Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Carmi, IL to Assumption, IL
Driving from Carmi, Illinois to Assumption, Illinois is a journey that will take approximately three hours to complete. The route to Assumption will take a traveler south on Illinois Route 1 in Illinois' White County. They will then head west on Interstate 64 until they get to Salem, where they can take Route 37 south and Route 51 north to Assumption.
Halfway Point: Salem, IL
As we embark on our journey, Salem, IL serves as the perfect stop and halfway point. Salem is the county seat for Marion County. This historic small town has many things that can make a traveler's journey worthwhile. From the Salem Grade School where Abraham Lincoln gave his first political speech to the Salem Courthouse, where Lincoln was a trial lawyer in the early 1830s, Salem is full of history. There are parks, murals, and memorials that commemorate the city's rich past.
Let's take a look at some unexpected stops to make along the way:
Stop #1 – Karbers Ridge Road
Karbers Ridge Road is in the Shawnee National Forest, and it is one of the most scenic routes in southern Illinois. The winding roads will take you through the forest and hills with breathtaking views of the natural landscape. The Shawnee National Forest is a great place for anyone who wants to experience the beauty of nature.
Make sure to have lunch at O'Charley's, which is conveniently located off of Interstate 64 at exit 94. This restaurant features an all-American menu, with classic dishes such as burgers and fries.
Stop #2 – Sulphur Springs
Sulphur Springs is a small town in Crawford County, Illinois. It is named after the Sulphur Springs Hotel, which was built in the early 1800s. The hotel was famous for its healing waters. The town is located in an area surrounded by natural beauty and is an excellent spot for a picnic. The Sulphur Springs Park is also a popular spot for hikers.
Make sure to enjoy a southern-style meal at The Red Onion, which has a fantastic catfish and fried chicken.
Stop #3 – St. Elmo
St. Elmo, Illinois, is located in Fayette County. The town was named after St. Elmo, the patron saint of sailors. One of the biggest attractions in St. Elmo is the old railroad water tower. The water tower is one of the few remaining railroad towers in the country and is listed as a National Register of Historic Places.
Stop at El Rancherito Restaurant to grab a bite to eat – tacos, burritos, and fajitas are mouth-watering.
Stop #4 – Pana
Pana is a small town in Christian County, Illinois. The town is located in the heart of Illinois, and it is home to many fascinating landmarks. One of the most significant attractions in Pana is the Heritage Park. This park is home to many historic buildings and artifacts, including the old town jail and an old train depot.
Enjoy pork tenderloin sandwich with hand-cut fries at Regina's Pizza and Grill.
Stop #5 – Raymond
Raymond, Illinois, is a small village located in Montgomery County, Illinois. The town is known for its beautiful park, Veterans Memorial Park, which has many walking trails and a lake. Raymond is also home to several historic sites, including the James McIntire Log Cabin, which was built in the early 1800s.
When in Raymond, stop at the Wooden Nickel Pub and Grill for a hearty meal of burgers, sandwiches, and crispy, freshly fried onion rings.
Conclusion
The journey from Carmi, Illinois to Assumption, Illinois, is full of surprises. With natural beauty, rich history, and delicious food, the drive should be on everyone's bucket list. Each stop on the way has its unique charm, and exploration of these hidden jewels is an adventure worth experiencing. Therefore, pack up your things, fill up the tank, and hit the road to discover these five unexpected places.