Directions To Interstate 70
Introduction
If you’re planning a trip on Interstate 70, you’re in for a treat! This iconic highway stretches over 2,000 miles from Maryland to Utah, and offers a variety of attractions and experiences along the way. Whether you’re a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, a foodie, or a culture vulture, there’s something for everyone on I-70. In this travel guide, we’ll take you on a journey through the top attractions, hidden gems, and unique experiences that await you on this incredible road trip.
Top Attractions
Rocky Mountain National Park
One of the top attractions along I-70 is Rocky Mountain National Park. This stunning park is home to over 415 square miles of majestic mountains, pristine lakes, and abundant wildlife. Visitors can hike, bike, fish, camp, or simply take in the breathtaking views from one of the park’s many overlooks.
Gateway Arch National Park
If you’re passing through St. Louis, don’t miss the opportunity to visit Gateway Arch National Park. This iconic monument stands 630 feet tall and offers stunning views of the city and the Mississippi River. Visitors can take a tram ride to the top, explore the museum exhibits, or take a riverboat cruise.
Hidden Gems
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
This hidden gem is located in western Colorado and is often overlooked by visitors. However, those who venture to Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park will be rewarded with stunning views of the canyon’s steep walls and rushing river. Visitors can hike, camp, or simply take in the beauty of this natural wonder.
Clark’s Fish Camp
If you’re a foodie looking for a unique dining experience, check out Clark’s Fish Camp in Jacksonville, Florida. This restaurant features an extensive menu of seafood, game, and exotic meats, including alligator, kangaroo, and even python. The restaurant is also home to a collection of taxidermy animals, which adds to the quirky atmosphere.
Food Scene
Kansas City Barbecue
No trip along I-70 would be complete without sampling the famous barbecue of Kansas City. This city is known for its slow-smoked meats, tangy sauces, and hearty sides. Some of the top barbecue joints to check out include Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que, Arthur Bryant’s, and Gates Bar-B-Q.
St. Louis Gooey Butter Cake
If you have a sweet tooth, be sure to try St. Louis’ signature dessert, Gooey Butter Cake. This decadent treat is a rich, buttery cake topped with a gooey, cream cheese filling. Some of the top places to try it include Park Avenue Coffee, Russell’s on Macklind, and Gooey Louie.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Campgrounds
One of the best ways to save money on your I-70 road trip is to camp instead of staying in hotels. There are numerous campgrounds along the route, ranging from basic tent sites to RV parks with full hookups. Some of the top campgrounds to check out include Rocky Mountain National Park, Great Sand Dunes National Park, and Mark Twain Lake State Park.
Free Attractions
There are also plenty of free attractions along I-70, including state parks, historic sites, and scenic overlooks. Some of the top free attractions to check out include the Gateway Arch, Eisenhower Presidential Library and Museum, and Arches National Park.
Outdoor Adventures
Whitewater Rafting
For an adrenaline-packed adventure, try whitewater rafting on the Arkansas River in Colorado. This river offers some of the best rafting in the country, with Class II to Class V rapids. There are numerous outfitters in the area that offer guided trips for all skill levels.
Hiking
If you prefer a more leisurely outdoor activity, there are plenty of hiking trails along I-70 that offer stunning views and fresh air. Some of the top trails to check out include Hanging Lake Trail in Colorado, Devil’s Garden Trail in Arches National Park, and the Katy Trail in Missouri.
Family-Friendly Activities
Children’s Discovery Museum of the Golden Crescent
If you’re traveling with kids, be sure to visit the Children’s Discovery Museum of the Golden Crescent in Victoria, Texas. This interactive museum offers hands-on exhibits and activities for children of all ages, including a pretend grocery store, a dinosaur exhibit, and a rocket launch simulator.
Colorado Adventure Park
For some outdoor fun, check out Colorado Adventure Park in Fraser, Colorado. This park offers tubing, snowmobiling, and sleigh rides during the winter months, and ziplining and mountain biking during the summer months. There’s also a mini snowmobile track for kids.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
The Ozark Trail
If you’re looking for a unique hiking experience, check out The Ozark Trail in Missouri. This 350-mile trail winds through the rugged terrain of the Ozark Mountains and offers stunning views of the surrounding wilderness. There are numerous trailheads and camping areas along the route.
World’s Largest Ball of Twine
For a quirky roadside attraction, check out the World’s Largest Ball of Twine in Cawker City, Kansas. This ball of twine weighs over 20,000 pounds and is over 41 feet in circumference. Visitors can add their own twine to the ball and take a photo with this bizarre landmark.
Natural Wonders
Great Sand Dunes National Park
One of the most unique natural wonders along I-70 is Great Sand Dunes National Park in Colorado. This park features the tallest sand dunes in North America, with peaks reaching up to 750 feet. Visitors can hike on the dunes, sled down them, or simply take in the stunning views.
Garden of the Gods
If you’re passing through Colorado Springs, be sure to visit Garden of the Gods. This stunning park features towering red rock formations, and offers hiking, rock climbing, and horseback riding. There’s also a visitor center with exhibits on the park’s history and geology.
Vibrant Nightlife
Power & Light District
If you’re in Kansas City and looking for some nightlife, check out the Power & Light District. This entertainment district features numerous bars, restaurants, and music venues, as well as a giant LED screen that plays concerts and sporting events. There are also frequent street festivals and events.
Downtown Denver
For a more urban nightlife experience, head to downtown Denver. This vibrant city has numerous bars, clubs, and music venues, as well as a thriving craft beer scene. Some of the top spots to check out include Red Rocks Amphitheatre, Great Divide Brewing Company, and Larimer Square.
Local Markets
Kansas City Farmers’ Market
If you’re a foodie looking for fresh, local produce, check out the Kansas City Farmers’ Market. This market features over 140 vendors selling everything from fruits and vegetables to meat and cheese. There are also food trucks, live music, and cooking demonstrations.
The Mercantile
If you’re passing through Independence, Missouri, be sure to visit The Mercantile. This historic market has been in operation since 1916 and features over 50 vendors selling everything from baked goods to antiques. There’s also a cafe and a deli with fresh sandwiches and salads.
Beaches and Mountains
Myrtle Beach
If you’re looking for a beach getaway along I-70, head to Myrtle Beach in South Carolina. This popular destination features miles of sandy beaches, numerous hotels and resorts, and a lively boardwalk with restaurants, shops, and attractions.
Aspen
If you’re a winter sports enthusiast, check out Aspen, Colorado. This mountain town is home to some of the best skiing and snowboarding in the country, as well as a vibrant arts and culture scene. There are also numerous luxury hotels and restaurants for those looking for a more upscale experience.
Cultural Immersion
Museum of the West
If you’re interested in the history and culture of the American West, check out the Museum of the West in Grand Junction, Colorado. This museum features exhibits on the region’s Native American tribes, cowboys and ranchers, and mining and energy industries. There’s also a collection of Western art and artifacts.
Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum
If you’re passing through Hannibal, Missouri, be sure to visit the Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum. This historic site includes the home where Twain grew up, as well as a museum with exhibits on his life and works. Visitors