Map Of Us Tornado Alley
Introduction
Tornado Alley is a region in the central United States that is prone to frequent tornadoes. The area stretches from Texas to North Dakota and includes parts of Oklahoma, Kansas, Nebraska, Iowa, and Missouri. Despite the danger, this region has a lot to offer for travelers. From outdoor adventures to cultural experiences, this travel guide will help you plan your trip to the Map of US Tornado Alley.
Top Attractions
1. National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum
Located in Oklahoma City, this museum celebrates the history and culture of the American West. With exhibits on cowboys, Native Americans, and western art, this is a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in the Wild West.
2. Gateway Arch
This iconic monument in St. Louis is a symbol of westward expansion. Take a tram to the top for stunning views of the city and the Mississippi River.
3. Tallgrass Prairie Preserve
This 39,000-acre preserve in Oklahoma is home to bison, elk, and other wildlife. Visitors can hike or take a guided tour to see the grasslands and learn about the ecosystem.
Hidden Gems
1. Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art
This museum in Bentonville, Arkansas has an impressive collection of American art, including works by Norman Rockwell and Andy Warhol. The museum is also surrounded by beautiful nature trails.
2. The Keeper of the Plains
This 44-foot-tall statue in Wichita, Kansas is a tribute to Native American culture and sits at the confluence of the Arkansas and Little Arkansas rivers. The statue is especially stunning at night when it is illuminated.
3. The Ozark National Scenic Riverways
This park in Missouri is a hidden gem for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can float down the Current and Jacks Fork rivers, go hiking, or explore the historic mills and farms in the area.
Food Scene
The Map of US Tornado Alley has a diverse culinary scene. Here are some must-try dishes:
- Kansas City-style barbecue
- Tex-Mex cuisine in Texas
- Nebraska beef
- Iowa sweet corn
- Missouri-style pizza
Budget-Friendly Tips
Traveling on a budget? Here are some tips to save money:
- Visit state parks and other free attractions
- Eat at local diners and food trucks
- Book accommodations outside of major cities
- Use public transportation or rent a bike to get around
Outdoor Adventures
The Map of US Tornado Alley has plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation:
- Hiking in the Ozarks
- Fishing in the Mississippi River
- Camping in the Tallgrass Prairie Preserve
- Canoeing on the Buffalo National River
- Rock climbing in Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge
Family-Friendly Activities
Traveling with kids? Here are some family-friendly activities:
- Visiting the Oklahoma City Zoo
- Exploring the Science Museum Oklahoma
- Attending a Kansas City Royals baseball game
- Going to Silver Dollar City amusement park in Missouri
- Taking a tour of Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead in Kansas
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
Looking for something unique? Here are some off-the-beaten-path experiences:
- Visiting the Precious Moments Chapel in Missouri
- Exploring the underground tunnels in Wichita, Kansas
- Attending the annual Iowa State Fair
- Taking a hot air balloon ride over the Flint Hills in Kansas
- Visiting the birthplace of Jesse James in Missouri
Natural Wonders
The Map of US Tornado Alley is home to some stunning natural wonders:
- The Great Plains
- The Ozark Mountains
- The Mississippi River
- The Flint Hills in Kansas
- The Cottonwood Falls Waterfall in Kansas
Vibrant Nightlife
The major cities in the Map of US Tornado Alley have plenty of options for nightlife:
- The Power & Light District in Kansas City
- The Deep Ellum district in Dallas
- The Bricktown Entertainment District in Oklahoma City
- The Delmar Loop in St. Louis
- The Blue Dome District in Tulsa
Local Markets
Experience the local culture by visiting these markets:
- The Dallas Farmers Market
- The City Market in Kansas City
- The Oklahoma City Farmers Public Market
- The Soulard Farmers Market in St. Louis
- The Cherry Street Farmers Market in Tulsa
Beaches and Mountains
While the Map of US Tornado Alley is known for its flat terrain, there are still some beautiful beaches and mountains to explore:
- The Gulf Coast beaches in Texas
- The Ouachita Mountains in Arkansas and Oklahoma
- The Ozark Mountains in Missouri and Arkansas
- The Wichita Mountains in Oklahoma
- The Flint Hills in Kansas
Cultural Immersion
Learn about the diverse cultures in the Map of US Tornado Alley:
- The National Museum of African American History and Culture in Kansas City
- The National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum in Oklahoma City
- The National World War I Museum and Memorial in Kansas City
- The National Museum of the Great Plains in Lawton, Oklahoma
- The Missouri History Museum in St. Louis
Art and Music Scene
Experience the vibrant art and music scene in the Map of US Tornado Alley:
- The Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art in Bentonville, Arkansas
- The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art in Kansas City
- The Oklahoma City Museum of Art
- The Cain’s Ballroom in Tulsa
- The Jazz at Lincoln Center in St. Louis
Walking Tours
Explore the cities on foot with these walking tours:
- The Downtown St. Louis Walking Tour
- The Oklahoma City Art Walk
- The Wichita Historic Murals Tour
- The Kansas City Jazz Walk of Fame
- The Tulsa Art Deco Walking Tour
Architectural Marvels
Marvel at the architecture in the Map of US Tornado Alley:
- The Gateway Arch in St. Louis
- The BOK Tower in Tulsa
- The Price Tower in Bartlesville, Oklahoma
- The Union Station in Kansas City
- The Philbrook Museum of Art in Tulsa
Historical Sites
Learn about the history of the Map of US Tornado Alley:
- The Alamo in San Antonio, Texas
- The Dwight D. Eisenhower Presidential Library and Museum in Abilene, Kansas
- The Harry S. Truman Presidential Library and Museum in Independence, Missouri
- The Jesse James Home Museum in St. Joseph, Missouri
- The Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum
Biking Routes
Explore the countryside on these scenic bike routes:
- The Katy Trail State Park in Missouri
- The Flint Hills Nature Trail in Kansas
- The Ouachita National Forest in Arkansas and Oklahoma
- The Wagon Wheel Trail in Oklahoma
- The Trinity River Trail in Fort Worth, Texas
Wellness Retreats
Relax and rejuvenate at these wellness retreats:
- The Mayo Clinic Wellness Center in Rochester, Minnesota
- The Miraval