Some states in the US are commonly referred to as flyover states – because most people fly over them while trying to visit other parts of the country. However, some of these lesser visited states can make great destinations themselves. From stunning national parks to rock & roll history, there are many attractions worth visiting in these flyover states. Below are 5 examples of flyover states you need to visit.
Ohio
Ohio has recently become the target of many internet memes, but it is unfairly mocked – because it’s actually got quite a lot going for it. It’s home to a number of famous museums including The Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame in Cleveland and the National Museum of the US Airforce in Dayton (the largest aviation museum in the world). Ohio is also home to the world’s largest Amish population and you can visit many of the charming rustic towns where they live. Natural wonders in Ohio meanwhile include the glistening Lake Eerie and the caves and waterfalls of Hocking Hills State Park.
Kansas
Visit Kansas for a true taste of the wild west. Dodge City is known for its rich cowboy culture and contains Boot Hill Museum – a living museum with over 20,000 artefacts that feels like stepping back in time to the 1800s. Old Cowtown Museum in Wichita is another open-air museum containing 54 faithfully recreated buildings from the wild west era. Other attractions in Kansas include the vibrant Kansas City and buzzing Kansas State Fair.
Kentucky
There’s more to Kentucky than KFC. The Bluegrass State has many cultural attractions that have seen it growing in popularity as a destination – including the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame, the Kentucky Bourbon trail and the world-famous horse race The Kentucky Derby. The natural beauty of Kentucky can also not be overlooked. Here, you’ll find many campgrounds and RV parks with stunning vistas. Popular outdoor attractions include Cumberland Falls (nicknamed ‘the Niagara of the South’) and Mammoth Cave National Park (the world’s longest cave system).
Missouri
Missouri is home to the Ozarks – the heavily forested mountain range that is known for its vast and scenic valleys. Those who love hiking will enjoy the many great trails here. Route 66 also runs through Missouri and there are many notable roadside attractions to see along this famous highway including Gateway Arch in St Louis, Route 66 Car Museum and Uranus pit stop. It’s excellent for a short road trip!
Tennessee
Tennessee is a lot more touristy than the states above – largely because it is the birthplace of rock and roll and the country music capital of the world. Nashville and Memphis are the two most visited destinations in this state and contain historic locations such the Grand Ole Opry (a country venue that is home to the longest running radio show) and Beale Street (an iconic street renowned for its blues venues). The home of Elvis Presley, Graceland, is also located outside Memphis, and is open to the public. Other must-visit attractions in Tennessee include the Jack Daniels distillery and Dollywood.
