#The Best of the Midwest: Top Places to See on Your Drive from Altamont, Kansas to Goodman, Missouri
Driving from Altamont, Kansas to Goodman, Missouri is a trip that is worth taking. This part of the Midwest is full of natural beauty, charming towns, and fascinating landmarks, providing visitors with an itinerary full of remarkable experiences. The drive is a scenic one, with stunning views in every direction and a diverse landscape that is exciting and engaging. Here are some of the top places you should add to your itinerary when you drive through the heart of America.
##The Route
Before we jump into the best of the best on this scenic route, let's talk about the drive itself. This scenic route passes through Kansas and Missouri, covering around 125 miles and taking just less than three hours with one gas stop. It is advisable to take the trip at a leisurely pace to be able to explore and appreciate the small-town structures and views along the way fully.
The drive takes you through the rolling hills of Ozark, along the Grand Lake, and through charming small towns. It's perfect for history buffs, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone that wants to admire natural beauty.
Top Places to Visit
1. Crawford County Historical Museum
Kick your trip off with a stop at the Crawford County Historical Museum in Pittsburg, Kansas. This fascinating museum is full of artifacts documenting the community's history, including prehistoric times, Osage Indian life, and artifacts, artifacts from the coal-mining era, World War I, and much more. You can even see a rare diamond from the Big Brutus, the largest coal shovel in the world.
2. Schermerhorn Park
A visit to Schermerhorn Park in Galena, Kansas, is a testament to the state's natural beauty. It's a great place to stop for a picnic or simply explore nature. Take a stroll through the wooded areas, hills, and creeks, and enjoy the lovely scenery. This park is also a fantastic place to catch a sunset.
3. Precious Moments Chapel & Gardens
Next up is a stop in Carthage, Missouri, at the Precious Moments Chapel & Gardens. This outstanding location is full of beauty, wonder, and charm. The chapel is awe-inspiring, and the surrounding gardens are stunning with impressive water features, landscaping, and places of prayer and contemplation. It's a truly unique experience, and every visit is memorable.
4. George Washington Carver National Monument
A trip to the Ozark region is not complete without a visit to the George Washington Carver National Monument. This great monument is a national park in Diamond, Missouri, and it celebrates one of the United States' greatest inventors. The park is open year-round and offers numerous educational opportunities, including walking tours, workshops, and camps.
5. Neosho National Fish Hatchery
Finally, there's a stop at the Neosho National Fish Hatchery in Neosho, Missouri. This aquaculture facility produces high-quality fish for public recreational fishing and environmental conservation. It's a great place to learn about fish breeding, hatchery operations, and sustainability while getting up close with a wide range of species. Visitors can take guided tours, see displays and exhibits, and even feed the fish.
Conclusion
When driving from Altamont, Kansas to Goodman, Missouri, there is an abundance of exciting places to visit. Exploring the small towns in this beautiful part of the Midwest is always a delight, and visitors will undoubtedly find something that piques their interest along this route. From the majestic, historic parks to the fascinating cultural hotspots, this trip packs in the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. With so much to see and do, you'll wish you had more time to take it all in, but trust me, this road trip is one that you won't forget.