Short answer: Kansas City to Houston driving
The total distance from Kansas City, Missouri to Houston, Texas is approximately 829 miles and takes around 12-13 hours depending on traffic and weather conditions. The most direct route is via I-35 South and I-45 South. Drivers should plan for rest stops, refueling and consider traffic before starting the journey.
Step-by-Step Guide: Driving from Kansas City to Houston
First and foremost, let’s talk about the best time to drive. The summer months from July through September can be hot and humid in this route. Therefore, it is recommended that you plan your trip during spring or autumn when temperatures are much more moderate. Once your travel dates are set, you can begin tailoring your itinerary accordingly!
One of the most important things you will need for this type of journey is a reliable vehicle with plenty of fuel. Make sure to perform a thorough check-up on your car before leaving home to avoid any mechanical breakdowns during the drive. Having sufficient snacks and beverages within reach is also critical for those who love snacking on-the-go.
Now we come down straight on planning routes; start your trip by hitting Interstate 70 South towards St Louis Missouri. This highway will take you directly through southwestern Illinois towards western Kentucky after crossing over into Indiana at Terre Haute make sure to stop or try out some local restaurants while enjoying stunning views from atop Lincoln Heritage Trail.
Once in Kentucky, take the Western Kentucky Parkway West until you reach Elizabethtown where drivers merge onto Interstate 65 South providing scenic views throughout Tennessee State Park towards Nasville; well known for its country music culture and delicious Southern-style food.
After Nashville city limits cross-over starts taking I-24 Westward toward Memphis/Birmingham/San Antonio Texas anyone looking for a unique drive should take exit 111 which leads visitors through Mammoth Cave National park area’s scenic views accompanied by extensive cave systems followed up by hopping back on I-24 going directly into Chattanooga Tennessee where adventurers will enjoy Lookout Mountain followed up by Ruby Falls Underground rock-lit cavern tour.
Continuing on I-24 West, you’ll eventually find yourself making your way into Alabama before reaching South Springhill Tennessee where travelers merge onto Interstate 59 South traveling directly to Tuscaloosa and Birmingham.
At this point in the drive, jump back onto Interstate 20 as it runs through Meridian Mississippi straight into Jackson Mississippi whilst travelling enjoy off of the beaten path away from major highways by hopping off for a spell at flint creek waterpark or other surrounding campgrounds.
Entering Louisiana State Take exit 47a which moves drivers onto Interstate 49 southwardly traveling through Shreveport to Lafayette where motorists merge onto Highway 90 heading eastward crossing Southwest pass towards Galliano. After passing multiple wildlife sanctuaries and fish hatcheries merged onto US-90 W taking you directly to Houston yet make sure to stop for fresh gulf seafood while remainder drive time is about five hours depending on traffic volume.
Traveling several hundred miles can be a daunting task but with proper planning, gear, and enthusiasm we’re confident that your trip will be adventurous and unforgettable guiding through interstates for breathtaking views yielding memories lasting lifetime. Happy driving!
Frequently Asked Questions about Kansas City to Houston Driving
1. How long does it take to drive from Kansas City to Houston?
The distance between Kansas City and Houston is approximately 670 miles, which would take around 10-11 hours of driving time without any stops. Keep in mind that traffic and weather conditions could potentially increase travel time.
2. What is the best route to take?
There are different routes you can choose depending on your preference for scenery or speed. The most direct route is taking Interstate 35 South to Dallas, then merging onto Interstate 45 towards Houston. Another option could be taking Highway 69 South until it intersects with Highway 59 South in Sulphur Springs, Texas, then continuing on Highway 59 South into Houston.
3. Are there any noteworthy landmarks or attractions along the way?
There are several interesting places you can visit during your road trip such as visiting Lake Texoma about an hour north of Dallas, passing by Magnolia Market at Waco where Chip and Joanna Gaines made a name for their home decor empire, stopping by Lufkin’s charming downtown area filled with unique boutiques and eateries or going through Huntsville State Park where you can stretch your legs while enjoying hiking trails and scenic picnic areas.
