Top Places to See When Driving From Amarillo, Texas to Springfield, Illinois
If you are planning a road trip from Amarillo, Texas, to Springfield, Illinois, get ready for some stunning landscapes, charming towns, and unique attractions. This 914-mile journey takes you through the heart of the United States, offering a glimpse into the country's history and culture. In this blog post, we've compiled a list of the top places to visit on this scenic route.
Whether you're into nature, history, or food, there's something for everyone on this road trip. So fasten your seatbelts, roll down the windows, and hit the open road. Here are the top places to see when driving from Amarillo, Texas, to Springfield, Illinois.
Natural Wonders
Palo Duro Canyon State Park, Texas
Located about 25 miles southeast of Amarillo, Palo Duro Canyon State Park is the second-largest canyon in the United States and a must-see attraction for nature lovers. The park offers over 30 miles of hiking, biking, and equestrian trails, as well as scenic drives, camping, and stargazing opportunities. Be sure to catch the outdoor musical drama "Texas" during the summer season for a unique cultural experience.
Cadillac Ranch, Texas
A famous art installation on Route 66, Cadillac Ranch is a quirky tribute to America's love affair with cars. Created in 1974 by a group of artists, this public artwork consists of ten vintage Cadillac cars half-buried in the ground, with their tail fins pointing towards the sky. Visitors are welcome to bring their spray paint cans and leave a mark on the cars, making it an ever-changing piece of art.
Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve, Kansas
Stretching over 11,000 acres, Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve is the only remaining tallgrass prairie ecosystem in North America. This protected area is home to a diverse array of flora and fauna, including bison, coyotes, and prairie chickens. The park offers hiking and biking trails, guided tours, and educational programs about the prairie's ecological importance and cultural history.
Route 66, Missouri
No road trip from Amarillo to Springfield is complete without driving on Route 66, the "Mother Road" that spans over 2,400 miles from Chicago to Santa Monica. Missouri has some of the most iconic Route 66 sights, such as the Gateway Arch in St. Louis, the Meramec Caverns in Stanton, and the Coral Court Motel in St. Louis. Make sure to stop by the vintage diners, gas stations, and souvenir shops along the way for a taste of nostalgia.
History and Culture
Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum, Texas
Located in Canyon, Texas, the Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum is the largest history museum in Texas, with over 2 million artifacts celebrating the state's heritage and culture. From dinosaur fossils and Native American artifacts to pioneer tools and classic cars, the museum offers a comprehensive view of Texas's evolution over the centuries.
Dwight D. Eisenhower Presidential Library and Museum, Kansas
In Abilene, Kansas, you can visit the birthplace and museum of one of America's most beloved presidents, Dwight D. Eisenhower. The museum showcases his life and legacy, from his childhood in Kansas to his military career and his presidency during the Cold War. The site also includes his boyhood home, a chapel, and his final resting place.
Lincoln Home National Historic Site, Illinois
In Springfield, Illinois, you can walk in the footsteps of Abraham Lincoln, one of the most revered American presidents. The Lincoln Home National Historic Site preserves the house where Lincoln lived with his family for 17 years, and where he received visitors and formulated many of his ideas. The site also includes other historic buildings, museums, and a visitor center.
Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum, Missouri
In Hannibal, Missouri, you can visit the childhood home of Mark Twain, one of America's most celebrated writers. The museum offers a glimpse into Twain's early life, his family, and his sources of inspiration for his iconic works such as "The Adventures of Tom Sawyer" and "The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn". You can also take a riverboat tour on the Mississippi River, which figures prominently in Twain's writing.
Culinary Delights
Big Texan Steak Ranch, Texas
If you're craving a hearty meal after a day of driving, the Big Texan Steak Ranch in Amarillo, Texas, is the place to go. This iconic restaurant has been serving up massive 72-ounce steaks, baked potatoes, and Texas-sized margaritas since 1960. If you can finish the steak in under an hour, it's free.
Cozy Inn, Kansas
A tiny burger joint in Salina, Kansas, the Cozy Inn has been satisfying hungry customers since 1922. The burgers are small but mighty, made with seasoned beef and steamed onions on a soft bun. You can order them by the dozen and enjoy them on the picnic tables outside or in your car.
Maid-Rite Sandwich Shop, Illinois
A local institution in Springfield, Illinois, the Maid-Rite Sandwich Shop serves up loose meat sandwiches, known as "Maid-Rites", that are a staple of the Midwest. The secret seasoning in the meat is what makes them so addictive, and you can customize them with toppings such as mustard, pickles, and cheese.
Ted Drewes Frozen Custard, Missouri
For a cool and creamy dessert, head to Ted Drewes Frozen Custard in St. Louis, Missouri. This family-owned business has been making the smoothest and richest custard since 1929, using only the freshest ingredients. You can choose from classic flavors such as vanilla and chocolate or seasonal treats such as pumpkin pie and eggnog.
Conclusion
Driving from Amarillo, Texas to Springfield, Illinois, is a journey that takes you through some of the most beautiful and interesting parts of the country. You can marvel at natural wonders, explore historic sites, and savor regional cuisines along the way. This road trip is a perfect opportunity to slow down, enjoy the scenery, and make lasting memories with your loved ones. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or a first-time road tripper, we hope this list of top places to see inspires you to hit the road and discover new horizons.