While there are no National Parks in Nebraska (there are only 63 of those nationwide) but there are plenty of other natural and cultural wonders to see. These include National Monuments, National Historic Trails, and a National Scenic River.

If you’re curious to learn more about the national park units in Nebraska, this post will help. By the end, don’t be surprised if you’re eager to visit these ones along with other National Parks in the Great Plains.

In this post, I promote travel to destinations that are the traditional lands of the Arapaho, Cheyenne, Očhéthi Šakówiŋ, Jiwere, Ndé Kónitsąąíí Gokíyaa (Lipan Apache), Umoⁿhoⁿ (Omaha), Yankton, Pâri (Pawnee), Oohenumpa, and Ponca peoples. With respect, I make a formal land acknowledgment, extending my appreciation and respect to the past and present people of these lands. To learn more about the peoples who call these lands home, I invite you to explore Native Land.

This post was originally published in June 2021, and was updated most recently in June 2023.

National Parks in Nebraska List & Map

Before jumping into each national park in Nebraska in greater detail, it helps to take a high-level look at the map and list of national park units in Nebraska.

The 10 national parks in Nebraska are:

1. Agate Fossil Beds National Monument
2. California National Historic Trail
3. Chimney Rock National Historic Site
4. Homestead National Historical Park
5. Lewis & Clark National Historic Trail
6. Mormon Pioneer National Historic Trail
7. Niobrara National Scenic River
8. Oregon National Historic Trail
9. Pony Express National Historic Trail
10. Scotts Bluff National Monument

Above, you’ll see a map I made of the national park units (including the trails/rivers in blue). It’s worth noting that the trails aren’t exactly accurate on the map. Many of these original trails and the stops and landmarks have been somewhat lost to the sands of time. Also, several of the trails in Nebraska overlap; if you’re curious to learn more, click through to the map and look at the notes on each one.

Now let’s dive into each of the national parks in Nebraska so you can decide which one(s) you want to visit!

Agate Fossil Beds National Monument

Representing 20 million years of natural history, Agate Fossil Beds National Monument is perfect for families and Indiana Jones wannabes. It features Miocene-age rocks that contain original fossil records. This area used to be a grass savannah where prehistoric creatures lived.

The primary site has dozens of fossils – many still being excavated – where animals met their fate at a prehistoric past watering hole.

Details of Agate Fossil Beds National Monument:

• Agate Fossil Beds National Monument is open year-round.
• There is no admission fee for Agate Fossil Beds National Monument.
• Click here to visit the NPS page for Agate Fossil Beds National Monument.

California National Historic Trail

The California National Historic Trail was a mid-19th-century highway used for migration to the West. This trail features a braiding of routes across Kansas, Nebraska, Wyoming, Idaho, Utah, Nevada, and California.

You can drive portions of the route; it now overlaps with many state and federal highways as it crosses some of the wild rural areas of the country. At various markers and sites along the route, you’ll also learn fascinating stories about emigrants, missionaries, and fortune seekers who came before. 

Details of California National Historic Trail:

• Visitor centers and museums along the California National Historic Trail vary in opening hours and seasons.
• Admission fees for these sites and museums also vary.
• Click here to visit the NPS page for California National Historic Trail.

Chimney Rock National Historic Site

Chimney Rock National Historic Site is a towering symbol of the great Western migration. Located at the southern edge of the North Platte River Valley, Chimney Rock is one of the most famous historic sites in Nebraska. Pioneer travelers on the California, Oregon, and Mormon trails used this natural geologic formation as a landmark during the great migration. 

The Chimney Rock is made of a thin spire that is 325 feet tall with a wide, conical base. This natural wonder is made up of several layers of volcanic ash and Brule clay which are about 34 million years old. Currently, this national monument has a visitor center nearby where you can learn about the history of Chimney Rock.

Details of Chimney Rock National Historic Site:

• Chimney Rock National Historic Site is open year-round.
• Admission to Chimney Rock National Historic Site is $3 for adults 18 and older.
• Click here to visit the NPS page for Chimney Rock National Historic Site.

Homestead National Historical Park

Homestead National Historical Park is a historic location established in 1936. It serves as a symbol of immigrant opportunity and national development across 211 acres of land in Gage County, Nebraska. 

Homestead National Historical Park features a restored tallgrass prairie and serene woodlands that are accessible via numerous trails. There is also a creek and a hedgerow of extant Osage orange trees that have retained the site’s original historical significance.

Details of Homestead National Historical Park:

• Homestead National Historical Park is open year-round with different hours for summer and winter.
• There is no admission fee for Homestead National Historical Park.
• Click here to visit the NPS page for Homestead National Historical Park

Lewis & Clark National Historic Trail

Many people know the basics of the Lewis & Clark Expedition. It took place from 1803 to 1806 and explored historical, natural, and cultural resources in the U.S. The trail they took – now a national historic trail – is about 8,000 miles long. It runs through Missouri, Kansas, Nebraska, Iowa, South Dakota, North Dakota, Montana, Idaho, Washington, and Oregon.

In Nebraska, the Lewis & Clark National Historic Trail traverses the border with South Dakota northwest of Sioux City. Some of the historic markers and the visitor center are on the Nebraska side.

Details of Lewis & Clark National Historic Trail:

• Visitor centers and museums along the Lewis & Clark National Historic Trail vary in opening hours and seasons.
• Admission fees for these sites and museums also vary.
• Click here to visit the NPS page for Lewis & Clark National Historic Trail.

Mormon Pioneer National Historic Trail

Stretching over 1,300 miles, this national historic trail was traveled by 70,000 Mormons. From 1846 to 1869, Mormons traveled this trail to avoid religious persecution before settling in the West – primarily in Utah. Today, there are several historical sites found along the Mormon Pioneer National Historic Trail. In Nebraska, it overlaps the Oregon Trail through much of the state.

Details of Mormon Pioneer National Historic Trail:

• Visitor centers and museums along the Mormon Pioneer National Historic Trail vary in opening hours and seasons.
• Admission fees for these sites and museums also vary.
• Click here to visit the NPS page for Mormon Pioneer National Historic Trail.

Niobrara National Scenic River

The Niobrara National Scenic River is another fantastic outdoor playground in Nebraska. You can enjoy several forms of water recreation activities here. You can canoe, kayak, or float down this peaceful, dynamic river. The best part of this unique area is the breathtaking waterfalls found around the region. My favorite is Smith Falls, which I had the chance to visit on a recent trip.

Details of Niobrara National Scenic River:

• Niobrara National Scenic River is open year-round.
• There is no admission fee for Niobrara National Scenic River.
• Click here to visit the NPS page for Niobrara National Scenic River.

Oregon National Historic Trail

You already know a bit about it from the popular video game from the 1970s-1990s. This historic, multi-state trail spans 2,170 miles through Missouri, Kansas, Nebraska, Wyoming, Idaho, Oregon, and Washington. Throughout the Great Plains, there are various museums, historic sites, original trail segments, and churches to visit along the trail. The Oregon Trail primarily follows the Platte River valley as it crosses westward toward its final destination.

Details of Oregon National Historic Trail:

• Visitor centers and museums along the Oregon National Historic Trail vary in opening hours and seasons.
• Admission fees for these sites and museums also vary.
• Click here to visit the NPS page for Oregon National Historic Trail.

Pony Express National Historic Trail

We’ve all also heard about the Pony Express, right? The Pony Express National Historic Trail was used in the 19th Century for long-distance communication. Men would ride on horses through this trail for ten days or more to deliver mail from Missouri to California, including across Nebraska.

This trail ran through eight states and was the only means of east-west communication before the telegraph was invented. When touring this trail, make sure to check out the passport stamp sites and learn more about this mail delivery system’s history.

Details of Pony Express National Historic Trail:

• Visitor centers and museums along the Pony Express National Historic Trail vary in opening hours and seasons.
• Admission fees for these sites and museums also vary.
• Click here to visit the NPS page for Pony Express National Historic Trail.

Scotts Bluff National Monument

Scotts Bluff National Monument is final proof that the Great Plains also has stunning natural scenery. This area protects over 3,000 acres of historic trail remnants along with towering bluffs, rugged badlands, and mixed-grass prairie. It’s not far from Chimney Rock, making both sites a great pair of destinations to visit in western Nebraska.

While visitation isn’t as high as other areas in Nebraska, some 200,000 visitors make the journey here each year.

Details of Scotts Bluff National Monument:

• Scotts Bluff National Monument is open year-round.
• Admission to Scotts Bluff National Monument is free.
• Click here to visit the NPS page for Scotts Bluff National Monument.

While Nebraska might not seem like there’s much there, hopefully, you’re now pleasantly surprised! Though there are no National Parks, Nebraska is home to 10 national park service units worth exploring. Best of all, they cover a range from historic sites to natural wonders. The only question is: which one(s) do you want to visit? If you have questions about the national parks in Nebraska or how to visit them, let me know in the comments!

As the miles unfurl before you, expect a medley of rugged mountains, desert vistas, and thriving metropolises, each with its unique blend of Texan spirit. There’s a reason they say ‘everything is bigger in Texas,’ and this route is your key to understanding the larger-than-life allure of this southwestern powerhouse. Buckle up and let the adventure begin – here’s what you need to know about making the drive between El Paso and San Antonio (or if it’s better to fly!).

TL;DR: How long is the drive between El Paso and San Antion? The direct drive from Dallas and El Paso (or vice versa) is 550 miles (885km) and should have a drive time of 8 hours in normal traffic.

In this post, I promote travel to destinations that are the traditional lands of the Coahuiltecan, Jumanos, Mescalero Apache, Ndé Kónitsąąíí Gokíyaa (Lipan Apache), Piro, Sumas, Tampachoa (Mansos), Tigua (Tiwa), and Tonkawa peoples, among others. With respect, I make a formal land acknowledgment, extending my appreciation and respect to the past and present people of these lands. To learn more about the peoples who call these lands home, I invite you to explore Native Land.

El Paso to San Antonio Distance 

As the crow flies, the distance between El Paso and San Antonio is just over 500 miles. But, as we all know, we can’t drive in a straight line. 

The distance of the San Antonio to El Paso drive is approximately 550 miles (885 kilometers) when traveling by road. There’s not that much difference with flying, to be honest. Always remember the distance may vary slightly depending on the specific route taken and your starting and ending points in each city.

