Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Ava, MO to Rolla, MO
Are you looking for an incredible road trip that takes you through some of the most stunning scenery in Missouri? Do you want to discover hidden gems that few tourists know about? If so, then you need to take the drive from Ava, MO to Rolla, MO. This stunning route takes you along winding roads, past rolling hills, and through charming small towns. It's the perfect way to spend a day or a weekend in Missouri.
This road trip takes around 2 hours and covers about 120 miles. You'll begin your journey in the picturesque town of Ava, MO, known for its stunning scenery and friendly locals. From there, you'll head east on MO-14 E, passing through some of the most beautiful countryside in the state. You'll then head north on US-63 N and finally end up in the vibrant city of Rolla, MO. Along the way, you'll encounter some incredible sights, sounds, smells, and tastes that you won't find anywhere else in the state.
Halfway Point: Houston, MO
Before we dive into the five unexpected places to stop on this drive, it's important to mention the halfway point: Houston, MO. This charming small town is the perfect place to stop, stretch your legs, and grab a bite to eat. Houston boasts a vibrant downtown area filled with quirky shops, adorable cafes, and historic buildings.
Stop by The Hub Cafe for a delicious coffee and a slice of their famous homemade pie. This charming cafe is located on the town square, making it the perfect spot to rest and people-watch. You can also check out the Houston Downtown Historic District, which is filled with restored buildings and beautiful architecture.
If you're looking for something a bit more outdoorsy, head over to the Houston Trailhead for a walk or bike ride. This stunning nature trail winds through some of the most beautiful scenery in the region, and it's the perfect way to stretch your legs before continuing your journey.
Now, onto the five unexpected places to stop on your epic road trip.
1. Marshfield, MO: The Cherry Blossom Capital of Missouri
Located a little over halfway through your journey, Marshfield is a quaint town that celebrates the beauty of a simple life. Surrounded by rolling hills and charming farms, Marshfield is known for its incredible cherry blossoms. Visitors come from all over the state every spring to see the cherry trees in full bloom.
While you're in Marshfield, make sure to stop by the Marshfield Cherry Blossom Festival. This annual event celebrates the beauty of the town's famous cherry blossoms and features live music, tasty food, and plenty of family-friendly activities. Be sure to try some of the cherry-inspired treats available, like the cherry blossom ice cream or the cherry blossom lemonade.
2. Rolla, MO: A College Town with a Rural Aesthetic
Rolla may be known for its engineering college, but this charming town is so much more than just a university town. With its historic buildings, stunning natural scenery, and vibrant nightlife, Rolla is a must-visit destination on your road trip.
While in Rolla, make sure to stop by the Public House Brewing Company. This local brewpub serves up delicious craft beer and tasty pub grub, making it the perfect spot to relax after a long day of driving. Try the jalapeño cheese dip or the famous beer steamed mussels for a taste of local flavor.
3. Salem, MO: A Gateway to the Ozark National Scenic Riverways
Salem is a small town with a lot of heart. It's the perfect place to stop if you're looking for stunning natural beauty and outdoor adventure. Located just a stone's throw from the Ozark National Scenic Riverways, Salem is the perfect base for exploring the region's stunning rivers, forests, and hills.
While in Salem, make sure to head over to Crossroads Cafe for a delicious meal. This family-owned restaurant serves up tasty home-cooked fare, like fried chicken, mashed potatoes, and green beans. Finish off your meal with a slice of their famous homemade pie, like the award-winning coconut cream or chocolate cream.
4. Licking, MO: A Town Named After a Limestone Cave
Located just a short drive from the Mark Twain National Forest, Licking is a charming town that's known for its incredible natural beauty. The town is named after the local limestone cave, which boasts stunning stalactites and stalagmites.
While in Licking, make sure to stop by the Dairy Shack for a taste of their famous ice cream. This family-friendly spot serves up huge portions of creamy ice cream in a rainbow of flavors, from classic vanilla to wild cherry jubilee.
5. Houston, MO: A Gateway to the Missouri Ozarks
We've already mentioned the charms of Houston, but we couldn't leave this charming town off the list. With its stunning downtown area, friendly residents, and incredible outdoor recreation opportunities, Houston is the ideal spot to end your road trip.
While in Houston, make sure to stop by the Main Street Marketplace for a taste of local flavor. This charming indoor market is located in a restored historic building and is filled with local vendors selling everything from handmade crafts to fresh produce. Be sure to try some of the famous Donut Burgers, which combine sweet and savory flavors for a truly unique culinary experience.
Conclusion
This epic road trip from Ava, MO to Rolla, MO is one of the best ways to discover the hidden gems of Missouri. From the beautiful cherry blossoms in Marshfield to the stunning natural beauty of Salem and Licking, this journey is packed with surprises and delights. So why not hit the road and experience it for yourself? Whether you're a Missouri native or a visitor from out of state, this road trip is sure to be one you'll never forget.