Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive From Chillicothe, Ohio and Hinton, Oklahoma

If you are looking for a scenic road trip through the heart of the Midwest, driving from Chillicothe, Ohio to Hinton, Oklahoma will give you a chance to see small towns, rolling hills, and endless vistas. This trip covers almost 1,000 miles and takes around 16 hours in total. It’s a lengthy but worthwhile journey that showcases the beauty and diversity of America's Heartland.

The halfway point on this route is Sullivan, Missouri, and it's worth taking a break there to relax and recharge before continuing your journey. The city has a variety of shops, restaurants, and hotels to choose from. Some of the must-visit sites in Sullivan include Meramec State Park, which is great for hiking and picnics, and Meramec Caverns, a network of caves beneath the hills.

Here are five other unexpected places to visit during the journey from Chillicothe to Hinton:

1. Wheeling, West Virginia

Located around three hours west of Chillicothe, Wheeling is a quaint town with a rich history. There are plenty of places to explore, including the Victorian-era architecture and cobblestone streets in the Centre Market area. Visitors can also tour the iconic Capitol Theatre and learn about the area's industrial heritage at the Wheeling National Heritage Area. Plus, no trip to Wheeling is complete without enjoying a famous "gourmet" hot dog from the popular Coleman's Fish Market.

2. Hannibal, Missouri

Hannibal is the birthplace of Mark Twain, and it's around two hours from Sullivan. The town is the inspiration for many of Twain's novels and features several notable sights, including the Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum, the Rockcliffe Mansion, and the Sodalis Nature Preserve. Visitors can also take a riverboat tour on the Mississippi River and enjoy local specialties like fried catfish and hushpuppies.

3. Abilene, Kansas

Abilene is located about halfway between Sullivan and Hinton, and it's worth a stop to experience the Old West. Visitors can learn about the history of American cowboys at the Dwight D. Eisenhower Presidential Library and Museum, which is also the final resting place of President Eisenhower and his wife. Sporting enthusiasts should check out the Greyhound Hall of Fame, which celebrates the world's fastest canines. While you're there, don't miss the chance to try the town's famous chicken fried steak.

4. Amarillo, Texas

Texas is famous for its rugged beauty, and Amarillo is where you can explore some of its most stunning landscapes. The city is located in the Texas Panhandle and is known for attractions like the Cadillac Ranch sculpture installation and the famous Big Texan Steak Ranch, where diners can enjoy a 72-ounce steak, a challenge that attracts visitors from across the country. Amarillo is also the gateway to Palo Duro Canyon State Park, the second-largest canyon in the US, where visitors can hike, bike, and camp among breathtaking views.

5. Elk City, Oklahoma

Elk City is located around an hour from Hinton and is a great spot to learn about local history and culture. The National Route 66 & Transportation Museum celebrates the iconic road and its impact on American life, while the Elk City Old Town Museum offers a glimpse of the early days of the town's settlement. Visitors can also enjoy authentic Tex-Mex cuisine at the popular Tacos el Tarasco restaurant.

In conclusion, a road trip from Chillicothe, Ohio, to Hinton, Oklahoma is a fascinating journey through America's heartland, showcasing the diversity of the country's landscape, culture, and history. Take a few breaks along the way to visit these five unexpected places, and savor the local foods and experiences unique to each stop. It's a road trip that every travel enthusiast should embark on at least once in their lifetime!