A Road Trip Through Kansas & Oklahoma
Get ready for an epic road trip adventure through Kansas and Oklahoma! From cool and quirky towns to breathtaking nature and views, buckle up and explore these underrated states!
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Ever wondered what lies within the underrated flyover states of Kansas and Oklahoma? Join us on a journey of discovery as my best friend, Kyla, and I take an epic road trip through these heartland states. It all began with a simple question: What's the best way to visit Leanna, Kyla's sister/my cousin, who serves as a dentist in the Army stationed in Lawton, Oklahoma? With spontaneity as our compass and adventure as our guide, we decided to turn this visit into an unforgettable road trip. Touching down in Kansas City, Missouri, our excitement soared as we picked up our rental car, ready to hit the open road for a week-long adventure through the heart of America.
Roadtripping Through Kansas and Oklahoma
As we cruised down the highways, the plains of Kansas stretched out before us like a canvas waiting to be painted with our adventures. From small towns to hidden gems off the beaten path, each mile brought discoveries and, as always, a few mishaps. As we crossed the border into Oklahoma, the landscape transformed, revealing a new state waiting to be explored.
But our road trip wasn't just about the destinations; it was about the journey itself. From singing along to our favorite tunes to indulging in roadside snacks and spontaneous detours, every moment was a memory in the making. Buckle up and join us as we relive the highlights, share our tips, and inspire your own adventure through the heartland of Kansas and Oklahoma. After all, the open road is calling – are you ready to answer?
Why Kansas and Oklahoma?
Kansas and Oklahoma are the heartland of America! From vast prairies to vibrant cities, these states offer a lot of nature, history, and friendly hospitality. In Kansas, discover small towns, rolling wheat fields, and landmarks like the Oz Museum. Experience the excitement of Oklahoma with its bustling cities, scenic lakes, and legendary Route 66. Whether you're craving outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or mouthwatering barbecues, Kansas and Oklahoma are the ideal destinations.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Kansas is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to November). In spring, the weather is mild, and the landscape is full of blooming flowers, making it ideal for outdoor activities—additionally, spring hosts festivals such as the Kansas City FilmFest and Wichita Riverfest. In the fall, Kansas boasts pleasant temperatures and colorful foliage, perfect for scenic drives, apple picking, and exploring state parks.
Similarly, the optimal time to visit Oklahoma is also during the spring and fall seasons. Spring (April to June) brings warm and mild weather, along with blooming wildflowers, creating a picturesque backdrop for outdoor adventures. Notable spring festivals include the Norman Music Festival and the Oklahoma Renaissance Festival. In the fall (September to November), Oklahoma experiences comfortable temperatures and fall colors, making it an excellent time for camping, nature exploration, and attending football games.
Roadtrip Stops and Highlights
Depending on your route and the amount of time you have, your Kansas and Oklahoma roadtrip can look very different. During my trip, we focused on the eastern side of Kansas and central Oklahoma. This guide will mirror the route that we took and also mention other notable sights and things to see in other parts of the states; our route looked like this: Kansas City, Bonner Springs, Lawrence, Coffeeyville, Tulsa, Chandler, Oklahoma City, Lawton, Medicine Park, Wichita, Tallgrass Prarie National Preserve, Topeka, Kansas City.
Kansas
Topeka: Visit historic sites like the Kansas State Capitol and the Brown v. Board of Education National Historic Site. Quirky sighs include Truckhenge, Evel Knievel Museum, and the fire hydrant house.
Bonner Springs: Experience thrilling adventures at the Kansas Speedway and the Schlitterbahn Waterpark. You can also swing by the Agricultural Hall of Fame and National Poultry Museum.
Lawrence: Enjoy the vibrant arts scene and college town atmosphere. Stop by the Wishing Bench to make a wish and snap a picture. There is a lot of nightlife here as well, making it a great pit stop outside of Kansas City.
Coffeyville: Discover rich history at the Dalton Defenders Museum and explore the charming downtown area.
Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve: Hike among rolling hills and spot native wildlife in this stunning natural preserve. You can also opt to drive through; however, there are like no gas stations, so fill up before you go.
Other notable stops and sights in Kansas include Monument Rocks, Kansas Cosmosphere and Space Center, Amelia Earhart Birthplace Museum, Dodge City, and the Oz Museum.
Oklahoma
Tulsa: Welcome to the Paris of Oklahoma! Explore art deco architecture, live music venues, Gathering Place Park, and the iconic Center of the Universe. Grab some lunch at Mother Road Market, a huge food court full of different cuisine options, and stop by Colour Tattoo Studios for a quick ink sesh before jumping on Route 66.
Broken Arrow: Wander through charming downtown shops and enjoy outdoor recreational areas like Ray Harral Nature Park.
Oklahoma City (OKC): Visit iconic landmarks like the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum and the Bricktown Entertainment District. For the coolest nightlife ever, spend the evening at the Cowboys bar for live bull riding and a huge dance floor for line dancing.
Chickasaw Country: Experience Native American culture at the Chickasaw Cultural Center and enjoy outdoor adventures in the Chickasaw National Recreation Area. Be sure to stop and take a picture with the infamous giant leg lamo statue, a true testament to the famous movie, A Christmas Story.
Medicine Park: Relax in this picturesque town nestled in the Wichita Mountains, known for its quaint shops and scenic hiking trails. Be sure to drive to the top of the mountain for a jaw-dropping view of the Wichita Mountains.
Other notable stops and sights in Oklahoma include Turner Falls, Beavers Bend State Park, the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, and the Oklahoma Pan Handle.
Tips and Things to Remember
Before we finish, I wanted to give you some extra tips and reminders to help with your planning and ensure you are safe and prepared along the way.
As I have mentioned before Travel Insurance is essential when planning any trip, especially a roadtrip! I use SafetyWing and have never felt more prepared or at ease.
Here are some essential tips and reminders to ensure a smooth and memorable journey:
Plan your route: Research scenic drives, attractions, and accommodations along the way. However, be sure to always leave room for spontaneity; you never know what you might come across!
Check your vehicle: Ensure your car is in good condition and pack essentials like a spare tire, jumper cables, and emergency kit. If you rent a car like we did, always get the insurance!
Pack snacks and water: Stay fueled and hydrated during long stretches of driving.
Take breaks: Schedule regular rest stops to stretch your legs, grab a bite to eat, and explore local attractions.
Mind your gas tank: Kansas is one of the worst places in the world to run out of gas; trust me. Mind your fuel level and pay attention to when you need to stop and fill up.
Be weather-aware: Monitor weather forecasts and be prepared for changing conditions, especially during tornado season in Kansas and Oklahoma.
Respect local laws: Obey speed limits, use turn signals, and be courteous to other drivers. Lucky for you, the speed limit is 85PHM in most places, so unless you’re a speed demon, you should be fine.
Stay connected: Bring a GPS or smartphone with navigation apps to help you stay on track.
Enjoy the journey: Take in the scenic route, small-town charm, and unique attractions that Kansas and Oklahoma have to offer. This is one of the most underrated destinations in the country, and there is a lot more to see!
So, there you have it! Surprisingly, Kansas and Oklahoma have a lot to offer travelers looking for destinations off the beaten past. I am booking forward to the next time I am able to explore more of this part of the country. I hope this guide has inspired you as well, to take your own journey through the heartland of America. Keep an eye out for more guides and itineraries for traveling to Kansas and Oklahoma!