Begin your journey by departing O'Fallon early, crossing the scenic Missouri River as you transition into the rolling plains of the Midwest. Your morning route leads you through the bustling heart of Kansas City, where you'll catch glimpses of the [Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts](https://www.kauffmancenter.org) before turning north toward the Loess Hills National Scenic Byway.
Continue north through the expansive western Iowa landscape, stopping at the [DeSoto National Wildlife Refuge](https://www.fws.gov/refuge/desoto) to witness seasonal bird migrations and view recovered cargo at the Steamboat Bertrand Museum. Before crossing the state line, pause at the Sergeant Floyd Monument in Sioux City to take in panoramic views of the Missouri River valley from this historic stone obelisk.
Upon arriving in the city, witness the rushing waters of the Big Sioux River at [Falls Park](https://www.google.com/search?q=Falls+Park+O%27Fallon+Missouri+to+devil%27s+tower+Wyoming%0Aapril+20+2026%0A+official+site), where the cascading falls are beautifully illuminated against the night sky. Conclude your first day of travel with a stroll through the Downtown Sioux Falls historic district, exploring the sculpture-lined sidewalks of Phillips Avenue before settling in for a local meal.
Start your westward journey across the expansive Dakota plains with a stop at the world-famous [Mitchell Corn Palace](https://cornpalace.com) to admire its unique folk-art murals crafted entirely from corn and native grasses. Shortly after, cross the mighty Missouri River at Chamberlain to witness the stunning 50-foot-tall Dignity: of Earth and Sky sculpture, which honors the cultures of the Lakota and Dakota people.
As you travel further west, pull off at the [Minuteman Missile National Historic Site](https://www.nps.gov/mimi/planyourvisit/fees.htm) to explore the Cold War history of the plains before entering the surreal landscapes of [Badlands National Park](https://www.nps.gov/badl/planyourvisit/fees.htm). Spend your afternoon traversing the scenic Badlands Loop Road, stopping at the Big Badlands Overlook to photograph the dramatic spires and deep canyons painted in vibrant sedimentary layers.
Wind down your day in the town of Wall with a visit to the sprawling and legendary [Wall Drug Store](https://www.walldrug.com), where you can browse eccentric boutiques and snap a photo with the iconic Giant Jackalope. Enjoy a classic western-style dinner at the [Western Art Gallery Restaurant](https://www.google.com/search?q=Western+Art+Gallery+Restaurant+O%27Fallon+Missouri+to+devil%27s+tower+Wyoming%0Aapril+20+2026%0A+official+site) and grab a cup of their famous five-cent coffee before resting up for the final leg of your journey into the Black Hills.
Wake up in Wall and drive west toward the majestic [Mount Rushmore National Memorial](https://www.nps.gov/moru/planyourvisit/fees.htm), where you can walk the Presidential Trail for a closer look at the colossal carvings. Afterward, take a scenic drive through the granite tunnels and pigtail bridges of Iron Mountain Road, offering uniquely framed views of the monuments nestled within the rugged Black Hills landscape.
Depart the Black Hills and travel toward the historic town of Deadwood, where you can explore the preserved wild west architecture and visit the final resting places of legends at Mount Moriah Cemetery. Upon crossing into Wyoming, reach the base of [Devils Tower National Monument](https://www.nps.gov/deto/planyourvisit/fees.htm) to stretch your legs on the Tower Trail, witnessing the unique hexagonal columns of the nation's first national monument up close.
As dusk descends, find a peaceful vantage point at the Joyner Ridge Forest Trail to watch the setting sun cast long, dramatic shadows across the prairie landscape. Conclude your road trip with a hearty meal in the nearby western town of Hulett at the Ponderosa Cafe, or enjoy the nightly outdoor screening of *Close Encounters of the Third Kind* at the Devils Tower KOA Journey beneath a canopy of brilliant stars.