Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Columbus, Ohio and Manhattan, Kansas

Columbus, Ohio and Manhattan, Kansas may be hundreds of miles apart, but the journey between the two cities is a fantastic opportunity to explore some hidden gems along the way. A road trip from Columbus to Manhattan offers the chance to experience incredible natural beauty, fascinating history, and unique attractions. The halfway point of the trip is St. Jacob, IL, which is an ideal spot to take a break and stretch your legs before continuing on with the journey. Here are some of the best things to do on a road trip from Columbus, Ohio to Manhattan, Kansas.

Exploring Hocking Hills State Park

Hocking Hills State Park is an outdoor enthusiast's paradise with its stunning rock formations, lush forests, and scenic trails. Visitors can hike to see the picturesque waterfalls, go rock climbing, or simply enjoy a peaceful picnic in this natural wonderland.

Interesting Fact: Hocking Hills State Park is home to the largest natural bridge in Ohio, the Rockbridge. It spans 100 feet and is estimated to be over 300 million years old.

Discovering the National Museum of the US Air Force

The National Museum of the US Air Force in Dayton is the world's largest and oldest military aviation museum. It offers an impressive collection of aircraft and artifacts, perfect for history buffs and aviation enthusiasts.

Interesting Fact: The museum's collection includes the presidential aircraft used by Presidents Franklin D. Roosevelt, Harry S. Truman, and Dwight D. Eisenhower.

Visiting the City Museum in St. Louis

The City Museum in St. Louis is an eclectic and unique attraction that offers a mix of playground, funhouse, and architectural marvel. Visitors of all ages will enjoy exploring the caves, tunnels, and slides that make up this quirky museum.

Interesting Fact: The City Museum is housed in the 600,000 square foot former International Shoe Company building.

Admiring the Scenery at the Kansas Flint Hills

The Kansas Flint Hills are home to some of the last remaining tallgrass prairie in the United States. Travelers can take in the breathtaking views, go for a hike, or simply appreciate the untouched beauty of this unique landscape.

Interesting Fact: The Kansas Flint Hills cover 11,000 square miles and are the largest area of tallgrass prairie left in the world.

Exploring the Scenic Overlooks at Konza Prairie

Konza Prairie is a nature preserve that offers visitors the chance to explore the natural beauty of the tallgrass prairie. Hiking trails lead to stunning scenic overlooks and provide the opportunity to see bison, deer, and a variety of other wildlife.

Interesting Fact: The Konza Prairie Biological Station is a research and educational facility jointly owned by The Nature Conservancy and Kansas State University.

In conclusion, the road trip from Columbus, Ohio to Manhattan, Kansas offers travelers a diverse range of experiences, from exploring natural wonders to delving into history and culture. The trip covers roughly 800 miles and takes around 12 hours to drive, making it the perfect opportunity to explore some interesting and off-the-beaten-path destinations along the way. Whether you're a nature lover, history buff, or simply enjoy the thrill of the open road, this road trip has something for everyone to enjoy.