Best Places to Visit on a Road Trip from Carrollton, Texas to New Lenox, Illinois
Are you ready for an exciting road trip? Get your car ready and buckle up for a journey from Carrollton, Texas to New Lenox, Illinois. The route is filled with scenic drives, historical landmarks, and fun pit stops for families, friends, and solo travelers alike.
The Halfway Point: Conway, MO
As you embark on this journey, the halfway point is an important landmark to look forward to. Conway, MO is a small town located in Laclede County. The town is known for its historical background that dates back to the Civil War. Visitors can take a stroll down the streets and witness the well-preserved historic buildings including churches, schools, and homes. One of the must-visit places includes the Conway Historical Museum, which showcases the town’s fascinating history.
Now that we have covered the halfway point, here are the top five best places to visit from Carrollton to New Lenox.
1. Magnolia Market at the Silos – Waco, TX
Let’s start our journey with a fun stop in Waco, TX. Magnolia Market at the Silos is a great place to shop, dine, and explore. The market is a popular tourist destination and is owned by Chip and Joanna Gaines, HGTV’s Fixer-Upper hosts. The market sells home décor, clothing, gifts, jewelry, and more. Visitors can enjoy food trucks, lawn games, and live music. The Silos Baking Co. is another popular stop for sweet treats including cupcakes, cookies, and cinnamon rolls.
2. Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum – Oklahoma City, OK
The Oklahoma City National Memorial and Museum is a powerful and emotional place to visit. It is located in the city’s downtown area and was built to honor the victims of the 1995 bombing of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building. The museum showcases the history of the event and shares the stories of survivors and those lost. Visitors can take a guided tour, watch a documentary, and see the Field of Empty Chairs, which represents each person who lost their life in the bombing.
3. The Gateway Arch – St. Louis, MO
Located in St. Louis, MO, the Gateway Arch is a must-visit attraction on your road trip. It is a 630-foot monument that represents the role St. Louis played as a “Gateway to the West” during the expansion of the United States. Visitors can take a tram ride to the top of the arch for panoramic views of the city and Mississippi River. The park surrounding the arch is also a great place to take a walk, enjoy a picnic, and soak up the history.
4. Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum – Springfield, IL
The Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum is a fascinating place to visit, especially for history buffs. Located in Springfield, IL, it is one of the most visited presidential libraries in the country. The museum features exhibits that showcase Abraham Lincoln’s life, legacy, and impact on the nation. Visitors can see original artifacts, interactive displays, and take a guided tour to learn more about the 16th president of the United States.
5. Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie – Wilmington, IL
Our final stop on this road trip is a beautiful and serene natural destination located in Wilmington, IL. The Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie is a restored prairie that spans over 19,000 acres. Visitors can hike, bike, and explore the trails that wind through the prairie. There are also ranger-led programs and events that offer educational experiences, including a Junior Ranger Program for kids.
In conclusion, this road trip from Carrollton, Texas to New Lenox, Illinois is filled with exciting and educational experiences for travelers of all ages. From shopping at Magnolia Market to honoring the victims of the Oklahoma City bombing, visitors will leave with memories that will last a lifetime. So pack your bags, hit the road, and enjoy the journey!