Road Tripping from Centerville, Iowa to St. Louis, Missouri

Ready to hit the open road and explore the Midwest? A road trip from Centerville, Iowa to St. Louis, Missouri is the perfect opportunity to discover charming small towns, beautiful scenery, and delicious local cuisine. But, before you start packing your bags and filling up the gas tank, it's essential to plan your route and know how long it will take you to get to your destination. Here's everything you need to know about travel time between Centerville, Iowa and St. Louis, Missouri.

The Classic Route: I-80 and I-70

The most direct route from Centerville, Iowa to St. Louis, Missouri is via Interstate 80 and Interstate 70. This 340-mile journey takes about 5 hours and 20 minutes of driving time, without accounting for stops along the way. As you drive through Iowa, you'll see endless cornfields and quaint farmhouses. Once you cross the Mississippi River into Illinois, the scenery changes to rolling hills and small towns. Missouri offers beautiful landscapes, and you'll see the Gateway Arch in St. Louis as you approach the city.

If you're looking for a quick and easy route without much detouring, this is the perfect option for you. However, you'll miss out on some of the smaller towns and attractions along the way.

The River Scenic Route: Highway 3

For a more scenic and leisurely drive, consider taking Highway 3 through Iowa, Illinois, and Missouri. This route follows the Mississippi River and offers stunning views of the water, cliffs, and forests. Highway 3 is a slower road, and it will add extra miles and time to your journey. The total distance is about 420 miles, and it takes approximately 7 hours of driving time.

Along the way, there are several small towns worth stopping in, including Keokuk, Iowa, Fort Madison, Iowa, and Quincy, Illinois. These towns offer unique experiences, from visiting historical sites to trying local cuisine. If you're a nature lover, you can also spend time hiking trails and admiring the landscapes.

The Beer and Wine Route: Highway 100

If you're a fan of beer and wine, take Highway 100 through Iowa and Missouri. This route showcases several craft breweries and wineries that are worth a stop. The total distance of this route is about 340 miles, and it takes around 6 hours and 30 minutes of driving time.

Some of the must-visit spots along the way include the Iowa Brewing Company in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, The Millstream Brewing Company in Amana, Iowa, and several wineries in Hermann, Missouri. If you have time, visit the Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum in Hannibal, Missouri.

The Smaller Towns Route: Highways 34 and 136

For those who want to skip the interstate altogether, Highways 34 and 136 are the perfect choice. This route is best for those who want to experience the charm of the smaller towns and slow down the pace. The total distance is about 320 miles, and it takes approximately 6 hours and 30 minutes of driving time.

Along the way, you'll visit some of the most enchanting small towns in Iowa and Missouri, including Ottumwa, Iowa, Mt. Pleasant, Iowa, and Macon, Missouri. If you're looking for a unique experience, stop in La Plata, Missouri, and take a ride on the silver-colored train at the Depot Inn and Suites.

Final Words

No matter which route you choose, traveling from Centerville, Iowa to St. Louis, Missouri is an adventure full of surprises and delights. It's essential to plan your route in advance, so you can maximize your time on the road and know what to expect. Along the way, be sure to stop in the small towns and try the local cuisine, hike the trails, and take in the stunning scenery. With each experience, you'll make unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime. Happy travels!