Missouri's the perfect place for a road trip, whether we want to visit natural wonders, waterfalls, or iconic landmarks. This epic road trip leads to seven iconic landmarks in Missouri - just a few of the many that dot the state.
Begin and end your adventure in St. Louis. The road trip spans 325 miles with a driving time of just over six hours. While you could technically visit all the spots in a single day, you'll likely be rushed. If you have the time, make a weekend (or longer of it). You can also add or remove stops to meet your timeline and your interests.
1. Gateway Arch – St. Louis
Is there any more iconic landmark in Missouri than The Gateway Arch? Let's start our epic road trip with a journey to the top of the Arch. Climb aboard the tram that will lead you to some of the most sensational views in all of St. Louis. Stop by The Arch Visitor Center, too, where you can buy souvenirs or grab a quick bite to eat. Plan your visit to and buy tickets for The Gateway Arch.
2. Anheuser Busch Brewery – St. Louis
St. Louis is pretty much synonymous with Anheuser Busch. The Budweiser Brewery Experience welcomes guests to get a close-up look at the inner workings of this iconic landmark. You can go on a few different experiences, including the Day Fresh Tour, where you'll learn more about brewery methods. See how beer is brewed on the Beermaster Tour, or meet the Clydesdales during the Clydesdale VIP Experience. Learn more about your tour options on the official website of the Budweiser Brewery Experience.
3. Union Station – St. Louis
Let's stop at Union Station in St. Louis before we head out of the city. You'll find a ton to do at this iconic landmark. Grab a bite to eat at the Soda Fountain, the 1894 Cafe, or another eatery. You'll also find an assortment of attractions - from The Wheel to the St. Louis Aquarium - to explore. Check out a full list of restaurants and attractions at St. Louis Union Station.
4. Mark Twain Boyhood Home & Museum – Hannibal
Our next stop takes us to the darling town of Hannibal and the Mark Twain Boyhood Home & Museum. Delve into the rich history of one of America's favorite authors, and stock up on goodies at the gift shop. If you're taking the road trip slow, you might want to join a cruise aboard the Mark Twain Riverboat for a ride down the Mississippi. Learn more about the Mark Twain Boyhood Home & Museum.
5. Stone Hill Winery – Hermann
Stone Hill Winery earns recognition as one of the oldest wineries in the United States, and it's well worth a stop. Even if you don't feel like doing a bit of wine tasting, treat yourself to a scrumptious meal at The Vintage 1847 Restaurant. It dishes up delicious meals in a former carriage house and stable. Head over to the official website of Stone Hill Winery for more information.
6. Meramec Caverns – Sullivan
Meramec Caverns earned a spot on USA Today's National Bucket List - and for good reason. It's a Missouri treasure and an iconic landmark. Join a 1.5-hour tour of the historic caverns that go back more than 400 million years. If you have the time, spend it on the other activities also available at and near the caverns. Go ziplining, mine for gems, or stock up on candy at Granny's. Meramec State Park is a short drive from the caverns, too. Here's the official website of Meramec Caverns.
7. Lemp Mansion – St. Louis
Our final stop takes us back to St. Louis and to Lemp Mansion - the perfect spot for a delicious meal or for an overnight stay. The popular destination also offers ghost tours (yep - it is said to be haunted) and comedy/mystery dinners. Can you think of a better way to end your epic road trip? Stop by the official website of Lemp Mansion for more information.
What are your favorite iconic landmarks in Missouri? Let us know in the comments! When you're up for another road trip, follow this itinerary that will take you to all seven wonders of Missouri.
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