Road Trip: Top Places to See When Driving From Alhambra, California to Downtown Kansas City, Missouri

There is something serene and rejuvenating about driving on open roads with your loved ones. A cross-country road trip is an excellent way to explore the vast expanse of North America's diverse landscapes, and driving from Alhambra, California to Downtown Kansas City, Missouri is a fantastic route to cover.

This journey is over 1,700 miles long, and it takes about 25 hours of nonstop driving; however, if you want to make the most out of it, you can divide the trip into multiple days, covering various unique attractions and sites. Let's explore the highlight reel of this stunning road trip.

Enjoying the Flavors of Southwest America

As you leave Southern California and drive towards Nevada, you will come across several excellent destinations worth exploring, such as the Mojave National Preserve and the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area. However, one must-visit spot is:

Hoover Dam

Hoover Dam is a marvel of modern engineering and a significant tourist attraction that draws millions of visitors every year. Located on the border of Arizona and Nevada, this arch-gravity dam crosses the Colorado River and stands tall at an impressive 726 feet. You can plan a tour of the dam or take a walk across the pedestrian bridge, where you can get a breathtaking view of the surrounding scenery.

Exploring the Iconic Wild West

Once you cross Nevada's vast open plains and head towards Utah and Colorado, you will enter the heartland of the Wild West. It is a region that is alluring and magnificent, and it has several attractions to see:

Dinosaur National Monument

Dinosaur National Monument is a unique natural attraction that is located in Vernal, Utah. It features preserved dinosaur fossils that were discovered by paleontologist Earl Douglass, who worked for the Carnegie Museum of Natural History. The fossils are situated in the Wall of Bones quarry, and the site also has several hiking trails, canyons, and scenic drives that are worth exploring.

Rocky Mountains National Park

As you enter Colorado, you will come across the Rocky Mountains National Park. This park is a haven for hiking enthusiasts and nature lovers who can explore over 300 miles of trails and 415 square miles of raw wilderness. Longs Peak, Trail Ridge Road, and Bear Lake are some of the park's highlights that you shouldn't miss.

Discovering the Heartland of America

Once you enter the plains of Kansas and Missouri, you will behold the spectacular sight of fields stretching out as far as the eye can see. There are several places that you can visit here, but we suggest:

Gateway Arch

The Gateway Arch is one of the most iconic landmarks of the United States and is located in St. Louis, Missouri. It stands at an impressive 630 feet and represents America's pioneering spirit. The entire site has several attractions such as riverboat cruises, a museum, and an elevator ride to the top that offers a panoramic view of the city and the Mississippi River.

Harry S Truman Presidential Library and Museum

The Harry S Truman Presidential Library and Museum is located in Independence, Missouri, and is dedicated to the life and times of the 33rd President of the United States. It houses several documents, photographs, and artifacts that give a glimpse into President Truman's legacy and impact on the country's history.

Conclusion

This Alhambra to Downtown Kansas City road trip is a journey of a lifetime, and it is filled with several attractions that are unique and breathtaking. So pack your bags, ready your playlist, and hit the road to soak in the beauty of southwest America, the Wild West, and the heartland of America.