Top Five Popular Attractions on a Road Trip from Bronte, TX to Springfield, MO
Are you planning a road trip from Bronte, Texas to Springfield, Missouri? If so, you’re in for a treat! This picturesque route is dotted with beautiful scenery, vibrant towns, and historical landmarks. Below, we’ve compiled a list of the top five popular attractions you won’t want to miss.
Halfway Point: Tuttle, OK
Before we dive into the top attractions, it’s worth mentioning a great option for a mid-trip stopover: Tuttle, Oklahoma. As the halfway point between Bronte and Springfield, Tuttle is a charming small town with plenty to see and do. Check out the Tuttle Heritage Museum, which provides a fascinating glimpse into the town’s history, or hit up local boutiques and antique stores on Main Street. Tuttle is also home to a number of delicious local restaurants, including the popular Othello’s Italian Restaurant and Mama Carol’s Kitchen, which serves up Southern comfort food.
Top Five Places to See List
1. The Gateway Arch, St. Louis, MO
The Gateway Arch is an iconic symbol of St. Louis, standing at a staggering 630 feet tall. Visitors can ride the tram to the top for unbeatable views of the city and the Mississippi River. The Arch also offers plenty of educational exhibits on the history of the westward expansion and the Lewis and Clark expedition. Don’t miss this breathtaking site on your trip!
2. Mammoth Springs State Park, AR
Mammoth Springs State Park is a must-see for nature enthusiasts. This beautiful park is home to an immense natural spring – one of the largest in the world – which pours out over nine million gallons of water each day. Visitors can take a scenic walk along the boardwalk to bask in the beauty of the spring, take a guided tour of the park, or try their hand at fishing in the nearby river.
3. Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum, Hannibal, MO
Literary buffs won’t want to miss the Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum in Hannibal, Missouri. This beautiful museum features seven historic buildings, including the home where Mark Twain grew up. Visitors can explore the exhibits showcasing Twain’s life and work, as well as wander through the charming mid-nineteenth-century town.
4. Oklahoma City National Memorial and Museum, OK
The Oklahoma City National Memorial and Museum is a poignant site that pays tribute to those who lost their lives in the Oklahoma City bombing in 1995. The museum offers exhibits detailing the events of that day, while a stunning outdoor memorial offers a peaceful space for reflection and remembrance. This is a moving and meaningful stop on your journey.
5. World’s Largest Rocking Chair, Fanning, MO
For a lighthearted detour and memorable photo op, stop by Fanning, Missouri, to see the World’s Largest Rocking Chair. Standing at a whopping 42 feet tall, this rocking chair is a fun and quirky attraction that’s sure to amuse both kids and adults alike.
Best Route for Your Road Trip
Now that you’ve got your itinerary of exciting stops planned out, it’s time to map out the best route for your road trip. We recommend taking I-44 East through Oklahoma, which will take you through Tuttle and offer beautiful views of the Ozarks. Once in Missouri, you’ll take I-44 East and I-55 North to St. Louis, hitting the Gateway Arch and other attractions on your way. From there, continue on I-55 North to Hannibal, before turning onto US-61 North to see the beauty of Mammoth Springs State Park. Afterward, head back down I-55 South through Missouri to see the Oklahoma City National Memorial and the World’s Largest Rocking Chair in Fanning.
Enjoy your journey, and be sure to take plenty of pictures along the way!