Road Trip: Bloomington to Oklahoma City

Looking to hit the road and have a fun adventure? Take an exciting journey from Bloomington, Minnesota to Oklahoma City, Oklahoma! But, before packing your bags and grabbing the keys, you might want to check out the different routes available.

The Distance and Driving Time You Need to Know

The distance between Bloomington and Oklahoma City is approximately 780 miles. Thus, your driving time will depend on your chosen route and your speed. Normally, the drive can take around 11 to 12 hours, without breaks.

Route 1: The I-35 S

The I-35 S is the most direct route to take. It’s the easy option when going south. The route passes through Des Moines, crossing the border between Iowa and Missouri before arriving in Edmond, Oklahoma. It covers almost 780 total miles. It only takes 11 hours to drive this route.

Consider stopping at Clear Lake, where Buddy Holly gave his last performance, for a dose of rock-and-roll nostalgia on the way. Or, to stretch your legs, visit the Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum in Hannibal, MO, where you can learn about the town that influenced Mark Twain’s most famous works.

Route 2: The I-29 S and I-35 S

You can also take a more scenic route starting at I-29 S, located near Sioux City. The route merges with I-35 S in Kansas City, adding an additional drive time of 1 hour. This route is around 830 miles, which takes around 12 hours.

This scenic route offers a beautiful view of the Missouri River. You may add a stop at Omaha, Nebraska, and explore places like the Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium, the Old Market district, or the Joslyn Art Museum.

Route 3: The US 169 and US-412 W

Looking for a more rural drive? The US 169 S followed by US-412 W is the best solution for you. This scenic route brings you to Bartlesville, Oklahoma, covering about 800 miles and taking around 12 hours to arrive.

It’s a less busy route that passes through the countryside of Iowa, Kansas, and Oklahoma. As you travel, you’ll have many opportunities to stop and check out restaurants and farmers’ markets.

Embrace the Adventure

Although the internet provides a guide or GPS, it’s good to have all possible scenarios lined up, especially in this time of pandemic. Keep your phones charged, don’t forget your masks, and enjoy the ride.

Lastly, as you figure out the perfect route, make time to stop at roadside barbecue restaurants or visit small towns whenever possible. Explore nature and history, and enjoy the adventure-filled ride.