Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Bonner Springs, Kansas to Joplin, Missouri
Bonner Springs, Kansas, and Joplin, Missouri are two cities with striking landscapes and interesting attractions that are worth exploring. This road trip starts in Bonner Springs, travels through Pleasanton, KS, and ends in Joplin, MO. The trip takes approximately 3 hours and covers 170 miles.
The halfway point of this trip is Pleasanton, KS, a small city with a population of 1,200. Pleasanton is a charming city with numerous antique shops and quaint stores, making it a perfect spot for a quick break and to grab a bite to eat.
Top 5 Things to do
1. Visit the Moon Marble Company
Located in Bonner Springs, KS, the Moon Marble Company creates handcrafted marbles and has over 700 different types of marbles on display. They also offer demonstrations on how to craft marbles. There's also a store where visitors can buy various types of marbles and glass art.
Interesting Fact: The Moon Marble Company has customers in all 50 states and 32 different countries.
2. Walk the Katy Trail State Park
Katy Trail State Park is a popular tourist attraction for hikers and cyclists, running up to 240 miles long. The trail is located between St. Louis and Kansas City and runs through numerous communities. It's the perfect place for everyone who loves nature, scenic views, and tranquil walks.
Interesting Fact: Katy Trail State Park was once an old railroad track that was transformed into a park.
3. Visit the Battle of Carthage State Historic Site
History enthusiasts will love the Battle of Carthage State Historic Site, which showcases the Civil War's history in Missouri. The site features exhibits and artifacts from the 1861 Civil War engagements and has several interpretive trails that visitors can explore on foot.
Interesting Fact: The Battle of Carthage was one of the earliest battles of the Civil War, fought on July 5, 1861.
4. Joplin History and Mineral Museum
Located in downtown Joplin, Missouri, this museum offers visitors an opportunity to learn about the city's mining history and mineral resources. This museum boasts numerous exhibits, including a replica of the 5-story lead and zinc mill.
Interesting Fact: The Joplin History and Mineral Museum has been displaying mineral samples from around the world since 1938.
5. Visit Bonnie and Clyde's Garage Apartment Hideout
Located in Joplin, Missouri, Bonnie and Clyde's Garage Apartment Hideout showcases the site where the criminal duo spent most of their time when they were in Joplin. The hideout still features bullet holes and various artifacts from the time of their stay in the city.
Interesting Fact: The infamous bank robbers Bonnie and Clyde stayed in the Joplin hideout at the height of their crime spree.
Conclusion
This road trip starting from Bonner Springs, Kansas, and ending in Joplin, Missouri, includes some of the most captivating attractions and landmarks that the two states have to offer. From the Moon Marble Company and the Katy Trail State Park to the Battle of Carthage State Historic Site and Bonnie and Clyde's Garage Apartment Hideout, there is no shortage of exciting places to visit. The best part about the trip is that it's a convenient way to explore small-town Kansas and Missouri, offering a sense of adventure and relaxation. Overall, this road trip takes around 3 hours to complete, making it the perfect escape for a quick weekend getaway.