Points of Interest between Ankeny, Iowa to Paris, Missouri

picture of Ankeny, Iowa

The Ultimate Road Trip: Top Places to See When Driving From Ankeny, Iowa to Paris, Missouri

Are you planning a road trip from Ankeny, Iowa to Paris, Missouri? If so, you're in for an adventure! There are so many amazing places to see and things to do along the way. Whether you're looking for stunning natural scenery, interesting historical sites, or delicious local cuisine, you'll find it all on this drive. In this post, we'll highlight some of the top places to see when driving from Ankeny to Paris.

Exploring Iowa

Before hitting the open road, be sure to explore Ankeny's charming shops, parks, and restaurants. Once you're ready to start your journey, take I-35 South towards Des Moines. After approximately 35 miles, take exit 56 for IA-92 towards Winterset. Here are some of the best places to see in Iowa:

  1. The Bridges of Madison County. Made famous by the novel and movie of the same name, the bridges of Madison County are a must-see attraction for any road tripper passing through the area. These historic covered bridges are located in the scenic countryside around Winterset and offer beautiful photo opportunities.

  2. Pammel State Park. If you're looking for an outdoor adventure, Pammel State Park is a must-visit spot. Located near Winterset, this park offers camping, hiking, fishing, and picnicking opportunities.

  3. Scenic Byway 52. For a scenic drive along the rolling hills of southern Iowa, take Scenic Byway 52 from Sabula to Dubuque. This two-lane highway offers stunning views of the Mississippi River and surrounding areas.

Discovering Missouri

Once you've explored Iowa, it's time to cross the border into Missouri. Take MO-136 East towards Memphis, then turn left onto MO-15 North towards Paris. Here are some of the best places to see in Missouri:

  1. Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum. Located in Hannibal, the Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum is a must-see attraction for literary enthusiasts. This museum offers insights into the life and works of one of America's most beloved authors.

  2. Katy Trail State Park. If you're looking for a scenic hike or bike ride, make sure to stop at Katy Trail State Park. This long-distance trail runs through the heart of Missouri and offers stunning river views and historic stops along the way.

  3. Paris, Missouri. If you're ending your road trip in Paris, Missouri, take some time to explore this charming small town. Be sure to check out the Monroe County Courthouse, which was built in 1896 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Conclusion

From the Bridges of Madison County to the Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum, there are so many amazing places to see when driving from Ankeny, Iowa to Paris, Missouri. Whether you're interested in history, nature, or just enjoying the open road, this road trip has something for everyone. So pack your bags, gas up the car, and get ready for an adventure you'll never forget!