This spring, I head southwest for WordCamp in Phoenix. Instead of flying straight there, I turn the journey into a road trip from Kansas to Arizona. The route is full of small towns, historic sites, and places I have wanted to see for years.

Day 1: Kansas to Wilson

After dropping Dawn and Benson at Kansas City International Airport, I point the car west. The first leg of this road trip from Kansas to Arizona is a short three-hour drive to Wilson, Kansas.

That night, I finally stay at the Midland Railroad Hotel & Restaurant. It is a place I have wanted to experience for a long time. Stories say the hotel is haunted by an orphaned girl heard along the third-floor hallway. Another spirit, known as Sheriff Bart, is said to linger after being lynched there.

Before turning in, I hope to photograph the hotel and the World’s Largest Hand-painted Czech Egg nearby. Evening light and quiet streets feel right for both.

Day 2: Wilson to Clayton

Friday brings long stretches of highway. I leave Wilson and drive five and a half hours south to Clayton, New Mexico. This day adds real distance to my road trip from Kansas to Arizona.

I spend the night at the historic Eklund Hotel. I first noticed it in 2006 and have wanted to return ever since. The hotel is said to be haunted by a maid named Irene, often linked to creaking floors in Room 307. Another spirit, described as playful and stubborn, is also said to roam the halls.

Day 3: Volcanoes and Ancient Places

Saturday begins with a drive to Capulin Volcano National Monument. I spend about an hour walking the rim of the extinct volcano. From there, the road leads to Pecos National Historical Park and then Petroglyph National Monument.

By nightfall, I reach Albuquerque. Each stop adds depth to this road trip from Kansas to Arizona, mixing geology with history.

Day 4: Missions, Outlaws, and Roswell

Sunday starts early. I head first to Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument. From there, the road bends east toward Lincoln, New Mexico. This quiet town holds the history of the Lincoln County War and the legacy of Billy the Kid.

Later, I stop in Roswell at the International UFO Museum and Research Center. I grab coffee at Stellar Coffee Co. before continuing south to Carlsbad. That night, I stay at the Trinity Hotel and Restaurant, where a spirit named Ruby is said to appear in the lobby.

Day 5: Caverns and Mountains

Monday begins with coffee at Java Nick’s Coffee Hut. I then drive to Carlsbad Caverns National Park. Underground chambers stretch farther than I expect and feel almost unreal.

Afterward, I continue to Guadalupe Mountains National Park. The views shift from desert flats to rugged peaks. I end the day in Alamogordo, ready for another full stretch of road.

Day 6: White Sands and Roadside Stops

Tuesday starts at Mad Coffee, then heads north to McGinn’s PistachioLand. The World’s Largest Pistachio rises beside the road, impossible to ignore.

From there, I explore White Sands National Park. The dunes glow under open sky and feel unlike anywhere else. I also stop at the World’s Largest Chile Pepper, the recycled Roadrunner sculpture, and Prehistoric Trackways National Monument.

That night, I check into the Murray Hotel in Silver City. Its Art Deco style feels like a step back in time.

Day 7: Cliff Dwellings and Tucson

Wednesday brings one final stretch. I visit Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument and walk through caves once used as homes. The setting feels quiet and grounded.

By evening, I arrive in Tucson. I spend the night at Hotel Congress, known for its history and haunted reputation. It feels like the right place to end this road trip from Kansas to Arizona.

The road south always brings surprises. This trip feels like the kind that stays with you long after the miles fade.

If this adventure interests you, read about other haunted locations I have visited or browse through other adventures I have been on.