Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Centralia, Illinois to Kirkwood, Missouri

Driving from Centralia, Illinois to Kirkwood, Missouri may seem like a mundane trip with nothing but open roads and cornfields to see. But what if we told you that there are five unexpected places to stop along the way? These locations offer unique experiences, great food, and plenty of photo opportunities to make your journey more exciting. This article will detail each of these spots and why they're worth the pit stop.

The route from Centralia, Illinois to Kirkwood, Missouri is approximately 120 miles and takes about two hours. The first half of the trip takes you through the heart of small-town Illinois before crossing the Mississippi River into Missouri. Along the way, you'll see open farmland, small towns, and plenty of roadside attractions to keep your trip interesting.

1. History and Art in Lebanon, IL

As you cross the midpoint of your trip, you'll reach Lebanon, IL- a small town with a big history. The downtown area features dozens of beautiful murals painted on historic brick buildings, telling the stories of the town's storied past. Be sure to take a stroll through the town and snap a few photos for Instagram.

When it comes to food, stop by Mermaid House for lunch. This historic restaurant features a variety of seafood dishes, including their speciality crab cake sandwich. After lunch, be sure to check out the Looking Glass Playhouse, which offers live theater performances throughout the year.

2. Hiking at Hawn State Park

If you're looking for some outdoor adventure, take a detour to Hawn State Park, just a short drive off of Route 67. This beautiful park features miles of hiking trails through the Ozark forest landscape. Hike to the top of Pickle Creek Canyon for a photo-worthy view of the valley.

After your hike, head over to Baylee Jo's BBQ for some of the best brisket in Missouri. The local eatery is a favorite amongst locals and travelers alike, and their signature barbecue sauce is a must-try.

3. Wine Tasting in Ste. Genevieve

Just over 30 miles from Kirkwood lays the charming town of Ste. Genevieve. Known for its beautiful 18th-century architecture, the town is also home to several wineries that offer tastings throughout the day. Stop by the Charleville Winery and Brewery for samples of their award-winning wines.

If you're looking for something to eat, head up the street to The Anvil Saloon. This historic restaurant was once a tavern for miners, and now serves up delicious comfort food dishes like burgers and fried chicken.

4. Visit the Super Museum in Metropolis

Comic book fans will rejoice at their opportunity to visit the Super Museum in Metropolis, IL. This quirky museum features over 20,000 superhero items, including original costumes, rare comics, and movie props. Pose for a photo with the statue of the Man of Steel before hitting the road again.

If you're hungry, stop by T'Zers Steak and Spirits nearby for a steak dinner that will leave you feeling satisfied. The menu features a variety of cuts, including a ribeye that is a perfect medium-rare every time.

5. Explore the Missouri Botanical Garden

For those with a green thumb, a visit to the Missouri Botanical Garden is a wonderful addition to any trip to Kirkwood. The garden spans over 79 acres and features thousands of plant species from all over the world. Catch a guided tour or explore the grounds on your own.

After a day of exploring, grab a bite at Sugarfire Smoke House for some classic southern barbecue. The menu offers a variety of dishes, including smoked brisket, pulled pork, and even vegetarian options.

Driving from Centralia, Illinois to Kirkwood, Missouri may seem like a long and tedious drive. However, with the addition of these five fun and unique stops, your road trip will feel like a true adventure. From the murals in Lebanon to the superhero memorabilia at the Super Museum, there is something for everyone along this route. So pack up your car, grab some friends, and hit the road- you won't regret it.