El Paso to San Antonio Drive Time 

As I said above, the drive between El Paso and San Antonio extends for 550 miles. It will take you approximately 7 hours and 45 minutes via I-10 E to cover that distance. 

While it’s not impossible to make this drive in one day, it’s not likely you will. Unless you’re driving with a friend or your partner and are taking driving turns. 

Again, always remember this is a rough estimate, and how long it actually takes you to cover the distance depends on where you start and end in each city and how many stops you make.

Stops to Make on Your Drive from Between El Paso to San Antonio

There’s no shortage of interesting stops along the El Paso to San Antonio drive. Take a look below to discover the ones you may enjoy including in your road trip.

McDonald Observatory

As a die-hard space nerd, I can’t write this list without mentioning McDonald Observatory. Located near Fort Davis, the McDonald Observatory is a renowned astronomical research facility and popular tourist attraction. The property offers fantastic guided tours, exhibits, and even stargazing sessions with its massive telescopes. 

While it would be best if you catch one of their stargazing sessions, it’s also worth popping up to do the self-guided tour and explore the installations. 

Fort Lancaster State Historical Site

Need to stretch your legs? Fort Lancaster State Historical Site is a great place to do that! This historic fort, located near Sheffield, offers visitors a glimpse into the frontier days of Texas. One can imagine the solitude of the soldiers who manned these barracks back in the 1850s. 

You can take a self-guided tour and learn about the military history of the area through exhibits and reconstructed buildings. 

Devil’s Sinkhole State Natural Area

Located near Rocksprings, Devil’s Sinkhole is a great stop on that never-ending drive in Texas along the I-10. This massive vertical cavern is home to one of Texas’ largest colonies of Mexican free-tailed bats. The bats in action are a sight to behold. 

If you take an evening tour you can see millions of bats coming out of the sinkhole in a circular motion, making it look like a bat tornado. They then form a huge bat river in the sky flying away into the night. 

Enchanted Springs Ranch

Enchanted Springs Ranch is just outside Boerne. This Western-themed attraction offers visitors a taste of the Old West. It’s a great stop to make if you have kids. They offer guided tours of the ranch, interactive shows with cowboys and cowgirls, live performances, and even horse rides!

Six Flags Fiesta Texas

As you approach San Antonio, you might consider stopping by Six Flags Fiesta Texas, a popular amusement park. It offers thrilling roller coasters, water rides, live entertainment, and attractions for all ages. You can find many options for food, too! Also, the park has fantastic water attractions during the summer months to survive the blazing Texas heat. Come ready in your bathing suit!

Other Tips for Your Drive Between San Antonio and El Paso

Here are some final tips to help you plan your drive between Dallas and San Antonio:

• The route between San Antonio and El Paso is entirely in big ol’ Texas.
• Some of the larger cities between El Paso and San Antonio are Van Horn, Fort Stockton, and Junction.
• If you’re looking for a midway or overnight stop near the halfway point, look at Fort Stockton, which is 3.5 hours from El Paso and 4.5 hours from San Antonio.
• There are plenty of rest stops along I-10, which forms the route you’ll take.
• There are also plenty of gas stations and truck stops along the entire route if you need fuel, toilets, snacks, or other services.

Should You Fly Between El Paso to San Antonio Instead? 

When distances are on the longer side, you may wonder if it’s more convenient to fly than drive. There’s no right o wrong answer, as which option you choose depends on your interests and possibilities. 

I always like to take into account two variables to make the best decision: time and cost. 

When flying, it will take you a total travel time of 4 hours – including the time you take to get to the airport, do the security check, board, etc. On the road, things get a bit longer; you’d spend almost eight hours driving if you decide to do it in one day and without any stops. 

Cost-wise, the average price for a round trip between these two cities is almost $400 if you snag a deal, whereas the drive between San Antonio and El Paso costs around $150 a round trip. 

In conclusion, from a time perspective, flying is more convenient, however, driving is cheaper. And as I always say, driving also gives you the chance to discover and explore interesting points you wouldn’t otherwise. In the end though, it’s really up to you!

Have any other questions about making the drive from El Paso to San Antonio? Let me know in the comments below!

From sculptures and towers to museums and collections, you don’t need to drive I-80 straight through unless you want to… But as we know, there’s plenty to make the Great Plains worth exploring.

In choosing these roadside attractions along I-80, I tried to keep the stops within a few miles of I-80; you won’t find some of the other great roadside attractions in the Great Plains on this list if they’re too far from Interstate 80 itself. I’ve also listed them from east to west, rather than ranking them in a certain order. In any event, this will hopefully inspire your current road trip plan – and to explore more of the region on a future road trip too.

In this post, I promote travel to destinations that are the traditional lands of the Umoⁿhoⁿ (Omaha), Jiwere, Očhéthi Šakówiŋ, Pâri (Pawnee), ᏣᎳᎫᏪᏘᏱ Tsalaguwetiyi (Cherokee, East), Shawandasse Tula (Shawanwaki/Shawnee), Cheyenne, Ndé Kónitsąąíí Gokíyaa (Lipan Apache), Arapaho, and S’atsoyaha (Yuchi) peoples. With respect, I make a formal land acknowledgment, extending my appreciation and respect to the past and present people of these lands. To learn more about the peoples who call these lands home, I invite you to explore Native Land.

This post was originally published in February 2021, and was updated most recently in June 2023.

The Best Roadside Attractions Along I-80

Before jumping into the list of roadside attractions along I-80 that are worth stopping to see, I thought it might be helpful to see a map. This post (and my site!) focuses just on the Great Plains, so it only covers those roadside attractions between the Missouri River and the Rocky Mountains.

Ready to learn more about each of these stops I recommend? Let’s hit the road!

Lauritzen Gardens

Lauritzen Gardens is one of Omaha’s hidden treasures for sure. The botanical garden is home to so many beautiful species of plants. The rose garden is sublime. You’ll be in awe of all the colors, fragrances, and shrubs. The prairie is stunning, bursting with seeds and flowers.

Needless to say, if you are a plant nerd, you will be in heaven looking for and identifying all the different rare plants you probably haven’t seen in person but have always wanted to.

They also have themed shows that elevate the ambiance. There’s a tram that takes you on a tour of the premises and it’s very convenient if you are not in the mood for a walk.

The World’s Largest Ball of Stamps

Can’t say if this is a philatelist’s dream or nightmare. But what I do know is that humankind never ceases to amaze us with their interests and how they pursue them. The world’s largest ball of stamps is a great example of that. 

This huge ball consists of 4,655,000 stamps from all over the world and weighs 600 pounds! It even made it to the Guinness Book of World Records. This is located in the visitor’s center of Boys Town. The story behind the ball is very endearing. Go to see the ball but stay and see Boys Town also. Your time will be well rewarded.

Landlocked Lighthouse

While it might surprise you, Nebraska – which does not border any major body of water – has a lighthouse! Located outside of Gretna, Nebraska about 25 minutes down I-80 from Omaha, the “Landlocked Lighthouse” overlooks a beach and a small lake. Built in 1939, the landlocked fared well through the many storms that roll across the Great Plains.

World’s Largest Time Capsule

Located in Seward, Nebraska, the World’s Largest Time Capsule is a huge concrete vault filled with over 5,000 relics. It’s actually only a few minutes from the World’s Largest Covered Wagon in Milford; you may want to choose to stop at only one of these two roadside attractions along I-80.

Weighing up to 45 tons, Harold Davisson built this monument; it was dedicated on July 4, 1975. The time capsule is set to be opened in 2025, the 50th anniversary of when it was sealed.

Lee’s Legendary Marbles & Collectibles

Another few miles (about 30 minutes) west of Seward, there’s another roadside attraction you may want to stop at: Lee’s Legendary Marbles & Collectibles. Why this particular shop, you ask?

Lee’s Legendary Marbles & Collectibles is home to what is possibly the world’s largest collection of marbles! Lee Batterton, who started the collection in 1954, claims that his collection has over 1,000,000 (yes, one MILLION) marbles and is the largest in the world. They are housed at the “Marble Museum” in York, Nebraska.

Classic Car Collection

The town of Kearney, Nebraska, seems like it is halfway along I-80 in Nebraska; in fact, it’s halfway between Boston, Massachusetts, and San Francisco, California (1733 miles from each!). It’s also home to two roadside attractions along I-80 that you might want to stop and visit.

The first is the Classic Car Collection. Over the past 50 years, this collection has grown to over 200 vehicles; the cars themselves date back to the 1910s! This is the perfect stop for those who wish they were road-tripping Interstate 80 in a classic car.

Kearney Archway

The Kearney Archway is a sight you’ll see if you drive I-80 and don’t stop – it’s also a roadside attraction you can stop and visit if you choose to!

This Archway is actually a museum, which covers travel across Nebraska dating back to the Oregon Trail. This is poignant as you can see and hear the cars and trucks roaring along Interstate 80 below you as you visit the exhibits and learn more about the Great Platte River Road.

Heartland Museum of Military Vehicles

About 40 minutes west from the Kearney Archway, military buffs will find one of several roadside attractions along I-80 to visit. The Heartland Museum of Military Vehicles (HMMV) houses over 100 military vehicles including helicopters, tanks, ambulances, and jeeps from every branch of the military. (Not sure about the Space Force though!)

Even if you’re not big into military history, this is a great family-friendly museum as many of the vehicles are touch-friendly and there are several you can even climb into and get a sense for what it was like to operate or drive them!

Golden Spike Tower

It’s another hour west from Lexington (where the HMMV is located) to the Golden Spike Tower in North Platte. You might be confused: Wasn’t the golden spike driven in Omaha? Yes, it was! But North Platte is actually home to the largest rail yard in the world and the actual location where the East and West rail lines actually meet.

Today you can visit the Golden Spike Tower and Visitor Center to learn more about rail history across the Great Plains – and the entire country. You can ascend the seven-story tower for a view of the rail yard, and future attractions will allow visitors to experience old rail travel in its glory days.

ICBM Missile Museum

It’s a long drive to the next of the best roadside attractions along I-80; it’s 3.5 hours from North Platte, Nebraska, to Warren Air Force Base in Wyoming where you can visit the Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM) Museum. You can’t actually go onto the base to see ICBMs, but this small military museum is located in former commanders’ headquarters and will teach you all about air missile defense in the U.S.

