Best Things to Do on a Road Trip from Burke, South Dakota and Gainesville, Georgia
Burke, South Dakota, and Gainesville, Georgia are separated by over a thousand miles of road. The journey from one point to the other can take as much as 17 hours of driving. In between, however, lies a world of adventure, discovery, and downright fun. Travelers are in for a treat as they embark on an unforgettable road trip that leads them through a collection of breathtaking landscapes, most exceptional cultural experiences, and historic landmarks. The halfway point in Wentzville, MO, boasts a wealth of attractions for visitors looking to unwind and break the monotony of a long drive.
Top Five Things to Do
St. Louis Gateway Arch
The St. Louis Gateway Arch is a modern engineering marvel sitting along the banks of the Mississippi River. It is a monument to America's westward expansion and offers visitors an exhilarating view of St. Louis. At 630 feet tall, the arch is the tallest man-made monument in the United States. The elevator ride to the top of the arch provides a picturesque 30-mile view of the Mississippi River Valley. Visitors can also enjoy a complimentary thirty-minute documentary at the Gateway Arch Museum.
Interesting fact: The Gateway Arch cost approximately $13 million to construct and was completed in 1965.
The Gateway Arch National Park
After taking in the grandeur of the Gateway Arch, visitors can stroll through the Gateway Arch National Park. The park offers various trails to explore, including the 1.5-mile Riverfront Trail, which winds along the banks of the Mississippi River. Visitors can also tour the Old Courthouse, which has been fully restored and serves as an informative museum of the American frontier during the 19th century.
Interesting fact: The Gateway Arch National Park covers an area of 91 acres.
Nashville
Nashville is an excellent stopover for country music enthusiasts looking to explore the music scene. The city offers visitors an impressive range of attractions, including the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, Ryman Auditorium, and the Johnny Cash Museum. Visitors can also enjoy a night out at the famous honky-tonk bars in Lower Broadway.
Interesting fact: Nashville is home to the famous Grand Ole Opry, which has been a platform for country music artists for over ninety years.
Smoky Mountains National Park
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The park encompasses over 520,000 acres of forested mountains and valleys, with over 800 miles of maintained hiking trails. Visitors can also enjoy scenic drives along paved roads, camping at one of the many campsites, and fishing at one of its many streams.
Interesting fact: The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is home to over 1,600 black bears.
Charleston
Charleston is a historic city that is worth a stopover for visitors looking to explore America's past. The city's charming cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and traditional southern cuisine make it a popular tourist destination. Visitors can tour the Old Charleston City Market, the historic Boone Hall Plantation, and the South Carolina Aquarium.
Interesting fact: Charleston was founded in 1670, making it one of America's oldest cities.
Conclusion
The road trip from Burke, South Dakota, to Gainesville, Georgia, is a truly memorable experience. With a total drive time of seventeen hours, the journey provides travelers with ample time to explore some of the most intriguing attractions in the country. The highlights of the trip include visiting the St. Louis Gateway Arch, exploring the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and immersing oneself in the rich cultural history of Charleston. The road trip promises to be an excellent opportunity to take in some of America's most scenic vistas and create unforgettable memories.