Driving from Adena, Ohio to Alamosa, Colorado: Top Places to See

Traveling from Adena, Ohio, to Alamosa, Colorado, is a long journey with a lot to see along the way. You'll have the chance to drive through beautiful landscapes and take in some of the best sights that the country has to offer. In this post, we'll take a look at the top places to see when driving from Adena, Ohio, to Alamosa, Colorado. We'll explore numerous attractions that will make your trip one to remember and make the most of your drive.

The Land of Lincoln – Springfield, Illinois:

The first stop on your journey should be Springfield, Illinois- a city steeped in American history. It's where Abraham Lincoln lived before becoming the 16th President of the United States and his legacy can be seen throughout the city. Start by visiting the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, where you will see some of his most important artifacts and documents. From there, head to Lincoln's home and see where he lived at the time, which has now become a National Historic Site. Finally, check out the Old State Capitol, where Lincoln delivered his famous "House Divided" speech.

The Gateway to the West – St. Louis, Missouri:

As you cross the Mississippi River on your way to St. Louis, Missouri, you will see the iconic Gateway Arch, which is often referred to as the "Gateway to the West." This magnificent structure stands 630 feet tall and offers excellent views of the city and the surrounding areas. Take a trip up to the top of the Arch, and you'll be rewarded with stunning panoramic views of the city and the Mississippi River. While in the city, check out the St. Louis Zoo, City Museum, the iconic Budweiser brewery, the Anheuser-Busch Brewery, or take a walk through Forest Park, which is one of the most extensive urban parks in the country.

Into the Wild – Western Kansas:

As you leave the city of St. Louis behind and head west across Missouri, you'll find a stark contrast in the landscapes as you enter Western Kansas. No other stretch of highway is as iconic of the Wild West as Route 66 through Kansas. Take in the breathtaking views, and feel the peacefulness of this portion of the drive. While driving, be sure to stop at the Sternberg Museum of Natural History, which features displays of dinosaurs and other prehistoric creatures that once roamed Kansas millions of years ago. This museum isn't just for kids, but adults of all ages can enjoy it too.

The Land of Enchantment – Santa Fe, New Mexico:

As you continue west, you will enter New Mexico, and your next stop should be Santa Fe, a city that is known for its art, history, and incredible cuisine. The Santa Fe Plaza is the heart of the city, surrounded by historic adobe buildings that house shops and restaurants, including some of the finest galleries and museums in the country. You can also visit the nearby Pecos National Historical Park and learn about the area's rich history and geology formation. Get a taste of the region with authentic New Mexican cuisine like red and green chile, sopapillas with honey, and other mouth-watering dishes.

The City of The Great Sand Dunes – Alamosa, Colorado:

As you finish up your journey, your final stop is the city of Alamosa, which is located in South-Central Colorado and is home to some exceptional natural wonders like the Great Sand Dunes. These are the largest sand dunes in North America, with 855-foot tall dunes, stretching across 30 miles of land. You can hike into the dunes or rent sandboards or sleds and have a day of fun with your family. Another must-see attraction is the nearby Rio Grande Scenic Railroad, which offers breathtaking mountain views as it winds through the Rio Grande National Forest.

Conclusion:

Driving from Adena, Ohio, to Alamosa, Colorado, is a journey that will take you through some of America's most iconic landscapes and historical sites. Each stop you make along the way will offer you the opportunity to check out fantastic attractions, learn more about regional history and culture, and take in some seriously stunning views. From the Gateway Arch in St. Louis to the Great Sand Dunes in Alamosa, every stop is full of surprises and incredible experiences. Which one is your favorite? Let us know in the comments.