Driving Time between Downtown Kansas City, Missouri and Charlottesville, Virginia

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Road Trip Ready: From Downtown Kansas City to Charlottesville, Virginia!

Planning a road trip from Downtown Kansas City to Charlottesville, Virginia? You're in for a treat! This journey combines beautiful landscapes, charming towns, and tasty food stops, making it a memorable adventure. Buckle up, because we’re diving into the different routes, their distances, and estimated driving times!

The Scenic Route: US-50 E

The most popular route takes you east along US-50, winding through charming small towns and picturesque countryside. This route spans approximately 800 miles and typically takes about 12 to 14 hours to drive, depending on traffic and how often you stop along the way.

Must-See Stops:

  • Columbia, Missouri: Home to the University of Missouri, this vibrant college town is perfect for a lunch break. Try Shakespeare’s Pizza for a local favorite!
  • St. Louis, Missouri: Just a slight detour to check out the iconic Gateway Arch. Don’t miss the chance to grab some BBQ at Pappy’s Smokehouse!
  • Seymour, Indiana: Take a quick stop for a coffee break at The Coffee House before continuing your journey!

The Direct Route: I-70 E

If you’re looking to slice off some miles, opt for the more direct I-70 E route. This route is about 770 miles long and drives you straight through rather than wandering through small towns, cutting down your travel time to about 11 to 12 hours.

  • Kansas City to Columbia: Grab breakfast before you hit the road. The Filling Station in Columbia offers hearty meals to fuel you up!
  • Indianapolis, Indiana: Another college town that deserves a pit stop! The Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum could be an exciting diversion for racing fans.
  • Richmond, Indiana: This charming town is perfect for a quick stroll along the historic downtown or to grab a bite at The Diner.

The Long Way: I-64 E

For an even longer adventure, consider the scenic I-64 route. This path stretches approximately 850 miles and takes about 13 to 15 hours. Though it takes longer, it sweeps you through some truly stunning landscapes.

Fun Detours:

  • Louisville, Kentucky: This vibrant city is a great place to stretch your legs and explore the famous Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory. And indulging in a bit of Hot Brown is a must!
  • Lexington, Kentucky: Known for its horse farms and bourbon distilleries, you can enjoy a leisurely lunch and maybe even a tour before hitting the road again.

Tips for a Smooth Travel Experience

Regardless of which route you choose, make sure to embrace the journey. Bring along your favorite road trip playlist, pack some healthy snacks, and plan your stops. This way, you can stretch out, refuel, and discover some hidden gems along your route.

To wrap things up, whether you take the scenic US-50 E or the more direct I-70 E, or even the picturesque I-64 E, you’ll find that the journey from Downtown Kansas City to Charlottesville is about the experiences you gather along the way. Happy travels, and don’t forget to snap some photos on your adventure!