The Best Road Trip from Ann Arbor, Michigan to Leavenworth, Kansas

Are you planning on hitting the road? If you're starting in Ann Arbor, Michigan, and heading to Leavenworth, Kansas, you're in for a treat. This road trip will take you through some of the most beautiful parts of the Midwest, full of stunning natural wonders, historical landmarks, and charming small towns.

But with so many places to stop and see, it can be hard to pick which ones to include on your itinerary. That's why we've put together this list of the top places to visit when driving from Ann Arbor to Leavenworth. Get ready for an adventure!

The Great Lakes: Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

Before you hit the road, take a detour to the northern tip of Michigan's Upper Peninsula to visit Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. This stunning park boasts over 15 miles of Lake Superior shoreline with towering sandstone cliffs, dunes, waterfalls, and more. Hop on a boat tour to see the famous rock formations up close, or explore the park's hiking trails for panoramic views of the great lake.

City Sights: Chicago, Illinois

As you make your way south towards Kansas, stop in one of America's most iconic cities - Chicago. Take a stroll along the famous Magnificent Mile, visit the world-renowned Art Institute, or catch a Cubs game at Wrigley Field. For a unique experience, head to the top of the Willis Tower (formerly known as Sears Tower) for unparalleled views of the city.

Vast Prairies: Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve

Stretch your legs and get some fresh air as you explore one of the last remaining areas of tallgrass prairie in the world, the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve in Kansas. This vast grassland is home to bison, prairie dogs, and other wildlife. Hike through trails dotted with wildflowers, or join a ranger-led tour to learn about the prairie ecosystem.

Kansas City, Missouri: BBQ and Jazz

No trip to Kansas is complete without a stop in Kansas City. This lively metropolis straddles the Kansas-Missouri state line and is home to some of the best BBQ in the country. Head to Joe's Kansas City BBQ or Gates BBQ and taste the smoky goodness for yourself. After indulging in BBQ, take in some nearly century-old jazz history at the famous jazz district.

Old Western Town: Dodge City, Kansas

No road trip is complete without a little dose of history. Make a stop in Dodge City, once the bawdiest town in the Wild West. Walk through Boot Hill Museum and witness the spirit of the wild west with recreations of saloons, jail cells, and other artifacts from the 1800s. Then, join a reenacted gunfight and get a glimpse of what it was like to be a cowboy in the American frontier.

Stunning Scenery: Monument Rocks National Landmark

Make one last stop before hitting Leavenworth - the Monument Rocks National Landmark. These massive rocks are millions of years old and were once part of an inland sea. Today, they stand tall against the horizon and make for a breathtaking sight. Take a dirt road to reach the monument rocks, and don't forget to snap a few photos to capture the moment.

Conclusion

This road trip is one you won't forget, full of stunning national parks, lively cities, and fascinating history. Whether you're looking for adventure or relaxation, this route has something for everyone. Take your time and enjoy each stop along the way - the journey is just as important as the destination. Happy travels!