Best of the West: Top Places to See When Driving from Aurora, Colorado to Kansas City, Missouri

The stretch of road that connects Aurora, Colorado, to Kansas City, Missouri, is a scenic and interesting one. From towering mountains to rolling fields, you'll see diverse and stunning landscapes as you journey east. In this blog post, we have curated a list of the top places to stop and explore along the way. Whether you're looking for outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or just a good meal, this list has got you covered!

Heading East: Don't Miss These Five Stops

Denver, Colorado

Denver is the capital of the state of Colorado and is located approximately 35 minutes west of Aurora. This bustling city is home to several popular attractions such as the Denver Zoo, the Denver Botanic Gardens, and the Denver Art Museum.

One of the most iconic sites in Denver is the Red Rocks Amphitheatre, which is located just fifteen miles west of the city. This natural amphitheater is surrounded by majestic red rock formations and hosts some of the biggest names in music. Stop by in the morning or afternoon to hike the Red Rocks Park trails or catch a yoga class on the rocks, and be sure to check out the Visitor Center for information on upcoming shows and tours.

Hays, Kansas

Hays is a small city located in western Kansas that offers a glimpse into the state's history and culture. Start your day with a visit to the Hays Kansas Downtown Historic District, where you'll find charming shops, restaurants, and galleries. Don't forget to snap a photo with the famous Tin Man statue, which has stood in the heart of downtown for decades.

Next, head over to the Frontier Park, which celebrates Hays' history as a frontier town. Here, you can tour the Fort Hays State Historic Site, which once served as a military installation in the 1800s. Finish up your day by visiting the Wild West Crossroads attractions, which include a replica of a frontier town complete with saloons and shootouts.

Dodge City, Kansas

No trip to Kansas is complete without a stop in Dodge City, famously known for its history as a cowboy town. First, head to the Boot Hill Museum, where you can step back in time to the Wild West. Here, you'll tour a replica of an old west town and learn about its history through interactive exhibits and docent-led tours.

Next, visit the Gunfighters Wax Museum, where you'll meet life-size wax figures of famous gunslingers like Wyatt Earp and Doc Holliday. Lastly, stop by the Long Branch Saloon for a cold beer and a chance to see a live action gunfight simulation.

Wichita, Kansas

Wichita is the largest city in Kansas and has a thriving arts and food scene. Start your day by visiting the Wichita Art Museum, which houses a vast collection of American art and contemporary works. Next, stop by the Old Town district, which is home to many of Wichita's best restaurants and nightlife options.

If you're a history buff, don't miss the Kansas African American Museum, which showcases the contributions and stories of African Americans in the state and beyond. Finally, head over to Botanica, the Wichita Gardens, where you can relax and unwind in the lush and beautiful outdoor spaces.

Kansas City, Missouri

Kansas City, Missouri, is an exciting and vibrant city that marks the end of this road trip. Start your first day by visiting the National World War I Museum and Memorial, which offers a glimpse into the life of soldiers and civilians during this time in history. Next, head over to the Country Club Plaza, which is a premier destination for shopping, dining, and entertainment.

In the evening, catch a show at the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts, where you'll find year-round performing arts events. Before leaving the city, don't forget to indulge in some Kansas City-style barbecue, which is known for its smoky, savory flavors.

Conclusion

Driving from Aurora, Colorado, to Kansas City, Missouri, is a journey that is full of surprises and memorable experiences. From small towns to big cities, from cowboy history to modern art, you'll see a range of sights and cultures along the way. This list of top places to see will help you make the most of your trip and create unforgettable memories. Happy travels!