Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Carthage, Illinois to Bellevue, Illinois

Carthage, IL - Are you planning a road trip from Carthage, IL to Bellevue, IL? Well, you are in for a treat. This stretch of road is filled with charming small towns, beautiful countryside scenery, and interesting sights. The journey takes about 3 hours and covers a little over 160 miles. One of the highlights of the trip is the halfway point, Avon, IL, a sleepy little town with a population of just over 800 people.

Top 5 Things to Do:

1. Starved Rock State Park

Located about an hour and a half from Carthage, IL, Starved Rock State Park is a must-see attraction. The park features 13 miles of scenic trails, 18 canyons, and breathtaking waterfalls. Visitors can go hiking, picnicking, fishing, camping, and even bird watching. The park is also home to numerous species of wildlife, including bald eagles, river otters, and white-tailed deer.

Interesting Fact: Starved Rock State Park was named after a legend involving a group of Native Americans who were trapped on top of the rock by a rival tribe.

2. John Deere Pavilion

For all the agriculture enthusiasts out there, the John Deere Pavilion is a must-visit destination. Located in Moline, IL, the museum showcases the history of John Deere and its impact on the agriculture industry. Visitors can see interactive exhibits, vintage tractors, and even a giant combine harvester. Admission to the museum is free, and it is open every day of the week.

Interesting Fact: John Deere invented the first steel plow in 1837, revolutionizing the agricultural industry.

3. Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site

Located in Collinsville, IL, Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site is an important archaeological site in the region. The site was once the center of the Cahokia culture, which flourished from about 900 AD to 1350 AD. Visitors can see the remains of the ancient city, including earthen mounds and a reconstructed village. The site is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Interesting Fact: Cahokia was once the largest city in North America, with a population estimated at 20,000 to 30,000 people.

4. World's Largest Catsup Bottle

Yes, you read that right. Collinsville, IL is home to the World's Largest Catsup Bottle. The quirky roadside attraction is a water tower that is shaped like a giant ketchup bottle. The tower stands 170 feet tall and was originally built in 1949. The attraction is free to visit, and visitors can even take a tour of the interior during select hours.

Interesting Fact: The World's Largest Catsup Bottle was almost torn down in the 1990s but was saved by a group of concerned local citizens.

5. Bellevue State Park

Located in Bellevue, IL, Bellevue State Park is a beautiful spot for hiking, camping, and fishing. The park covers over 300 acres and includes a lake, wooded areas, and scenic bluffs. Visitors can also take a guided tour of the historic Bellevue Lodge, which was built in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps.

Interesting Fact: Bellevue State Park was once home to a sawmill, gristmill, and paper mill in the mid-19th century.

Conclusion

Overall, the road trip from Carthage, IL to Bellevue, IL is filled with interesting sights and attractions. From the natural beauty of Starved Rock State Park to the quirky World's Largest Catsup Bottle, there is something for everyone to enjoy. The journey takes approximately 3 hours, but visitors should plan to spend some extra time exploring the towns and attractions along the way. So pack up the car and hit the road for a memorable adventure through the heart of Illinois.