Top Places to See When Driving from Boone, Iowa to Ottawa, Kansas

There's something special about taking a road trip - different than any other kind of travel. The freedom to stop when you want and see things up close makes the journey as important as the destination. And the route between Boone, Iowa to Ottawa, Kansas is no exception. The journey is full of way stops, small towns, and scenic landscapes that make the perfect weekend adventure.

You could take the highways and get there in a day. But why rush when you can explore? This list takes you off the beaten path for some epic roadside attractions, historic sites, and natural wonders. So, buckle up and let’s get going.

1. Bridges of Madison County, Iowa

Bridges of Madison County, Iowa is the first must-see attraction when traveling from Boone to Ottawa. The film of the same name turned the covered bridges of Madison County into a cultural phenomenon. Beyond their popularity, these bridges are excellent examples of the traditional building and design techniques used by early Iowan pioneers.

Driving through a few of the bridges, the Cedar Bridge, in particular, offers a dramatic view of the Des Moines River. Many stop and take in the view and get their feet a little wet by hopping on rocks in the river. The bridges are a part of American history, and this makes the drive that much more exciting and educational.

2. Albert Lea, Minnesota

Just over the Iowa/Minnesota border, Albert Lea is the perfect destination for a timeout from the road. Grab a bite at the famous Green Mill Restaurant, which offers the best food and a unique atmosphere. The metropolis also has excellent shopping with a range of antiques, gifts, and tents.

If you’re interested in the town’s history, a visit to the Freeborn County Historical Museum is a must. This museum delves into Freeborn County’s pasts, providing a rare insight into local history. You can also spot the murals by Albert Lea artist Anne Sawyer-Aitch. This small town has something for everyone along the way!

3. Konza Prairie, Kansas

Next up is a must-see prairie located south of Manhattan, Kansas. The Konza Prairie Biological Station provides excellent nature viewing. The scenic drive takes you through a natural Kansas preserve and offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Along the way, you can take a break for a picnic and leave the city sounds behind to truly immerse yourself in nature.

Tourists can observe rare and endangered Kansas habitats in the 13,000-acre preserve. The Konza Prairie Biological Station is a high-profile research material and offers research opportunities for students. It's the perfect way to connect with nature and have a more profound appreciation for Kansas landscapes.

4. Old Depot Museum, Kansas

In the outskirts of Lawrence, the Old Depot Museum is a must for people who love trains. The historic 1888s building of the Atchison, Topeka, and Santa Fe train depot turned into a museum offers an extensive collection, enticing visitors to learn more about trains’ role in American history.

Some of the exhibits include railroad artifacts from the Atchison, Topeka, and Santa Fe Railway, one of the largest train systems in the USA’s history. It's also home to the lovely Waterville caboose, full of museum artifacts and railroad history. The museum is highly informative, and you can learn lots about how trains influenced American history.

5. Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri

The last must-see attraction in this list on the road trip from Boone to Ottawa is the Lake of the Ozarks. This 90-mile lake stretches down the Ozark Mountains and offers exciting recreational activities like water sports and fishing. With warm water throughout the year, the lake is an attraction in all seasons.

The lake offers something for everyone. You can relax by the serenity of the water while enjoying the sunset or try their adrenaline-popping water sports. The greenery surrounding the area is great for hikers who can check their hiking tour boxes around the Woods trails in the Lake of Ozarks State Park.

In Conclusion

There you have it - the top five attractions to see if you’re driving from Boone, Iowa to Ottawa, Kansas - all the way from cool bridges, to prairies, trains, and water sports. Regardless of the time spent on the road, there are more than enough things to explore. Be sure to hit up these great places to take your driving adventure on another level.