Dynamic’s 48-state operating authority, which includes a strong presence in the Greater Midwest, Southwest, West Coast and Pacific Northwest, allows our drivers to see a lot of the United States. They get to view a lot of scenery many others don’t and visit unique attractions.
Whether you have a 10 break or a 34-hour restart, spending some time enjoying the city you’re in can be a great way to relax. We’ve compiled a list of recommended sites and restaurants in the following cities along our routes: Denver, Salt Lake City, Kansas City, Cincinnati and Columbus. If you find yourself driving through one of these places, check them out, and let us know what you think.
Denver, Colorado
The Mile High City is known for its beautiful views of the Rocky Mountains. In fact, the Denver is located exactly one mile (5280 feet) above sea level.
SEE: If you have a few hours to sightsee in this picturesque city, we recommend taking the 15-mile drive to Red Rocks Park and Amphitheater. Some know it as an exceptional place to see a concert. Why? It’s the only naturally-occurring, acoustically-perfect amphitheatre in the world. Simultaneously, it’s a National Historic Landmark. See the giant sandstone outcroppings that form walls higher than Niagara Falls. Then, stop by the visitor center to view educational displays. Or, talk a walk through its Performers’ Hall of Fame. (Location – 18300 W. Alameda Pkwy., Morrison)
EAT: Labeled one-part Jewish deli and one-part Mediterranean restaurant, Leven Deli boasts a wide selection of sandwiches, potato, egg and pasta salads and eclectic cocktails. Probably the best-selling sandwich at this popular eatery is the pastrami Reuben. It’s topped with Russian dressing, pickled red cabbage and melted Jarlsberg cheese on toasted rye bread. If you just want dessert, try the mouth-watering malted milk brownies. (Location – 123 W 12th Ave.)
Salt Lake City, Utah
Home to the world-famous Mormon Tabernacle Choir, Salt Lake City is the state’s capital. Its proximity to the Rocky Mountains and five national parks makes it a desired destination for skiers and snowboarders alike.
SEE: Located approximately 16 miles west of Salt Lake City is Great Salt Lake. It’s the largest lake between the Great Lakes and the Pacific Ocean. Moreover, it’s the biggest saltwater lake in the Western Hemisphere. First-rate views are available from Interstate 80 along the lake’s south shoreline. Nearby Antelope Island State Park offers swimming, bird-watching and picnicking. You may even see some of the island’s abundant wildlife while you’re there.
EAT: Downtown Salt Lake City is where Japanese eatery and sushi bar Takashi is situated. Sample one of Chef Gobi’s specialty rolls, sashimi or a big sake. Or, try one of the restaurant’s other modern Japanese selections. Afterward, don’t forget to save room for one of Takashi’s unique desserts! (Location – 18 W. Market St.)
Kansas City (Kansas and Missouri)
Kansas City sometimes gets a bad rap for its lackluster scenery. However, it has reinvented itself over the past decade. Attractions like the Power & Light District and Crown Center provide the perfect mix of shops, restaurants and other entertainment.
SEE: In 1920, the first Negro National baseball league started in Kansas City. It prompted the formation of similar leagues across the United States and in Canada and Latin America. The Negro Leagues Baseball Museum (NLBM) offers a self-guided tour experience featuring photos, films, artifacts and exhibits on this one-of-a-kind league. Admission is $10 for adults and $9 for seniors 65 years of age and older. (Location – 1616 E. 18th St., Kansas City, MO)
EAT: If you didn’t already know, Kansas City is known for BBQ. Q39 Midtown serves authentic K.C. BBQ made from scratch. Enjoy smoked BBQ and wood-fired meats and seafood. Or, pick from the wide array of sandwiches and sides. This location is in the city’s Midtown area. (Location – 1000 W. 39th St.)
Cincinnati, Ohio
About four hours southwest of Cleveland along the Ohio River sits the Queen City. It’s home to the MLB Cincinnati Reds and the NFL Cincinnati Bengals.
SEE: As a driver, you probably see your fair share of neon signs. But, did you know there’s a museum dedicated to them? The American Sign Museum is comprised of 20,000 square feet of neon signs from the past century. Guided tours are available for $15 for adults and $10 for seniors 65+. If you happen to visit during the week, your tour will most likely include a visit to the museum’s onsite neon shop. (Location – 1330 Monmouth Ave.)
EAT: Fried Chicken is the highlight of The Eagle. The restaurant serves southern classics with a variety of side dishes. Sourced from Amish Ohio farms, the chicken on this eatery’s menu is free-range and antibiotic-free. (Location – 1342 Vine St.)
Columbus, OH
Ohio’s state capital is America’s 15th-largest city. Columbus is the site of The Ohio State University, which has an annual enrollment of approximately 60,000 students.
SEE: Overlooking the Scioto River with views of Columbus’ downtown skyline is the National Veterans Memorial and Museum. The 53,000 square-foot cultural institution opened this past fall. It displays photos, letters and personal effects from veterans who served every branch of the U.S. military. Plus, you can view multi-media presentations and interactive exhibits. Admission is free for veterans, Gold Star Families and active-duty military; it’s $17 for adults and $15 for seniors 65 and older. (Location – 300 W. Broad St.)
EAT: Get your oom-pah-pah on at Schmidt’s Sausage Haus und Restaurant. It’s located in Columbus’ historic German Village, where you can see beautiful parks and gorgeous gardens. Schmidt’s is a nationally registered historic site that opened more than 120 years ago. In addition to flavorsome German dinners, the restaurant has live German music throughout the week. (Location – 240 E. Kossuth St.)
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