Big Boy Steam Engine 4004

Cheyenne from its earliest days has been a railroad town. In fact, today over 90 trains a day arrive and depart the local rail.

Big Boy Steam is one of the largest steam engines – and one of only 8 in the country – that has been preserved by the Union Pacific Railroad to celebrate the town’s railroading heritage. A must for all railroading enthusiasts, this steam engine is massive and makes the average person feel really tiny in comparison.

Wyoming Territorial Prison Dumping Station

I’m ending my list of roadside attractions along I-80 in Laramie, Wyoming, where you move out of the Great Plains and into the Mountain West. The first attraction in Laramie is the Wyoming Territorial Prison Dumping Station; while this sounds like a landfill, it’s actually a historic site.

This 197-acre prison has held many a villain and criminal over the 30 years it was in operation, including – most famously – Butch Cassidy. It’s now a museum where you can learn more about territorial Wyoming history beyond the Hollywood version you may have in mind.

Giant Head of Abraham Lincoln

Last but certainly not least, Abraham Lincoln is honored in stone too – but not at Mount Rushmore! Instead, you can find Lincoln immortalized in clay and peering out over Laramie, Wyoming.

Originally located along the old Lincoln Highway, this sculpture was opened to the public in 1959. Today Lincoln is located at the Summit Rest Area and there are several other markers noting the history of the Lincoln Highway in the area too.

Those are some of what I consider to be the best roadside attractions along I-80; do you know of others? Let me know in the comments!

The list includes historic sites and trails as well as a memorial and recreation area. Together they show the diversity of natural and historic wonders in Oklahoma – even without any National Parks.

If you’re planning a trip to or through Oklahoma and want to visit one or more of these sites, use this post to learn more about the national parks in Oklahoma and what makes each one unique. You’ll also find a map to help you see where each is located and more easily plan your trip.

In this post, I promote travel to destinations that are the traditional lands of the Kiikaapoi (Kickapoo), 𐓏𐒰𐓓𐒰𐓓𐒷 𐒼𐓂𐓊𐒻 𐓆𐒻𐒿𐒷 𐓀𐒰^𐓓𐒰^(Osage), Wichita, Chickasaw (Oklahoma), O-ga-xpa Ma-zhoⁿ (O-ga-xpa), [Gáuigú (Kiowa), Caddo, Washtáge Moⁿzháⁿ (Kaw / Kansa),  Ndé Kónitsąąíí Gokíyaa (Lipan Apache), Arapaho, and Pâri (Pawnee) peoples. With respect, I make a formal land acknowledgment, extending my appreciation and respect to the past and present people of these lands. To learn more about the peoples who call these lands home, I invite you to explore Native Land.

This post was originally published in May 2021, and was updated most recently in May 2023.

National Parks in Oklahoma List & Map

Before jumping into each national park in Oklahoma in greater detail, it helps to take a high-level look at the map and list of national park units in Oklahoma.

The 6 national parks in Oklahoma are:

1. Chickasaw National Recreation Area
2. Fort Smith National Historic Site
3. Oklahoma City National Memorial
4. Santa Fe National Historic Trail
5. Trail of Tears National Historic Trail
6. Washita Battlefield National Historic Site

Above, you’ll see a map I made of the national park units in Oklahoma (including the trails in blue). It’s worth noting that the trails aren’t exactly accurate on the map, since these original trails and the stops and landmarks have been somewhat lost to the sands of time.

Now let’s dive into each of the national parks in Oklahoma so you can decide which one(s) you want to visit!

Chickasaw National Recreation Area

This is a historic recreational gem featuring the Platt National Park and Arbuckle Recreation Area and preserves south-central Oklahoma hills. It is one of the major National Park units in the Great Plains and was named in honor of the Chickasaw Indian Nation, who relocated to this area in the 1830s. 

This beautiful park spans about 9,900 acres and features streams, springs, and lakes, which cover about 2,409 acres. Visitors get to enjoy several outdoor activities like hiking, swimming, camping, picnicking, boating, and fishing. Admission is free.

Details of Chickasaw National Recreation Area:

• Chickasaw National Recreation Area is open year-round but hours vary by season.
• Admission to Chickasaw National Recreation Area is free.
• Click here to visit the NPS page for Chickasaw National Recreation Area.

Fort Smith National Historic Site

Another historic site with a military background, this Fort was established in 1817 and featured the commissary building, the gallows, the courthouse, and the jail building. 

The visitor center at this historic site features its role in the western expansion of the U.S., the federal court’s effects on justice in Indian Territory, and the Cherokee Trail of Tears. Visitors get to explore the site and experience life on the edge of the frontier.

Details of Fort Smith National Historic Site:

• Fort Smith National Historic Site is open year-round but hours vary by season.
• Admission to Fort Smith National Historic Site is $10 per person.
• Click here to visit the NPS page for Fort Smith National Historic Site.

Oklahoma City National Memorial

This memorial was built to honor the victims, rescuers, and survivors of the April 19, 1995, Oklahoma City bombing. Visitors and families of those who lost their lives are able to visit this national memorial site which features a Field of Empty Chairs, a Rescuers’ Orchard, and a Reflecting Pool. Feel free to embark on a self-guided tour of this national park in the Great Plains.

Details of Oklahoma City National Memorial:

• Oklahoma City National Memorial is open year-round.
• Admission to Oklahoma City National Memorial Museum is $15 for adults and $12 for children.
• Click here to visit the NPS page for Oklahoma City National Memorial.

Santa Fe National Historic Trail

Spanning about 900 miles through five states (Missouri, Kansas, Colorado, Oklahoma, and New Mexico), the Santa Fe National Historic Trail has become a popularly walked site. Currently, it is hard to identify its exact routes, so most visitors resort to other means of plying the route. In Oklahoma, the Santa Fe National Historic Trail crosses only a small part of the Panhandle, but there is a roadside picnic area near the trail along U.S. Highway 385.

Details of Santa Fe National Historic Trail:

• Visitor centers and museums along the Santa Fe National Historic Trail vary in opening hours and seasons.
• Admission fees for these sites and museums also vary.
• Click here to visit the NPS page for Santa Fe National Historic Trail.

Trail of Tears National Historic Trail

The Trail of Tears commemorates the journey of the 16,000 displaced Cherokees who were forcibly relocated to Oklahoma in 1838. While many traveled on foot, as many as 4,000 died on the way and the route they took became known as the Trail of Tears. Feel free to join the yearly remembrance hikes through this trail for remembrance.

You can also visit the Cherokee Trail of Tears Commemorative Park in Kentucky to learn more about this historic movement’s history, burial sites, and campsites (though Kentucky is not part of the Great Plains).

Details of Trail of Tears National Historic Trail:

• Visitor centers and museums along the Trail of Tears National Historic Trail vary in opening hours and seasons.
• Admission fees for these sites and museums also vary.
• Click here to visit the NPS page for Trail of Tears National Historic Trail.

Washita Battlefield National Historic Site

This historic site exists to commemorate the lives lost at the battle between the U.S. Calvary and the Cheyenne village led by Chief Black Kettle. One of the tragic events of the Great Plains Wars, the aftermath of the surprise attack that happened on this historic site has made this site one of remembrance and reflection for those who lost their lives.

Visitors are allowed to walk the site and explore the visitors center to learn more about this battle’s history and the people involved.

Details of Washita Battlefield National Historic Site:

• Washita Battlefield National Historic Site is open year-round.
• Admission to Washita Battlefield National Historic Site is free.
• Click here to visit the NPS page for Washita Battlefield National Historic Site.

While Oklahoma might not have any national parks, it is still packed with historic sites and important markers of our national history – including some dark chapters that remind us to strive to follow the better angels of our nature. The only question left is: which one(s) do you want to visit?

If you have questions about the national parks in Oklahoma or how to visit them, let me know in the comments below!

Usually, that’s either across as fast as you can safely drive, or traveling between the major cities that mostly sit on the perimeter of the huge sprawling plains of North America. In any case, you might find yourself looking at the drive between Austin and Kansas City and wondering what you need to know before hitting the road.

In this post, I’ll cover all the details about the drive between Kansas City, Kansas, and Austin, Texas – two cities within the Great Plains that are bustling business centers and popular tourist destinations. Whatever the reason you need to travel between the two, you’ll soon know how long it will take, how far the drive will be, and where to stop along the way.

This post was originally published in July 2022, and was updated most recently in May 2023.

Austin to Kansas City Drive Distance

As the crow flies, it’s roughly 635 miles between Austin and Kansas City. Unfortunately, routes rarely follow a straight line. The drive between Austin and Kansas City covers 737.6 miles one-way on I-35 N. 

Remember, this driving distance is an estimate, as your final driving time will depend on your start and end points within each city.

In this post, I promote travel to destinations that are the traditional lands of the Gáuigú (Kiowa), 𐓏𐒰𐓓𐒰𐓓𐒷 𐒼𐓂𐓊𐒻 𐓆𐒻𐒿𐒷 𐓀𐒰^𐓓𐒰^(Osage), Wichita, Nʉmʉnʉʉ Sookobitʉ (Comanche), Kiikaapoi (Kickapoo), Očhéthi Šakówiŋ, Chickasaw (Oklahoma), O-ga-xpa Ma-zhoⁿ (O-ga-xpa) (Quapaw), Jumanos, and Tawakoni peoples. With respect, I make a formal land acknowledgment, extending my appreciation and respect to the past and present people of these lands. To learn more about the peoples who call these lands home, I invite you to explore Native Land.

Austin to Kansas City Drive Time

Based on the distance between these two cities, you can expect the drive between Kansas City and Austin to be a long one. It takes approximately 10 hours and 44 minutes to cover the 737.6 miles along the I-35 and I-35 S. 

While some brave drivers will drive from Austin to Kansas City without any stops, I think the rest of us will definitely include a couple of pit stops and book an overnight stay along the way. 

Luckily, the Austin to Kansas City drive is full of interesting and beautiful stops you can visit. 

Stops to Make on Your Drive between Austin and Kansas City

For those making the Kansas City to Austin drive a two-day trip, here’s a list of 16 great places worth visiting along the way between Austin and Kansas City.

