Best Things to Do on a Road Trip from Cincinnati, OH to Kansas City, MO

A road trip from Cincinnati, Ohio to Kansas City, Missouri is a great way to explore the Midwest and all it has to offer. With a total driving time of approximately 8 hours, this route passes through some of the most scenic areas in the region. The halfway point is Mulberry Grove, IL, which is a great spot to stretch your legs and grab a bite to eat. Here are the top 5 things to do along this route:

Visit Mammoth Cave National Park

Mammoth Cave National Park is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling through the area. With over 400 miles of explored underground passages, it's the longest known cave system in the world. The park also offers a variety of other outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing.

Fun fact: Mammoth Cave National Park was established in 1941, making it the second-oldest national park in the US.

See the Gateway Arch in St. Louis

The Gateway Arch in St. Louis is one of the most iconic landmarks in the United States. Standing at 630 feet tall, it's the tallest man-made monument in the Western Hemisphere. Visitors can take a ride to the top for breathtaking views of the city and the Mississippi River.

Fun fact: The Gateway Arch was completed in 1965 and was built to commemorate Thomas Jefferson and the westward expansion of the United States.

Explore the Ozark National Scenic Riverways

The Ozark National Scenic Riverways offer a unique opportunity to explore the natural beauty of the Ozark Mountains. The park includes over 80,000 acres of land and water, with two major rivers, the Current and Jacks Fork, running through it. Visitors can enjoy everything from canoeing and kayaking to hiking and camping.

Fun fact: The Ozark National Scenic Riverways were established in 1964, making it the first national park area to protect a wild river system.

Visit the Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum

The Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum in Hannibal, Missouri, is a must-see destination for literature enthusiasts. The museum includes several historic buildings, including the home where Mark Twain, aka Samuel Clemens, grew up. Visitors can explore exhibits dedicated to his life and work, including the inspiration for his most famous characters, Tom Sawyer and Huckleberry Finn.

Fun fact: Mark Twain was born in Florida, Missouri, but lived in Hannibal from age 4 to 17.

Check out the National World War I Museum and Memorial

The National World War I Museum and Memorial in Kansas City is a stunning tribute to the men and women who served in the Great War. The museum's collection includes over 100,000 artifacts, including weapons, uniforms, and personal items. Visitors can learn about the causes and consequences of the war and the impact it had on the world.

Fun fact: The Liberty Memorial, which serves as the centerpiece of the museum and memorial, was dedicated in 1926, making it one of the earliest memorials to World War I in the United States.

Overall, this road trip offers a unique opportunity to explore some of the most beautiful and historic destinations in the Midwest. From natural wonders to cultural landmarks, there's something for everyone to enjoy. The route takes approximately 8 hours to complete, but there are plenty of opportunities to stop and explore along the way.