Top Five Places to Visit on Your Journey from Downtown Kansas City to Colorado Springs
Planning a road trip from downtown Kansas City, Missouri, to Colorado Springs, Colorado? You’re in for a treat! This drive offers stunning landscapes, charming towns, and interesting attractions along the way. Let’s explore the top five stops that will enhance your journey and create lasting memories.
As you hit the road, take I-70 and travel westward. This route takes you across the beautiful plains of Kansas and into the foothills of Colorado. A noteworthy halfway point is Wa Keeney, KS. This small town serves as a convenient resting spot with local eateries, friendly faces, and a glimpse of the rural life that characterizes much of Kansas.
1. The Big Well, Greensburg, KS
The Big Well in Greensburg is a true gem. Recognized as the world’s largest hand-dug well, it measures over 109 feet deep and 32 feet in diameter. Visitors can explore the well through a stairway that descends into its depths. The accompanying museum showcases the history of the town and its remarkable recovery from a devastating tornado in 2007. Stop here to appreciate the ingenuity of early settlers who constructed this engineering marvel.
2. Monument Rocks, Oakley, KS
Next, head to Monument Rocks near Oakley, commonly referred to as the "Chalk Pyramids." This unique natural formation, designated as a National Natural Landmark, features striking chalk formations that rise dramatically from the Kansas plains. The landscape is perfect for photography, hiking, and simply enjoying the vast openness. Feel free to take a picnic while basking in the beauty of this impressive place, and don't forget to watch for wildlife that call this area home.
3. Fort Wallace Museum, Wallace, KS
Fort Wallace Museum is a fantastic stop for anyone interested in Western history. Located in Wallace, this museum provides insight into the life of soldiers stationed at Fort Wallace during the Indian Wars. It showcases artifacts, photographs, and stories that bring the past to life. Additionally, the site is home to several historical markers that detail events like the Sand Creek Massacre and the Battle of Beecher Island. Make some time to explore the grounds and learn about the rich history surrounding the area.
4. Pikes Peak, Manitou Springs, CO
Once you cross into Colorado, make Pikes Peak your next destination. Towering at 14,115 feet, this iconic mountain offers breathtaking views and a range of outdoor activities. You can drive the Pikes Peak Highway, hike one of the numerous trails, or ride the cog railway for a leisurely ascent. As you reach the summit, take in the stunning vistas of the Rockies and the surrounding landscape. The history of this peak is also interesting; it inspired Katharine Lee Bates to write "America the Beautiful." Don’t forget to savor a famous donut from the summit café!
5. Garden of the Gods, Colorado Springs, CO
Finally, your journey culminates at the stunning Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs. This public park features towering sandstone rock formations set against the backdrop of snow-capped Pikes Peak. You can hike, bike, or drive through the park while marveling at the unique geology. Numerous trails lead visitors past these magnificent rocks, and educational displays provide insights into the park's ecology and geology. The visitor center also offers a gift shop and café, making it a perfect final stop to unwind before fully enjoying your time in Colorado Springs.
As you wrap up this incredible journey from Kansas City to Colorado Springs, remember that the trip is about the experience just as much as the destination. Each stop along the way enriches your understanding of the region and offers moments of adventure and discovery. From historical landmarks to natural wonders, the route showcases the unique beauty and diverse culture that exist between these two cities. Now, hit the road and enjoy the adventure!