#Best Things to Do on a Road Trip from Bellevue, Nebraska and Greenville, Texas
Bellevue, Nebraska and Greenville, Texas are both scenic cities that offer unique sights and experiences. Embarking on a road trip from Bellevue to Greenville is not only a great way to explore two cities but to also enjoy some of the hidden gems in between at Blackwell, OK.
The trip covers approximately 750 miles and is a journey that is worth it. Along the way, road trippers will have a chance to explore a blend of art, history, and nature. Here are five top things to do on a road trip that cuts through Blackwell, OK.
##1. Visit the Joslyn Art Museum in Omaha, NE
Featuring an impressive collection of over 11,000 works of art, The Joslyn Art Museum in Omaha, Nebraska is a must-see. The museum boasts of contemporary and traditional art styles as well Japanese woodblock prints and rare prints and drawings. Visitors should definitely check out the Art Deco-inspired atrium dome, which is itself a masterpiece.
Interesting fact: The museum was founded in 1931 by philanthropist Sarah H. Joslyn in honor of her husband George “Ad” Joslyn.
##2. Nature and Wildlife at the Great Plains Nature Center in Wichita, KS
The Great Plains Nature Center is perfect for nature enthusiasts. The center showcases the Great Plains ecosystem and its Wildlife. Visitors can explore more than 200 bird species on display as well as check out the Kansas Wildlife Exhibit. It is a great destination to learn about the history and ecology of the Great Plains.
Interesting fact: The Great Plains Natures Center has a 9,000-gallon aquarium that displays Kansas fish including channel catfish, shovelnose sturgeon, and spotted gar.
##3. Explore the Tallgrass Prairie Preserve in Pawhuska, OK
Located in the Osage Hills of Oklahoma, the Tallgrass Prairie Preserve is a vast expanse of grassy plains that cover over 39,000 acres. The preserve features more than 2,500 bison, which are the largest living land mammal in North America. Visitors can take a guided hike to get close to the bison and also tour a 19th-century ranch.
Interesting fact: The Tallgrass Prairie Preserve is one of only 20 sites in the world that has been recognized as a "Last Great Places".
##4. Discover the Wild West history at Woolaroc Museum and Wildlife Preserve in Bartlesville, OK
Woolaroc was originally the ranch retreat of oil baron Frank Phillips and has now been turned into a museum. Visitors can explore the history of the Wild West and view the impressive collection of western art and artifacts. The 3,700-acre wild preserve is home to bison, elk, and other wildlife, which can be viewed along a 2.5-mile nature trail.
Interesting fact: Woolaroc Museum and Wildlife Preserve was named after three words- Woods, Lakes, Rocks- coined from the surrounding landscape.
##5. Explore the Dallas World Aquarium in Dallas, TX
Dallas World Aquarium is one of the most unique aquariums in the country. Visitors can walk through a recreated rainforest and trek along coral reefs while viewing tropical birds, amphibians, and marine animals. There is also an underground tunnel that gives an immersive experience of a cross-section of the ocean floor with sea creatures swimming over and around.
Interesting fact: The aquarium houses a rare species of amphibian, the Axolotl or "Mexican walking fish" known for their ability to regenerate lost body parts.
Traveling 750 miles can be daunting. However, getting to experience these five unique experiences, including exploring a vast ecosystem, discovering the Wild West's history, and enjoying art, nature, and wildlife, makes every mile worth it. On average, it takes about 12 hours or two to three days with stops at the highlights.
In conclusion, traveling from Bellevue, Nebraska, and Greenville, Texas, offers a unique opportunity to explore some of the hidden gems in-between; visiting Omaha’s impressive Joslyn Art Museum, enjoying nature and wildlife at the Great Plains Nature Center, the vastness of Tallgrass Prairie Preserve, the Wild West's history, and finally, the stunning Dallas World Aquarium. Additionally, the road trip route allows for a quick stopover in Blackwell, Oklahoma, which is the perfect halfway spot for those who appreciate art and antiques.