Points of Interest between Arvada, Colorado to St. Louis, Missouri

picture of Arvada, Colorado

The Top Five Popular Attractions on a Trip between Arvada, Colorado and St. Louis, Missouri

Are you planning a road trip from Arvada, Colorado to St. Louis, Missouri? Whether you are a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or a foodie, this route has something for everyone. Here are the top five popular attractions you should not miss on your journey.

The Halfway Point: Lindsborg, KS

Located in the heart of Kansas, Lindsborg is a charming small town known for its Swedish heritage and artistic community. Take a stroll down Main Street and admire the colorful Dala horses, a symbol of Swedish folklore. Visit the Red Barn Studio Museum, where artist Lester Raymer lived and worked for over thirty years. Don't miss the Birger Sandzén Memorial Gallery, featuring the works of the famous Swedish-American impressionist painter. For lunch, try the local delicacy, meatballs and lingonberry sauce, at the Swedish Crown Restaurant.

The Top Five Places to See List

  1. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

Spanning over 400 square miles, Rocky Mountain National Park is a natural wonderland that offers stunning vistas, alpine lakes, and wildlife sightings. Take a hike to the top of Hallett Peak or stroll around Sprague Lake. Drive along Trail Ridge Road, the highest continuous paved road in the US, and admire the Rocky Mountains from above. Don't forget to stop by the Beaver Meadows Visitor Center to learn about the park's history and geology.

  1. Monument Rocks National Natural Landmark, Kansas

Known as the "chalk pyramids," Monument Rocks is a unique geological formation that looks like a scene from a science-fiction movie. Located in the high plains of Kansas, this natural wonder was formed over 80 million years ago by marine fossils that were uplifted and eroded over time. Take a short walk to explore the formations up close and marvel at the different shapes and sizes. Don't forget to bring a camera for some stunning photos.

  1. Gateway Arch National Park, Missouri

A symbol of St. Louis, the Gateway Arch is an iconic monument that celebrates America's westward expansion. Designed by Finnish-American architect Eero Saarinen, the stainless steel arch stands 630 feet tall and offers breathtaking views of the city and the Mississippi River. Take a tram ride to the top or visit the interactive Museum at the Gateway Arch to learn about Lewis and Clark's expedition, the pioneers who settled in the west, and the construction of the arch.

  1. Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum, Missouri

Travel back in time to the childhood of one of America's greatest writers, Mark Twain. Located in Hannibal, Missouri, this historic district features several buildings related to Twain's life, including his boyhood home, a museum, a bookstore, and a gift shop. Take a guided tour to learn about Twain's early years and his inspiration for famous novels such as The Adventures of Tom Sawyer and The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn. Don't miss the chance to see the Mississippi River from the deck of a replica steamboat.

  1. Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site, Illinois

For history buffs, Cahokia Mounds is a must-see destination that sheds light on the lives of the indigenous people who lived in the region more than a thousand years ago. Located in Collinsville, Illinois, this UNESCO World Heritage Site features the remnants of an ancient civilization that reached its peak around 1100 AD. Take a hike around the mounds and learn about the culture, religion, and architecture of the Native Americans who built them. Don't miss the Interpretive Center, which offers displays, videos, and artifacts related to the site.

Conclusion

This road trip takes you through some of the most beautiful and diverse landscapes of the US, from the Rocky Mountains to the Great Plains to the Mississippi River. To make the most of your journey, we recommend taking a scenic route that follows I-70 and I-55 and allows you to see the changing scenery and local attractions along the way. Plan to spend a night or two in each destination to fully explore its attractions and have a taste of its local culture. Happy travels!