The Best Places to Visit on a Trip Between Carlyle, Illinois and Saint Louis, Missouri
On a road trip between Carlyle, Illinois and Saint Louis, Missouri, there are several places to visit that will enhance your journey and make it more enjoyable. Whether you're taking a short day trip or embarking on a longer adventure, these top five places are sure to add some excitement to your itinerary.
Exploring the Route and the Halfway Point, O'Fallon, IL
Carlyle, IL is a small town situated in Clinton County located approximately an hour away from St. Louis, MO. The town's claim to fame is its picturesque lake that attracts anglers and water enthusiasts from all over. On the other end of the trip, St. Louis is the second-largest city in Missouri known for its iconic Gateway Arch, zoo, museums, and other must-visit attractions. If you're looking for a stopover along the way, O'Fallon, IL is an excellent halfway point that offers plenty of opportunities for exploration.
Top Five Places to Visit on Your Trip
1. Scott Air Force Base
Discovering the history of Scott Air Force Base
Located in Illinois, this is one of the military's most significant and top-secret establishments in the country. The base is also a National Historic Landmark and a designated air mobility command hub for the U.S. military. Visit the Air Mobility Command Museum that houses aircraft, equipment, and other artifacts that reflect the significant influence of the Air Force on military history. Visitors can learn about the evolution of military aviation in the U.S. through a variety of exhibits, including early planes, jets, and cargo planes from the Cold War era.
###2. World's Largest Catsup Bottle
A quirky roadside attraction that's worth a visit
If you're driving through Collinsville, you won't miss this massive water tower that resembles a Heinz ketchup bottle. Initially built to supply water to the Brooks, but now an iconic attraction, the tower stands at over 70 feet tall and is a testament to the region's love for ketchup. Take pictures, get some souvenirs at the onsite store, and learn about its history and importance to the community.
###3. Missouri Botanical Garden
Catch a glimpse of over 7,000 plant species and historical gardens
This botanical garden is a must-visit attraction in St. Louis, MO. The garden's extensive collection boasts over 79 acres of indoor and outdoor garden areas. Here, visitors can explore different garden areas that represent various cultures, time periods, and natural habitats, including a popular Japanese Garden, Victorian garden, and tropical rainforest conservatory. The garden also hosts seasonal exhibitions and events that visitors can participate in, such as the Garden Glow Holiday lights event during the winter season.
###4. Lewis and Clark State Historic Site
Learn about the history of the Lewis and Clark Expedition
History buffs will love this place for its tale about two explorers, Meriweather Lewis and William Clark, who led an expedition to explore the western portion of America. The site is located in Hartford, IL, and features a Visitor Center that houses a museum and two replica boats that visitors can board and explore. Visitors can learn about the expedition, see the point of departure for the expedition, and explore the views of the nearby Mississippi River.
###5. The Gateway Arch
The most iconic landmark in St. Louis
No trip to St. Louis is complete without a stop at the Gateway Arch, the city's iconic landmark. Also known as the Gateway to the West, the arch stands at 630 feet tall and offers sweeping views of the city from the top. Visitors can explore the on-site museum and visitor center, which extensively covers the history of the Gateway Arch's construction and design, or take a tram ride to the top for an unforgettable view of the city.
##Final Thoughts
These five places are a great way to fill your road trip itinerary, especially for those who enjoy history, culture, and outdoor exploration. When planning your route, make sure to include these top stops for an unforgettable trip.