Top Places to See When Driving from Bartlett, Illinois to Kansas City, Missouri

Are you planning to go on a road trip from Bartlett, Illinois to Kansas City, Missouri? If you are, then you’re in for a treat. Not only are the towns in this area filled with charm, but the route itself also has breathtaking scenery. This drive is approximately 500 miles long and takes around 7-8 hours to complete. So, let's get started with some of the top places you don’t want to miss on this journey.

Top Places to See:

Starved Rock State Park, Illinois

Start your journey by visiting the Starved Rock State Park, located about 100 miles from Bartlett. It's an ideal place for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. The park offers an amazing view of the Illinois River and has 13 miles of hiking trails that lead to stunning waterfalls. You can also indulge in camping, fishing, and bird watching. The park welcomes visitors all year round, but the best time to visit is in the fall when the trees' leaves turn the most vibrant colors.

Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, Illinois

If you’re fascinated by history and politics, then the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum in Springfield is a must-visit attraction. Located just about 200 miles from Bartlett, this museum is home to artifacts, interactive exhibits, and documents related to the life of Abraham Lincoln, the 16th president of the United States. Visitors can explore the Lincoln-era exhibits and see what life was like during that time.

Meramec Caverns, Missouri

Located around 400 miles from Bartlett, the Meramec Caverns in Stanton, Missouri is an excellent stop for those who are interested in geology and natural formations. The 4.6-mile cavern is full of stalagmites, stalactites, and other breathtaking wonders of nature. Visitors can go on a guided tour, which runs every hour and lasts for about an hour and a half. You can also indulge in other recreational activities such as canoeing on the Meramec River, camping, or zip-lining.

Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum, Missouri

Around 450 miles from Bartlett, you can visit the Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum in Hannibal, Missouri. The museum is dedicated to Samuel Clemens, popularly known by his pen name Mark Twain, who was born in Missouri. The museum consists of several buildings featuring exhibits on the writer's early life, including his childhood home, which has been restored to its original condition. You can also take a trolley tour that offers a glimpse into Mark Twain’s life and Hannibal’s history.

Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, Missouri

Take a break from nature and history for a while by visiting the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art in Kansas City. Located just about 500 miles from Bartlett, this museum is considered one of the best art museums in the country and houses more than 40,000 pieces of art, including several European paintings, Asian art, and American Indian art. The museum has a unique shuttle-cock architecture and provides visitors with a serene and scenic experience.

Conclusion

These are just a few of the many attractions that the route has to offer. Whether you enjoy spending time in nature, exploring museums, or appreciating art, this journey has something for everyone. Don't forget to bring your camera and capture some memories as you travel along this beautiful stretch of road.