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Points of Interest between Ankeny, Iowa to University City, Missouri

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Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Ankeny, Iowa to University City, Missouri

Driving from Ankeny, Iowa to University City, Missouri is a journey that spans 6 hours and covers over 340 miles. The route is beautiful, with rolling hills, farmland, and small towns dotting the landscape. It’s a trip that can be completed in one day, but with so many hidden treasures to discover along the way, there’s really no need to rush. Here are five unexpected places to stop on this drive, each with its own unique vibe and must-try food.

Halfway Point: Keokuk, IA

Before diving into the top five unexpected places to stop on this route, it’s worth mentioning that Keokuk, IA makes for a perfect halfway point. This charming town on the banks of the Mississippi River is home to a variety of historical sites, including the Keokuk National Cemetery and the George M. Verity Riverboat Museum. But the real reason to stop in Keokuk is to try the delicious homemade pies at Bubba’s Frozen Custard. The pies come in a variety of flavors, including chocolate cream, coconut cream, and banana cream, and are the perfect sweet treat for the road ahead.

1. Winterset, IA: Birthplace of John Wayne

The town of Winterset, IA is known primarily as the birthplace of John Wayne, but it has so much more to offer than just a connection to the Duke. The town is home to the Iowa Quilt Museum, which showcases beautiful quilts from all over the world. Visitors can also tour the birthplace of another famous Iowan, Madison County writer Roseman Covered Bridge, and the associated John Wayne Drive. For lunch, head to the Northside Cafe, a charming eatery that serves up classic diner fare like burgers and fries.

2. Emporia, KS: An Oasis in the Prairies

Emporia, KS might not be the first city that comes to mind when planning a road trip, but it’s well worth a stop on the way to University City. This small city has a great downtown area with plenty of shopping and dining options. Visitors can take a stroll through the Emporia State University campus or spend some time exploring the David Traylor Zoo. For a delicious meal, check out Casa Ramos, a family-owned Mexican restaurant that always hits the spot.

3. Pawhuska, OK: A Town of Tallgrass Prairie and Breathtaking Scenery

Oklahoma might not be known for its scenic beauty, but a stop in Pawhuska will quickly change that perception. This small town in the heart of Osage County is home to the Tallgrass Prairie Preserve, one of the largest remaining areas of tallgrass prairie left in the world. The preserve is home to bison, coyotes, and a variety of other wildlife. For lunch, check out the Pioneer Woman Mercantile, a restaurant and shop owned by Food Network star Ree Drummond. The restaurant offers tasty BBQ and down-home cooking.

4. Jefferson City, MO: The Show-Me State Capital

Jefferson City is the capital city of Missouri, but it’s often overlooked by travelers in favor of bigger cities like St. Louis and Kansas City. But this charming city on the banks of the Missouri River has plenty to offer, including a beautiful Capitol Building and the Missouri State Penitentiary Museum. For a delicious meal, head to Prison Brews, a brewery and restaurant that serves up classic pub fare and craft beer.

5. Hermann, MO: A German-Inspired Wine Country

Finally, a trip to University City wouldn’t be complete without a stop in Hermann, MO, a small town located in the Missouri River Valley and known for its German-inspired wineries. Visitors can spend the day tasting wines at one of the many wineries in the area or take a stroll through the charming downtown area. For dinner, check out the Black Walnut Bistro, where the emphasis is on fresh, local ingredients and farm-to-table cuisine.

Conclusion

While there are plenty of ways to get from Ankeny, IA to University City, MO, taking the time to explore unexpected destinations along the way can truly make the journey unforgettable. From the beautiful prairies of Pawhuska to the wineries of Hermann, there’s something for everyone on this road trip. So pack a bag, fill up the tank, and hit the road – adventure awaits!

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