Traveling from Detroit, Michigan, to Tulsa, Oklahoma, opens the door to a variety of fascinating museums, parks, and landmarks. This journey offers an exciting mix of culture and nature that will enrich your road trip experience.
Did you know that this road trip covers approximately 800 miles? The route takes you through several states, showcasing diverse landscapes and vibrant cities along the way.
About halfway through your drive, you will arrive at Smithboro, Illinois. This small town is a great place to take a break, stretch your legs, and grab a bite to eat.
The full trip will take about 12 hours of driving time, not including stops. This may sound long, but the drive is filled with interesting sights to see and places to explore. You'll travel through states like Indiana and Missouri, giving you a taste of the Midwest's charm. To make your journey more enjoyable, plan for breaks at various attractions. This way, you can break up the trip and experience new adventures.
Here are the top five places to visit along your route:
The Henry Ford Museum (Dearborn, MI)
The Henry Ford Museum is a must-see for anyone interested in history and innovation. It showcases America's rich history of transportation, technology, and ingenuity. Here, you can find iconic artifacts like the Rosa Parks bus and Thomas Edison’s workshop. Don’t forget to check out Greenfield Village, where you can walk through a historic village with buildings from America's past. After visiting, stop by the nearby Dearborn Historical Museum to learn more about the city's history.Indiana Dunes National Park (Chesterton, IN)
Indiana Dunes National Park offers stunning views and outdoor activities. It's located along Lake Michigan and features sandy beaches, hiking trails, and unique ecosystems. Visitors can explore over 15 miles of coastline and hike through diverse landscapes ranging from wetlands to forests. While there, take a short walk to the nearby Mount Baldy, which offers an excellent lookout point over the dunes and lake.The Gateway Arch (St. Louis, MO)
The Gateway Arch is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the U.S. Standing at 630 feet, it honors the westward expansion of the United States. You can take a tram ride to the top for breathtaking views of the city. After your visit, walk to the nearby Citygarden, where you can see modern sculptures and enjoy the beautiful landscape.Myriad Botanical Gardens (Oklahoma City, OK)
The Myriad Botanical Gardens in Oklahoma City invites you to explore its lush landscapes. With over 17 acres of gardens and walking paths, it is perfect for a relaxing walk. You can also visit the Crystal Bridge Conservatory, which houses a range of tropical plants and flowers. After exploring the gardens, stop by the nearby Bricktown Canal for a pleasant stroll along the waterway.Woody Guthrie Center (Tulsa, OK)
The Woody Guthrie Center celebrates the life and music of the iconic folk singer. Located in Tulsa, this center showcases exhibits on his contributions to music and social justice. It also hosts performances and educational programs. Take some time to admire the center’s collection of artifacts. Afterwards, check out the nearby Tulsa Arts District for local galleries and eateries.
As you journey from Detroit to Tulsa, you'll experience a rich array of culture and nature. The road trip takes about 12 hours with no stops, but when you factor in visits to all these interesting places, it may expand to a couple of days. Remember to enjoy each location, soak in the beauty around you, and create lasting memories on your adventure.