The Best Road Trip Destinations from Alton, Illinois to Lake Saint Louis, Missouri

Are you planning a road trip from Alton, Illinois, to Lake Saint Louis, Missouri, and looking for the best places to visit along the way? Look no further! This article highlights some of the top destinations to explore during your journey.

This scenic drive is around an hour's journey by car, and with so much to see and do in between, we've compiled a list to ensure you make the most of your trip. So buckle up, grab a friend or two and let's hit the road!

1. National Great Rivers Museum

Our first stop on this list is the National Great Rivers Museum, located in Alton. This incredible museum showcases the history, ecology, and geology of the Mississippi River, displaying it in interactive exhibits designed to engage visitors of all ages.

With a focus on water safety and conservation efforts, this museum is an excellent stop for those interested in environmental conservation and learning about one of America's most iconic landmarks. Some highlights include the impressive 19th-century steamboat exhibit and a 2,000-gallon aquarium filled with native river fish species.

2. Lewis and Clark State Historic Site

Located around halfway between Alton and Lake Saint Louis, the Lewis and Clark State Historic Site is an excellent spot for history buffs. This site overlooks the Mississippi River and includes an interpretive center, where visitors can find exhibits and informational displays about the historic expedition led by Meriwether Lewis and William Clark.

Outside, a replica of the expedition's boat stands tall, along with a model of the village visited by the explorers in 1803. With scenic nature trails, local wildlife and plenty of photo opportunities, this spot is perfect for explorer at heart.

3. St. Louis Gateway Arch

As you approach the city of St. Louis, it's difficult to miss the iconic Gateway Arch. This architectural wonder stretches an impressive 630 feet high, making it the tallest man-made monument in the United States.

Visitors can ride to the top of the arch and enjoy breathtaking views over the Mississippi River and St. Louis city, or simply stroll around the surrounding park area. With frequent events and celebrations happening year-round, there is always something exciting to see and do at the Gateway Arch.

4. Missouri Botanical Garden

If you appreciate the beauty of nature, then the Missouri Botanical Garden is a must-visit spot off-route. Spread over 79 acres, this Garden is one of the oldest botanical institutions in the United States, featuring over 7,000 species of plants from all over the world.

From picturesque flower-lined paths to sprawling Japanese gardens, there is something to delight every nature lover visiting the garden. Don't miss the Climatron, a domed conservatory that replicates a complete tropical environment, allowing visitors to stroll amidst exotic plants, birds, and butterflies.

5. Lake Saint Louis Community Association Beach

Our final stop on this list is none other than Lake Saint Louis itself. The fascinating community of Lake Saint Louis is an ideal destination for water sports enthusiasts. One of the must-visit sites in the locale is the Lake Saint Louis Community Association Beach.

The beach is divided into two sections, each offering something unique. The first section is the swim beach, where visitors can sunbathe, swim or enjoy the waterslide. The second section is the boat launch, which means at this spot, visitors can launch their own boats bring with them and sail the lake's entire circumference. There are many parks, trails and points of interest in the area to check out, making it a perfect destination for a weekend getaway.

Conclusion

With these incredible destinations on our list, it's clear that there's much to see and do when traveling between Alton and Lake Saint Louis. From museums to botanical gardens, historic sites to national monuments, and finally dipping in the shimmering blue waters you can find a variety of spots of interest along the way. With plenty of stunning scenery to enjoy along the route, your road trip is sure to be an unforgettable experience.