Points of Interest between Bryan, Texas to Joliet, Illinois

picture of Bryan, Texas

Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Bryan, Texas and Joliet, Illinois

Planning a road trip can be a daunting task, especially when you want to cover a long distance like the one from Bryan, Texas to Joliet, Illinois. While there are many routes you can take, some offer more interesting sights and experiences than others. This article explores the best things to do on a road trip along this route, with a special mention of Newport, AR, the halfway point.

The Route Overview

The journey from Bryan, Texas to Joliet, Illinois covers over 1000 miles and takes around 16 hours of driving time. However, this can vary depending on the route you take, traffic, and weather conditions. That said, the journey offers an exciting mix of urban and rural environments, with plenty of opportunities to explore new places. Some of the highlights include:

  • Dallas, TX: a bustling metropolitan center known for its food, culture and sports
  • Little Rock, AR: a historic city with museums, parks, and a booming nightlife
  • Newport, AR: the halfway point of the journey, located in the Ozark Mountains, with stunning natural scenery and attractions like Jacksonport State Park and the White River National Wildlife Refuge
  • St. Louis, MO: the "Gateway to the West" with the famous Gateway Arch, the Anheuser-Busch brewery and Busch Stadium
  • Springfield, IL: the state capital, with museums, historical landmarks, and the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum

The Top Five Things to Do

1. Visit the Sixth Floor Museum in Dallas, TX

Located in the historic Dealey Plaza, the Sixth Floor Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in the history of the JFK assassination. The museum is located in the former Texas School Book Depository, where Lee Harvey Oswald fired the shots that killed President Kennedy. The exhibits provide a comprehensive overview of the events leading up to and following the assassination, including conspiracy theories and the impact on American society. Interesting fact: The museum has over 400 oral histories, including interviews with witnesses, reporters, and investigators.

2. Walk the River Market district in Little Rock, AR

The River Market district is a vibrant neighborhood in Little Rock, with shops, restaurants, bars, and art galleries. You can take a stroll along the Arkansas River, visit the Clinton Presidential Center, or catch a concert at the amphitheater. The area is known for its street food, particularly the tamales and barbecue. Interesting fact: The River Market district is home to the oldest continuously operating grocery store west of the Mississippi, the Ottenheimer Market Hall.

3. Explore Jacksonport State Park in Newport, AR

Located on the White River, Jacksonport State Park is a serene oasis in the heart of the Ozark Mountains. The park offers hiking trails, bird watching, fishing, and camping facilities. You can also visit the Jacksonport Courthouse State Historic Site, which showcases the history of the area during the Civil War and Reconstruction. Interesting fact: The park is named after the town of Jacksonport, which was the county seat of Jackson County from 1854 to 1892.

4. Ride to the top of the Gateway Arch in St. Louis, MO

The Gateway Arch is one of the most iconic structures in the United States, and a must-see when in St. Louis. You can take a tram ride to the top of the arch, which offers stunning views of the city and the Mississippi River. The park surrounding the arch has plenty of green spaces, sculptures, and museums to explore. Interesting fact: The Gateway Arch is the tallest monument in the Western Hemisphere, standing at 630 feet.

5. Tour the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum in Springfield, IL

The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum is a state-of-the-art facility dedicated to the life and legacy of America's 16th president. The museum has a vast collection of artifacts, documents, and exhibits related to Lincoln and the Civil War era. You can see the original copy of the Emancipation Proclamation, sit in a reproduction of Lincoln's White House office, and explore the museum's interactive exhibits. Interesting fact: The museum has a section dedicated to the history of First Ladies, including Mary Todd Lincoln and Michelle Obama.

Conclusion

The road trip from Bryan, Texas to Joliet, Illinois offers a mix of urban and rural experiences, with plenty of attractions worth exploring. From the bustling streets of Dallas to the serene beauty of the Ozark Mountains, there's something for everyone on this route. Whether you're interested in history, art, food, or nature, you'll find plenty of options to satisfy your curiosity. The journey can take around 16 hours, but with so many sights to see, it's worth taking the time to explore the route fully.