Road-Tripping from Chenoa, Illinois to St. Joseph, Missouri: Museums, Parks and Landmarks to Visit
If you're looking for a road trip that offers a taste of the Midwest's rich cultural history and stunning natural scenery, look no further than the drive from Chenoa, Illinois to St. Joseph, Missouri. This route takes approximately four and a half hours to cover, so it's perfect for a weekend getaway or a week-long adventure.
Interesting Fact: The drive from Chenoa to St. Joseph is part of the original 1926 US Route 66, a legendary highway that spans 2451 miles from Chicago to Santa Monica.
Halfway Point: Hannibal, MO is not to be missed. It is the hometown of Mark Twain and the inspiration for some of his most famous works of fiction.
Length of the Trip: The distance between Chenoa and St. Joseph is approximately 250 miles, making it a manageable drive. With several stops to take in the sights, the drive will take around 4 and a half hours to cover.
Here are the top five places to visit along the way:
- Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum in Springfield, IL - This museum is dedicated to celebrating the life and legacy of President Abraham Lincoln, who lived in Springfield for 17 years before becoming the 16th president of the United States. The museum features interactive exhibits, rare artifacts, and memorabilia from Lincoln's life.
(Recommendation: Be sure to stop by George's Family Restaurant in Bloomington for their legendary pie.)
- Meramec Caverns in Stanton, MO - Located roughly halfway between Chenoa and St. Joseph, the Meramec Caverns are a unique underground wonderland. Visitors can explore the caverns on a guided tour, learning about the history and geology of the caves, as well as admiring the unique rock formations.
(Recommendation: If you're a fan of classic cars, make a detour to the Route 66 Car Museum in Springfield, MO.)
- Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum in Hannibal, MO - As previously mentioned, Hannibal was the hometown of Mark Twain, and this museum celebrates his life and the writers who influenced him. Visitors can tour Twain's childhood home, explore interactive exhibits about his life and career, and check out a collection of manuscripts and artifacts.
(Recommendation: Stop at Becky Thatcher's Diner for a bite to eat and a milkshake.)
- Worlds of Fun in Kansas City, MO - If you're traveling with kids, or just looking for some amusement park fun, head to Worlds of Fun. This theme park features a variety of rides, including roller coasters and water slides, as well as live entertainment and dining options.
(Recommendation: Take a break from the park and visit the nearby Arabia Steamboat Museum.)
- Pony Express Museum in St. Joseph, MO - Finally, finish your journey in St. Joseph with a visit to the Pony Express Museum. This museum celebrates the daring and exciting story of the Pony Express, a relay system that delivered mail from St. Joseph to Sacramento, California in just 10 days.
(Recommendation: Take a stroll through the nearby Krug Park for a peaceful end to the trip.)
In conclusion, the road trip from Chenoa, Illinois to St. Joseph, Missouri is a perfect mix of history, nature, and family fun. With the right stops along the way, you can explore the region's fascinating past, admire its breathtaking scenery, and make memories that will last a lifetime. So pack your bags, hit the road, and see where this iconic route will take you.