Missouri Road Trip Itinerary
Take a journey through the heart of Missouri on this incredible road trip! Start your adventure in St. Louis, and make your way to Hannibal, a historic town on the banks of the Mississippi River. Explore Mark Twain's favorite childhood home and the many unique attractions this town has to offer. From there, make your way to Bethany, a small town with a big heart and plenty of outdoor activities. The next stop is Warsaw, where you'll find a number of historic sites and plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation. Continue your journey to Jefferson City, the state capital, where you can explore the old capitol building and learn more about the history of the state. Finally, end your journey in Poplar Bluff, a charming small town with plenty of outdoor activities and a vibrant downtown area.
This road trip covers a distance of about 1937 km and can be completed in 12 days. The best time to drive this route is in the summer when the weather is warm and the roads are in good condition. Be aware that some of the roads along this route are curvy and may require extra caution. With a moderate budget, this road trip is suitable for every driver and offers an unforgettable experience.
12
number of days
1,937 km
route length
fair
budget
family
good for
on the right
traffic direction
low
accident level
START
St. Louis
Distance 1,937 km
Driving time 24.5 h
Pace: fast
581.2 kWh
Airports
STL
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St. Louis, Missouri is a perfect starting point for the Missouri Road Trip. Located on the banks of the Mississippi, St. Louis is known for its world-famous Gateway Arch, the symbol of the city and the starting point for the city’s vibrant urban culture. St. Louis is also home to the iconic Anheuser-Busch Brewery, the City Museum, the Missouri Botanical Garden, and the St. Louis Zoo.
The closest international airport to St. Louis is Lambert-St. Louis International Airport (STL). Car rental services are available at the airport, and visitors can explore the city and its surroundings in their own time.
For a taste of the city’s history, visitors can take a walk along the cobblestone streets of the historic Soulard neighborhood, or take a stroll through the lush grounds of Forest Park. The City Museum, located in the former International Shoe Company building, is a must-see for its unique interactive and educational exhibits.
No visit to St. Louis is complete without a trip to the iconic Gateway Arch, the tallest man-made monument in the United States. The Arch is a symbol of St. Louis’s pioneering spirit and its role as the starting point of the Louisiana Purchase.
The Missouri Road Trip starts in St. Louis, where visitors can experience the city’s exciting urban culture and its rich history. From the iconic Gateway Arch to the historic Soulard neighborhood, St. Louis is a great place to start a journey.
1
St. Louis
- Hannibal
Distance 224 km
Driving time 2.9 h
Pace: fast
67.2 kWh
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Itinerary
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Are you ready for a great road trip from St. Louis, United States to Hannibal? This 139-mile journey will take you less than three hours and you will get to visit some of the most interesting places in the region.
Start off your journey in St. Louis and don’t forget to check out the iconic Gateway Arch and the Missouri Botanical Garden. After that, you can travel along the scenic roads and admire the beautiful views of the countryside.
On your way to Hannibal, you can visit the Mark Twain Cave Complex, a great place to learn about the history of the area. Then, you can explore the Mark Twain Boyhood Home & Museum and the Rockcliffe Mansion.
Finally, you will reach Hannibal, a charming town with plenty of attractions to see. Here, you can visit the Mark Twain Museum, the Mark Twain Cave and the Sawyer’s Creek Fun Park.
More information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, get ready to explore the Midwest and have an amazing road trip!
Hannibal - United States - North America - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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2
Hannibal
- Keokuk
Distance 111 km
Driving time 1.7 h
Pace: fast
33.2 kWh
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Start your road-trip in the small town of Hannibal, Missouri, located on the banks of the Mississippi River. This is the birthplace of Mark Twain and is home to many historical attractions, including the Boyhood Home of Mark Twain, the Mark Twain Cave Complex, and the Mark Twain Museum. From Hannibal, you'll drive 69 miles to Keokuk, Iowa, a journey that will take you just under two hours. Along the way, you'll pass through the rolling hills of the Mississippi River valley, and you'll have the opportunity to visit the towns of Palmyra and Montrose.
In Palmyra, you can visit the Palmyra Historical Museum and the Palmyra Aqueduct, a historic canal that was once used to transport goods and passengers along the river. Montrose is home to the Montrose Covered Bridge, the oldest covered bridge in Missouri.
Once you arrive in Keokuk, you can explore the town's many historical attractions, including the Old Fort Madison, the Chief Keokuk Statue, and the Grandview Park. You can also take a tour of the Lock and Dam 19, a historic site that was once used by steamboats to traverse the river.
This is just one stage of a larger tour, and more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the Itinerary of this stage. So, get ready for an adventure and start your road-trip in Hannibal!
Keokuk - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
Keokuk - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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3
Keokuk
- Bethany
Distance 252 km
Driving time 2.9 h
Pace: fast
75.5 kWh
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Are you ready for an amazing road trip from Keokuk to Bethany? This 156mi stage is a perfect opportunity to explore the Midwest of the United States. The journey will take you fewer than 3 hours, so you’ll have plenty of time to visit the most interesting places along the way.
