Best Things to do on a Road Trip from College Station, Texas and Jefferson City, Missouri
College Station, Texas - A road trip from College Station, Texas to Jefferson City, Missouri offers travelers an exciting and diverse range of activities and attractions. From natural wonders to historical landmarks, this trip promises to keep adventurers entertained throughout the journey. With a midway point in Eufaula, Oklahoma, where travelers can take a break and soak in the beauty of the area, this road trip offers a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration.
Top Five Things to Do:
1. Visit the Gateway Arch in St. Louis, Missouri - The Gateway Arch is an iconic symbol of St. Louis and a must-visit attraction on this road trip. Standing at a remarkable height of 630 feet, this architectural masterpiece offers breathtaking views of the city skyline and the Mississippi River. Visitors can take an exhilarating ride to the top of the arch and learn about its historical significance, as it symbolizes the westward expansion of the United States in the 19th century.
Interesting Fact: The Gateway Arch is the tallest stainless-steel monument in the world, surpassing even the Eiffel Tower in height.
2. Explore the Museum of Art and Archaeology in Columbia, Missouri - For art enthusiasts and history buffs, a visit to the Museum of Art and Archaeology in Columbia is a must. This museum houses an impressive collection of artwork and artifacts, spanning various periods and cultures. From ancient Egyptian artifacts to contemporary masterpieces, visitors can immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of human creativity and cultural heritage.
Interesting Fact: The Museum of Art and Archaeology houses one of the largest collections of Greek and Roman art in the entire Midwest.
3. Discover the Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum in Hannibal, Missouri - Pay homage to one of America's greatest literary treasures, Mark Twain, by visiting his boyhood home and museum in Hannibal. Step back in time as you explore the house where Twain spent his formative years and gain insight into the life and influences that shaped his iconic characters such as Tom Sawyer and Huckleberry Finn.
Interesting Fact: The Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum is located just a stone's throw away from the mighty Mississippi River, which served as a significant source of inspiration for Twain's writings.
4. Experience the beauty of Elephant Rocks State Park in Ironton, Missouri - Nature lovers will find solace in the picturesque landscape of Elephant Rocks State Park. This unique geological formation features massive granite boulders, some as large as elephants, scattered amidst a serene forest setting. Visitors can hike along the trails, climb atop the rock formations, and marvel at the natural beauty that surrounds them.
Interesting Fact: The granite boulders found in Elephant Rocks State Park are estimated to be over one billion years old, making them some of the oldest rocks on Earth.
5. Take a trip back in time at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma - As travelers reach Eufaula, Oklahoma, they can take advantage of the midway point to explore the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum in nearby Oklahoma City. This museum celebrates the rich heritage and cultural significance of the American West. From rodeo history to Native American artifacts, visitors can delve into the captivating tales of cowboys, outlaws, and pioneers.
Interesting Fact: The world-renowned Prix de West art exhibit, held annually at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, showcases the finest contemporary Western art from artists all over the world.
Conclusion:
This road trip from College Station, Texas to Jefferson City, Missouri offers an unforgettable journey through history, nature, and culture. With notable highlights such as the iconic Gateway Arch in St. Louis and the historic Mark Twain Boyhood Home in Hannibal, travelers can immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of American heritage. Along the way, they can enjoy the natural wonders of Elephant Rocks State Park and learn about the Western legacy at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum in Oklahoma City.
This road trip covers a distance of approximately 820 miles, completing the journey in 13 to 15 hours of driving time. However, it is highly recommended to take breaks, explore fascinating attractions like the ones mentioned above, and make lasting memories. So, grab your road map, pack your bags, and embark on this adventurous road trip that will leave you with a deeper appreciation of the heartland of America.