Coke Can Silo 

The Coke Can Silo, located in the flat lands of Kansas, is the perfect stop if you’re into ‘big things.’ This quirky attraction has been part of the landscape since the 1980s when the local Coca-Cola bottler decided to paint the farm silo as a giant Coca-Cola Classic can. Today, the Coke Can Silo is a popular stop among road-trippers for stretching their legs and taking a few pictures. Moreover, the silo is easy to find, and there are places to pull off the road and park easily.

The Keeper of the Plains

If you’re doing the drive between Austin and Kansas City, make sure to stop in Wichita to see The Keeper of the Plains. 

The Keeper of the Plains is a 44-foot Cor-Ten steel sculpture and is the work of Kiowa-Comanche artist Blackbear Bosin. Thought-provoking and meaningful, the sculpture represents the brotherhood of all Indian Americans and the confluence of the Plains communities. It features numerous displays which describe the local tribes that used to inhabit this area, plus fire pits that light up to illuminate the statue at night. 

Old Cowtown Museum 

On your way through Wichita, you can also visit the Old Cowtown Museum. This open-air history museum recreates the lifestyle of Wichita during the 1870s. 

The museum has about 40 Old West buildings spread over 23 acres, like the old Wichita Eagle newspaper office and the blacksmith shop. The museum has staff dressed in period costumes who demonstrate everyday activities such as gardening, tending livestock, and cooking. There are Can Can Dancers, sheriffs, outlaws, and many other iconic Wild West figures. 

Exploration Place 

The drive between Kansas City and Austin also has a stop for little science junkies: Exploration Place. 

Exploration Space is a science museum located in Wichita. It features educational and hands-on exhibits about pretty much every scene field you can imagine. There are exhibits about tornadoes and wind, aviation, spaceships, and Kansas biodiversity. It also has an enormous three-story playhouse and miniature town for toddlers. 

The highlight of the museum is its live science shows. Currently, they’re hosting an interactive show to uncover the science of staying calm. 

Frontier City Theme Park

nFor an adrenaline rush, make your way to Frontier City Theme Park, located just outside Oklahoma City. This amusement park is a great place for families, especially for kids. It has many nice rides for different ages, dancing and magic shows. If you need a break from the carousel or roller coaster, you can always take a bite and cool off at Chuckwagon Food Court.

Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum

The Oklahoma City National Memorial is a must-stop along your drive from Kansas City to Austin. This memorial is a poignant yet beautiful reminder of the Oklahoma City bombing on April 19, 1995. 

It pays homage to the victims, survivors, and rescuers involved in the tragedy. 

Visitors can visit the museum or simply explore the exterior grounds. The site has numerous areas which stand as a metaphor for the events: 

• The Field of Empty Chairs features 168 empty chairs and is a physical representation of the Murrah building victims.
• The Survivor Tree survived the Oklahoma City bombing and stands as a reminder of resilience in the face of turbulent times. 
• The Reflecting Pool creates the reflection of someone changed forever by their visit to the Memorial. 
• The Gates of Time are twin gates that state the moment of destruction, the innocence before the attack, and the moment healing began. The 9:02 AM gate represents the moment of destruction; the 9:01 Gate represents the innocence before the attack, and the 9:03 Gate symbolizes the moment healing began.

Spider Bug-Wilson VW Auto

The Spider Bug-Wilson VW Auto is one of the quirky sights you’ll see driving through Oklahoma. 

The giant Spider Bug-Wilson VW Auto is the creation of Monte Bodine. He built the spider in 1973-74 out of a Volkswagen Beetle. The lurking bug is 15 feet high and sits on what used to be the world’s largest VW salvage yard. 

The sculpture has been the subject of debate. Why? Some argue the sculpture is a bug, while others state it is a spider. The design is confusing. At a glance, the sculpture looks like a spider, but then you see it only has six legs instead of eight. What do you think?

Toy and Action Figure Museum

Stop by the Toy and Action Figure Museum to bring back childhood memories. The Toy and Action Figure Museum in Pauls Valley is a fun (and nostalgic) pitstop along the Austin to Kansas City drive. 

The museum houses over 13,000 action figures. I’m not exaggerating; the place is packed to the ceiling with a wide range of cool figures to look at, from My Little Ponies and GI Joe to Hot Wheels and Star Wars. The museum has meticulously oriented and displayed the toys to show how action figures have progressed throughout history. So it is also an educational experience. 

Frank Buck Zoo

If you’re driving with little ones who crave a bit of fun, make your way to the Frank Buck Zoo in Gainesville, Texas. This zoo is not big but still has a nice variety of animals. It s home to 130 animal species and offers an entertaining experience for nature enthusiasts of all ages. They also have a park located right out in front of it, which is really nice for the kids.

Greater Southwest History Museum

Take some time to visit the Greater Southwest History Museum. The museum is a hidden gem in Ardmore, showcasing the rich heritage and diverse history of the region. Its best asset is that it chronicles the history and contributions of small towns that we easily forget.

From Native American artifacts to pioneer exhibits, they have stunning displays that create a journey through time. It even has a good military section and an old log house inside the building.

Barney Smith’s Toilet Seat Art Museum

Every object in this world is susceptible to becoming a piece of art, and Barney Smith’s toilet seat art is just the perfect example of such a statement. 

Barney Smith was a retired master plumber who combined his love of art with his trade. The result: a massive collection of toilet seat art. The decorated toilet seats and lids cover every inch of the museum’s walls, now located at the Texas Truck Yard in Dallas. Smith embellished the toilet seats with every imaginable fabric, paint, and object. Some even have pieces of the Berlin Wall and barbed wire from Auschwitz. 

Dealey Plaza National Historic Landmark District

Instead of following the slightly shorter route through Fort Worth, you could instead drive through Dallas and stop at the Dealey Plaza National Historic Landmark District. This site, oftentimes called the “birthplace of Dallas”, holds a place in American history as the location where President John F. Kennedy was assassinated.

It’s a must-see if you have studied JFKs life, but also a great place to gain a deeper understanding of this pivotal moment that influenced American history so drastically.

Munster Mansion Replica 

If you grew up watching the classic TV show “The Munsters” or watching the reruns, you’ll love the Munster Mansion Replica.

Sandra McKee was a die-hard fan of the 60s show. So much so that she decided to buy a house and make it an exact replica of the one in the TV show. She and her husband, Charles McKee, watched the show thousands of times to get every detail right. Sarah gives private tours – you have to book in advance – of the house as she shares interesting facts about the show, the characters, and all the treasures in her home. 

Fort Worth Water Gardens

The Fort Worth Water Gardens is a great stop when you feel the urge to stretch your legs.  This oasis in the heart of the city was designed by Philip Johnson and features stunning gardens with cascading waterfalls, serene pools, and beautiful architecture, which create an atmosphere of tranquility and natural beauty. You’ll find lots of places to sit and relax with trees all around for shade.

Parking is not easy, but paid parking is available at the South end of the park in front of the Texas & Pacific Lofts off Lancaster Avenue.

Historic Sinclair Gas Station

A must-visit attraction awaits you in Fort Worth – the Historic Sinclair Gas Station. This historic gas station is a sort of  “rite of passage” for many motorcycle riders. It’s a true voyage back in time, with the well-preserved architecture and iconic Sinclair dinosaur logo. This station serves as a nostalgic reminder of America’s golden era of motoring and is a fantastic spot for a photo.

Czech Stop

Czech Stop is one of the best/worst kept secrets in all of Texas right off the side of I-35 in between Hillsboro and Waco. This little bakery is famous for its mouthwatering Czech pastries and delicious homemade goodies.

Whether you’re a foodie or not,  this will be a pit stop you will be dreaming of weeks after your first experience. I’m not kidding. They have the best molasses cookies in the world! Also, get some kolaches for when you feel peckish on the road. 

Tips for your Drive Between Austin and Kansas City

Now that you know the basics of the drive and are inspired to make a few stops, here are some final tips to help you finish planning your road trip:

• The route between Austin and Kansas City occurs across three states: Texas, Oklahoma, and Kansas.
• There are several big cities along the route, including Oklahoma City and Wichita.
• If you’re looking for a good halfway point to stop for a few hours or overnight, consider Oklahoma City, which is 6 hours from Austin and 5 hours from Kansas City.
• There are also plenty of rest stops and commercial truck stops to choose from along the way… literally dozens!
• There are also plenty of gas stations and truck stops along I-35 if you need fuel, toilets, snacks, or other services.

Should You Fly from Austin to Kansas City Instead?

The long distance from Austin to Kansas City might make you wonder whether flying is better than driving. Ultimately, the answer comes down to two variables: time and cost. 

Time-wise, flying from Austin to Kansas City takes 3 hours and 16 minutes – counting the time you need to get to the Austin airport, do the check-in, and then arrive at your destination in Kansas City. In contrast, the drive between Austin and Kansas City takes approximately 10 hours and 44 minutes to cover the 738-mile trip.

A round-trip flight ticket costs around $238, whereas if you drive between Kansas City and Austin, you can spend $230 on gas for a round trip. As you can see, you get to spend pretty much the same amount of money. 

As I always say, choosing the mode of transportation depends on how much time you have and what you want from your trip. If you have no time constraints, I highly suggest you grab the car keys and make the drive! 

Have any other questions about making the drive between Austin and Kansas City, or reverse? Let me know in the comments!

From natural wonders – Ayres Natural Bridge! Independence Rock! Hell’s Half Acre! – to cultural sights and events like the Casper Balloon Festival and Fort Laramie, Casper has a ton to offer.

Even if your primary destination is one of those I already mentioned, plan on overnight or an extra day in Casper. With all these things to do in Casper, it’ll be time well spent exploring another corner of the incredible Great Plains region.

In this post, I promote travel to a destination that is the traditional lands of the Apsaalooké (Crow), Arapaho, Cheyenne, Očhéthi Šakówiŋ peoples. With respect, I make a formal land acknowledgment, extending my appreciation and respect to the past and present people of these lands. To learn more about the peoples who call these lands home, I invite you to explore Native Land.

This post was originally published in May 2021, and was updated most recently in May 2023.

1. Explore Ayres Natural Bridge

Among the most remarkable places and top things to do in Casper is the Ayres Natural Bridge. Its location is on Natural Bridge Rd in Douglas. Ayres Natural Bridge is one of Wyoming’s most popular tourist attractions and among only three natural bridges in the USA with water beneath. It also has a scenic park ideal for unwinding and outdoor recreation, having accessible hiking paths, picnic areas, fishing spots, etc.

