Top Five Best Places to Visit on a Trip Between Burlington, Iowa and Ballwin, Missouri
Are you in the midst of planning a road trip between Iowa and Missouri? If so, you're in for a treat! Along the way, there are plenty of exciting destinations to explore. From historical landmarks to scenic views, here are the top five best places to visit on your journey.
Halfway Point - Hannibal, MO
Located right in the center of your trip, Hannibal, MO is the perfect spot to take a break and explore. As the hometown of Mark Twain, the city is filled with references to his classic books, like Becky Thatcher's home, which is now a museum. You can also visit the Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum to learn more about the author's life and works. For a unique adventure, take a riverboat cruise down the Mississippi River where you can enjoy the scenic views and even spot a few bald eagles.
1. Snake Alley in Burlington, IA
Dubbed the “Crookedest Street in the World,” Snake Alley is worth a visit as one of Burlington's unique engineering feats. The street is made up of five half-curves and two quarter-curves, all situated on a steep hill. The brick-paved road turned 125 years old in 2021, so celebrations were in-store featuring live music, food trucks, and bus tours. Visitors can enjoy the view while walking down or go on a bike ride.
2. Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum in Hannibal, MO
In the Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum, guests can get an up-close look at the life and times of Hannibal's most famous resident. The museum features interactive exhibits that bring to life Mark Twain’s books including Tom Sawyer and The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn. Additionally, you may be surprised to know that the museum’s location is right next door to the Becky Thatcher house and boasts beautiful gardens and an old-fashioned bookstore.
3. La Grange, MO
La Grange is a small town that's worth taking a detour to visit. The town was founded in 1838 and was once a vital port on the Mississippi River. If you’re in the mood to take a walk through history, visit the La Grange Historic District, which is on the National Register of Historic Places. The architecture is beautiful and visitors can learn about the area's past, including the Civil War.
4. Katy Trail State Park in Columbia, MO
The Katy Trail State Park is a must-visit for anyone who loves to explore the outdoors. Covering a distance of 240 miles, the bike trail is known for its scenic views, providing bike riders, hikers, and joggers with the chance to take in the beautiful Missouri landscape. Additional activities include camping, horseback riding, and fishing spots along the Missouri River.
5. Gateway Arch in St. Louis, MO
One cannot come to Missouri without visiting the iconic Gateway Arch monument in St. Louis. One of the world's tallest arches, this monument stands 630 feet tall and is a symbol of the Gateway City. Take a cruise down the Mississippi River, visit the nearby Anheuser-Busch Brewery or visit the site's underground museum and learn about the Lewis and Clark expedition.
In conclusion, a trip between Burlington and Ballwin can be filled with amazing experiences. From historic landmarks to outdoor adventures, there's something for everyone to enjoy. So, hit the road and embark on a journey to discover new places!