Explore The Best Of America's I-70 With Our Comprehensive Travel Guide
If you’re planning a road trip across the United States, I-70 should be at the top of your list. Stretching over 2,000 miles from Utah to Maryland, this iconic highway offers breathtaking scenery, diverse landscapes, and a wealth of attractions for travelers of all ages and interests.
Top Attractions to Visit
From the Rocky Mountains to the Great Plains, the I-70 corridor boasts some of America’s most iconic landmarks and natural wonders. Here are some must-see attractions:
Rocky Mountain National Park
Located in northern Colorado, this park is a paradise for hikers, campers, and wildlife enthusiasts. With over 300 miles of trails, you can explore alpine meadows, glacier-fed lakes, and towering peaks.
Gateway Arch National Park
Located in St. Louis, Missouri, the Gateway Arch is a symbol of the American West and a testament to human ingenuity. Take a tram to the top and enjoy panoramic views of the city and the Mississippi River.
Great Sand Dunes National Park
Located in southern Colorado, this park is home to the tallest sand dunes in North America. You can hike, sled, or sandboard down the dunes, or explore the nearby wetlands and forests.
Hidden Gems to Discover
While the I-70 corridor is famous for its major attractions, there are many hidden gems that are worth exploring. Here are some of our favorites:
Museum of World Treasures
Located in Wichita, Kansas, this museum houses a vast collection of artifacts and curiosities from around the world, including ancient fossils, medieval armor, and space memorabilia.
Shrine of the Black Madonna
Located in Detroit, Michigan, this African-American Catholic church is a vibrant cultural center that celebrates the history and spirituality of the black community. Don’t miss the stunning murals and stained glass windows.
Wyoming Frontier Prison
Located in Rawlins, Wyoming, this former prison offers a chilling glimpse into the harsh realities of frontier justice. You can tour the cells, gallows, and other grim artifacts, and learn about the lives of the inmates and guards.
Food Scene to Savor
The I-70 corridor is a foodie’s paradise, with a rich variety of cuisines and flavors to explore. Here are some of our top picks:
Kansas City BBQ
Kansas City is famous for its slow-smoked, dry-rubbed barbecue, which is served up in dozens of local joints. Don’t miss the burnt ends and the spicy sauce.
St. Louis Toasted Ravioli
This crispy, deep-fried pasta dish is a St. Louis specialty, and can be found in many local restaurants and bars. It’s often served with marinara sauce or a creamy dipping sauce.
Colorado Craft Beer
Colorado is home to over 400 craft breweries, and many of them are located along the I-70 corridor. You can sample a wide variety of styles, from hoppy IPAs to rich stouts and porters.
Budget-Friendly Tips to Save Money
Traveling on a tight budget? Here are some tips to help you stretch your dollars:
Camp in National Forests
Instead of staying in expensive hotels or motels, consider camping in national forests or other public lands. You can find free or low-cost campgrounds that offer stunning views and easy access to outdoor activities.
Use GasBuddy
This app helps you find the cheapest gas prices along your route, so you can save money on fuel. You can also earn rewards for reporting gas prices and participating in other activities.
Eat Like a Local
Instead of dining in touristy restaurants, ask locals for recommendations on where to find the best and most affordable food. You can also shop at farmers markets and grocery stores to save money on snacks and meals.
Outdoor Adventures to Experience
The I-70 corridor offers endless opportunities for outdoor recreation, from hiking and biking to skiing and snowboarding. Here are some of our favorite activities:
Skiing in Colorado
Colorado is famous for its world-class ski resorts, which offer powder snow, stunning views, and a range of slopes for all skill levels. Some of the best resorts along I-70 include Vail, Breckenridge, and Keystone.
Hiking in Utah
Utah is home to five national parks and countless state parks and wilderness areas, which offer some of the most spectacular hiking trails in the country. Don’t miss Zion, Bryce Canyon, and Arches National Parks.
Biking in Missouri
The Katy Trail is a 240-mile rail-trail that runs along the Missouri River, from St. Charles to Clinton. It’s a popular destination for cyclists, hikers, and nature lovers, and offers scenic views and historic landmarks.
Family-Friendly Activities to Enjoy
Traveling with kids? Here are some fun and educational activities that the whole family can enjoy:
Children’s Museum of Indianapolis
This museum is the world’s largest children’s museum, with over 120,000 square feet of interactive exhibits and activities. Kids can explore science, technology, art, and culture, and have fun while learning.
Hopewell Culture National Historical Park
Located in Chillicothe, Ohio, this park preserves the ancient earthworks and artifacts of the Hopewell culture, which flourished in the Ohio River Valley over 2,000 years ago. Kids can learn about the history and culture of these fascinating people.
Butterfly Pavilion and Insect Center
Located in Westminster, Colorado, this indoor exhibit showcases over 5,000 butterflies and insects from around the world. Kids can learn about the fascinating life cycles and behaviors of these creatures, and even touch some of them.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences to Seek
If you’re looking for unique and unforgettable experiences, try these off-the-beaten-path attractions:
Carhenge
Located in Alliance, Nebraska, this quirky roadside attraction is a replica of England’s famous Stonehenge, made entirely of old cars. It’s a fun photo op and a testament to human creativity.
World’s Largest Ball of Twine
Located in Cawker City, Kansas, this giant ball of twine weighs over 20,000 pounds and is still growing. Visitors can add their own pieces of twine to the ball, and marvel at its size and shape.
Lebanon Masonic Temple
Located in Lebanon, Ohio, this historic temple is a masterpiece of architecture and art, and is often compared to the great cathedrals of Europe. You can take a guided tour and learn about the symbolism and history of the Masonic order.
Natural Wonders to Admire
The I-70 corridor is home to some of the most stunning natural wonders in North America. Here are a few that you shouldn’t miss:
Colorado National Monument
Located near Grand Junction, Colorado, this park is a red-rock wonderland of canyons, spires, and cliffs. You can hike, bike, or drive along the scenic Rim Rock Drive, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Ohio Caverns
Located in West Liberty, Ohio, these caverns are a subterranean wonderland of stalactites, stalagmites, and crystal pools. You can take a guided tour and learn about the geology and ecology of this fascinating underground world.
Cuyahoga Valley National Park
Located between Cleveland and Akron, Ohio, this park is a lush oasis of forests, waterfalls, and wildlife. You can hike, bike, or kayak along the Cuyahoga River, and explore historic villages and farms.
Vibrant Nightlife to Enjoy
When the sun goes down, the I-70 corridor comes alive with music, entertainment, and nightlife. Here are some of the best places to party:
Lawrence, Kansas
This college town is a hub of creativity and culture, with a vibrant music scene, arts festivals, and craft breweries. Don’t miss the Granada Theater or the Bottleneck.
Denver, Colorado
This city is famous for its craft beer, live music, and high-altitude atmosphere. You can explore the bars and clubs of the LoDo district, or catch a show at the historic Red Rocks Amphitheater.
St. Louis, Missouri
This city has a rich history of blues, jazz, and rock and roll, and offers a range