Museums, Parks, and Landmarks to Visit on a Roadtrip from Cameron, Missouri to Lenexa, Kansas

Are you planning a road trip from Cameron, Missouri to Lenexa, Kansas and looking for some interesting museums, parks, and landmarks to visit along the way? Look no further! In this blog post, we have listed down the top five places to visit and other points of interest that you should not miss out on during your journey.

Did you know that Missouri is also known as the "Show-Me" state? This nickname comes from a statement made by Congressman Willard Duncan Vandiver in 1899, who said "I'm from Missouri, and you've got to show me." It suggests Missourians are generally skeptical until given proof!

About halfway between Cameron and Lenexa lies the beautiful town of Liberty, MO. Liberty was founded in 1822 and is home to many historic sites, including the Jesse James Bank Museum, which tells the story of the famous outlaw's failed robbery attempt.

The distance between Cameron and Lenexa is around 70 miles, which is approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes of driving time. However, we recommend allowing more time for the places mentioned below so that you can truly experience the beauty of these landmarks.

Now, let's dive into the top five places to visit on this road trip.

1. Watkins Woolen Mill State Park and Historic Site

Watkins Woolen Mill State Park and Historic Site is located in Lawson, MO, and is a must-visit destination for history buffs. This beautifully preserved mill is a National Historic Landmark and was built in the mid-1800s. Visitors to the mill can explore the impressive courtyards, gardens and go inside the mill to witness the process of wool production. Besides the mill, the site offers a picnic area and hiking/biking trails.

Point of Interest Recommendation: Take a guided tour around the site to learn about the history of wool processing and the people who worked at the mill.

2. Burr Oak Woods Conservation Area

Burr Oak Woods Conservation Area is a beautiful place to soak in the natural beauty of Missouri. Located in Blue Springs, MO, the conservation area features more than 1,100 acres of nature trails, outdoor classrooms, and wildlife exhibits. Burr Oak Woods is an excellent spot for outdoor enthusiasts who love hiking, bird watching and fishing.

Point of Interest Recommendation: With over 18 hiking trails to choose from, why not choose the 2.2-mile paved fitness trail that has 10 fitness stations to weight train?

3. National Airline History Museum

The National Airline History Museum in Kansas City is where you can explore the glory days of aviation. The museum provides visitors with an in-depth look at the history of commercial air travel, featuring a rich display of historical aircraft, memorabilia and airlines hostesses' uniform dating back from the 30s! In addition to the museum's impressive collection, visitors can also discover the glamorous room of the "Stratosphere Lounge" cocktail bar.

Point of Interest Recommendation: Get to know the surprising history of TWA, the most famous airline headquartered in Kansas City before it disappeared in 2001.

4. Shawnee Mission Park

Shawnee Mission Park is a must-stop destination in Shawnee, KS, which spans over 1,600 acres and is one of the largest parks in Kansas. The park features a magnificent 120-acre lake, a beautiful rose garden, and an extensive network of hiking and biking trails. In addition, there are various activities and events all year-round like an off-leash dog park for dog lovers and an archery range.

Point of Interest Recommendation: Rent a paddle boat or a kayak and enjoy the serene blue-water lake while looking out for bird species such as the Great Blue Heron, ducks and geese.

5. The Johnson County Museum

The Johnson County Museum in Shawnee, KS is another highlight on this road trip. The museum showcases the history of Johnson County, from its early agricultural roots to its present-day modernization. The museum has a vast range of collections, ranging from a 1950s home to artifacts from the Great War. Visitors can experience various interactive exhibits, see the world's largest ball of stamps, and learn about the differences in the lives and environments of their ancestors compared to themselves.

Point of Interest Recommendation: Check out the KidScape exhibit, a kid-sized "town" that creates an interactive and immersive experience of past life for children.

Conclusion

In conclusion, taking a road trip from Cameron, Missouri, and Lenexa, Kansas offers a perfect opportunity to experience the beauty of Missouri and Kansas while learning about their history and culture. The drive is not too long, making it a perfect getaway activity without having to plan too much or spend too much time traveling. So, pack your bags, grab some snacks, and embark on an exciting road trip filled with natural beauty, magnificent architecture, and intriguing history all along the way!