Driving Time between Buffalo, New York and Downtown Kansas City, Missouri

A picture depicting driving

Cross-Country Road Trip: Buffalo to Downtown Kansas City

Are you planning a cross-country road trip and trying to figure out the best route from Buffalo, New York to Downtown Kansas City, Missouri? Look no further! In this article, we’ll explore several options for getting from Buffalo to Kansas City and provide you with estimated driving times for each route. Plus, we’ll throw in some recommendations for places to see and things to do along the way. So buckle up and let’s get started!

The Direct Route via I-90 and I-71

The most direct route from Buffalo, New York, to Downtown Kansas City is to head southwest on I-90 and then take I-71 south through Ohio and Kentucky. The total distance is approximately 1,160 miles, and the estimated driving time is 17 hours.

While this option will get you to your destination the fastest, there are plenty of interesting stops to make along the way. In Ohio, you could visit the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland or explore the German Village neighborhood in Columbus. In Kentucky, you could tour the famous horse farms in Lexington or visit Mammoth Cave National Park.

The Upstate New York and Midwest Route

If you want to explore some of the smaller towns and cities along the way, consider taking a slightly more scenic route through upstate New York and the Midwest. Head west on I-90 and then take I-80 west through Pennsylvania, Ohio, Indiana, and Illinois. From there, you can connect with I-70 and head west to Kansas City.

This route is approximately 1,400 miles and will take you an estimated 21 hours to drive. But the extra time is worth it if you want to visit charming towns like Erie, Pennsylvania, or stop at road trip attractions like the House on the Rock in Wisconsin. If you’re a foodie, be sure to stop in Chicago for some deep-dish pizza or a classic Chicago-style hot dog.

The Southern Route via I-81 and I-40

For a more scenic and leisurely trip, consider taking a southern route through the Appalachian Mountains and the Smoky Mountains. Head south on I-81 out of Buffalo and continue on I-40 through Virginia, Tennessee, and Arkansas. Then, take I-49 north to Downtown Kansas City.

This route is the longest at approximately 1,800 miles, but it provides stunning views of the mountains and plenty of opportunities for hiking and outdoor recreation. It also takes you through Asheville, North Carolina, a charming mountain town with a vibrant arts scene. The estimated driving time is 30 hours, so be sure to give yourself plenty of time to enjoy the journey.

No matter which route you choose, there are plenty of attractions and sights to see along the way. Some of our top recommendations include:

  • Niagara Falls, New York
  • Cedar Point Amusement Park, Ohio
  • Navy Pier, Chicago
  • Graceland, Memphis
  • Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas
  • Silver Dollar City, Missouri

Remember to take breaks and stretch your legs often during the long drive. You’ll need to refuel your car and yourself, so make sure to stop at roadside diners and local cafes along the way. And most importantly, enjoy the journey! A cross-country road trip is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that you’ll never forget.