In Keokuk, you can explore the amazing views of the Mississippi River and its dams. The city is full of interesting places, such as the Rand Park, the Geode State Park, and the Chief Keokuk Statue.
When you reach Bethany, you can visit the historical sites of the city. The Bethany Historic District is a great place to learn more about the history of the region. You can also visit the Bethany College, the oldest college in the region.
Don’t forget to check the “Itinerary” of this stage for more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route. Have a safe and exciting journey!
Bethany - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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4
Bethany
- Kansas City
Distance 226 km
Driving time 2.6 h
Pace: fast
67.9 kWh
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Are you ready for an exciting road trip from Bethany to Kansas City? This 141 miles journey will take you less than 3 hours and you will find many interesting places to visit along the way.
Start your road trip in Bethany, where you can explore the amazing history of the city. Visit the historical sites such as the Bethany Opera House and the Bethany Cemetery. Enjoy the beautiful views of the city and the surrounding countryside.
Continue your journey to Kansas City, where you will find plenty of attractions to explore. Visit the Kansas City Zoo, the National World War I Museum and Memorial, and the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. Enjoy the scenic views of the Missouri River and the city skyline.
Don't forget to check out the Itinerary for this stage of your road trip for more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route. Have a safe and enjoyable journey!
Kansas City - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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5
Kansas City
- Warsaw
Distance 179 km
Driving time 2.0 h
Pace: fast
53.8 kWh
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Are you ready for an amazing road trip from Kansas City, United States to Warsaw? This stage of your journey is 111mi and will take you fewer than 2 hours to drive.
Your first stop should be in Kansas City, where you can visit the iconic Union Station, the National WWI Museum and Memorial, and the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art.
Then, you can continue your journey to Warsaw. Here, you can visit the historical sites of the Little House on the Prairie, the Jesse James Bank Museum, and the Old Drum Statue.
For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the “Itinerary” of this stage.
So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and hit the road!
Warsaw - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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6
Warsaw
- Jefferson City
Distance 186 km
Driving time 2.8 h
Pace: fast
55.7 kWh
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Embark on a 115 mile road trip from Warsaw to Jefferson City that will take you less than 3 hours! Along the way, you will pass through some of the most beautiful and scenic roads in the Midwest. The winding roads offer breathtaking views and a chance to take in all the beauty of the countryside. Make sure to keep your eyes open for interesting sights and take in the fresh air!
Once you reach Jefferson City, you will find a plethora of attractions to explore. Take a stroll through the Capitol Building, visit the Missouri State Penitentiary, or take a relaxing walk along the Missouri River. There are plenty of great restaurants and shops to explore, and you can even find some unique souvenirs to take home.
This road trip is part of a larger tour, and more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. Start planning your trip today and enjoy the sights and sounds of Warsaw and Jefferson City!
Jefferson City - United States - North America - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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7
Jefferson City
- Poplar Bluff
Distance 359 km
Driving time 4.5 h
Pace: fast
107.8 kWh
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Are you ready to explore the American Midwest? Then join us on a road trip from Jefferson City to Poplar Bluff! This 223mi journey will take you less than 5 hours to complete, and you'll be rewarded with stunning views of the countryside. Along the route, you'll find plenty of winding roads, so make sure to keep your eyes peeled for any scenic spots. There are plenty of attractions to visit in Jefferson City and Poplar Bluff, so make sure to check out the local museums, parks, and monuments. Don't forget to stop at the local restaurants and cafes for some delicious food! For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, make sure to check out the Itinerary of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Let's hit the road!
Poplar Bluff - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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8
Poplar Bluff
- Cape Girardeau
Distance 134 km
Driving time 1.4 h
Pace: fast
40.1 kWh
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Are you ready for an unforgettable road trip experience? Starting in Poplar Bluff and ending in Cape Girardeau, this 83mi stage of your journey will take you less than two hours. The first stop is at the St. Francois State Park, where you can explore the beauty of the Missouri Ozarks and find many outdoor activities to enjoy.
The next stop is at the historic downtown of Poplar Bluff, where you can check out the local shops, galleries, and restaurants. Then, you can visit the Trail of Tears State Park, where you can learn about the tragic history of the Cherokee people.
The journey continues to Cape Girardeau, where you can visit the Apple Creek Conservation Area, the Cape Girardeau Conservation Area, and the Shawnee Park. Here, you can find many trails for hiking and biking, as well as picnic areas and a lake for fishing.
At the end of the stage, make sure to visit the iconic Cape Girardeau riverfront. Here, you can take a leisurely stroll along the Mississippi River and admire the views of the city skyline.
For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!
Cape Girardeau - United States - North America - Road Trip - www.flickr.com
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9
Cape Girardeau
- St. Louis
Distance 266 km
Driving time 3.7 h
Pace: fast
79.9 kWh
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Welcome to the road trip stage from Cape Girardeau to St. Louis. This is one of the most interesting stages of the tour and it will take you fewer than 4 hours to drive 165 miles.
