Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Charleston, Missouri and Mountain Grove, Missouri

Charleston and Mountain Grove are two cities located in Missouri that are two and a half hours away from each other. A road trip that connects these two cities is packed with beautiful scenery, historic sites, and delicious food. The halfway point of this route is Ellsinore, MO. This town is home to the Current River, which makes it the perfect place to stretch your legs and take a break from driving.

Explore the Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum in Hannibal

Hannibal, Missouri, is a city filled with the legacy of Mark Twain. Travelers can visit the Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum, which comprises eight buildings and exhibits related to the famous author. Visitors can explore the house where Mark Twain grew up and places that inspired him to write famous novels such as The Adventures of Tom Sawyer and The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn. In Hannibal, you can get a glimpse of how much of Mark Twain's work was inspired by his childhood.

Visit the Missouri Botanical Garden in St. Louis

The Missouri Botanical Garden is one of the oldest botanical gardens in the United States. The garden's 79 acres of beautiful scenery provide a relaxing and peaceful environment that is perfect for a picnic or a morning walk. The garden features a Japanese Garden, a Climatron, and a Victorian District that offers a glimpse of the past. If you are a nature lover, be sure to check out the Missouri Botanical Garden.

Walk in the footsteps of Jesse James at the Jesse James Home Museum

Jesse James is an infamous outlaw who has become part of American folklore. The Jesse James Home Museum in St. Joseph, Missouri, was once the home of the James family, and today it's a museum that showcases the life and times of Jesse James. Visitors can explore the house and learn about James' family life and the events that led to his outlaw status. The museum also displays weapons and artifacts associated with Jesse James and his gang. This museum is a must-visit for anyone that loves to learn about the Old West.

Get a taste of German culture at Hermann

Hermann is a charming town with a rich German heritage that is located in the heart of Missouri wine country. The town has several wineries and bed and breakfast inns that serve as a perfect getaway for a relaxing weekend. Hermann is best known for its Oktoberfest celebration where visitors can experience traditional German cuisine, beer, and wine. The city also has several historic buildings such as the town hall and the train depot that mark their rich heritage.

Visit the Gateway Arch in St. Louis

The Gateway Arch is an iconic structure that is a symbol of the United States' western expansion. The arch stands 630 feet tall and offers visitors an incredible view of the St. Louis skyline and the Mississippi River. Visitors can access the top of the arch by a tram that takes them to the observation deck. The Gateway Arch was completed in 1965 and has become a landmark attraction in St. Louis.

Overall, the road trip connecting Charleston, Missouri and Mountain Grove, Missouri is a must-see for anyone visiting Missouri State. This 307-mile drive offers travelers a chance to see Missouri's historic sites and stunning architecture while enjoying the great outdoors. It takes approximately five hours to complete the trip, but the journey is well worth it.