The Best Things to Do on a Road Trip from Appleton, WI to Alexandria, LA
Are you planning a road trip from the Midwest to the South? Look no further! This article outlines the best things to do on a road trip from Appleton, Wisconsin to Alexandria, Louisiana, with a pitstop at the halfway point in Fredericktown, Missouri.
This road trip spans over 1,200 miles, but fear not, as there are plenty of sights to see and activities to do along the way. From natural wonders to historical landmarks, this trip has something for everyone.
The Top Five Things to Do
Gateway Arch - St. Louis, MO
One cannot pass through St. Louis without paying a visit to the iconic Gateway Arch. Standing at a staggering 630 feet, this stainless steel monument is the tallest arch in the entire world. Visitors can take a tram ride to the top for a stunning view of the city. The arch is open year-round and offers a variety of events and exhibits.
Fun Fact: The Gateway Arch was designed by Eero Saarinen, who beat out over 170 other architects in a competition to design the structure.
Silver Dollar City - Branson, MO
Located just 35 minutes from our halfway point, Fredericktown, is the famed theme park, Silver Dollar City. This 1880s-inspired amusement park offers everything from roller coasters and water rides to authentic craftsmanship in their 100-plus demonstrating craftsmen. Visitors can also take in a show at one of their six theaters, which offers everything from classic country music to 50s-style rock and roll.
Fun Fact: Silver Dollar City was once a cave, Marvel Cave, to be exact, and visitors can still take a guided tour.
Hot Springs National Park - Hot Springs, AR
Just an hour from the Louisiana state line, you'll find Hot Springs National Park in Arkansas. This 5,550-acre national park features 47 natural thermal springs and the historic Bathhouse Row, where visitors can take a dip in the natural hot springs, schedule a spa day, or take a guided tour of the historic bathhouses.
Fun Fact: Hot Springs National Park is the oldest federal reserve in the United States, having been established in 1832.
Vicksburg National Military Park - Vicksburg, MS
History buffs rejoice! The Vicksburg National Military Park, located in Vicksburg, Mississippi, offers a look into one of the most pivotal moments in American history- the Civil War. The park features over 1,400 monuments and markers, and visitors can see the point where Union soldiers gained control of the Mississippi River. The park also offers guided tours and a museum.
Fun Fact: The Vicksburg National Military Park is home to the USS Cairo, a gunboat that sank in the Yazoo River during a Civil War battle and was later raised from the river in 1964.
Avery Island and Tabasco Factory - Avery Island, LA
What trip to Louisiana would be complete without a visit to the birthplace of Tabasco sauce? Located on Avery Island, the Tabasco Factory offers free guided tours and tastings of their famous hot sauce. Visitors can also explore the Jungle Gardens on the island, which features a variety of flora and fauna, including alligators.
Fun Fact: The Avery Island salt dome, where Tabasco is made, is one of the largest salt domes in the world and was the site of a major Civil War battle.
Conclusion
This road trip from Appleton, Wisconsin, to Alexandria, Louisiana, spans over 1,200 miles and offers a wide variety of sights and activities for all ages. Notable attractions along the way include the Gateway Arch in St. Louis, Silver Dollar City in Branson, Hot Springs National Park in Arkansas, the Vicksburg National Military Park in Mississippi, and Avery Island, home of the Tabasco Factory, in Louisiana. With a wide variety of activities, stunning natural wonders, and historic landmarks, this road trip is a must-do for anyone looking for an adventure. And at an estimated driving time of 18 hours, it's the perfect length for a week-long vacation.