Road Trip: Top Places to See When Driving from Aurora, Colorado to City of Troy, New York
Road trips often bring the most amazing joys of travel. The rustic charm of scenic routes, the glimpse of stunning landscapes, and the memorable pit stops in your journey are what make road trips one of the best ways to explore a new place. If you're planning on taking a road trip from Aurora, Colorado to City of Troy, New York, you're in for a treat. This journey offers a blend of natural wonders, historic landmarks, and cultural riches that are worth driving for. To make the most of your road trip, we have crafted a list of top places to see on your way from Aurora to Troy.
From Aurora to Kansas City: Exploring Kansas
As you drive eastward from Aurora in Colorado, and hit the open road, you'll be greeted by an expanse of serene plains, rolling hills, and serene landscapes. While you may traverse through numerous states, one of the best routes is through Kansas. Kansas, famously known as the Sunflower State, is an unspoiled haven for nature lovers, history enthusiasts, and adventure seekers. Here are a few places you must visit in Kansas.
1. Monument Rocks Natural Landmark
Monument Rocks Natural Landmark, located in Gove County, is one of the most captivating geological formations you'll ever see. The towering rocks are over 70 million years old, and they make for a scenic stop on your way to Troy. You can marvel at the natural beauty of this landmark by hiking, taking a picnic, or stargazing at night.
2. Old Cowtown Museum
Old Cowtown Museum in Wichita is like stepping into a western heritage display. The museum takes you back to the 1800s when Wichita was a bustling cattle town. You'll see authentic buildings, the echoes of cowboys, and the workings of a blacksmith, and get a taste of life back then. It's perfect for those who want to relive the old west in a new light.
3. Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve
Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve, located in Flint Hills, is a unique grassland ecosystem that was once widespread across America. It is now preserved as a national park where you can go biking, camping, hiking, and wildlife spotting while approaching Troy. You'll discover what an awe-inspiring landscape it is.
Crossing the Mississippi River: From Missouri to Illinois
After Kansas, your journey may take you through Missouri and keep you in for a rendezvous with the Mississippi River. The river marks a significant milestone for your trip – you're about halfway through. Here are some stops that will keep you in high spirits as you go.
4. Hannibal, Missouri
Hannibal is a vibrant city that sits on the western bank of the Mississippi River. It is famous worldwide as the birthplace of Mark Twain. The city welcomes you with picturesque views of the river, and you can learn more about the famous author by visiting attractions like Mark Twain Museum and Hannibal History Museum.
5. Gateway Arch National Park
The Gateway Arch National Park in St. Louis can be seen from miles away and is a prominent landmark of the Missouri riverfront. The arch is a tribute to the vision of the Lewis and Clark expedition, and a gateway to commemorate the westward expansion of the US. It is a marvel of architecture, and you can take a tram ride or an elevator to the top of the arch for sweeping views of the Mississippi River.
6. Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site
Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site, located near Collinsville in Illinois, is the ideal destination for history and culture aficionados. The site comprises 80 reconstructed earthen mounds, which were pivotal to an ancient Native American civilization that predated European settlers. You can learn more about their way of life and the mysteries of the mounds while on a guided tour or by yourself.
From Illinois to Troy: The Empire State
As you head northward to New York, the transition from Illinois to Indiana to Ohio to Pennsylvania is smooth enough to make you miss the scenery. But as soon as you get into New York, your heart races with excitement because the Empire State has a lot to offer. Here are the last few stops in your journey to Troy that you ought to visit.
7. Niagara Falls State Park
Niagara Falls State Park represents the crown jewel of New York's attractions. The park, situated in western New York, comprises a massive waterfall complex that fills the eyes and reverberates the ears with the awe-inspiring sound of water splashing. You can take a boat tour or walk across the park's footpaths to witness the beauty of one of North America's most magnificent wonders.
8. American Museum of Natural History
American Museum of Natural History, located in New York City, is one of the biggest and most diverse natural history museums in the world. The museum houses more than 30 million artifacts, from dinosaur skeletons to human cultures and other unique specimens. You will be led through exhibits that will take you on a trip across different time periods and habitats.
Conclusion
If you're planning a road trip from Aurora, Colorado, to City of Troy, New York, then this list highlights some fantastic places to see along the way. Of course, there are plenty of other wonderful places to visit on your journey, but these destinations are sure to make it more inspiring. So, pack your bags, gas up, and head down the road for the adventure of a lifetime!