Points of Interest between Ankeny, Iowa to Bryan, Texas

picture of Ankeny, Iowa

Top Five List: The Best Places to Visit on a Trip Between Ankeny, IA and Bryan, TX

Looking to hit the road and explore some unique destinations in the Midwest and Southwest? This top five list has got you covered! Whether you're traveling for business or leisure, you won't want to miss these must-see spots on your journey from Ankeny, Iowa to Bryan, Texas.

The Route

First things first! If you're heading from Ankeny to Bryan, you'll be traveling down I-35 South. This iconic highway cuts through some of the most interesting and scenic parts of the country. You'll encounter rolling hills, wide open plains, and plenty of small towns with big character. Plan to spend about 14-15 hours on the road, with opportunities to stop and sightsee dotted along the way. Here are our top picks for places to visit:

  1. Winterset, Iowa

This charming town is located just off I-35 and is widely known as the birthplace of actor John Wayne. You can visit the John Wayne Birthplace Museum to learn more about his life and career, then explore the quaint downtown area with its antique shops, coffee houses, and local restaurants. Don't miss the famous Covered Bridges of Madison County while you're here!

  1. Kansas City, Missouri

Crossing into Missouri, Kansas City is definitely worth a visit. Known for its delicious barbecue and jazz scene, you'll want to stop for a meal and some live music. The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art is another popular attraction, featuring a stunning collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist works, as well as ancient artifacts and modern installations.

  1. Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Further south, Oklahoma City offers a variety of activities for all ages. History buffs will enjoy exploring the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, while nature lovers will appreciate the Myriad Botanical Gardens and Scissortail Park. And of course, no visit to OKC is complete without trying some authentic southern-style biscuits and gravy!

  1. Fort Worth, Texas

As you cross the border into the Lone Star State, make a pit stop in Fort Worth. This city is known for its rich cowboy culture and is home to the Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District. Watch a rodeo show, tour the Cowtown Cattlepen Maze, and then indulge in some Tex-Mex cuisine at a local restaurant.

  1. Austin, Texas

Finally, arrive in Bryan via Austin, the state capital and home of the University of Texas. Austin is a vibrant city with a thriving live music scene, trendy restaurants and bars, and plenty of outdoor recreation options. Take a dip in Barton Springs Pool, tour the Texas State Capitol building, or explore the many art galleries and museums.

Conclusion

There you have it - five fantastic destinations to add to your itinerary for your trip from Ankeny to Bryan. From historic small towns to bustling cities, there's something for everyone along the way. So hit the road and enjoy the journey!