Museums, Parks and Landmarks to Visit on a Roadtrip from Carrollton, Illinois to Atlanta, Georgia
Are you planning a road trip from Carrollton, IL all the way down to Atlanta, GA? This journey is definitely worth taking, as it’s filled with beautiful scenery, exciting landmarks, and incredible history!
One interesting fact about this road trip is that you will travel through six states - Illinois, Missouri, Kentucky, Tennessee, Alabama, and Georgia - before you reach your final destination in Atlanta.
If you’re looking for a halfway point to rest or grab a bite to eat, make sure to check out Clarksville, TN. This charming historic city offers plenty of attractions, including the Roxy Regional Theatre, the Customs House Museum and Cultural Center, and the Dunbar Cave State Park.
The total distance from Carrollton to Atlanta is approximately 645 miles, which can take up to 11 hours if you’re driving straight through. However, we recommend taking your time and making stops along the way to enjoy the best of each state.
Here are the top five places you should visit on your road trip from Carrollton to Atlanta, plus a point of interest recommendation for each stop:
- Gateway Arch, St. Louis, MO The Gateway Arch is one of the most iconic landmarks in Missouri and a must-see destination on your road trip. This stunning arch is 630 feet tall, making it the tallest man-made monument in the United States. Visitors can take a tram up to the top to enjoy sweeping views of the city. Don’t forget to check out the Museum of Westward Expansion located underneath the arch.
Point of interest recommendation: Make sure to check out the Old Courthouse in downtown St. Louis, where the famous Dred Scott case was heard. The courthouse now houses a museum that explores the history of the trial and its impact on the nation.
- Mammoth Cave National Park, Mammoth Cave, KY Mammoth Cave National Park is home to the longest cave system in the world, stretching for over 400 miles! Visitors can take tours of the cave, explore the underground river, and hike through the park’s beautiful forests. This is a truly unique destination that should not be missed on your road trip.
Point of interest recommendation: Check out the nearby Corvette Museum in Bowling Green, KY, where you can see over 80 models of the famous sports car and learn about Corvette history.
- Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, Nashville, TN If you love country music, then the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum in Nashville is a must-visit destination. This museum features exhibits on the history of country music, including displays on famous artists, instruments, and songwriters. Don’t miss the opportunity to stroll through the historic RCA Studio B, where countless hits were recorded.
Point of interest recommendation: Take a stroll down Music Row to see the historic recording studios and offices of the biggest names in country music.
- Civil Rights Memorial, Montgomery, AL The Civil Rights Memorial is located in front of the Southern Poverty Law Center in Montgomery and is a powerful tribute to those who fought for civil rights in the 1950s and 1960s. The memorial features a circular black granite table that lists the names of individuals who died during the struggle for equal rights. It’s a moving and important destination that highlights our nation’s complex history.
Point of interest recommendation: Visit the Rosa Parks Museum and Library in downtown Montgomery, which showcases her contribution to the civil rights movement.
- Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site, Atlanta, GA The Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site is located in the heart of Atlanta and is dedicated to preserving the legacy of the civil rights leader. The site includes MLK Jr.’s birth home, the Ebenezer Baptist Church where he preached, and the King Center, which features exhibits on his life and work.
Point of interest recommendation: Make sure to visit the nearby Center for Civil and Human Rights, which explores the broader history of human rights and includes exhibits on Nelson Mandela, Gandhi, and other global leaders.
In conclusion, the road trip from Carrollton, IL to Atlanta, GA is filled with incredible history, stunning landmarks, and beautiful scenery. By taking your time and making stops along the way, you’ll be sure to make lifelong memories. Safe travels!