Us Highway 40 Map
Introduction
US Highway 40 is one of the most iconic and scenic routes in the United States. The highway stretches from coast to coast, covering over 3,000 miles and passing through 12 states. This travel guide will provide you with all the information you need to plan an unforgettable road trip along US Highway 40. From the top attractions to the hidden gems, we’ve got you covered.
Top Attractions
US Highway 40 is home to some of the most famous attractions in the country. One of the must-see destinations is the Gateway Arch National Park in St. Louis, Missouri. The arch is a symbol of westward expansion and offers stunning views of the city. Another top attraction is the Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado, which boasts breathtaking views of the mountains and wildlife.
Hidden Gems
If you’re looking for something off the beaten path, US Highway 40 has plenty of hidden gems to discover. One of these is the Dinosaur National Monument in Utah, which features ancient fossils and stunning landscapes. Another hidden gem is the town of Vandalia, Illinois, which is home to a historic courthouse and charming downtown area.
Food Scene
US Highway 40 is also known for its diverse food scene. In Kansas City, Missouri, you can enjoy some of the best barbecue in the country at places like Arthur Bryant’s and Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que. In Ohio, you can sample the local cuisine at the West Side Market in Cleveland, which features over 100 vendors selling everything from pierogis to fresh seafood.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Traveling along US Highway 40 doesn’t have to break the bank. To save money, consider camping instead of staying in hotels or eating at local diners instead of fancy restaurants. You can also look for free or low-cost activities, such as hiking or visiting museums.
Outdoor Adventures
US Highway 40 is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts. From hiking in the Rocky Mountains to rafting on the Colorado River, there are plenty of adventures to be had. You can also go skiing in Utah or mountain biking in Moab.
Historical Landmarks
US Highway 40 is steeped in history, and there are plenty of landmarks to explore. In Indiana, you can visit the Conner Prairie Living History Museum, which recreates life in a 19th-century pioneer village. In Kansas, you can see the remains of the Santa Fe Trail, which was a major trade route in the 1800s.
Family-Friendly Activities
If you’re traveling with kids, US Highway 40 has plenty of family-friendly activities. In Colorado, you can visit the Children’s Museum of Denver, which features hands-on exhibits and interactive displays. In Missouri, you can take a ride on the Gateway Arch Riverboat, which offers scenic views of the Mississippi River.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
For those who want to get off the main highway and explore the surrounding areas, US Highway 40 has plenty of off-the-beaten-path experiences. In Illinois, you can visit the Lincoln Log Cabin State Historic Site, which was once the home of Abraham Lincoln’s father. In Utah, you can explore the ancient ruins of Hovenweep National Monument.
Natural Wonders
US Highway 40 passes through some of the most beautiful natural landscapes in the country. In Colorado, you can visit the Great Sand Dunes National Park, which features towering sand dunes and stunning mountain views. In Utah, you can explore the otherworldly landscapes of Arches National Park.
Vibrant Nightlife
US Highway 40 has plenty of options for those who want to experience the local nightlife. In Denver, Colorado, you can visit the trendy bars and restaurants in the LoDo (Lower Downtown) neighborhood. In Missouri, you can explore the vibrant music scene in Kansas City, which is home to famous jazz clubs like the Blue Room and the Green Lady Lounge.
Local Markets
If you want to experience the local culture and cuisine, be sure to check out the local markets along US Highway 40. In Ohio, you can visit the North Market in Columbus, which offers a wide variety of fresh produce, meats, and baked goods. In Missouri, you can explore the City Market in Kansas City, which features over 30 vendors selling everything from spices to handmade crafts.
Beaches and Mountains
US Highway 40 is unique in that it passes through both beaches and mountains. In California, you can visit the iconic beaches of Santa Monica and Venice, which offer stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. In Colorado, you can explore the Rocky Mountains, which offer some of the best skiing and hiking in the country.
Cultural Immersion
US Highway 40 passes through many different cultural regions, from the Midwest to the West Coast. In Indiana, you can visit the Amish Country, which offers a glimpse into the traditional way of life of the Amish people. In Nevada, you can explore the vibrant Hispanic culture of Las Vegas, which features colorful street art and delicious Mexican cuisine.
Art and Music Scene
US Highway 40 is also home to some of the best art and music scenes in the country. In Denver, Colorado, you can visit the Denver Art Museum, which features a wide variety of exhibits and collections. In Missouri, you can explore the vibrant music scene in St. Louis, which is home to famous venues like the Blueberry Hill and the Pageant.
Walking Tours
If you want to explore the cities along US Highway 40 on foot, there are plenty of walking tours available. In Chicago, Illinois, you can take a guided tour of the famous architecture along the Chicago River. In Denver, Colorado, you can explore the historic neighborhoods of Capitol Hill and Cheesman Park.
Architectural Marvels
US Highway 40 is home to some of the most impressive architectural marvels in the country. In Kansas, you can visit the famous “Cathedral of the Plains” in Victoria, which features stunning stained glass windows and intricate mosaics. In Missouri, you can see the iconic Gateway Arch, which is a symbol of westward expansion.
Historical Sites
US Highway 40 is rich in history, and there are plenty of historical sites to explore. In Ohio, you can visit the National Museum of the United States Air Force, which features exhibits on the history of aviation. In Missouri, you can explore the historic sites along the Lewis and Clark Trail, which was a major expedition in the early 1800s.
Biking Routes
For those who want to explore US Highway 40 on two wheels, there are plenty of biking routes available. In Utah, you can take the Mountain View Corridor Trail, which offers stunning views of the mountains and valleys. In Colorado, you can bike the Trail Ridge Road, which is the highest continuous paved road in the country.
Wellness Retreats
US Highway 40 is also home to some of the best wellness retreats in the country. In Colorado, you can visit the famous hot springs in Glenwood Springs, which offer therapeutic mineral baths and stunning mountain views. In Utah, you can explore the Red Mountain Resort, which offers yoga classes and outdoor activities.
Adventure Sports
Finally, US Highway 40 is the perfect destination for adventure sports enthusiasts. In Utah, you can go canyoneering in Zion National Park or rock climbing in Moab. In Colorado, you can go white-water rafting on the Arkansas River or skiing in Aspen.
Now that you have a comprehensive travel guide for US Highway 40, it’s time to hit the road and explore everything this iconic highway has to offer. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures or cultural immersion, US Highway 40 has something for everyone.