 2. Attend the Casper Balloon Roundup

When you want an out-of-this-world experience, then a trip on the Casper Balloon Roundup is among the great things to do in Casper. This particular hot air balloon typically floats visitors over the city during summer.

There is also a weekend-long festival that attracts balloonists from all over the USA;it occurs each year in late June. For spectacular views of the floating balloons over the city, stop by the National Historic Trails Interpretive Center in the morning after the balloons launch.

 3. Hike Casper Mountain

Standing at 8,130 feet above sea level, Casper Mountain in Wyoming is a scenic destination worth visiting. This particular mountain strategically overlooks the city, and a visit to this place will give you one of the best experiences in Casper that is truly unforgettable.

Adventures and outdoor enthusiasts will most definitely have a fantastic time at this serene location. There are several public parks, camping spots, accessible hiking trails, and not forgetting a folk museum ideal for history buffs.

4. Visit Casper Planetarium

The Casper Planetarium is an excellent place to learn about the night sky. The Planetarium offers educative programs that use top-notch technology that allows you to have a full-dome view of celestial wonders. Lastly, this incredible place showcases the universe in HD, and visitors are allowed to attend educational events like the laser show that talks about various constellations.

 5. Spot CCC Park Architecture

Among the exciting things to do in Casper is to visit the CCC Park Architecture at Guernsey State Park. This park has a unique 1930’s architecture with great samples of Civilian Conservation Corps work (CCC). This destination situated in the Guernsey State Park is a remarkable place for history buffs. The CCC Park Architecture also features a spectacular Castle that leads to an observatory area with a fabulous park view.

6. Explore Downtown Casper

If you’re not sure of what to do in Casper, then you might want to consider making a stop in Downtown Casper. Past meets the present in the city center, where you’ll find historic buildings modernized to blend in with the 21st-century housing structure.

There are also great restaurants that serve delicious foods, coffee shops, and various unique shops too. In other words, this popular destination is ideal for those who want to discover more about Casper’s history and culture and see how locals live here.

 7. Visit Fort Caspar Museum

History buffs are without a doubt going to find this specific destination worthwhile. Visiting Fort Caspar Museum – not a typo – should be among your top activities in Casper. This museum is an 1865 military reconstructed post.

Initially, Fort Caspar acted as the final river crossing of the California, Oregon, Mormon Pioneer, and Pony Express trails. Fort Caspar Museum showcases the history of the natives, the energy industry, the frontier army, and not forgetting a display of a recreated Mormon ferry. Behind this remarkable structure is a fort, with all its initial buildings reconstructed.

 8. Visit Fort Laramie

Fort Laramie is another remarkable National Historic Site in Casper with several scenic attractions, especially for history lovers. The Fort was initially established in 1834 as a trading location for fur, and it, later on, became the most significant fully-equipped military post on the Northern Plains. Its primary function was to protect settlers who moved west and was effective until 1890.

Visiting Fort Laramie is one of the top things to do in Casper if you want to learn about Westward Expansion history and also witness thrilling reenactments.

 9. Explore Hell’s Half Acre

Despite its name, Hell’s Half Acre is one of the best spots to visit near Casper. This one-of-a-kind geologic oddity has a hilly gorge that’s horseshoe-shaped. It also drops away from a flat plain to the east along Highway 20.

Hell’s Half Acre is a 150-foot-deep gorge that covers 320 acres that spread across the south. This particular destination is ideal for sightseeing and getting a sense of the wildness of this region. Can you imagine what the immigrants thought when they reached this site? Perhaps that’s how it earned its moniker!

 10. Independence Rock

This spectacular natural wonder is another excellent spot worth exploring – and interesting to fans of history too.

Independence Rock is a giant granite that is 128 feet high,1900 feet long, and 700 feet wide, indeed a natural phenomenon. Named after the 1830 fur traders’ celebration, this particular rock is among the most famous landmarks along the Oregon Trail. History buffs also get to visit the “Great Register of the Desert,” a spot along the trail having over 5000 early emigrant names carved on this special boulder.

 11. Kayak the Fremont Canyon

Among the favorite active things to do in Casper is to rent a kayak and explore the waterways of Fremont Canyon.

Located approximately four miles southwest of Pathfinder Dam, this particular place is a great tourist destination. There are lovely rock walls that are high up on each side of the river, making it an excellent spot for kayakers and those who love to keep their adrenaline pumping.

Fremont Canyon is also a great place for fishing, sightseeing, and canoeing.

 12. Visit the National Historic Trails Interpretive Center

The National Historic Trails Interpretive Center is one of Casper’s largest museums and the most informative. Visiting this remarkable place is worth it, especially if you’re an avid history lover.

National Historic Trails Interpretive Center has the documented history of the 400,000 settlers’ experience while traveling through trails that crisscrossed Wyoming between 1841 to 1868. The museum is located in a hilly place, having breathtaking views of the countryside around Casper.

13. Stroll through Nicolaysen Art Museum

This particular museum is another ideal place to visit. The Nicolaysen Art Museum showcases an array of work done by both local and national artists. Avid art lovers will most definitely enjoy their time here, as the artwork displayed at the museum constantly changes every month. In turn, the experience is always refreshing with each monthly visit.

Nicolaysen Art Museum also has a variety of art programs for children, while adults get to meet the artists in person.

 14. Traverse the Oregon Trail

The Oregon Trail is an explorer’s paradise as it is easily accessible and has breathtaking scenery. Guests can either cover this trail on horseback along the Platte River, with a famous stopping point for patrons near Independence Rock.

Visitors also have the privilege to choose whether they want an overnight wagon trip, or a half or full day’s horse ride while at the Oregon Trail. Besides experiencing an adventure of a lifetime, this lovely destination also educates people about the trail’s history.

 15. Bike or Hike the Platte River Trails

Another lovely location for exploring and one of the great things to do while in Casper is visiting the Platte River Trails. This particular trail covers 11 miles and is ideal for hiking, biking, or running.

While on the Platte River Trails, you usually pass across various amazing parks such as the Tate Pumphouse, the Fort Caspar Museum, White Water Park, among other tourist attractions. The scenery on the trail is also genuinely remarkable and worth your attention.

 16. Explore Tate Geological Museum

Among the scarce paleontology and geology museums in Wyoming is none other than the Tate Geological. This particular museum is an exceptional destination for history lovers. It contains over 3,000 mineral specimens, fossils of dinosaurs, and 11,600-year-old Mammoth from the ice age era, among other historical ancient wonders.

The Tate Geological Museum is a great place for history buffs as they learn more about the history of ancient species.

 17. The Science Zone

For another excellent place better suited for children and those who are “children at heart,” consider a trip to The Science Zone. This particular place is ideal for playing and exploring too. The Science Zone has a lovely zoo where kids get to learn more about animals. Alternatively, children can also play at the Bubble Zone or visit the Engineering Zone, where they get to build and also Knockdown structures for mere amusement.

Where to Stay in Casper

If you need recommendations on where to stay in Casper while experiencing these places and sights, I’ve got you covered! Here are my top spots to stay:

• Royal Inn Casper – A local motel you can support during your stay, near the city center. From $49/night; book on Booking.com or Hotels.com
• Clarion Inn At Platte River – This chain hotel has local touches and is right near the banks of the Platte River. From $89/night; book on Booking.com or Hotels.com
• La Quinta Inn by Wyndham Casper – Across the river from the Clarion Inn, this hotel is along the highway and has all the basics. From $80/night; book on Booking.com or Hotels.com

Do you have questions about these things to do in Casper? Or are there any I missed? Let me know in the comments below!

In this post, I’m highlighting the best sunflower fields all across Kansas – the Sunflower State! (Yep, that’s the official nickname of Kansas, which is pretty much perfect!) If you’re in Kansas, or just passing through on a Great Plains road trip, you may want to stop at one – or more – of these fantastic fields to smell the sunflowers and cut a few stalks (where allowed!).

Note: I’ve ordered these fields in alphabetical order.

In this post, I promote travel to destinations that are the traditional lands of the Kiikaapoi (Kickapoo), Washtáge Moⁿzháⁿ (Kaw / Kansa), 𐓏𐒰𐓓𐒰𐓓𐒷 𐒼𐓂𐓊𐒻 𐓆𐒻𐒿𐒷 𐓀𐒰^𐓓𐒰^(Osage), Očhéthi Šakówiŋ, [Gáuigú (Kiowa), Wichita, Nʉmʉnʉʉ (Comanche),  Pâri (Pawnee)  peoples. With respect, I make a formal land acknowledgment, extending my appreciation and respect to the past and present people of these lands. To learn more about the peoples who call these lands home, I invite you to explore Native Land.

This post was originally published in July 2021, and was updated most recently in May 2023.

1. A & H Farm

Located in Manhattan, Kansas, A & H Farm is a lovely property owned by Andrea and Hugo. Together with their eight children, they host an extensive array of events, from spring samples, so you can taste the veggies and fruits they grow, to strawberry festivals. 

For a few years, they’ve joined the Kansas sunflower scene and host what they call the Sunflower Bazaar. In 2023, the bazaar will take place on Sunday, August 27th from 12:00 pm to 8:00 pm. There’ll be a U-Pick sunflowers plus food trucks, live music, local handmade goodies, and lots of lavender-themed food! 

As for the admission fee, please visit their website closer to the date to know how much tickets cost. But we do know children under two get in free!

2. Arkenberg Farms 

Keith and Brianna are known for growing some of the best greens in Tecumseh. But, they’re also known for having one of the most beautiful sunflower fields in Kansas. They opened their farm, Akenberg Farms, to the public every season so you can explore their sunflower fields and get some nice pictures to frame back home. 

Like many other farms, 2022 was a difficult year for sunflowers due to the lack of rain. But, luckily for the Arkenberg’s, the draught just made the field a bit smaller. 

There’s no information about 2023 yet. If they do open, the admission fee costs $5 per car and $1 per sunflower. You’ll have to bring your own cutters to cut stems; though they will have some pre-cut Sunflowers as well! 

