Top Places to See When Driving From Athens, Texas to McPherson, Kansas

If you're planning a road trip from Athens, Texas to McPherson, Kansas, you're in for a scenic drive with plenty of interesting stops along the way. From natural wonders to historic landmarks, this stretch of highway is filled with destinations that are definitely worth adding to your travel itinerary. In this blog post, we'll be highlighting the top places to see on your journey between these two states.

1. Oklahoma City National Memorial and Museum

As you make your way from Texas to Kansas, you'll drive through Oklahoma City. Be sure to make a stop at the Oklahoma City National Memorial and Museum to pay tribute to those who were affected by the tragic events of April 19, 1995. The museum offers visitors a chance to learn about the history and aftermath of the Oklahoma City bombing through interactive exhibits, artifacts, and personal stories. The outdoor memorial features a reflection pool, 168 empty chairs, and the Survivor Tree, a symbol of resilience and hope.

2. Tallgrass Prairie Preserve

Just north of Pawhuska, Oklahoma lies the Tallgrass Prairie Preserve, a protected area that spans over 39,000 acres. Here, you'll get a glimpse of what the Great Plains looked like before European settlement. The preserve is home to herds of bison, prairie dogs, coyotes, and other wildlife. The best way to explore the area is by taking a scenic drive along the bison loop or by hiking one of the trails. Don't forget to bring your camera, as you'll have plenty of photo opportunities!

3. Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge

About an hour and a half north of the Tallgrass Prairie Preserve, you'll find the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge near Lawton, Oklahoma. This refuge boasts stunning granite mountains, pristine lakes, and over 50,000 acres of protected land. Visitors can hike, bike, fish, and even climb Mount Scott, the highest peak in the refuge. Be sure to keep an eye out for bison, elk, and longhorn cattle that call the area home.

4. Monument Rocks National Natural Landmark

As you cross the border from Oklahoma into Kansas, you'll come across the stunning Monument Rocks National Natural Landmark near Oakley. This area, also known as the Chalk Pyramids, features towering formations that were once part of an ancient sea bed. The rocks, which are made up of layers of lime and fossilized shells, have been eroded over time by wind and rain, resulting in otherworldly formations that are sure to leave you in awe.

5. Kansas Cosmosphere and Space Center

Just a short drive from McPherson lies the Kansas Cosmosphere and Space Center in Hutchinson. This attraction is a must-see for space enthusiasts, with exhibits that showcase artifacts from NASA's space missions, including the Gemini, Apollo, and Space Shuttle programs. Visitors can also explore the planetarium or take a ride in the flight simulator. If you're looking for a fun and educational stop, the Kansas Cosmosphere and Space Center is definitely worth a visit.

Conclusion

Driving from Athens, Texas to McPherson, Kansas is a journey that takes you through multiple states and diverse landscapes. With so many sights to see along the way, it can be hard to decide where to stop and what to explore. However, with these five top destinations, you can be sure that you won't miss out on the most fascinating and unique stops. So pack your car and head north, as these attractions offer a once-in-a-lifetime experience that you don't want to miss.