Kansas City to Raleigh, NC end of January

I'm headed from L.A. to N.Y. but stopping to visit friends in several cities along the way. I've got it planned out from L.A. to Kansas City but am wondering the best route(scenic and weather-wise) from Kansas City to Raleigh, NC. And where might be the best place to stop for the night?
Yes, I know the route sounds very indirect!!
thanks!

A quick look shows the easiest (simplest) route might be KC-St Louis-Cairo-Paducah-Nashville-Asheville-Raleigh. Nashville area is about your halfway point, if you intend to do this in two days.