Start your adventure in Cape Girardeau and visit the stunning Old St. Vincent's Church, an old Catholic church built in 1859. After that, you can take a stroll through the historic downtown area and enjoy the beautiful architecture of the buildings.
Afterwards, head to St. Louis and visit the iconic Gateway Arch, a national monument that stands 630 feet tall and is a symbol of the city. You can also visit the Missouri History Museum, which has a wide variety of exhibits, and the St. Louis Zoo, one of the oldest and best zoos in the country.
For a more relaxing experience, you can take a boat ride on the Mississippi River or take a stroll through Forest Park, one of the largest urban parks in the United States.
For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your trip!
St. Louis - United States - North America - Road Trip - Pixabay
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St. Louis
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The final destination of the Missouri Road Trip is St. Louis, a city full of exciting attractions and experiences. Located on the western bank of the Mississippi River, this vibrant city is home to the iconic Gateway Arch, the tallest man-made monument in the United States. Visitors can take a tram ride to the top of the Arch and enjoy a spectacular view of the city.
Sports fans can catch a game at Busch Stadium, home of the St. Louis Cardinals baseball team. Music lovers can enjoy a show at the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra or the Fox Theatre. Art enthusiasts will be delighted to visit the Saint Louis Art Museum, the Pulitzer Arts Foundation, and the City Museum.
The zoo and the Missouri Botanical Garden are perfect for a family day out. For those looking for a unique experience, visitors can take a ride in the Saint Louis Wheel, the tallest Ferris wheel in the United States.
St. Louis is also host to an array of restaurants, bars and nightlife spots. The city has a lively music scene, with many local venues showcasing blues, jazz, and rock.
The closest international airport to St. Louis is Lambert-St. Louis International Airport (STL), which is located just 12 miles northwest of the city. From there, travelers can rent a car and explore the city at their own pace.
The Missouri Road Trip ends in St. Louis, a city full of cultural attractions and entertainment. Whether you are looking for a unique experience or an exciting night out, St. Louis has something for everyone.
St. Louis - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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Missouri Road Trip at a glance
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Start:
St. Louis
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End:
St. Louis
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Distance:
1,937 km
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Stay:
12 days
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Getting there:
St Louis Lambert International Airport (STL)
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When to drive:
May, June, July, August, September, October
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More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Embark on an enchanting Road Trip through the heart of Missouri, starting from the bustling city of St. Louis and concluding in the serene town of Poplar Bluff.
Spanning approximately 1,937 kilometers (1,204 miles) over 12 days, this journey offers a tapestry of experiences, from delving into the legacy of famous American author Mark Twain to embracing the great outdoors.
Key Destinations and Noteworthy Sights:
- St. Louis: Known as the `Gateway to the West,` this city is home to the iconic Gateway Arch, a plethora of museums, such as the Saint Louis Art Museum and the Missouri History Museum, and rich cultural offerings, including blues music and delicious barbecue.
- Hannibal: Step into the pages of literature in Mark Twain's boyhood hometown, where you can visit the Mark Twain Boyhood Home & Museum, explore the Mark Twain Cave, and learn about life on the Mississippi River during the author's time.
- Bethany: A paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering lush trails for hiking, serene spots for fishing, and the promise of tranquility amidst nature.
- Warsaw: This charming town boasts a historic riverfront district where you can engage in outdoor recreation such as boating and fishing on the Osage River or Truman Lake, and explore nearby trails and wildlife areas.
- Jefferson City: Don't miss the opportunity to tour the impressive Missouri State Capitol, visit the Missouri State Museum, and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and stately architecture.
- Poplar Bluff: Experience the warmth of a vibrant downtown area, and embark on nature explorations in the surrounding Mark Twain National Forest and scenic Wappapello Lake.
Best Time to Go:
Summer is indeed the ideal season for this Road Trip, with long days and warm weather presenting the perfect backdrop for adventure and exploration. However, the fall season also offers stunning foliage and cooler temperatures, making September through November a great alternative for those looking to avoid the summer crowds.
Potential Risks:
Be vigilant when navigating Missouri's winding Roads, especially in the Ozark regions, and be mindful of weather-related challenges such as thunderstorms or intense heat. Summer travel may come with the inconvenience of crowded attractions and higher prices due to peak tourist season.
Fascinating Facts for Roadtrippers:
- Missouri is known as the `Show Me State,` a phrase that reflects its residents' straightforward approach to life.
- The state's rich musical heritage includes being a hotbed for the development of genres like ragtime, blues, and jazz.
- Missouri's diverse geography ranges from the Great Plains to the Ozark Mountains, offering a variety of landscapes to explore.
- Along the route, you might encounter unique local festivals and events, so keep an eye on community calendars.
A good choice for:
Combining the allure of historical discovery, the beauty of natural landscapes, and the vibrancy of cultural experiences, this Missouri Road Trip promises to be an enriching journey for travelers seeking a blend of education, relaxation, and adventure.
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