Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Chetek, Wisconsin to Manhattan, Kansas
Driving from Chetek, Wisconsin to Manhattan, Kansas is an adventure in itself. Covering a distance of approximately 880 miles, this drive may take around 13 hours and 30 minutes, depending on the route and the weather conditions. Along the way, there are several towns, attractions, and landscapes that are worth a stop. Here are five unexpected places that one should not miss on this road trip.
1. National Mustard Museum, Middleton, WI
Located in Middleton, Wisconsin, the National Mustard Museum is a quirky, funky museum dedicated to the world of mustard. Founded by Barry Levenson, a former Wisconsin state assistant attorney general, the museum features over 6,000 mustards from around the world, antique mustard pots, and mustard memorabilia. Visitors can tour the museum, taste and purchase different types of mustard, and attend events and tastings. A tour of the museum is not complete without tasting the museum’s famous mustard pretzels.
Favorite food to eat in National Mustard Museum: Mustard pretzels
2. Meramec Caverns, Stanton, MO
Located in Stanton, Missouri, Meramec Caverns is a spectacular cave system that offers visitors a glimpse into the underground world. The limestone caves are some of the most beautiful caves in the United States and offer an array of formations, including stalactites, stalagmites, columns, and draperies. Visitors can take a guided tour of the cave system, learn about its history, and witness its impressive formations. Above ground, visitors can also camp, canoe, ride zip lines, and pan for gold.
Favorite food to eat in Meramec Caverns: Turkey leg on a stick
3. Patee House Museum, St. Joseph, MO
Located in St. Joseph, Missouri, the Patee House Museum is a Victorian-era hotel turned museum. The Patee House was once the largest hotel west of the Mississippi River and hosted several notable guests such as Mark Twain and Jesse James. The museum showcases the history of St. Joseph and the surrounding area, including exhibits on the Pony Express, the Civil War, and American Indian culture. Visitors can tour the hotel’s public rooms, view vintage cars and trains, and experience a Wild West shootout reenactment.
Favorite food to eat in Patee House Museum: Steak and eggs breakfast
4. Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead, Overland Park, KS
Located in Overland Park, Kansas, Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead is a unique farm and zoo that provides a hands-on learning experience for children and families. The Farmstead offers a variety of activities, including baby animal feedings, pony rides, and wagon rides, as well as opportunities to milk cows and goats. In addition to the animals, the Farmstead features flower gardens, a nature trail, and a fishing pond.
Favorite food to eat in Deanna Rose Children's Farmstead: Homemade chicken pot pie
5. Dorothy’s House and the Land of Oz, Liberal, KS
Located in Liberal, Kansas, Dorothy’s House and the Land of Oz offer a glimpse into the world of one of the most beloved children’s stories of all time. Dorothy’s House is a replica of the house where Dorothy Gale lived in The Wizard of Oz, and visitors can see exhibits of the story and its author, L. Frank Baum. The Land of Oz is a unique theme park that features recreations of the story’s characters and settings, including the Emerald City, the Yellow Brick Road, and the Cowardly Lion’s forest. Visitors can take a journey through the Land of Oz with a guide, meet the characters, and enjoy different activities.
Favorite food to eat in Dorothy's House and the Land of Oz: Munchkin meals (mini burgers and mini hot dogs)
Driving from Chetek, Wisconsin to Manhattan, Kansas provides an opportunity to experience the beauty and charm of the Midwest and explore some unique attractions. These five unexpected places offer a great mix of history, culture, nature, and entertainment, and are sure to make any road trip unforgettable. So, pack your bags, fill up the tank, and embark on this adventure-filled journey!