3. Berry Hill UPick Farm Sunflowers

Located South of Topeka, Berry Hill UPick Farm is one of the newest sunflower fields in Kansas. In 2022, one of their 15 fields started blooming in the first week of August! The farm hasn’t mentioned when the blooming will start in 2023.  Anyway, when the season starts, the farm opens every day from sunrise to sunset until the petals fall off.

Regarding fees, Berry Hill UPick Farm Sunflowers doesn’t charge people who visit their fields. However, donations are highly appreciated, and it is recommended to leave $1 for each sunflower you take with you. Keep an eye on their Facebook page for the latest news! 

4. Britt’s Garden Acres

Britt’s Garden Acres is another place where you can stop and see some amazing sunflowers in Kansas. Found along the Native Stone Scenic Byway, this farm has 30 acres of sunflower fields, with props and paths that allow visitors to access the heart of the field.

They have announced they’re opening their sunflower field to the public in 2023. Usually, their opening date varies each year depending on Kansas’s crazy weather; tentative dates are between August 30- September 25 and October 8-18, and their sunflowers blooms tend to stay beautiful for 10-14 days. 

In previous years, admission was $5.00 per person, and they charged $1.00 for each sunflower. Watch their Facebook page for further updates. 

5. Cedar Creek Farm

Cedar Creek Farm is a lovely farm run by the Smith family, who offer their place to other families looking to enjoy farm life with the little ones. The Cedar Creek Farm hasn’t announced yet if they’re opening in 2023 – at least on Facebook. But if they do, it’s usually in August. The best thing about Cedar Creek Farm is its outstanding variety of sunflowers, including red, purple, strawberry lemonade, green, blue, and even teddy bear sunnies. 

Admission is $5 per person or $20 per carload. They also offer season passes for $20 per person, which gives unlimited access to the sunflowers and their pumpkin patch.

6. Dailey Farms Pumpkin Patch

Dailey Farms Pumpkin Patch is another place where you can admire sunflowers in Kansas. Located in McLouth, Dailey Farms comes back for its third year to share a little bit of its property with anyone who wants to have some fun and get a glimpse of farm life. 

This family-run farm opens in the month of October only. The general to public is welcome on the weekend, from Saturday 10-5 to Sunday 12-5. Be ready to find your way out of a haybale maze, see your kids swim in a corn pit, and indulge in delicious roast hot dogs and smores.

They haven’t shared any information about their sunflowers fields for 2023 yet. But make sure to check their Facebook page to get the latest news! 

7. Diana Burress, Augusta Sunflower Field

Located southeast of Augusta, this Kansas sunflower field managed by realtor Diana Burress has become an annually popular field. Back in 2019, this was one of the first sunflower fields to pop up. In 2022, she had a really hard time growing sunflowers as Kansas didn’t get enough rain!

There are no dates yet for 2023, but Diana Burress is very active on her Facebook page, so she’ll share a video showing the sunflowers popping up if she’s opening in 2023. Usually, the field is expected to bloom from late August to early September. 

This field is free to visit, and sunflowers are free to pick; they just ask that you bring your own stem cutters and pick sunflowers in an area where people are not taking pictures. 

8. Eleanor’s Events Sunflowers

Eleanor’s Events Sunflowers is another sunflower field in Kansas you can visit. This public sunflower field near Scranton started opening to the public in 2018. They have over 60 acres with sunflowers sprawling everywhere. They still haven’t updated their 2023 sunflower viewing on their website. However, if we use 2022 as a guide, they expect the fields to start blooming in the last two weeks of August.

Eleanor’s Events Sunflowers doesn’t charge admissions fees, but donations are highly recommended and appreciated. 

9. Gieringer’s Family Orchard & Berry Farm

Located in Edgerton Gieringer’s Family Orchard & Berry Farm is yet another Kansas sunflower field. Gieringer’s Family Orchard & Berry Farm is a busy “u-pick farm” farm from April through October, and since 2015, they have also offered public sunflower fields. In 2022, the first sunflower fields and sunflower patches bloomed in August. Sadly, they haven’t communicated anything regarding the 2023 sunflower bloom. You can check on the status of the sunflower bloom on their Facebook Page. 

In previous years, they’ve charged a $10 fee that includes a corn maze & kids mini-maze, combine slide & truck slide, kids play area, picnic area, food trucks, and more.

10. Grinter Farms

Grinter Farms is home to a beautiful sunflower field that goes on forever. This is one of the most popular sunflower fields in Kansas, so you’re likely to have heard of it. It has drawn so many people in previous years that they had traffic shutting down the entire road! The Grinters plant their sunflowers in July, and the crops typically bloom in late summer from Labor Day weekend through mid-September. The 2023 sunflowers bloom is expected to be in near the end of September 10. 

You can visit Grinter Farms’ sunflower fields for free. Since crowds can get a bit intense on weekends, it is recommended that you go in the daytime on a weekday for the best experience. 

11. Hunsinger Farms 

Hunsinger Farms is another sunflower field you can visit in Kansas. The farm has named their field the Hunsinger Sunflower Patch. This 6-acre sunflower was started by owners, George and Cheryl Hunsinger, back in 2016. The couple’s goal was to provide people with another place to see the sunflowers without having to battle against the growing crowds that came to the state searching for the beautiful yellow blooms.  

It’s still too early to know if the farm will be open in 2023. For reference, in 2022, the bloom reached its peak in the 3rd week of August and by August 28 most of the bloom had past, but the farm remained open to the public until around Labor Day. 

Make sure you check their Facebook Page to confirm they are open. If they do, visiting the field is free. Although donations are welcomed. 

12. Johnson Farms Plants & Pumpkins

Okay, this is a sneaky one – but stick with me. This great Missouri farm is located on the outskirts of Kansas City. But, they’re less than two miles from the Kansas-Missouri border, so I’m including them on the list.

Johnson Farms Plants & Pumpkins’ 140-acre farm offers great plants and produces during the spring and fall. They also have amazing fields of sunflowers! They are closed until August, however, as soon as the fall starts, visitors are welcome to discover their beautiful sunflowers. According to their website, the first crop of sunflowers is expected to open for harvest in late August. 

Admission to the farm is $5 per person (ages 3+). This also includes access to the farm’s playground. 

13. Klausmeyer Farm

Klausmeyer Farm has some of the best sunflower fields in Kansas! And one of the earliest, too. What makes them unique is that they usually have multiple fields each year. In 2021, they had two fields. The first field opened for visits on July 17th! The second field was ready sometime in August. They always post information about the sunflower fields on their Facebook page, so make sure to check it.

Admission to Klausmeyer used to be $2 per person. There’s no info on how much it’ll cost in 2023. They’ll be open every day – sunup to sundown- until flowers no longer look good. You can also visit the farm for an additional fee. 

14. Peterson Farm Brothers

Set near Assarias, Kansas, is the Peterson Farm Brothers. Their website still has no information regarding 2023 sunflower fields, but we expect them to update it soon! The brothers tend to plant the sunflower fields in July. Like in 2020, the fields are expected to bloom in late August or early September, and visitors can walk through the trails in the fields. If you’re interested in knowing what type of sunflower they plant, it is the high Oleic.

The Peterson Farm Brothers charge an admission fee of $5 per person or $10 per family; $5 per sunflower picked (for families over 5 people it will be an additional $2/person).

15. Russell Sunflower Patch

Located about 1.5 hours from Kansas City, Russell Sunflower Patch typically plants their sunflower patch in the first week of June, and they will bloom around 50 days later. According to a 2022 Facebook post, on July 23rd, the sunflowers were already growing! So, we can expect sunflowers to start blooming the second week in August.  

No entrance fee is charged to visit the Russell Sunflower Patch. Also, they offer great parking right next to the sunflower fields and are located on paved highways. 

16. Schwinn Produce Farm 

Located in Leavenworth, Kansas, Schwinn Produce Farm is currently known for its lovely barn where weddings are celebrated. This farm has planted sunflower fields in past years, but they didn’t plant in 2020. Unfortunately, the Schwinn Produce Farm hasn’t yet announced if they’ll have or plant a sunflower field in 2023 either. Still, keep an eye on their website and Facebook page for updates!

17. Sunflower Festival at Kansas Maze

Every year, when the sunflowers bloom, Kansas Maze celebrates the Sunflower Festival at Gaeddert Farms. In 2023, the sunflower festival runs from August 19th to September 9th. They’ll have 20 acres of gorgeous sunflowers for you to see and take pictures in. If you want to run through the flowers, they also hold the Sunflower Trail Run.

Admission to the festival is $9 per person. Each ticket includes one ‘stem’ or live-cut sunflower. More sunflowers can be purchased singly, in half-dozen bunches, or one-dozen bunches. As regards parking, Gaeddert Farms has free parking areas for you. 

18. The Heights Sunflower Field

Owned by the oldest Peterson Farm Brother Greg and his wife, BrookeAnna, the Heights Sunflower Field is a 7,200-square-foot venue that hosts weddings, receptions, and large group gatherings. The venue is also home to “sunflower trails,” and every August/September, the couple invites people to see and walk through trails in a sunflower field. In 2022, they took a year off of sunflower trails as they had a baby. The couple hasn’t shared information about the sunflower fields in 2023 yet.

Admission to The Heights Sunflower Field used to be $5 per person or $10 per family.

19. Walters Sunflower Field

Also known as The Walters Farm, the Walters Sunflower Field is located 10 miles north of El Dorado, Kansas. Walters is known for its family-friendly pumpkin patch. However, as of 2019, the farm started celebrating a sunflower festival. During the sunflower festival, visitors can walk the gorgeous sunflower fields and take photos with a professional photographer for an additional charge.

The admission fee to the festival is $14.95. You can take a Sunflower with you for $1 or you can take 6 for $5.

20. White Tail Run Winery

I don’t know about you, but sipping a glass of red wine with a view of a thousand bright sunflowers right in front of me sounds like a fantastic plan. 

White Tail Run Winery, besides vast rows of vineyards, has a picturesque sunflower patch that comes into full bloom every July.. well, that’s depending on Kansas’s crazy weather. 

The winery always combines a visit to the sunflower patch with some sort of drinking event. The most popular is the  Sunflowers & Slushies event. Although they also have an event where you can sip on sangria! You can take as many photos as you want and buy some of the stems that are for sale in the tasting room.

Make sure to check their website for the latest news on their events.

I think this list is pretty exhaustive and covers all of the best Kansas sunflower fields. Do you know of others or have any questions? Let me know in the comments!

