Road Tripping from Cedar Falls, Iowa to Tulsa, Oklahoma: Finding the Best Route

Are you planning a road trip from Cedar Falls, Iowa to Tulsa, Oklahoma? It may sound like a long journey, but there are options and routes that allow you to make it there in no time while having fun and discovering amazing sights. Let's explore the different options and distances of each route, plus the various attractions and places to check out along the way.

Taking the Fastest Route

If speed is the main goal, the fastest route to Tulsa from Cedar Falls is via I-35 S. The distance is 469 miles, which takes approximately 7 hours on the road. Although not the most scenic of rides, it is a direct route that lets you focus on getting to Tulsa quickly.

Exploring Quaint Towns and Cities on I-80 W and I-35 S

If you prefer taking a more scenic route, then take I-80 W to Des Moines and then head south on I-35 S to Tulsa. This route takes approximately 8 hours and 30 minutes to complete. The distance is 542 miles. Along the way, you can make a stop in Ames, Iowa for a quick bite that won't disappoint, followed by a stop in West Des Moines to delight in its charming historic district. As you continue we suggest a pitstop in Story City to explore the famous Carousel Museum and its antique carousel. After that, visit the famous Bridges of Madison County, and if time permits, stop by Springfield, Missouri, to tour the Fantastic Caverns and the Wilson's Creek National Battlefield.

Touring Omaha and Kansas City on I-29 S and I-35 S

If you are up for a longer but more adventurous road trip, head towards Omaha first via I-29 S. On the way to Tulsa from Omaha, follow I-35 S. This route takes approximately 10 hours and 40 minutes and 691 miles. Along the way, stop in Omaha and visit the Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium, Lauritzen Gardens, and locals' favorite, The Old Market. Keep going until reach Kansas City to try some of their world-famous BBQ at places like Q39 or Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Que. There are exciting must-sees such as the Boulevard Brewing Company, the Kansas City Zoo, and the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art.

Taking the Scenic Route on US-75 S

Finally, a scenic option is to head south on US-75 S towards Tulsa. This route takes approximately 10 hours, 30 minutes, and 650 miles. If you head southeast and make a detour, you can stop by Missouri's Lake of the Ozarks for some fishing, boating, and swimming. On the road, stop in Coffeyville, Kansas, to see its historical sites such as the Brown Mansion and reopening in June the Dalton Defenders Museum, followed by Independence, Kansas, to visit the Little House on the Prairie Museum. You can then head south to marvel at Oklahoma's scenic Flint Hills and explore Pawhuska and sample their famous Mercantile Cafe's Pioneer Woman's foods.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a journey from Cedar Falls, Iowa to Tulsa, Oklahoma can be a fun and exciting road trip, regardless of the route you take. Although some roads may be longer, they offer plenty of stops and significant attractions for you to explore and experience. Don't forget to check your vehicle's condition, pack accordingly, and remember to keep some snacks and drinks for the road!