Road Tripping from Chicago, Illinois to Wichita, Kansas
If you're thinking of hitting the road from Chicago to Wichita, you're in for a treat. Along the way, you'll come across a plethora of amazing museums, parks, and landmarks that will leave you in awe. Here's a list of the top five places you should visit on your road trip from Chicago to Wichita.
Did You Know?
The route from Chicago to Wichita spans over 600 miles, covering three different states: Illinois, Missouri, and Kansas. The journey will take you through scenic landscapes, beautiful parks, cultural centers, and historic landmarks. You'll have plenty of opportunities to make stops, take pictures, and enjoy the scenery.
The Halfway Point: Macon, MO
Macon, MO is about halfway between Chicago and Wichita. This small town has a lot to offer, including parks, museums, and historic landmarks. One of the most popular attractions in town is the Long Branch State Park, which offers beautiful views of the lake, hiking trails, and camping sites.
The Length of the Trip
It will take you about 9 hours to drive from Chicago to Wichita without making any stops. However, we recommend taking your time and exploring some of the amazing places along the way. Plan for at least a weekend trip, so that you can relax, take pictures, and absorb the local culture.
Top Five Places to Visit
- The Field Museum (Chicago, IL) The Field Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in natural history, anthropology, and cultural studies. This museum has an extensive collection of artifacts, fossils, and specimens, including Sue, the largest and most complete T-Rex fossil in the world.
Point of Interest Recommendation: After your visit to the museum, grab a bite to eat at Lou Mitchell's Restaurant, a Chicago landmark that has been serving breakfast and lunch since 1923.
- Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum (Hannibal, MO) This museum is dedicated to the life and works of Mark Twain, one of America's most beloved writers. Visitors can tour his childhood home, explore the museum's exhibits, and even take a ride on a replica of the raft from Huckleberry Finn.
Point of Interest Recommendation: Take a scenic drive on Route 79, which is known as the Great River Road. This route will take you along the Mississippi River, where you can enjoy picturesque views and charming river towns.
- Harry S. Truman Presidential Library and Museum (Independence, MO) The Harry S. Truman Presidential Library and Museum is a tribute to the life and legacy of the 33rd President of the United States. The museum has exhibits on Truman's presidency, his personal life, and the history of the Cold War.
Point of Interest Recommendation: Visit the Truman Home, which is located a short distance from the museum. This historic home has been preserved to look as it did when the Truman family lived there.
- Dwight D. Eisenhower Presidential Museum and Library (Abilene, KS) The Dwight D. Eisenhower Presidential Museum and Library is a fascinating tribute to the 34th President of the United States. The museum has exhibits on Eisenhower's life, his military career, and his presidency.
Point of Interest Recommendation: Take a stroll through the nearby Chapman Center for Rural Studies, an interactive museum that explores the history and culture of rural America.
- Keeper of the Plains (Wichita, KS) The Keeper of the Plains is a monumental sculpture that stands at the confluence of the Arkansas and Little Arkansas Rivers in Wichita. The sculpture is 44 feet tall and consists of a steel frame and Native American-inspired metalwork.
Point of Interest Recommendation: Make sure to check out the surrounding Keeper of the Plains Plaza, which has a beautiful fountain and incredible views of the downtown skyline.
Conclusion
Embarking on a road trip from Chicago to Wichita is an adventure that will take you through scenic landscapes, historic landmarks, and cultural centers. Whether you're interested in museums, parks, or natural scenery, there's something for everyone along the way. With plenty of places to explore and things to see, it's a road trip you won't soon forget!