I-70 is a major east–west Interstate highway that runs through the Midwestern United States. It is the third-longest Interstate in the United States and runs from Cove Fort, Utah, to Baltimore, Maryland. Missouri is one of the states that I-70 passes through and is the 6th-longest stretch of the highway, spanning a distance of 446 miles.
The section of I-70 that runs through Missouri begins in St. Charles County, just west of St. Louis, and ends in Buchanan County, just west of Kansas City. The entire span of I-70 in Missouri is 446 miles, and it takes about 6 hours and 45 minutes to drive from one end to the other.
The span of I-70 through Missouri is mostly rural, with some cities and towns sprinkled throughout. The section of I-70 running from St. Charles to Kansas City is the busiest stretch of the highway in the state, with an average of more than 10,000 vehicles per day. The section of I-70 running from St. Charles to Columbia is the least-traveled, with an average of fewer than 5,000 vehicles per day.
I-70 passes through a variety of landscapes in Missouri, including the rolling hills of the Ozarks, the arid plains of the Great Plains, and the wooded valleys of the Missouri River. It also passes through several major cities in the state including St. Louis, Kansas City, Columbia, and St. Joseph.
Highway Conditions on I-70 in Missouri
The highway is generally in good condition in Missouri and is regularly maintained by the Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT). As with any highway, there can be occasional road closures due to construction or accidents, so it’s always a good idea to check the latest conditions before heading out on the road.
The speed limit on I-70 in Missouri is generally 70 mph in rural areas, and 65 mph in urban areas. Be sure to obey all posted speed limits and watch for any changes in the speed limit as you drive.
Places to Visit Along I-70 in Missouri
There are a variety of places to visit along I-70 in Missouri. St. Louis is a great place to start, as it is home to the iconic Gateway Arch and the St. Louis Zoo. Kansas City is another popular city along I-70, and is home to a variety of attractions such as the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, the Kansas City Chiefs NFL team, and the Harry S. Truman Presidential Library and Museum.
Columbia is a college town, home to the University of Missouri and Stephens College. It is also home to the Missouri Theatre Center for the Arts, a variety of shopping and dining options, and numerous outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and fishing.
St. Joseph is another popular stop along I-70 and is home to the Pony Express Museum, the Jesse James Home Museum, and numerous other attractions. The nearby town of Weston is home to Weston Bend State Park, which offers an array of outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and fishing.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to drive from St. Charles to Kansas City on I-70?
It takes approximately 3 hours and 45 minutes to drive from St. Charles to Kansas City on I-70.
What is the speed limit on I-70 in Missouri?
The speed limit on I-70 in Missouri is generally 70 mph in rural areas, and 65 mph in urban areas.
What are some attractions to visit along I-70 in Missouri?
Some attractions to visit along I-70 in Missouri include the Gateway Arch in St. Louis, the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum in Kansas City, and the University of Missouri in Columbia.
Are there any road closures on I-70 in Missouri?
There can be occasional road closures due to construction or accidents on I-70 in Missouri, so it's always a good idea to check the latest conditions before heading out on the road.
What is the busiest stretch of I-70 in Missouri?
The busiest stretch of I-70 in Missouri is the section that runs from St. Charles to Kansas City, with an average of more than 10,000 vehicles per day.
How many miles long is I-70 in Missouri?
I-70 in Missouri is 446 miles long.
What cities does I-70 pass through in Missouri?
I-70 passes through several major cities in Missouri, including St. Louis, Kansas City, Columbia, and St. Joseph.
What landscape does I-70 pass through in Missouri?
I-70 passes through a variety of landscapes in Missouri, including the rolling hills of the Ozarks, the arid plains of the Great Plains, and the wooded valleys of the Missouri River.
What is the least-traveled section of I-70 in Missouri?
The least-traveled section of I-70 in Missouri is the section running from St. Charles to Columbia, with an average of fewer than 5,000 vehicles per day.
Where does I-70 start and end in Missouri?
I-70 starts in St. Charles County, just west of St. Louis, and ends in Buchanan County, just west of Kansas City.
Are there any outdoor activities to do along I-70 in Missouri?
Yes, there are a variety of outdoor activities to do along I-70 in Missouri, such as hiking, biking, and fishing. Weston Bend State Park is a popular spot for outdoor activities.