4. Should I plan for any stops during my trip?
Yes! Planning for occasional breaks during a long road trip is essential for safety and comfort. Consider mapping out rest areas, gas stations or local must-not-miss restaurants when planning a pit stop along the way – this offers key opportunities to refresh yourself during such a long drive
5.What should i bring ?
Depending on your route along the drive,, smart travelers would pack plenty of water bottles in coolers [especially if traveling alone] enough food to fuel them during the drive, mobile phone chargers, books or music to pass time and avoid boredom.
So with all these said, by following a well-thought-out route that encompasses some of the impressive attractions en-route, ideal stops along with ensuring your car has good roadworthiness , you can make this long road trip from Kansas City to Houston equally memorable as it is effortless.
The Best Routes and Pit Stops on a Kansas City to Houston Road Trip
Are you ready to hit the open road and experience some of America’s heartland? A road trip from Kansas City to Houston is the perfect route for anyone looking to explore the beauty and diversity of our great nation. Here are the best routes and pit stops on this fabulous journey.
Starting in Kansas City, your first stop should be at Arthur Bryant’s Barbecue. This legendary restaurant has been serving up mouth-watering meats for over 80 years. Try their famous burnt ends or brisket, but make sure to order extra sauce because it’s that good.
Next up, head south towards Tulsa, Oklahoma. The scenic drive through verdant hills dotted with oil wells will take approximately four hours but is well worth it. Keep an eye out for signs pointing you toward the famous Route 66 as you pass through towns such as Joplin, Missouri.
Once in Tulsa indulge yourself in the Philbrook Museum of Art located a few miles southeast of downtown Tulsa in a stunning Italian Renaissance villa transformed into an advisory mansion housing impressive art collection spanning Civil War relics to Contemporary paintings.
Stretch your legs once more at Turner Falls. An hour outside Wichita Falls—self-proclaimed “City Between Two Winds”— this natural wonder’s swimming holes put backyard pools to shame!
Then hit Fort Worth, one of Texas’ most-beloved cities known for its stockyards heritage where cowboys roam free and longhorn cattle still march along Brick Row under Oak trees towering above proud Texas flags.
As a prelude to Big D glamor, Frisco Square delivers family-friendly shopping with reliable chains plus indie boutiques on Main Street, while offering high-end patio dining options second-to-none.
For another deep dive into Hispanic culture before reaching Houston’s melting pot scene head southeast TIAA Bank Stadium in downtown Jacksonville rejuvenating San Marco neighborhood teems with authentic flavor shops painting colorful street scapes full-packed with Latino inspired restaurants ranging from Salvadorian pupuserias to Mexican cantinas.
Finally, you’ve arrived in Houston! Known as the “Space City” or the “Energy Capital of the World,” there are a plethora of things to do and see here. Head over to The Space Center Houston and immerse yourself in NASA’s history and the awe-inspiring world of space travel.
As your road trip journey comes close to an end, indulge in Houston’s cultural offerings such as phenomenal museums including Museum of Fine Arts, Holocaust Museum, Children’s Museum – Built entirely for kids amazing learning experience – Texas shaped Lazy River Aquatic complex right beside Hobby airport making last minute sensory soaking in city quite nostalgic.
In conclusion, this Kansas City to Houston road trip offers you a fun-filled adventure packed with delicious eats and incredible sights. So pack your bags, hop in your car, and hit the open road today!
Top 5 Facts Every Driver Should Know About the Kansas City to Houston Drive
First off, congratulations on choosing one of the most beautiful and exciting road trips in America! These two cities offer unique landscapes and atmospheres that you won’t find anywhere else. The journey from Kansas City to Houston covers around 830 miles and can be completed in under 12 hours with appropriate stops and enough time for rest.
Here are some facts every driver should know about this route:
1. The distance between KC and Houston is a little over eight hundred miles which means the whole ride can take around twelve hours, depending on traffic conditions.
