The Road Trip of a Lifetime: Benton to Springfield

There's nothing quite like a road trip to get you excited for adventure. When it comes to traveling from Benton, Kentucky to Springfield, Illinois, there are a few different routes to choose from. Each route has its advantages, and it all comes down to your personal preferences. We've mapped out a few options to get you on your way.

Option 1: Take the Interstate

The most direct route from Benton to Springfield is to take Interstate 57 North. This is a popular option for people who want to get to their destination as quickly as possible. The distance is approximately 210 miles and should take about 3.5 hours to complete. Along the way, there's not much to see other than fields of corn and a few small towns. If you're short on time, this is the best choice.

Option 2: Get off the beaten path

If you're looking for a more scenic route that allows you to take in the beautiful countryside, we recommend taking Route 45 North. This route will take you through Shawnee National Forest and past a number of small towns. The distance is approximately the same as the interstate, but it will take a bit longer (about 4 hours). Make time to stop and explore along the way. The Garden of the Gods in the Shawnee National Forest is a must-see.

Option 3: Follow the River

If you want to take your time and enjoy the journey, we recommend taking a detour and following the Ohio River. This route will take you through the heart of American history and past charming river towns. From Benton, take the scenic route through Metropolis and then follow Route 145 to the Ohio River Scenic Byway. This route takes about 5 hours to complete and covers approximately 280 miles. Along the way, we recommend stopping at Cave-In-Rock State Park and the Lincoln Heritage Trail.

Option 4: Mix it up

If you have some extra time and want to experience a little bit of everything, we recommend taking a combination of the above routes. Take the interstate for part of the way and then get off and explore the small towns and beautiful countryside. This route will take a bit longer (around 5 hours), but it's a great way to experience the best of both worlds.

No matter which route you choose, there are plenty of great places to stop along the way. We recommend trying local cuisine in the small towns you pass through and taking time to explore local attractions. Some of our favorites include the Superman Statue in Metropolis, the Ohio River Scenic Byway, and the Lincoln Heritage Trail.

With so many great options for getting from Benton to Springfield, there's no reason not to hit the road and start your adventure. Happy travels!