The Ultimate Road Trip: Branson to Mobile
Do you have a hankering for some southern hospitality? How about a relaxing drive through picturesque towns and rolling hills? Well, look no further, because we’ve got the road trip for you! In this article, we’ll take a look at the different routes you can take from Branson, Missouri to Mobile, Alabama, and the sights you simply must see along the way.
The Main Route: Via I-40 and I-65
The main route to get from Branson to Mobile is via the interstate highway system. To follow this route, head south on US-65 from Branson to Conway, Arkansas. From there, take I-40 East to Memphis, Tennessee. When you reach Memphis, pick up I-240 South until it connects with I-55 South. After a few miles, take I-69 South to Jackson, Mississippi. From there, merge onto I-20 East and then onto I-59 South, which will take you to Mobile.
The total distance of this route is approximately 790 miles, and the drive time is about 12 hours. However, you can always split up the drive into multiple days a take the time to explore some of the fascinating places along the way.
Alternative Route: Through the Ozarks
If you’re in the mood for some scenic drives, consider taking a detour through the Ozarks. Taking this route will add about 70 miles to the trip, but it offers stunning views of the Ozarks. From Branson, head south to Harrison, Arkansas on US-65. From there, turn right onto AR-7 and follow it south until it merges onto AR-9 in Perryville. Take AR-9 south through the Ozarks until it merges onto AR-10, which will connect with I-30 in Little Rock. Take I-30 to I-40 East and follow the main route from Memphis to Mobile.
This route is about 860 miles and will take about 13 hours of driving time. But we think the views through the Ozarks are worth the extra time.
Coastal Route: Ocean Views Included
If you’re looking for scenic beach views, consider driving the coastal route from Mobile to Branson. Begin by following the main route we described earlier, heading north on I-65 from Mobile. Then, take I-20 West in Birmingham, Alabama, and continue until it merges with I-30 West. Take I-30 to US-70 West in Hot Springs, Arkansas, and follow that to I-430 North. Merge onto I-40 West and follow it to Clarksville, Arkansas, where you’ll turn onto US-64 West. Follow US-64 all the way through Oklahoma and into Arkansas. Then, merge onto US-71 North until you reach Joplin, Missouri, where you’ll take I-49 North until you reach I-44 East to head back to Branson.
This route is about 1,070 miles, and the drive time is around 16 hours. But you’ll experience breathtaking ocean scenery along the way, so it may be worth it!
Must-See Stops Along the Way
No matter which route you choose, there are plenty of fantastic places to stop along the way. Here are a few of our favorite:
- Memphis, Tennessee - stop by Graceland for a tour of Elvis Presley’s estate
- Little Rock, Arkansas - visit the William J. Clinton Library, and stroll through Downtown Little Rock
- Hot Springs, Arkansas - witness the natural springs and hot baths
- Oklahoma City, Oklahoma - explore the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum
- Joplin, Missouri - marvel at the art-deco style transformed into a museum in Spirit of Joplin.
In conclusion, there is no reason to wait! Get ready to pack your bags and hit the road on an unforgettable journey from Branson to Mobile. With many different routes to choose from, the destination possibilities are endless!