Starting in the third-largest city of the Lone Star State and crossing through some of the loneliest stretches of road in the country, this Dallas to Denver road trip will give you the best of both worlds: Cities and skyscrapers to open roads and small-town charm.
To the untrained eye, a Dallas to Denver road trip might seem like a lot of driving through “flyover states”, but there is a lot to see. From the skyscrapers and activities of the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex to the culture and cuisine of Kansas City, this route passes through cities that have come to define their respective states and regions. Along the way, you will pass through small towns, cross roaring rivers and see the largest mountain range in North America.
Stops
1. Dallas, TX
2. Fort Worth, TX
3. Oklahoma City, OK
4. Kansas City, MO
5. Colorado Springs, CO
6. Denver, CO
Info at a glance
- A 7-10 day trip
- Type of route: City
- 6 stops along the route
- 1,235 miles of driving
Highlights
- Bask in the big-city life in Dallas.
- See where the American West begins in Fort Worth.
- Dive into Frontier Country in Oklahoma City.
- Get a taste of history and barbecue in Kansas City.
- Hit the slopes and grab a drink in Denver.
Getting to the start
Hit the ground running by starting your road trip with a few days exploring Dallas, Texas. For those coming into the city from another part of the country or world, you can fly into one of two airports – Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport or Dallas Love Field. You can rent a car from both airports. The Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) system runs throughout Dallas and the surrounding suburbs. Amtrak also operates trains into Union Station of Dallas. If you are coming from the surrounding region, there are several major roads going into Dallas including Interstate 20 from the east or west, I-30 from the east, I-35 from the north or south and I-45 from the south.
When to Visit
The best time to take this road trip is in the fall from September to November. You can avoid the summer crowds and enjoy the moderate temperatures of Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas and Missouri and avoid heavy snowfall in the Rocky Mountains. To make the most of your journey, pack a combination of light, comfortable clothing with some layers in case you encounter colder weather in the mountains. Considering you will be exploring major cities with plenty to see, also be sure to pack comfortable shoes.
Driving tips
This road trip route includes several toll bridges and toll roads. Traffic can be heavy around the major cities like Dallas and Denver during rush hour, especially in the morning. The speed limit can reach up to 80 miles per hour in rural areas and down to 55 mph in urban zones. For high speed rides, an SUV can be a suitable fit. If you encounter snow and are unfamiliar with driving in such conditions, slow down and avoid acceleration on turns or down steep slopes.
What to know about the route
After beginning your road trip with a few days in Dallas, take a short drive west on I-30 to Fort Worth to enjoy a different side of the region and understand what makes this “Where the West Begins.” Next, use I-35W and I-35 North for the drive to Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. After spending a few days in Frontier Country, continue north on I-35, I-335, and I-70 East until you reach Kansas City, Missouri. Fill up on barbecue and good times before heading west across Kansas and into Colorado via I-70. Once you reach Colorado Springs, enjoy this growing outdoor adventure oasis before ending the road trip with a quick drive on I-25 North into Denver. Depending on the time of year, you may want to choose an all-wheel-drive SUV for this final stretch in case of snow.
Dallas, TX
Dallas is hard to miss as you make your way across the flat, open roads of Texas and see the skyscrapers looming in the distance. The city is full of shopping districts, a wide variety of cuisines, and plenty of arts and museum options. Whether this is your first visit or your 50th, there is one iconic piece of Dallas that you should become familiar with seeing – the familiar star logo of the Dallas Cowboys football team.
Points of interest
Dallas has its own famous skyline to explore while you visit, with iconic buildings like Reunion Tower. This observation tower is affectionately known as “The Ball” by locals, with its massive LED sphere towering over the Reunion District. Other famous buildings and landmarks to see include Chase Tower, Renaissance Tower, Fountain Place and Bank of America Plaza. If you are spending more time in Dallas, check out our guide for road trips from Dallas.
