A Memorable Road Trip: Top Five Popular Attractions Between Carmel, Indiana and St. Louis, Missouri

Are you looking for a road trip that combines nature, history, and entertainment? Look no further! This article will guide you through a perfect itinerary from Carmel, Indiana to St. Louis, Missouri. Buckle up and let's start this exciting journey!

Halfway Point In Casey, IL

After driving for almost 3 hours and covering 164 miles, we arrived at our halfway point - Casey, IL. This charming town is famous for its oversized structures that attract visitors from all over the world. From the world's largest mailbox, rocking chair, and wind chimes to the giant pencil, you'll be amazed by the creativity of these oversized creations. Take some fun photos and enjoy a cup of coffee or ice cream at one of the cozy cafes or restaurants.

Top Five Places to See List

1. Turkey Run State Park

Nature lovers, gear up for an unforgettable experience at Turkey Run State Park. Located in Marshall, Indiana, this park is known for its rugged canyons and sandstone cliffs that ensure jaw-dropping views at every turn. The park offers numerous hiking trails, camping grounds, and picnic areas. We recommend hiking the scenic trails while exploring the spectacular rock formations, waterfalls, and rivers. Make sure to bring comfortable shoes and a camera to capture the breathtaking views.

2. Gateway Arch National Park

As we approached St. Louis, the iconic Gateway Arch welcomed us with its impressive size. The Gateway Arch National Park is a must-visit destination that should be at the top of your list. Take a tram ride to the top of the arch to catch a bird's eye view of the city or take a riverboat cruise along the mighty Mississippi River. Plan to spend a whole day, surrounded by history, enjoying the live music and dance performances, taking the history tour of the Dred Scott case, or checking out the museum exhibits.

3. Indianapolis Zoo

If you are traveling with kids, the Indianapolis Zoo is a perfect place to visit. This popular attraction is home to over 1,000 animals and contains one of the largest dolphin habitats in the world. The zoo offers a variety of exhibits such as Deserts, Plains, and Oceans, and many more. Don't miss the chance to hand-feed a giraffe, ride a camel, or take a train ride around the zoo. We recommend checking their website to book tickets and plan your visit in advance.

4. Mammoth Cave National Park

Take a break from the heat and visit Mammoth Cave National Park, located in Cave City, Kentucky. The park is known for its vast underground cave system, one of the largest in the world. Visitors can choose from a variety of tours, from easy to difficult, to explore the different areas of the caves. Along with the limestone caves, there are also riverboat tours and hiking trails where you can observe the natural beauty of the surrounding area. This national park is a perfect spot to learn more about geological formations whilst enjoying the cool air.

5. The Magic House

Our final stop on this road trip is The Magic House, located in Kirkwood, Missouri. This St. Louis-based attraction is perfect for families with young children. The Magic House is filled with hands-on exhibits designed to explore art, science, and technology. Your kids can learn how to operate a real airplane or build a rocket and launch it. With over 60 exhibits, you won't be bored. We recommend checking opening hours and booking tickets online before your visit.

Conclusion

We covered 500 miles and made some unforgettable memories during this trip. The best route to take is I-70, which leads you to all these fantastic attractions. We suggest taking your time, having a relaxing journey while enjoying the scenery that Indiana, Illinois, Kentucky, and Missouri have to offer. Don't forget to stop at some of the charming small towns and try the local cuisine. The Top Five Places to See in Indiana, Illinois, Kentucky, and Missouri will make you feel like you have traveled around the world. Happy exploring!