Road trips create lasting memories and allow travelers to explore new places. A journey from Denver, Colorado, to Jacksonville, Florida, offers a rich blend of history, nature, and culture.
Did you know that this route covers approximately 1,000 miles and crosses through eight states? The road trip provides a unique opportunity to experience the changing landscapes of America as you travel from the Rocky Mountains to the coastal plains of Florida.
A great halfway point on this route is Okawville, Illinois. Nestled in the heart of the Midwest, it serves as a relaxing stop where you can stretch your legs and grab some food.
The total trip spans about 15 hours of driving time. However, breaks for sightseeing will extend this duration. To make the most of your journey, consider splitting the drive over two days. This allows you to explore various attractions along the way.
Here are the top five places to visit on your road trip:
Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve, Kansas
This preserve showcases one of the last remnants of the tallgrass prairie ecosystem. It offers hiking trails, where you can experience the expansive grasslands and observe wildlife. Don’t miss the historic schoolhouse and a chance to see bison roaming the grounds. As a point of interest, the nearby town of Strong City has charming cafés that offer homemade meals.Gateway Arch, St. Louis, Missouri
Visit the iconic Gateway Arch, a symbol of westward expansion in the U.S. You can take a tram ride to the top to enjoy a panoramic view of the city and the Mississippi River. While in St. Louis, be sure to check out the City Museum, a unique playhouse for all ages built out of architectural salvages.Memphis Zoo, Tennessee
Memphis is home to the stunning Memphis Zoo, which features over 3,500 animals representing 500 species. It’s a family-friendly destination with interactive exhibits and programs. The zoo also has an amazing view of the Mississippi River. For an additional point of interest, nearby Beale Street offers live music and famous barbeque restaurants that you can explore.Civil Rights Museum, Memphis, Tennessee
Located at the former Lorraine Motel, where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated, this museum provides an important look at the civil rights movement in America. It features powerful exhibits and stories that highlight the struggle for equality. While visiting, you can wander through the historic South Main district, full of shops and galleries that showcase local arts.Orlando Science Center, Florida
As you approach Jacksonville, take a side trip to the Orlando Science Center. This hands-on museum is perfect for families and offers many interactive exhibits about science and technology. Explore the planetarium or watch live science experiments. Nearby Lake Eola Park, with its swan boats and walking paths, makes for a lovely outdoor retreat after your museum visit.
Each of these stops provides an excellent chance to experience a slice of American life. Plan ahead to make time for the points of interest at each location for a well-rounded trip.
The journey from Denver to Jacksonville is more than just a long drive. It takes you through cities and sights that shape America’s story. Spending time at each stop allows for family bonding and captures the essence of the nation's past and present. This trip will take around 15 hours of driving time and can be easily split into two or more days to ensure you enjoy all the attractions along the way. Grab your bags and enjoy the adventure!