Best Places to Visit When Driving from Bandon, Oregon to St. Joseph, Missouri: A Road Trip Across America
Are you planning a road trip from Bandon, Oregon to St. Joseph, Missouri? Are you looking for exciting places to visit along the way? Well, you're in the right place! In this blog post, we present to you some of the best places to visit and explore on your trip.
Driving through America, there's a lot to see and experience. You'll get to witness different geographical features, cultural and historical landmarks, and much more. The trip from Bandon, Oregon to St. Joseph, Missouri is a memorable one, considering the fantastic views and some must-see places along the way. So sit back, fasten your seatbelt, and let's get started!
Natural Wonders and Scenic Places
When it comes to natural beauty, the Pacific Northwest and the Midwest have something to offer. Here are some of the natural wonders and picturesque places you don't want to miss during your road trip.
1. Crater Lake National Park, Oregon
Crater Lake National Park is the ideal spot to kick off your adventurous trip. This site boasts the deepest lake in the United States, offering stunning views and activities like hiking, fishing, and birdwatching. Visiting Crater Lake National Park in the summer is breathtaking, but you could also go ski or snowshoe in the winter if that's what you prefer.
2. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
Yellowstone National Park is a place for nature lovers, and one of the most beautiful natural wonders in America. Yellowstone is home to the popular Old Faithful geyser, a natural hot spring that erupts frequently. Visitors can also take a dip in the park's boiling river and enjoy an array of flora and fauna.
3. Badlands National Park, South Dakota
As you travel further east, the next stop you should make is at the Badlands National Park, South Dakota. The park is situated along the route to the Black Hills and offers driving tours, camping, and ranger-guided tours and hikes. Don't forget to pack your camera as the landscape is a sight to behold.
4. Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum, Missouri
Make a stop at the birthplace of the legendary American author Mark Twain in Hannibal, Missouri. Here, visitors can tour the Mark Twain Boyhood House, go to interpretive centers, get to know the Tom Sawyer Museum, and enjoy other recreational activities.
Historic Attractions and Landmarks
America has a rich history with many iconic landmarks that depict its past. Here are some of the places you should visit that depict the events that happened during significant times in American history.
1. Mount Rushmore, South Dakota
A visit to South Dakota is not complete without a stop at Mount Rushmore National Memorial. This iconic landmark is a rock-carved sculpture of America's four most famous presidents, George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln.
2. Gateway Arch, Missouri
The Gateway Arch sits on the banks of the Mississippi River, in St. Louis, Missouri. The Arch stands at 630 feet tall and is the world's tallest arch. The attraction honors the quote of American presidents and historical figures who expanded the United States westward.
3. The Kansas State Capitol, Kansas
The historical Kansas State Capitol in Topeka, Kansas, brings to life the state's history and political heritage. Visitors can take a tour of the stunning architecture and the beautiful artwork that adorned the statehouse.
4. The Pony Express National Museum, Missouri
The Pony Express National Museum in St. Joseph, Missouri, depicts the story of the legendary Pony Express riders, their journey, and their significant contributions to America's history. The museum uses artifacts and displays, which makes it easier for visitors of all ages to engage with and learn about the museum's history.
Food and Drink
America's diverse cultures come with a wide variety of cuisine, drinks, and dining experiences. Here are some places you can eat and drink for a memorable experience during your trip.
1. VooDoo Doughnut, Oregon
Voodoo Doughnut is a must-visit when exploring Portland, Oregon. This bakery serves various types of unique doughnuts that will satisfy your sweet tooth.
2. Wall Drug Store, South Dakota
Wall Drug Store in Wall, South Dakota, has everything from mascot jackalopes to cowboy boots. It is a must-visit culinary attraction because of its five-cent coffee, fresh-baked donuts, and 100% free ice water on a hot day.
3. Cozy Drive-In, Missouri
If you're looking for weiners, the Cozy Drive-In is your spot. This hotdog joint in Springfield, Missouri, offers a unique chili cheese dog that is worth a try. The Cozy Drive-In has been serving the masses since 1949 and is, therefore, one of Missouri's most significant culinary tourist attractions.
4. Boulevard Brewing Company, Kansas City
Kansas City's Boulevard Brewing Company is a destination brewery and one of the Midwest's most significant craft beer names. The brewery offers weekly tours of the brewery, and visitors can taste their popular beers like Tank 7, Pale Ale, or Bourbon Barrel Quad, among others.
Conclusion
A road trip across America is a fantastic way to explore the country, and the route from Bandon, Oregon to St. Joseph, Missouri, is no exception. This road trip is home to many exciting places worth visiting. We hope that this list of some of the best places to visit along the way will inspire you to put on your driving shoes and hit the road. So make sure to grab your camera, your appetite, and your sense of adventure, and have a blast on your journey from Bandon, Oregon, to St. Joseph, Missouri.