BOB

My wife and I are traveling from Dallas to the Denver area on our way to Salt Lake City and it looks like we will pass thru Oklahoma City, Witchita etc along the way. Planned to stop for a few hours in OKC to see the Memorial and the Crystal Garden? and then head for i-70. Wichita seemed like a likely place to stop for the night but after seeing some of the remarks I was wondering if anyone could suggest a better choice closer to I-70?

Lou

If you can make it the extra 3 hours before stopping for the night, I'd suggest Overland Park in the KC metro area. Plenty of places to stay and eat, theatres, shops, etc. And, it's safe.

Paige

Maybe you should look at Salina. That's where you'll "turn left" to hit I-70 towards Denver. Not much to do there but probably better than Wichita. If you don't mind a longer drive, go to Haye. Plenty of motels along the interstate if you are just looking for a place to sleep. We drive from OKC to Vail frequently. Usually leave home around 2:00 OR 3:00 and spend the night in Hayes. That gets us to Vail in early afternoon.
You might have lunch in Bricktown after visiting the Memorial and Crystal Gardens.

dcp

I live in KC and would suggest you go the quickest way out of the state.

cl9

First of all,
Wichita is not that bad and those of you who say leave the state or go to Overland Park clearly aren't thinking properly.
There are plenty of perfectly decent places to stay along the interstate (just like any other city) Salina and Hays are valid options (although I'm not remembering as many options in either).

Mary

I'm from Overland Park, and while its a wonderful place to live theres nothing to do here. I bet there are nice things to see in Witchita if you ask around. I know they just built a science center or entertainment center (something like that) thats received worldwide accolades because of the design. Any way, I'm sure theres atleast a nice shopping district there. Just don't go out of your way if you don't have to. Theres not much in Kansas or Oklahoma to warrant it.