2. The trip will become more enjoyable if you plan your itinerary well in advance. You’ll encounter quite diverse scenery during your drive: vast farmlands stretching across southern Missouri, hills along the Osage River Valley region before entering Oklahoma’s Great Plains (with oil rigs scattered across the landscape!). Once you pass through Norman, OK things start getting interesting with picturesque hill country of Texas alongside winding roads.
3. Not all highways are created equal – when it comes down to speed limits, anyway! In Missouri state highway cycles through several towns all having their own speed limits; however once entering Oklahoma cruising speeds of up to 75mph are allowed on major highways until situated near big cities such as Tulsa or Oklahoma City where lower speed limits apply again.
4. For frequent travelers familiarized with amenities commonly found at gas stations chains – this stretch offers Routine GPS destination points such as McDonald’s or Walmart stores located nearby ten-fifteen minute detours leading away from highway exits. Unlike other parts of rural US routes locating restaurants or truck stops may not so straightforwardly obvious.
5. With each passing kilometer there may be increasingly tempting sights while approaching Houston TX yet only affordable town-based lodging exists in Lamar where local motels charge around $50/$60 per night. After this, things start getting expensive due to the region’s popular resort scene.
Overall, driving from Kansas City to Houston offers an opportunity to appreciate the diverse beauty that America has to offer. Just a word of caution though: keep an eye out for potential changes in weather conditions since weather patterns and conditions can change rapidly along the route at any time. Regardless, stay safe on your next road trip!
Safety Tips for an Unforgettable Drive from Kansas City to Houston
Driving from Kansas City to Houston can be an unforgettable experience, but it’s also a long haul. It’s important to take safety precautions along the way to ensure that you have a smooth and stress-free trip. In order to make your road trip journey safe and enjoyable, here are some safety tips to keep in mind before hitting the open road:
1. Tune up your car- Before taking on this long drive, make sure your vehicle is inspected by a professional mechanic in order to ensure that everything is properly functioning. Have them check the brakes, oil level, tires, transmission fluid levels and windshield wipers.
2. Pack Smartly- Packing smartly can go a long way when it comes to safety on any journey. Do not overpack as having an overloaded car with heavy baggage could damage the suspension of your vehicle or even risk injury if there were any accidents during driving . Make sure that all items are stowed away securely so that they don’t become dangerous projectiles in case of sudden stops or collisions.
3. Wear Seat Belts – Regardless of how far you’re going or how good of a driver you are, wearing seat belts always remains important as it reduces risk of severe injuries during accidents.. Every passenger must wear their seat belt at all times.
4. Take Breaks – Remember that drivers usually get tired after three hours on the wheel; therefore timely breaks help relieve fatigue and improve cognition when back behind the steering wheel.
5. Stay Alert and Focused- Avoid distractions like engaging in complex conversations, texting or anything else (even fiddling with radio knobs). Make sure to stay constantly focused on what’s ahead (the road) because Hazards can pop up at any time , whether its winding narrow roads or bad weather conditions such as heavy rainfall etc.
6. Follow Traffic Rules: Following traffic rules particularly speed limits will not only guarantee compliance with law but also improves one’s chances of staying safe behind the wheel.
7. Practice Defensive Driving- When driving long distances, consider that you are more likely to encounter aggressive and unexpected driving behaviour from other drivers ( tailgating, sudden lane changes). So, make sure you practice defensive driving techniques like increase distance between the cars in front of you and keeping yourself alert to avoid any trouble.
8. Keep a First Aid Kit – In case any accidents happen along the journey a first aid kit prompt medical attention Ensure it has items like bandages, antiseptic wipes and dressings; medicines for catching colds or fever as well as anti-allergic tablets etc..
9. Stay hydrated – Drink water regularly while driving so that your body doesn’t get dehydrated, which could lead to exhaustion resulting in accidents while on tour!