Sixt Insider Tip
Are you looking to truly immerse yourself in the Dallas lifestyle? Plan your trip around a Dallas Cowboys home game and experience a day at AT&T Stadium, which can be packed with 105,000 fans at full capacity. The Cowboys are the most valuable franchise in the NFL, with the team branding recognizable around the world.
From Dallas to Fort Worth (30 miles)
Believe it or not, there is a lot to see on your short drive between Dallas and Fort Worth. In fact, there is a Ripley’s Believe It or Not Museum as you take I-30 West. Stop in for rare oddities on display, from shrunken heads to unique skeletons.
Fort Worth, TX
As the historic center of the Texas longhorn cattle trade, the city of Fort Worth prides itself on being “where the West begins”. It has long been associated with nearby Dallas, with a friendly rivalry and association between the two that has formed one of the largest metroplexes in the country. Bring your cowboy hats and spurs, because this city is a melting pot of cowboys and culture.
Points of interest
The 120-acre Will Rogers Coliseum is known far and wide in the bull riding community as the home of the Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo, which is well worth a visit, even if you’re not a rodeo lover. You can also cool off with a visit to the Fort Worth Water Gardens, or spend a day at the Fort Worth Zoo.
Where to eat, drink and sleep
It might be illegal to visit Fort Worth and not enjoy some Texas barbecue. There are more delicious barbecue joints scattered through Fort Worth than we could count, but we recommend trying out Heim Barbecue, Riscky’s BBQ or Cousins Barbecue.
Sixt Insider Tip
Find time to visit East Exchange Avenue and catch the real stars of Fort Worth – Texas longhorn cattle – parading down the street two times a day as part of the Fort Worth Herd. This is not just a tourist trap with fabricated costumes. Every aspect of the parade, from the boots and hats worn by the handlers to saddles and chaps, is completely authentic and historically accurate.
From Fort Worth to Oklahoma City (200 miles)
As you cross the border from Texas into Oklahoma, make a stop on the shores of the Red River. Named after its red-colored water, the Red River forms the border between Texas and Oklahoma, plus part of Texas and Arkansas.
Oklahoma City, OK
Often referred to as OKC and located right in the middle of the state, Oklahoma City is the capital and largest city in Oklahoma. You might notice that each of the city’s neighborhoods seems to have its own unique culture, design and architecture. While some southern neighborhoods near the stockyards and meatpacking plants have a blue-collar vibe, others like Bricktown are trendy urban districts with shops, restaurants and even water taxis that run along the Bricktown Canal.
Points of interest
Considering this city is located in the heart of Frontier Country, it is only fitting that the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum calls Oklahoma City home. You can also catch an outdoor concert at the 40-acre Scissortail Park, or cheer on the Oklahoma City Thunder basketball team at Chesapeake Energy Arena.
Where to eat, drink and sleep
The cuisine in Oklahoma City is a melting pot of traditions and cultures. Fill up on comfort food like country-fried steak, step into the growing Asian district for a traditional meal, or explore the Central American, Mexican and South American flavors.
Sixt Insider Tip
Feeling a bit cooped up from all that time in the car? This is the city to stretch your legs. Oklahoma City is consistently one of the top-rated cities in the country for walkability, with an extensive infrastructure of walking paths and bike routes. You have a long stretch to get from here to your next destination, so now would be a great time to get those steps in!
From Oklahoma City to Kansas City (350 miles)
As you head north on I-35, you will pass through Wichita, Kansas. The city is home to a 44-foot statue of an American Indian chief, known as “The Keeper of the Plains”. It towers over the confluence of the Big River and Little Arkansas River in Downtown Wichita. If you happen to be there in the evening, you might be able to see a fire-lighting ceremony at the base of the statue.
Kansas City, MO
First of all, you should know that Kansas City is located in Missouri. Once you get that out of the way, you will begin to realize just how much there is to see. This city is packed with walkable streets and historic monuments, from the riverfront neighborhood of River Market District to the origin point of jazz in the United States – 18th and Vine District.
