#Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Chatham, Illinois and St. Louis, Missouri
Driving a car is not just about reaching your destination. The journey can be just as enjoyable, especially if the route is scenic, and there are interesting places to visit along the way. Today, we'll take a look at five unexpected places to stop when driving from Chatham, Illinois, to St. Louis, Missouri. Our chosen route takes us through Interstate 55 South, and without stopping, it would take around two hours to get from Chatham to St. Louis. However, with these five fascinating locations, you'll be glad to take your time, relax, and enjoy the journey.
##Halfway Point: Livingston, IL
Before we dive into the main attractions, make sure you stop at Livingston, IL, which is the exact midpoint of Chatham and St. Louis. This small town may not seem like much, but it's the perfect spot to stretch your legs, refuel, and take some snaps of the local attractions. The real reason to stop in Livingston is that it's home to quite possibly the last Drive-In Theater in the state, the Skyview Drive-In. During the summer months, the Skyview puts on a variety of double features on weekends. Grab some popcorn, sit back, and enjoy the show under the stars.
- Horseshoe Lake State Park, IL
Just 12 miles from Livingston, you'll find the 2,960-acre Horseshoe Lake State Park. This location is the largest natural lake in Illinois and offers fantastic outdoor activities, including fishing, boating, hiking, and birdwatching. The park is home to over 240 bird species, and you're likely to spot some Bald Eagles in the trees or by the water. If you go in the summer, make sure you hit the beach for a swim. After a day of activities, you must stop at Southern Star Grill, three miles away and taste some of the best fried catfish you'll ever eat.
- The Giant City Lodge, Carbondale, IL
An hour's drive south of Horseshoe Lake State Park will bring you to our next stop, the Giant City Lodge. Located within the Shawnee National Forest, the Lodge dates back to the 1930s and boasts a rustic, wooded setting. The main draw of the Lodge is the fantastic hiking trails that traverse unique rock formations and cliffs, as well as waterfalls that are stunning during Spring and early Summer. Head to the Lodge's famous restaurant for some deep-fried biscuits and gravy, which are a local favorite.
- The World's Largest Catsup Bottle, Collinsville, IL
After leaving the Lodge, drive 70 minutes North along I55 to Collinsville, where you will find a peculiar sight - the World's Largest Catsup Bottle. A towering water tower that adorns the former Brooks Catsup factory, this quirky landmark is something of a cultural icon for residents of Collinsville and travelers alike. While you can't climb the tower, the Brooks Catsup Factory is now being developed into a mixed-use space, featuring tours, events, and a restaurant. You can't leave Collinsville without stopping at Charlie's Drive-In and try their famous chili dogs.
- The Gateway Arch, St. Louis, MO
After leaving Collinsville, it's a 10-minute drive to our final destination, St. Louis, Missouri. No trip to St. Louis is complete without visiting the Gateway Arch, the city's defining symbol. The stainless-steel arch stands 630 feet tall and is the tallest monument in the Western Hemisphere. Ride the tram to the top for stunning panoramic views of the city and the Mississippi River. Once you're back on the ground, grab a bite at Sugarfire Smokehouse, which offers some lip-smacking barbecue ribs that will leave you satiated.
This road trip is a perfect blend of spectacular natural beauty and quirky roadside attractions. From catfish to colossal catsup, it’s a unique itinerary of sightseeing, cuisine, and memories that will last you a lifetime. A trip across Chatham, Illinois, to St. Louis, Missouri is more than a four-hour drive; it's a fantastic experience that you must check off your list. But don't just take our word for it, set your itinerary, buckle up, and hit the road, there is no time like the present to embark on a delightful adventure!