Points of Interest between Carbondale, Illinois to Tulsa, Oklahoma

picture of Carbondale, Illinois

Top Five Popular Attractions to See Between Carbondale, Illinois and Tulsa, Oklahoma

Are you embarking on a road trip from Carbondale, Illinois to Tulsa, Oklahoma? Then you're in luck! This route is packed with amazing attractions that are worth a visit. From quirky roadside stops to historic landmarks, there's something for everyone. In this list, we've compiled the top five popular attractions that you simply can't miss on this journey. So pack your bags, fuel up your car, and let's hit the road!

The Halfway Point: Kirbyville, MO

Before we dive into the top five attractions, let's highlight the halfway point of this trip – Kirbyville, MO. This charming town is the perfect spot to take a break from the road and stretch your legs. The town is home to plenty of restaurants, cafes, and shops. There's also a historic walking tour that takes visitors through the town's rich history, including its involvement in the Civil War. And if you're a nature lover, be sure to check out the nearby Table Rock Lake for some outdoor fun.

Top Five Places to See List

  1. Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site – This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a must-visit for history buffs. The site features the remains of an ancient Native American city, which was once the largest in North America. Visitors can explore the mounds, which were used for religious and political purposes, and learn about the culture and history of the Mississippian people who inhabited the area.

  2. World's Largest Catsup Bottle – Yes, you've read that right! This quirky roadside attraction in Collinsville, IL features a 70-foot tall ketchup bottle that was once used to promote the Brooks catsup brand. Visitors can take photos with the bottle and learn about its history. And if you're a fan of ketchup, be sure to grab a souvenir bottle from the gift shop.

  3. Chain of Rocks Bridge – This historic bridge, located in Madison County, IL, spans across the Mississippi River and offers stunning views of the surrounding area. The unique feature of this bridge is that it has a 22-degree turn in the middle, which was used to slow down traffic and prevent accidents. Visitors can walk or bike across the bridge and take in the beautiful scenery.

  4. National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum – Located in Oklahoma City, OK, this museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in cowboy culture and history. The museum features exhibits on cowboys, Native Americans, western art, and even a replica of a western town. Visitors can also check out the museum's impressive collection of firearms and cowboy gear.

  5. Blue Whale of Catoosa – This roadside attraction in Catoosa, OK is a fun and quirky stop that's perfect for the whole family. The Blue Whale is a 80-foot long sculpture of a blue whale that was once used as a swimming hole. Visitors can walk around the whale, climb up to its tail, and even take a dip in the adjacent pond. The site also has picnic areas and a gift shop.

Best Route for this Trip

In conclusion, this road trip from Carbondale, Illinois to Tulsa, Oklahoma is packed with amazing attractions that are worth a visit. From the historic Cahokia Mounds to the quirky Blue Whale of Catoosa, there's something for everyone. If you want to make the most of your trip, we recommend taking I-55 South and I-44 West, which will take you through some of the prettiest scenery in the Midwest. So go ahead, grab your map and hit the road – the adventure of a lifetime awaits!