Road Trip Adventure: Exploring the Scenic Routes from Chapin to Highland!
Introduction
Embarking on a road trip is always an exciting adventure, and what better way to kickstart your journey than exploring the hidden gems between Chapin and Highland, two charming towns in Illinois? Buckle up and get ready for a fun-filled trip as we highlight various routes, their distances, estimated driving times, and even throw in some amazing recommendations for pit stops along the way!
Route 1: The Quaint Countryside
If you're a lover of scenic beauty and peaceful drives, this route is for you. Take Route 78 South from Chapin, steadily cruising through picturesque countryside landscapes. Enjoy the rolling fields and patches of wildflowers painting the scenery. After traveling 72 miles, you'll arrive in the charming town of Highland. This leisurely drive should take you around 1 hour and 30 minutes, giving you plenty of opportunities to soak in the beauty of rural Illinois.
Estimated Drive Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Route 2: The Historic Journey
For history enthusiasts, this route offers a dash of local heritage. Start your adventure by heading south on Route 78, admiring the serene countryside just like in Route 1. However, after approximately 49 miles, make a detour by taking the exit for Route 67 South. Follow this road for 8 miles until you reach the town of Carrollton, where you can make a quick stop to explore its quaint downtown and perhaps grab a bite at a local favorite.
Once you're back on the road, continue on Route 67 South for another 32 miles until you reach St. Louis Street. Take a right turn and travel for about 18 miles until you arrive in Highland. This historic detour adds a touch of local charm to your journey and will take you around 2 hours.
Estimated Drive Time (including detour): 2 hours
Route 3: The Urban Explorer
For those seeking a blend of cityscape and countryside, this route offers the ideal balance. Begin by taking Route 78 South, immersing yourself in beautiful landscapes for 70 miles until you reach Interstate 55 South. Merge onto I-55 and keep driving for approximately 30 miles, where you'll then merge onto I-270 West.
Enjoy the sights as you cruise through the outskirts of vibrant St. Louis before taking Exit 9 for Route 157 North. Follow this road for 5 miles until you end up in the heart of Highland. This urban-infused journey is estimated to take around 1 hour and 45 minutes.
Estimated Drive Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Recommended Pit Stops
No road trip is complete without a few memorable pit stops along the way! Here are a couple of recommendations to make your journey even more enjoyable:
Carrollton Antique Centre - If you choose Route 2, a pit stop at the Carrollton Antique Centre is a must. Explore their vast collection of antiques, vintage goodies, and unique treasures to find something special to take home.
Queeny Park - For nature enthusiasts traveling via Route 3, take a break at Queeny Park, located just off I-270 in St. Louis County. Stretch your legs, enjoy a scenic walk, or have a delightful picnic amidst the park's beautiful landscapes and serene trails.
Conclusion
As you hit the road from Chapin to Highland, prepare for an unforgettable adventure filled with stunning landscapes, hidden gems, and cherished memories. Whether you choose to take the scenic countryside, delve into local history, or explore the fusion of urban and rural charm, each route has something unique to offer. So, gather your travel buddies, fuel up your vehicle, and embark on an unforgettable road trip experience that will surely leave you with a smile on your face and stories to last a lifetime!
Estimated Drive Times are based on average traffic conditions and may be subject to change.