Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Briarcliff, Texas to Great Bend, Kansas
Have you ever taken a long road trip through the United States and wished that there were more exciting places to stop along the way? If you're driving from Briarcliff, Texas to Great Bend, Kansas, there are plenty of hidden gems that are waiting to be discovered. This drive takes approximately 9 hours, but with these unexpected stops, it'll feel like a breeze.
The halfway point of this drive is Wynnewood, OK, a small town with a population of just under 2,000. This quaint town has a charm that is hard to resist, making it the perfect halfway point to stretch your legs, grab a bite to eat, and take a break from the road.
1. Turner Falls Park - Davis, OK (95 miles from Briarcliff)
If you love nature and want to experience an amazing waterfall, Turner Falls Park is the perfect place to visit. This park covers over 1,500 acres, and it's home to the highest waterfall in Oklahoma. The park also offers hiking, swimming, and fishing. After you've worked up an appetite from hiking, don't forget to try the famous fried chicken at Smokin' Joe's Rib Ranch.
2. The Blue Whale - Catoosa, OK (208 miles from Briarcliff)
Located just off Route 66, The Blue Whale is an iconic landmark that was built in the 1970s. The whale was originally used as a swimming hole, but now it's a popular spot for tourists to take photos and relax at the pond. If you're feeling hungry, stop by Charlie's Chicken for some classic fried chicken.
3. Tallgrass Prairie Preserve - Pawhuska, OK (289 miles from Briarcliff)
If you want to experience the beauty of the prairie, the Tallgrass Prairie Preserve is the place to go. This preserve boasts over 40,000 acres of untouched prairie grasslands, and it's home to a variety of animals, including bison, birds, and snakes. After a long day of hiking and wildlife watching, grab a burger at the Pioneer Woman Mercantile in downtown Pawhuska.
4. Cosmosphere - Hutchinson, KS (429 miles from Briarcliff)
If you're a space enthusiast, the Cosmosphere is a must-see attraction. This museum boasts one of the largest collections of space artifacts in the world, including the Apollo 13 command module and a Soviet Vostok spacecraft. If you need a snack break, head over to Roy's Hickory Pit BBQ for some mouth-watering barbecue.
5. Mushroom Rock State Park - Marquette, KS (508 miles from Briarcliff)
Mushroom Rock State Park is a fascinating geological formation that is sure to impress. The rocks in this park were created over 200 million years ago, and they resemble mushrooms. After marveling at the unique rock formations, head to The Old 56 Family Restaurant for a slice of homemade pie.
Conclusion
This road trip from Briarcliff, Texas to Great Bend, Kansas may seem like a long journey, but it's filled with unexpected stops that will make it a memorable experience. Whether you're a nature lover, history buff, or foodie, there's something for everyone on this trip. So, grab some snacks, fill up your gas tank, and hit the road to experience these hidden gems for yourself.