As the most populous city in the state of Colorado, Denver is absolutely beautiful. Sitting on Front Range of Rocky Mountains, the city is a hotbed of culture, fun and some absolutely gorgeous scenery with a ton of fun things to do for the entire family. Nicknamed the “Mile High City”, Denver is exactly 1 mile (1.6 km) above sea-level and was even named as one of the best places to live in the United States according to “US News & World Report”. Denver is many great things but is also located in a pretty convenient spot for people who like to travel. Being located in the middle of the country means that you’re also surrounded by a lot of other great states so if you’re looking to see and experience some other great American cities, starting from Denver is a good choice. Here are some of the best road trips from Denver, Colorado.
1. Rapid City, South Dakota
Rapid City, South Dakota is a place where many people from Denver might feel a little at home. The city is known as the “Gateway to the Black Hills” mountain range so if you’re into hiking, mountain climbing, or simply just adventuring off into the hills, Rapid City has you covered. The area was settled as a gold rush town in the 1800s and has since grown to be one of the biggest cities in the state with some pretty notable landmarks nearby. The iconic Mount Rushmore is nearby and Rapid City’s historic “Old West” is still a popular tourist destination with the town of Deadwood being nearby as well. For those who want to immerse themselves in nature, there are plenty of parks nearby like Wind Cave National Park and Custer State Park.
2. Moab, Utah
For thrill-seekers looking to get their dose of adrenaline, look no further than Moab, Utah. Only a short five-and-a-half-hour drive from Denver, Moab might remind someone of what it might be like to walk on Mars. The red sunbaked hills and cliffs that surround the city are both beautiful and sort of otherworldly. Moab is a premier destination for mountain activities. Things like mountain biking, climbing, and jumping are common activities here but if that isn’t for you maybe white water rafting down the Colorado River is more your speed. The city is known for its off-roading trails as well so pack your mountain bike, go hiking, or simply ride off into the sunset on an ATV.
3. St. Louis, MO
For more of a city life kind of atmosphere look no further than St. Louis, Missouri. The drive is a little long from Denver but it is totally worth it to check out this great spot. Located on the western bank of the Mississippi River, St. Louis was founded by French fur traders in 1764 and named the settlement after French King Louis IX. Before then, the area was home to many Native American tribes. Because of its ties with the French and a largely Catholic immigrant population which arrived in the 19th and 20th centuries, St. Louis has many religious institutions like the Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis that make up the landscape of the city in a unique way. The city is also closely related to its music roots with blues, jazz, and ragtime being synonymous with St. Louis.
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4. Oklahoma City, OK
Lying in the Great Plains area of the United States, Oklahoma City is sometimes abbreviated to OKC or referred to by its nickname “The Big Friendly”. The city was established in the 1880s as part of a land rush for settlers in the West and soon thereafter, the city grew exponentially to over 10,000 people in about 10 years. The area is home to a surprising number of museums such as the Museum of Osteology which showcases over 300 different animal skeletons and the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum which exhibits art and information about the history of Oklahoma in the West.
5. Lincoln, Nebraska
Located about seven hours by car away from Denver, the city of Lincoln, Nebraska was founded in 1856 as the village of Lancaster. For those interested in sports, you’re in luck because Lincoln is home to some major sporting events especially football and basketball. If it’s a little live entertainment you seek, then you’ll be happy to know that Lincoln is considered a “music city” mostly because of its number of great live music venues and performing arts spaces.
6. Cedar Rapids, IA
Cedar Rapids is home to the Fox and Sac Native American tribes and the first white settler there was a man called Osgood Shepherd who built a log cabin along the nearby Cedar River - today it stands as the corner of First Avenue and First Street Northeast. Cedar Rapids is a popular destination in Iowa for arts and culture as the city is home to some interesting landmarks like the Cedar Rapids Museum of Art and the National Czech and Slovak Museum & Library. Iowa’s only National Historic Site, the Brucemore estate, is located in Cedar Rapids and is today a cultural center.
7. Santa Fe, New Mexico
If you’re looking to head south of Denver, then Santa Fe is only a little over 6 hours’ drive. The city was founded by the Spanish in 1610 but it was inhabited far longer than that by native peoples who built homes and villages on the site where Santa Fe currently stands. Because of year-round warm climate, Santa Fe is a popular destination for tourists in the Southwest. Native folk art and music make up a large part of the cultural mosaic of Santa Fe and because of the sheer age of the city, many historic landmarks even from the Spanish colonial days, still remain.
8. Kansas City, Missouri
As the largest city in Missouri, Kansas City was founded in the 1830s as a river port on the confluence of the Missouri River and the Kansas River. The city is one of the most eclectic ones in the country with a diverse range of activities and fun things to do. If you’re a foodie, you’ll be happy to know that Kansas City barbecue is some of the best in the entire country and because of its long history with jazz, nightclubs and jazz bars dot the landscape of the downtown area.
9. Thermopolis, WY
The town of Thermopolis has perhaps the aptest name of all the cities in Wyoming. Located in the county of Hot Spring, Thermopolis means “Hot City” in Greek, because the town is known for its many hot springs with mineral-rich water heated geothermally. Dinosaur bones were also found here as recently as 1993 and as such the Wyoming Dinosaur Center was soon founded afterward. Because of the town’s proximity to the hot springs, many come to visit and relax. These hot springs are also known for their healing properties.
10. Salt Lake City, UT
Founded by Mormon pioneers, Salt Lake City grew exponentially during the mining boom of the 1800s. Since then the city has become a center for many great things like performing arts, live music, and a host of festivals including the iconic Sundance Film Festival, Jewish Arts Festival, Urban Arts Festival, and Utah Pride held every June. Check out the Utah Olympic Park, Trolley Square, or Clark Planetarium
Places around Denver
There are tons of amazing cities around Denver and although Denver itself is a pretty great city, it is nice to get out once in a while and explore your greater surroundings. Whether it’s the outdoors, food, or city life, there is no shortage of interesting road trip destinations near Denver.
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