Best Places to Visit When Driving from Belton, Missouri to Edwardsville, Kansas

Driving can be a great way to explore a new place, and the route from Belton, Missouri to Edwardsville, Kansas offers a lot of opportunities to see some beautiful sights along the way. Whether you're looking for a scenic drive, a historical site, or just a great place to stop and grab a bite to eat, there are plenty of options to choose from. In this list, we've compiled some of the top places to see when driving from Belton to Edwardsville, so you can make the most of your journey.

The Best Scenic Stops

Kaw River State Park

The Kaw River State Park is a beautiful place to stop and take in nature on your drive from Belton to Edwardsville. Located along the Kansas River, the park offers stunning views of the water and the surrounding landscape. There are plenty of hiking trails, picnic areas, and other recreational activities to enjoy, making it a great place to stretch your legs and get some fresh air.

Quindaro Bluffs Overlook

For an unbeatable view of the Kansas City skyline, head to the Quindaro Bluffs Overlook. Located in the historic Quindaro neighborhood in Kansas City, this park offers panoramic views of the city and the Missouri River. The park is also home to a historical marker that commemorates the important role that Quindaro played in the Underground Railroad.

Flint Hills Scenic Byway

The Flint Hills Scenic Byway is a beautiful drive that takes you through some of the most stunning landscapes in Kansas. As you make your way through the rolling hills and grassy prairies, you'll have the chance to see bison, pronghorns, and other wildlife that call the area home. Along the way, be sure to stop at some of the small towns and historic sites that dot the route, such as Cottonwood Falls and the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve.

The Best Historical Sites

Shawnee Indian Mission

The Shawnee Indian Mission is a historic site located in Fairway, Kansas, that was established in 1830 by the Methodist Episcopal Church to educate Native American children. Today, the site is a museum that offers visitors a glimpse into the lives of the Shawnee people and the impact that European settlement had on their culture.

Sauer Castle

Sauer Castle, located in Kansas City, Kansas, is a historic mansion that was built in 1871. It has a rich and fascinating history, including being the site of several murders, a speakeasy during Prohibition, and a popular haunted house attraction. Today, the castle is open for tours, and visitors can explore its beautiful architecture and learn about the many stories that are associated with the house.

Fort Leavenworth

Fort Leavenworth is a United States Army installation that has been in use since the 1820s. The fort has played an important role in the history of the United States, serving as a training ground for soldiers and as a base of operations during several conflicts. Today, visitors can explore the fort's many historic buildings, including the Frontier Army Museum, which offers exhibits on the history of the fort and the surrounding area.

The Best Places to Eat

Stroud's

If you're looking for some great comfort food, Stroud's is the place to go. This Kansas City institution has been serving up delicious fried chicken and other classic dishes since 1933. Be sure to save room for their famous cinnamon rolls, which are a must-try.

Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Que

If you're in the mood for barbecue, Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Que is the place to go. This iconic restaurant has been featured on numerous food shows and has won countless awards for its delicious meats and sauces. Be prepared for a long line, though - the popularity of this place means that it's always busy.

1889 Pizza Napoletana

If you're looking for some delicious pizza in Edwardsville, be sure to check out 1889 Pizza Napoletana. This family-owned restaurant uses authentic Neapolitan techniques to craft their delicious pies, which are cooked in a wood-fired oven. Be sure to try the Margherita pizza, which is a classic for a reason.

Conclusion

There are plenty of great places to see and things to do when driving from Belton, Missouri to Edwardsville, Kansas. Whether you're looking for a scenic drive, some fascinating historical sites, or some delicious food, this list has got you covered. So pack up the car and hit the road - there's so much to explore along the way.