It’s a dramatic landscape carved by wind and water over millions of years; like so many national parks, we are lucky to experience it at this point in geologic history. If you’ve ever wanted to visit Badlands National Park, this article is your guide.

I visited Badlands first as a small child with my parents when we drove through the Great Plains on a cross-country move. My husband and I returned again as part of a national parks road trip for our honeymoon in 2020.

Based on my experience, I’ve put together this guide for how to visit Badlands National Park so that you can get all of the info in one place. By the end, you’ll understand the basics of visiting Badlands, what to do in the park, and where you can stay at the end of each day of adventure.

In this post, I promote travel to a destination that is the traditional lands of the Cheyenne, Mnicoujou, and Očhéthi Šakówiŋ peoples. With respect, I make a formal land acknowledgment, extending my appreciation and respect to the past and present people of these lands. To learn more about the peoples who call these lands home, I invite you to explore Native Land.

This post was originally published in April 2021, and was updated most recently in May 2023.

How to Visit Badlands National Park

There are some important logistics that go into visiting Badlands National Park since it is in the heart of the Great Plains; I want to start by covering those topics so you have the basics before diving deeper into planning your trip.

Traveling to Badlands National Park

Badlands National Park is in the “middle of nowhere.”

…is what someone would say who doesn’t know that the Great Plains are full of natural wonders and fun destinations to explore.

In fact, Badlands National Park is in the (roughly) middle of South Dakota. It’s 276 miles west of Sioux Falls or 62 miles east of Rapid City along I-90. Interstate 90 is actually great access to Badlands, one of the best national parks in the Great Plains. From I-90, you take one of two exits for Highway 240 (Exit 110 or 131), which is also called Badlands Loop Road. It takes you to most sights in the north unit of the park.

You can visit the south unit of the park, also called the Stronghold Unit, at points along Highway 27 south of Scenic, South Dakota.

Entry Fees for Badlands National Park

Like most national parks, there are entrance fees to access Badlands National Park:

• $30 per vehicle, good for 7 days
• $25 per motorcycle, good for 7 days
• $15 for individuals hiking or biking into the park, good for 7 days

There is also an annual pass for Badlands National Park, which costs $50. Or, you can purchase the America the Beautiful Pass for $80 annually, which gets you free access to Badlands and hundreds of other federally protected sites and lands. (Here’s why I think the America the Beautiful Pass is worth it.)

Driving & Parking in Badlands National Park

For most of the rest of this post, I’m going to assume you’re visiting the north unit of Badlands National Park. This is the most easily visited and has the best access to sights and viewpoints within the park.

In terms of driving within Badlands National Park, there are two main roads to explore:

• Badlands Loop Road (Highway 240) – A two-lane paved road that winds through some of the top sites in the park, including Ben Reifel Visitor Center and a number of overlooks.
• Sage Creek Rim Road (Highway 590) – Sort of an ‘extension’ of Badlands Loop Road. It works its way into the Wilderness Area. It’s a gravel road that’s open seasonally based on the weather.

At every major site and overlook, there are parking areas to help prevent off-road parking and damage to the environment. However, these may fill up on busy summer weekends, and have limited RV/camper spaces depending on the spot. The best way to ensure you have a good drive and plenty of parking is to arrive early on the day you visit. You could also choose to visit in the shoulder season (spring/autumn) or on weekdays.

Badlands Opening Hours & Seasons

Badlands National Park is open 24/7 year-round. However, some parts of the park are only open seasonally, such as the Cedar Point Lodge (in the north unit) and White River Visitor Center (in the south unit). In general, the best time to visit Badlands National Park is between April and October when everything is open; you can avoid crowds by visiting in April/May or September/October.

If you want to see the badlands dusted with snow, it’s also entirely possible to visit in the winter months. The Ben Reifel Visitor Center in the north unit is open year-round to support visitors.

What to Do at Badlands National Park

Badlands National Park offers a unique variety of things to do during your visit. It doesn’t have the same focus as other national parks, but that’s what makes it an interesting destination!

1. Autotour the North Unit of Badlands National Park

Autotouring is what the National Park Service calls “driving through the park to look at the sights.”

In fact, it’s one of the best things to do in Badlands National Park! The roads (Badlands Loop Road and Sage Creek Rim Road) give you excellent opportunities to see the many wonders of the park without needing to apply for a backcountry permit or trek out into the wild.

2. Visit the Visitor Centers

As you’ve likely gathered, there are two visitors centers in Badlands National Park:

• Ben Reifel Visitor Center in the north unit, open year-round
• White River Visitor Center in the south unit, open seasonally

Whichever part(s) of the park you visit, it’s always worth it to stop at these spots, learn about the park history, chat with the rangers, and pick up a few souvenirs.

3. Take a Hike

Hiking is not one of the top activities in Badlands National Park, but there are some trails to enjoy if that’s what you love doing in the great outdoors!

If that sounds like you, here are a few trails to consider:

• Medicine Root Loop (North Unit) – a 4-mile moderate hike that connects up with the Castle Trail and passes through grasslands with great badlands views.
• Castle Trail (North Unit) – a 10-mile moderate trail that passes through some Badlands formations (great for avid hikers who want to escape the crowds).
• Notch Trail (South Unit) – a short 1.5 mile trail that gives an epic view of the White River Valley.

Badlands National Park also has an “open hiking policy,” which means you are allowed to hike off-trail. The main thing to keep in mind there is bringing enough supplies for your hike and being prepared for the environment (heat, sun, wind). You can see all of the hiking trails and info about each trail on this page from the National Park Service.

4. Spot Wildlife

Badlands National Park is home to a number of cool animals that call the Great Plains home, including Bison, Bighorn Sheep, and the omnipresent Prairie Dog. There are tons of places to specifically visit to try and see these animals (like Bison along Sage Creek), but your best bet is to just get out and explore the park (whether that’s by car or on foot).

During my visit, we spotted a huge group of Bighorn Sheep right along the road, which is quite common.

Also it’s worth noting, there are no major predators in Badlands National Park to worry about, such as bears, wolves, or large cats.

5. Try Fossil Hunting

Okay technically you can’t unearth fossils yourself in Badlands, but there are two awesome spots to visit if you love fossil hunting:

1. Fossil Exhibit Trail, an easy boardwalk trail where you can see fossil replicas (removed to preserve the original fossils) and learn about the unique now-extinct species that once called the badlands home (even before they were badlands).
2. The Fossil Preparation Lab, located at Ben Reifel Visitor Center, where park paleontologists work on fossils to identify and preserve them. (Only open from the second week in June through the third week in September.)

6. Sunrise & Sunset Photography

Photographers love Badlands National Park, and you can see why based on the photos in my post. It’s a fascinating, otherworldly landscape that reminds us just how old our planet really is. The best times for photography in the park are sunrise and sunset; the changes in light make the colors, formations, and striations of rock even more dramatic.

If you love photography, be sure to plan your trip to include either sunrise or sunset – or both!

7. Go Stargazing

Once the sun goes down (or before it comes up), stargazing is another great activity to pass the time in Badlands National Park. Badlands even made my list of the best national parks for stargazing!

Due to its remote location – both in the center of the content, far from development, and in relatively rural South Dakota, it’s a fantastic spot to enjoy the wonders of the night sky. This includes the incredible expanse of the Milky Way during the summer months.

8. Circuit the South Unit of Badlands National Park

So far, all of my suggestions for Badlands National Park have been in the north unit. This is because that part of the park has better access and is easier to visit. But what about the south unit?

The south unit isn’t far from the north unit, but it is actually located on Pine Ridge Indian Reservation, which is owned by the Oglala Sioux Tribe. It has been managed quite differently and has only one paved road (Sheep Mountain Table Road). Otherwise, to visit the south unit of Badlands National Park, you can make a circuit around the outside (from Scenic, SD) by following Highway 27 to White River Visitor Center, turning west on Highway 2, and north on Highway 40. This is a great way to see this part of the park before continuing on to Rapid City at the end of your visit.

Where to Stay at Badlands National Park

Wrapping it all up, the last thing you need to know is where to stay in Badlands; here’s a breakdown of your options.

Camping in Badlands National Park

If camping is your quintessential way to stay in a national park, you’ve got options in Badlands. There are two formal campgrounds, both located in the north unit of the park:

• Cedar Pass Campground – A paid campground near Cedar Pass Lodge (more on that below), with 96 spots that can be reserved online.
• Sage Creek Campground – A free, first-come, first-reserved campground with 22 spots.

Backcountry camping is also allowed in Badlands National Park, as long as you are greater than a half-mile from any road or trail and your campsite is not visible from any roads or trails. The National Park Service has a backcountry camping resource page if this sounds interesting.

Hotels In & Near Badlands National Park

Within Badlands National Park, there is only one hotel to stay at – and again, it’s within the north unit of the park. Cedar Pass Lodge is open seasonally (usually mid/late April to mid/late October) and has a number of accommodation options including cabins and more camping/RV spots.

Just outside the park near Interior, South Dakota, you can also stay at the Badlands Inn or Badlands Motel.

With that, you’re all set to start planning: you know how to visit Badlands National Park, plus what to do and where to stay.

Do you have other questions about visiting Badlands National Park, one of the jewels of the Great Plains? Let me know in the comments!

Along this route, you won’t see many cities. Instead, you’ll see the seemingly endless sprawl of the grasslands and agricultural estates that define this part of the country.

Whether you’re planning to make the long drive between Albuquerque and Oklahoma City for business, pleasure, or a bit of both, below you’ll find all the info you need to safely make the journey as a road trip across the heart of the Great Plains.

Albuquerque to Oklahoma City Distance 

As the crow flies, the distance between Albuquerque, New Mexico, and Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, is 517 miles. But, unfortunately, we can’t drive in a straight line – though this route is admittedly much straighter than some routes across the Great Plains!

The driving distance from Albuquerque to Oklahoma City is about 544 miles. As you can see, there’s not much difference with flying. Remember that the actual distance you’ll cover depends on your starting and ending points in each city, and the detours you make to see interesting points. 

Albuquerque to Oklahoma City Drive Time 

At 544 miles, the drive between Oklahoma City and Albuquerque takes around eight hours along I-40, which overlaps with or runs parallel to historic Route 66 – meaning you can take one of America’s greatest road trips while doing this drive.

