dodge City, KS
Description: Step back in time and experience the enchanting ambiance of the Old West in Dodge City, Kansas. This historic town is famous for its association with cowboys, cattle drives, and legendary figures like Wyatt Earp. Explore Boot Hill Museum, where you can learn about the town's wild past, and enjoy live reenactments of famous gunfights. Dodge City is a must-visit destination for history buffs and fans of the Wild West.
Interesting Fact: Dodge City gained its name from nearby Fort Dodge, which was established to protect wagon trains from attacks by Native American tribes.
3. Discover Natural Wonder at Alabaster Caverns State Park in Freedom, OK
Description: Venture underground and witness the mesmerizing beauty of Alabaster Caverns State Park in Freedom, Oklahoma. This unique park offers guided tours of its stunning gypsum caves, which feature incredible natural formations. Marvel at the largest natural gypsum cave in the world, known as the Crystal Cave, and learn about the fascinating geological history behind these caverns. Don't forget your camera – the cave's ethereal beauty is truly awe-inspiring.
Interesting Fact: Alabaster Caverns State Park is home to one of the rarest species of bats in the world, the Ozark Big-Eared Bat. With only a few known colonies remaining, the park plays a crucial role in the bat's conservation.
4. Experience Native American Culture at the Cherokee Strip Museum in Perry, OK
Description: Delve into the rich Native American heritage of the region at the Cherokee Strip Museum in Perry, Oklahoma. Discover the history and traditions of the Cherokee, Ponca, and Osage tribes through a variety of exhibits and artifacts. Learn about the Trail of Tears, a dark period in American history, and gain a deeper understanding of the importance of preserving indigenous cultures. A visit to the museum is not only educational but also a respectful acknowledgment of Native American contributions to our society.
Interesting Fact: Perry, Oklahoma is named after James Richard Perry, a cattleman turned politician who played a significant role in the development of the territory.
5. Quench Your Thirst at Pops 66 Soda Ranch in Arcadia, OK
Description: Indulge your love for fizzy beverages at Pops 66 Soda Ranch in Arcadia, Oklahoma. Boasting an incredible selection of over 700 different sodas, this vibrant roadside attraction is a paradise for soda enthusiasts. Wander through the colorful aisles lined with glass bottles of all flavors and find your new favorite drink. Don't forget to snap a photo in front of the iconic 66-foot-tall soda bottle sculpture – the perfect Instagram opportunity!
Interesting Fact: The giant soda bottle sculpture at Pops 66 Soda Ranch is made of over 4,000 glass blocks and weighs a staggering 66,000 pounds.
Conclusion
On this fantastic road trip from Colorado Springs, Colorado to Perry, Oklahoma, travelers will embark on an unforgettable adventure through stunning landscapes and remarkable attractions. The route offers an array of diverse experiences, including exploring the majestic Rocky Mountain National Park in Estes Park, immersing oneself in the Old West charm of Dodge City, and discovering the natural wonders of Alabaster Caverns State Park in Freedom. Additionally, visitors can delve into Native American culture at the Cherokee Strip Museum in Perry and enjoy a soda extravaganza at Pops 66 Soda Ranch in Arcadia.
This road trip, spanning approximately 645 miles, provides a balance between nature, history, and quirky fun, making it an ideal choice for travelers seeking a varied and exciting journey. As you explore each destination, be sure to take in the fascinating facts and immerse yourself in the local culture. From the astounding heights of the Rocky Mountains to the captivating depths of Alabaster Caverns, this road trip promises to create memories that will last a lifetime. So, pack your bags, fuel up the car, and hit the road for an adventure-packed excursion from Colorado Springs, Colorado to Perry, Oklahoma!