Best Places to See When Driving from Bolivar, Missouri to Garber, Oklahoma

Are you planning a road trip from Bolivar, Missouri to Garber, Oklahoma? If so, you are in for a treat! This 7-hour drive is filled with beautiful scenery, fascinating history, and unique attractions. In this blog post, we will highlight the top places to see when driving from Bolivar to Garber.

The Route

First, let's take a brief look at the route from Bolivar to Garber. The most direct route is via US-54 W and I-44 W, which goes through Springfield, Joplin, and Tulsa. However, you can also take a more scenic route via MO-123 S and US-60 W, which goes through the Mark Twain National Forest and the Ozark National Scenic Riverways. Either way, you will pass through several interesting towns and attractions that are worth stopping for.

Ha Ha Tonka State Park

Located just 30 minutes south of Bolivar, Ha Ha Tonka State Park is a must-see for nature lovers and history buffs alike. The park features a vast collection of caves, sinkholes, and natural bridges, as well as the ruins of a 20th-century castle overlooking the Lake of the Ozarks. The castle was built by a wealthy Kansas City businessman in the 1900s but was destroyed by a fire in 1942. The ruins are now a popular tourist attraction and a testament to the region's rich history.

George Washington Carver National Monument

If you're interested in African American history and culture, make sure to stop by the George Washington Carver National Monument in Diamond, Missouri, about an hour and a half southwest of Ha Ha Tonka State Park. The national monument is dedicated to the life and achievements of George Washington Carver, a renowned scientist and inventor who was born into slavery in Missouri. The monument features a museum, a nature trail, and a replica of Carver's boyhood home.

Joplin Museum Complex

Joplin, Missouri, about 30 minutes west of Diamond, is home to the Joplin Museum Complex, which houses several museums dedicated to various aspects of local history. The complex includes the Everett J. Ritchie Tri-State Mineral Museum, which showcases minerals and mining equipment from the region, and the Joplin History and Mineral Museum, which features exhibits on the city's famous mining boom. The complex also includes the Dorothea B. Hoover Historical Museum, which houses artifacts and documents related to Joplin's social and cultural history.

Tulsa Art Deco District

About 2 hours west of Joplin, just before reaching Tulsa, is the Tulsa Art Deco District, a vibrant neighborhood filled with 1920s and 1930s architecture and design. The district features a mix of commercial, residential, and public buildings, all adorned with intricate designs, bold colors, and geometric shapes. Some of the must-see buildings in the district include the Boston Avenue Methodist Church, the Philcade Building, and the Mayo Hotel.

Oklahoma City National Memorial and Museum

About 2 hours southwest of Tulsa, in the heart of Oklahoma City, is the Oklahoma City National Memorial and Museum, a moving tribute to the victims and survivors of the 1995 Oklahoma City bombing. The memorial features a reflecting pool, a field of empty chairs, and a symbolic gate that represents the moment of the explosion. The museum offers a comprehensive history of the bombing and its aftermath, as well as exhibits on terrorism, resilience, and hope.

Cherokee Strip Regional Heritage Center

The final stop on our list is the Cherokee Strip Regional Heritage Center in Enid, Oklahoma, about an hour north of Oklahoma City. The center is dedicated to preserving and promoting the history and culture of the Cherokee Strip, a region of Oklahoma that was settled by European and African Americans in the late 1800s and early 1900s. The center features exhibits on subjects such as agriculture, ranching, Native American culture, and pioneer life.

Conclusion

Driving from Bolivar, Missouri to Garber, Oklahoma offers a diverse range of attractions and experiences, from natural wonders and historic sites to cultural landmarks and architectural marvels. Whether you prefer the great outdoors or the urban jungle, there is something for everyone along this scenic route. So pack your bags, hit the road, and enjoy the best of the Midwest!