While it’s doable, it’s very unlikely to make this drive in just one day – unless you’re traveling with another person and can take driving turns.

Also, always remember this number is a rough estimate and how long it actually takes you to cover the distance depends on where you start and end in each city and how many stops you make.

Stops to Make on Your Drive from Between Albuquerque and Oklahoma City

From quirky art installations to historic landmarks, there’s something for everyone to enjoy on the scenic Albuquerque to Oklahoma City drive. I’ve organized them from west (Albuquerque) to east (Oklahoma City); if you’re driving from Oklahoma City to Albuquerque, just reverse this section of the post to decide which stops to make along your route.

Wildlife West Nature Park

One of the first must-visit stops is the Wildlife West Nature Park, where you can get up close and personal with native wildlife. The path through the park is 1 mile long – the perfect length to run off some energy (especially if you’re making the drive between Albuquerque and Oklahoma City with young humans full of energy!).

Along the way, you’ll pass informational signs about the species and the background of the specific animal. Take a stroll through the park’s trails and encounter animals such as wolves, bobcats, and birds of prey in their natural habitat. 

Cadillac Ranch

Cadillac Ranch is an iconic roadside attraction to see in your Oklahoma City to Albuquerque drive. This one-of-a-kind art installation was invented and built by a group of art hippies from San Francisco. It features a row of brightly painted, half-buried Cadillacs that have become an emblem of American pop culture.

Some visitors leave their mark by spray-painting graffiti on the cars, so, in a way, the cars are always changing in color and design. Needless to say, it offers tons of photo opportunities!

VW Slug Bug Ranch

Speaking of quirky automobile installations, just a few miles east of Cadillac Ranch lies its lesser-known cousin, Slug Bug Ranch. This roadside stop features a row of vintage Volkswagen Beetles buried nose-first into the ground, creating a unique and Instagram-worthy photo opportunity. It’s a great place to take a break for fresh air – there are no tourists unlike Cadillac Ranch, which is usually packed.

Groom Cross

As you venture further along the route, you’ll come across the iconic Groom Cross, a towering 19-story tall crucifix that’ certainly creates a contrast against the endless horizon of the Texas Panhandle – you can see it from 20 miles afar. This landmark is a popular stop among Christians and spiritual people. Surrounding the cross there are 14 life-sized sculptures depicting the Stations of the Cross. There is also a crucifixion scene at the top of a hill and an empty tomb on the other side of the hill.

Phillips 66 on the Route

For history buffs, the Phillips 66 on the Route is a must-visit stop. This vintage gas station, preserved in its original 1920s glory, offers a glimpse into the golden age of American roadside culture. But, what makes it really special, is the town of McLean. It’s filled with so many abandoned businesses and memorabilia for Route 66. Pull over and step back in time as you admire the classic gas pumps, neon signs, and vintage memorabilia that harken back to a bygone era.

Sandhills Curiosity Shop

Don’t miss the chance to also swing by the Sandhills Curiosity Shop, a quirky roadside store that’s filled head-to-toe with unique treasures. From vintage antiques to eccentric art pieces, you never know what you might find in this offbeat shop.

The real treat though is meeting the owner, Harley. He will delight you with stories – I mean it, he’s full of stories, so pull up a chair and listen to his tales. Oh, and he excels at playing the guitar! It’s a perfect kitschy place to stretch your legs, browse through the eccentric collection, and chat with a friendly local. 

Lucille’s Historic Highway Gas Station

Last but not least, you can visit Lucille’s Historic Highway Gas Station, another charming throwback to the Route 66 era. This well-preserved gas station turned museum is a testament to the iconic highway’s rich history and offers a glimpse into the past with its vintage gas pumps, classic signage, and memorabilia. This is located right off Interstate 40 so it makes an easy stop to see a historic landmark. There isn’t much else around; it is a perfect place to get out and stretch your legs.

Other Tips for Your Drive Between Oklahoma City and Albuquerque

Now that you know the basics of the drive and are inspired to make a few stops, here are some final tips to help you finish planning your road trip:

• The drive between Oklahoma City and Albuquerque crosses three states: Oklahoma, Texas (the Panhandle), and New Mexico
• Amarillo is the biggest city along the route, and it’s the best place for an overnight stop if you need one; it’s 4.5 hours from Albuquerque and 4 hours from Oklahoma City.
• There are plenty of rest stops, gas stations, and truck stops along the route, which follows Interstate 40/Route 66 the entire way.

Should You Fly Between Albuquerque and Oklahoma City Instead?  

The one million question: what’s better, driving or flying?  Well, there’s no right answer here. It all boils down to two variables: time and cost. 

As we saw before, the drive between Albuquerque and Oklahoma City is about 544 miles and takes up to eight hours to cover. Cost-wise, you’d spend about $100 on gas for a one-way trip.

When flying, the distance reduces to 517 miles and a flight will take a minimum of 3.5 hours and will require at least one stop. (Remember that, to the three hours on the plane, you have to add the check-in, take, off, and landing time.) Cost-wise, the average ticket between Albuquerque and Oklahoma City costs $422. 

So, what should you do? If you ask me, I’d say driving is the better choice between Albuquerque and Oklahoma City. It’s cheaper and the time you’ll end up spending doesn’t change much. Also, driving gives you the opportunity to check out interesting points you wouldn’t otherwise. However, if you are short on time or only traveling one way, you might want to fly since you’ll end up with a vehicle at one end of the drive.

Have any questions about the drive between Albuquerque and Oklahoma City, or what to do along the way? Let me know in the comments!

Home to over 50,000 people, it’s one of the largest cities in North Dakota. Grand Forks brings together that Great Plains charm with the unique experiences of the northern states. In fact, there’s a surprising diversity of things to do in Grand Forks that might surprise you.

If you’re passing through Grand Forks or something brings you there for a longer stay, don’t worry: you’ll find plenty of things to do during your visit. From the arts, culture, and history to outdoor activities and hockey – of course! – here are the best things to do in Grand Forks.

In this post, I promote travel to a destination that is the traditional lands of the Michif Piyii (Métis), Anishinabewaki ᐊᓂᔑᓈᐯᐗᑭ, Sisseton, Očhéthi Šakówiŋ peoples. With respect, I make a formal land acknowledgment, extending my appreciation and respect to the past and present people of these lands. To learn more about the peoples who call these lands home, I invite you to explore Native Land.

This post was originally published in March 2021, and was updated most recently in April 2023.

1. Empire Arts Center

Contemporary plays and musicals are alive and well in the state of North Dakota, particularly at The Empire Arts Center. This charming performing arts theatre is unique to the state of North Dakota. ETC is the only professional theatre company in the state that produces a full season of productions.

Since 2012, ETC has produced eight seasons of plays that thrill and excite thousands of North Dakotans. It continues to be one of the top things to do in Grand Forks if a show is playing while you’re there!

In 2023, the program includes visiting performances from companies like the North Dakota Ballet Company as well as film series (like one dedicated to Stanley Kubrick) and open mic/jam session nights for live music.

2. Flood Memorial Monument

The Flood Memorial Monument is located in the Greater Grand Forks Greenway. It is home to 2,200 acres of trails, benches, bike paths, and beautiful scenery. Sitting on a small plot of land next to the Sorlie Bridge, this monument pays tribute to the many lives displaced and catastrophic floods of the Red River (one as recent as 1997).

Visitors will find this monument a place of reflection and space to pay tribute; the perfect thing to do in Grand Forks.

3. Hockey at Ralph Engelstad Arena

Take some time to enjoy one of North Dakota’s favorite ice sports, hockey! Playing in one of the finest hockey facilities in the world, Ralph Englestad Arena aka “The Ralph,” the “Fighting Hawks” has a “perfect record” for fun times, and remains one of the top things to do in Grand Forks.

4. Japanese Gardens

Located in Sertoma Park is one of the most beautiful places Grand Forks’ has to offer, the Japanese Garden. Gifted from the people of Awano, Japan, this garden has created a special place to enjoy nature. Here you’ll find Ali’s Playground and the three lanterns made of natural granite rocks (each with its own name and significant meaning behind it), as well as plenty of space to relax and unwind.

This park is a must-see for locals and tourists alike when visiting Grand Forks. 

5. North Dakota Museum of Art

They say that through the arts we will find the soul of education. The North Dakota Museum of Art is a special place for just that. Here, you will find yourself immersed in contemporary art created by Native American and international artists. Common mediums you’ll see come in the form of textiles, ceramics, and paintings.

Additionally, this museum also has a gorgeous outdoor peony and sculpture garden. This is year-round fun and one of the great things to do in Grand Forks.

6. River Cities Speedway

You don’t have to be a racing fanatic to visit the River Cities Speedway. Here on the track, everyone is welcome to enjoy one of the premier things to do in Grand Forks: watching a race on the motor speedway seasonally at the River Cities Speedway.

In 2023, the season kicks off on May 5th and runs through September 15th; it’s high adrenaline, high-speed entertainment!

7. Seasonal Outdoor Activities

North Dakota is home to some of the most spectacular seasons in the country providing ample snowfall and well-deserved summers. Depending on your preferences, each of these seasons provides spectacular views and fun activities. Weather permitting, Grand Forks hosts ice skating, view-filled walks, or college football at the University of North Dakota. 

8. Splasher’s of the South Seas Water Park

When the weather turns cold – as it does in North Dakota – an indoor water park is one of those perfect things to do in Grand Forks. With over 40,000 square feet of water-based fun including slides, a lazy pool, and a kids-only dedicated area, Splashers of the South Seas Water Park has everything your family needs to enjoy some fun indoors whether it’s due to cold weather or just a change of scenely.

Where to Stay in Grand Forks

If you need a place to stay in Grand Forks, here are a few suggestions. These are great options in the downtown area that will give you easy access to these things to do in Grand Forks.

• C’mon Inn Hotel & Suites – from $71/night (book on Booking.com or Hotels.com)
• Knights Inn Grand Forks – from $42/night (book on Booking.com or Hotels.com)
• AmericInn by Wyndham, Grand Forks – from $62/night (book on Booking.com or Hotels.com)

There are plenty of vacation rentals in Grand Forks, too, if that’s how you prefer to stay.

Do you have other questions about visiting Grand Forks, North Dakota? Let me know in the comments!