Points of interest
Kansas City residents take great pride in their city, from the history to the sports teams. Visit the American Jazz Museum to learn about Kansas City’s role in spreading this music throughout America, and catch a live show at one of the many historic jazz venues throughout the city. You can also visit one of the most historic ballparks in the country – Kauffman Stadium, home of the Kansas City Royals.
Where to eat, drink and sleep
This didn’t start out as a barbecue tour of the country, but it’s turned into one! Kansas City is known for Kansas City-style barbecue, which is slow-cooked meats and world-famous barbecue sauce. You have more than 100 barbecue joints to choose from when you visit; just be sure to order some burnt ends with your meal.
Sixt Insider Tip
Barbecue may be the first thing you think of when you picture Kansas City (and rightfully so), but did you know this city also has a prominent Irish-American population? A large number of Irish immigrants settled here and established a community that is 50,000 strong today. If you happen to be passing through Kansas City during Labor Day weekend, you can experience the Kansas City Irish Fest in the heart of Crown Center and Washington Park.
From Kansas City to Colorado Springs (585 miles)
We know this is a long stretch of driving, so it might be wise to find a stop that stimulates your mind (and some conversation) in the middle of your drive. Stop by the Sternberg Museum of Natural History in Hays, Kansas, run by Fort Hays State University. You’ll get to see fossils from local digs, and give it a try yourself at the fossil dig replica site.
Colorado Springs, CO
At an elevation of 6,035 feet above sea level, Colorado Springs is a great base to explore the Rocky Mountains. This is a perfect spot to break out your hiking and camping gear. And if you’re looking for a challenge, Pikes Peak is 14,115 feet above sea level and can be reached by car, by hiking trails or even via a cog railway.
Where to eat, drink and sleep
Ready for a break from sleeping in the passenger seat? Spend your night at the Broadmoor Hotel, known for exceptional service and high-end accommodations since 1918. With stunning views of the Rocky Mountains, a wide variety of room options including suites and cottages, and 17 restaurants and cafes, you might end up extending your stay for a few days.
Sixt Insider Tip
There is a big difference between the 909-foot elevation of Kansas City and the 6,035-foot elevation of Colorado Springs (5,126 feet to be exact). The top athletes from around the country come here to train, and you can get a glimpse of their lifestyle at the United States Olympic Training Center. With displays and exhibits of the athletes who have trained at the center throughout the years, along with a towering structure of the Olympic Rings, this is a perfect photo opportunity.
From Colorado Springs to Denver (70 miles)
While it’s a short drive to the final stop on the road trip, along the way you can learn a great deal about the mining industry that has shaped Colorado for generations. The Western Museum of Mining & Industry is located off of I-25, with 27 acres of historic equipment displays and guided tours.
Denver, CO
You finally made it to the Mile High City, a land of trendy craft breweries and a rapidly growing culinary scene. With outdoor opportunities aplenty, Denver has become a sort of Mecca for the ski community to come to each winter. You could not ask for better downhill skiing than the many resorts surrounding Denver and the region, so now is the time for you to hit the slopes.
Points of interest
No matter what time of year you visit, there is always something to do in Denver. You can catch a show at the Ellie Caulkins Opera House, visit the Denver Art Museum, or celebrate at one of the many festivals throughout the seasons. The city may be known for skiing in the winters, but warmer months are the perfect setting for kayaking, road trips, mountain biking or hiking.
Where to eat, drink and sleep
Denver hosts the Great American Beer Festival each fall, so that should tell you everything you need to know about this trendy town. Most of the restaurants have their own on-site breweries, so there is always something new to try.
Sixt Insider Tip
Denver is one of the few towns in America with a team for all four major professional sports – the Denver Nuggets of the NBA, the Denver Broncos of the NFL, the Colorado Avalanche of the NHL, and the Colorado Rockies of the MLB. These sports are a huge part of the city’s culture and lifestyle, so you might want to cap off your long drive by relaxing in the stands.
