Discover the Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Chesterfield, Missouri and Mascoutah, Illinois

Chesterfield and Mascoutah are two cities located in Midwest America, separated by approximately 30 miles. Traveling between these two cities by car can be a great opportunity to explore a variety of destinations in the area. One of the highlights of the trip is halfway through the journey when you hit Fiordland National Park STL, a beautiful national park filled with lush greenery and a wide range of wildlife.

Top Five Things to do on Your Road Trip:

1. Gateway Arch

Located in St. Louis, Missouri, the Gateway Arch is an iconic symbol of American history and presents stunning views of the city. This monument represents “The Gateway to the West,” and guests can take a ride to the top and see for miles around. Additionally, the Gateway Arch Museum offers interactive exhibits that highlight the history of the area, including the Lewis and Clark expedition, and provides an opportunity to learn about the history of early settlers who relocated to Missouri from the East.

Interesting Fact: The Gateway Arch is the tallest structure in Missouri and was built in honor of President Thomas Jefferson’s efforts to expand the United States westward.

2. Meramec Caverns

Meramec Caverns is a natural wonder located in Stanton, Missouri, and spans over 4.6 miles of underground passages. Discovered in 1720, this cave system has been used for a variety of purposes throughout history, including as a hideout for notorious outlaws Jesse James and his brother Frank. Guided tours allow visitors to explore the caves and learn about their historical significance.

Interesting Fact: Meramec Caverns were featured in a variety of popular culture content, including the TV show “Lassie” and the famous book of Mark Twain, “The Adventures of Tom Sawyer.”

3. Historic Hermann

Located in Hermann, Missouri, this charming small town dates back to the mid-1800s and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Visitors can explore local wineries, taste traditional German food, and learn about the area’s history. The town is known for its unique architecture, including the German-style Fachwerk buildings with their half-timbered exteriors, making them a perfect destination for photographers.

Interesting Fact: Hermann, Missouri, is known as the "Birthplace of Missouri Wine Country."

4. Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site

Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site, located in Collinsville, Illinois, was once the center of a large, prehistoric settlement of Native Americans. Visitors can tour the grounds and see more than 70 mounds, which were constructed over 1,000 years ago. The sight is considered one of the greatest archaeological mysteries in the world and is particularly recommended for history enthusiasts.

Interesting Fact: Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site was one of the largest cities in the world in the 12th century.

5. Pere Marquette State Park

Located in Grafton, Illinois, Pere Marquette State Park is a vast, 8,000-acre park that was established in 1931. Guests can explore the park by hiking the trails, enjoying the scenic views along the Mississippi River, and watching the migratory birds as they pass through the area. The park has many outdoor recreation activities, including horseback riding and fishing.

Interesting Fact: The largest tree in Illinois is located in Pere Marquette State Park and is over 1,000 years old.

After exploring these fantastic destinations and seeing incredible sights, the trip between Chesterfield and Mascoutah takes about one hour, and it’s approximately 40 miles. The journey itself is lovely, with many scenic routes, winding through rolling green hills and farmland.

In conclusion, the road trip from Chesterfield to Mascoutah is an excellent opportunity to explore some of the most iconic and historical landmarks in the United States. With several excellent destinations to choose from, visitors will have the options of taking a guided tour, sampling local wines, and gazing upon stunning natural wonders. It is a trip well worth taking, and it'll surely be a memory to cherish.