In all, taking these precautions will help ensure that your drive from Kansas City to Houston is safe, enjoyable and unforgettable without stress. A mentally alert driver coupled with a vehicle whose maintenance is up-to-date should be able to navigate through this scenic stretch of Midwest America smoothly without any incidents. Lastly it’s important always remember defense is better than cure when travelling by road .
Must-See Attractions Along the Stunning Route from Kansas City to Houston
If you’re planning a road trip from Kansas City to Houston, prepare to be amazed by the stunning sights and sounds along the way. This route is peppered with breathtaking natural wonders, awe-inspiring national parks, and amazing cultural landmarks. Whether you’ve got a week or just a few days to spare, here are some must-see attractions that you need not miss on your journey south.
First Stop: Herman Hill Park
Start your journey at Herman Hill Park in Jefferson City when leaving from Kansas City. It’s just 141 miles away from Kansas City and makes an ideal stop for stretching your legs, picnicking or enjoying some fresh air amid beautiful surroundings. This park has fabulous views of the Missouri River and its charming Capitol building.
Second stop: Ozark National Scenic Riverways
Next up on this road trip is the jaw-dropping Ozark National Scenic Riverways in Eminence, Missouri. Don’t forget to pack some bug spray because you don’t want anything to spoil the stunning beauty of this place. The Current and Jacks Fork Rivers offer world-class kayaking experiences as they wind lazily through breathtaking canyons filled with crystal clear water.
Third stop: Mark Twain House
As part of your itinerary for your journey south, call in at Hannibal (2-hour drive) then pay homage to one of America’s most celebrated writers by visiting his boyhood home – Mark Twain House & Museum. The museum showcases different recounts of Samuel Clemens aka Mark Twain’s adventures throughout his lifetime- well worth an investment!
Fourth Stop: Beall Woods State Park
Add this slice of nature into the mix! You can wander among giant oak trees over 120 feet tall at Beall Woods State Park located in Mount Carmel Illinois; around 350 miles south-west from Kansas City but approximately 200 miles north-west from Nashville.Thrilling isn’t it?
Fifth Stop: Music City
Nashville, home of country music and birthplace of the legendary Johnny Cash is definitely worth considering for a couple of nights stay. Take a guided tour around the Country Music Hall of Fame or go honky-tonkin’ on Broadway. Nashville is about 628 miles south-east from Kansas City, but you will not be disappointed.
Sixth Stop: Magnolia Silos
You won’t regret making Waco, Texas your next stop at all! About 347 miles from Nashville, TX (pop.126) are stunning “Magnolia Silos.” A careful blend of rustic charm with a modern twist; these silos were turned into an independent retail centre by Chip and Joanna Gaines, stars of the popular HGTV show “Fixer Upper.”
Seventh Stop: NASA Space Centre
If you love space science, make sure to visit Houston’s NASA Space Centre which is located within roughly less than 100 miles from Magnolia Silos. You can experience several astounding exhibits that encompass original spacecrafts along with their engines too. Discover hisotric Apollo missions like no other place except here!
There’s so much to see on this road trip down to Houston, but these attractions above should be considered special inclusions to your adventure for their uniqueness; containing gems just waiting for you to uncover them now! Get ready to go where the wild things are as this road trip promises breathtaking moments plus unforgettable memories that you’ll cherish forever. What other stops are your favourites along the way?
Table with useful data:
Distance | Time | Tolls |
---|---|---|
1,025.7 miles | 15 hours and 18 minutes | $34.75 |
Information from an expert
As an experienced road trip enthusiast, I highly recommend taking the Kansas City to Houston driving route. Along the way, you’ll pass through diverse cities and picturesque landscapes that make for a truly memorable journey. Be sure to make stops in Oklahoma City and Dallas to break up the drive and experience some of their unique attractions. Additionally, take advantage of the opportunity to try out local cuisine at restaurants along Route 69, including mouthwatering BBQ joints in Kansas and authentic Tex-Mex eateries in Texas. Overall, this route offers a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation for any road tripper.
Historical fact:
The first paved highway from Kansas City to Houston was established in 1926 as a part of the famous Route 66.