Take a short but fascinating ride through a historic corridor of eastern Kansas as we follow U.S. Route 73 westbound across the city of Leavenworth. This 2-mile segment may be brief, but it’s packed with significance—connecting river crossings, military heritage, and the region’s oldest incorporated city with the wide-open roads beyond. Our journey begins on the Missouri side, crossing the broad Missouri River via MO-92 into Kansas. The river crossing itself is a transition in more than just geography; it marks the entry into a community deeply rooted in American history.
As we leave the bridge and enter Kansas, the road becomes K-92 and rises slightly as we approach the intersection with U.S. Highway 73. Continuing westward onto US-73, we follow a wide, divided highway that skirts the northern edge of downtown Leavenworth. On either side, a mix of commercial centers and residential neighborhoods unfolds—fast food chains, grocery stores, gas stations, and small local businesses cluster along the corridor, serving both the local population and travelers alike. To the north, hidden behind trees and fences, lies Fort Leavenworth, an active U.S. Army installation and one of the oldest continuously operating military posts west of the Mississippi. Founded in 1827, the fort has long been a hub of military education and operations, now housing the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College.
Not long after passing the base, we drive alongside the imposing grounds of the United States Penitentiary, Leavenworth. The prison’s domed tower and castle-like limestone walls stand as stark reminders of the federal system’s legacy in this area—its presence has influenced Leavenworth’s economy and identity for over a century. Just beyond the penitentiary, the road shifts character once again. As the urban development fades, we encounter a brief but classic example of a Kansas highway diverging into a partial cloverleaf interchange. We arrive at County Road 14—known locally as the Santa Fe Trail—where we exit the highway and bring this short drive to a close.
Though only two miles in length, this segment of US-73 encapsulates a unique intersection of American past and present. It links the Missouri River crossing to national military significance and the federal justice system, all while threading through the modern-day rhythm of Leavenworth life. Whether you’re just passing through or beginning a longer drive up the Glacial Hills Scenic Byway, this route offers a concentrated glimpse into the layered identity of one of Kansas’s most historic towns.
This video was originally produced in collaboration with CrossCounty Travelers, a now-retired travel group.
🗺️ Route Map
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