Points of Interest between Bell City, Missouri to Festus, Missouri

picture of Bell City, Missouri

Top Places to See When Driving From Bell City, Missouri to Festus, Missouri

Missouri is a state known for its rolling hills, beautiful landscapes, and fascinating history. If you plan on driving from Bell City, Missouri, to Festus, Missouri, there are plenty of amazing places to visit along the way. From local wineries to historical landmarks and scenic parks, here are the top places to see on your next journey.

Before we jump into the list, let's talk about the route. The trip from Bell City to Festus is approximately 153 miles and should take around 2 hours and 30 minutes. You'll be driving through the counties of Stoddard, Bollinger, Perry, Ste. Genevieve, and Jefferson. This trip is an excellent opportunity for you to explore the rural parts of Missouri and take in the sights of the countryside along the way.

Wineries

The area surrounding the route from Bell City to Festus has several wineries, each with a unique selection of wines and beautiful views.

  1. Twin Oaks Vineyard & Winery - Located in Farmington, Missouri, it's the perfect place to stop and unwind while enjoying a glass of wine. Twin Oaks offers a beautiful outdoor seating area that overlooks the expansive vineyards. Their wines are mostly dry and semi-dry, with a few fruit wines and sweet wines. They even have a wine slushy made with their Riesling.
  2. Eagle's Landing Winery - This winery is situated in downtown Marquand, Missouri. The tasting room is a converted old home with a spacious outdoor seating area. The winery produces a variety of wines, including Chardonel, Chambourcin, and Vignoles. Additionally, they sell locally made products such as honey, jams, and salsas.
  3. Weingarten Vineyard - Located in Ste. Genevieve, Missouri, this winery has a large selection of wines. They offer several dry reds and whites, semi-sweet and sweet wines, and a few fruit wines. They also have a beautiful outdoor tennis court and a massive picnic area that can accommodate large groups.

Historical Landmarks

If you're a history fan, Missouri has plenty of landmarks that offer a glance into the state's past. Visiting these landmarks will give you a chance to learn about the area's rich history.

  1. Fort D Historic Site - Located in Cape Girardeau, Missouri, Fort D is a Civil War-era fort that played a vital role in the defense of the city. The site includes a restored powder magazine and hospital and provides a detailed insight into the life of soldiers during the Civil War.
  2. Bollinger Mill State Historic Site - This site is situated in Burfordville, Missouri, and features a restored 19th-century grist mill, a covered bridge, and a small museum. You can take a self-guided tour of the mill and learn about the history of milling in the region.
  3. Hawn State Park - Some of Missouri's most stunning natural beauty can be found at the Hawn State Park, which is located in Ste. Genevieve County. The park is filled with sandstone bluffs, rocky streams, and shaded pine forests. Hiking trails range in difficulty from easy to challenging.

Scenic Drives

With its rolling hills and historic towns, the country around the route is ideal for a leisurely drive full of picturesque views.

  1. Route 72 - This highway passes through the Ozark National Scenic Riverways, offering scenic river views as you drive past. In the fall, the leaves on the trees turn crimson, gold, and orange, making for a truly breathtaking sight.
  2. Route 61 - Known as the Great River Road, Route 61 provides some of the most stunning views of the Mississippi River. The road is well-maintained and follows the river for most of the journey, so pack a picnic and make a day of it.
  3. Mark Twain National Forest - This national forest is the perfect place to see the beauty of rural Missouri. The forest covers over 1.5 million acres and offers several scenic drives, hiking trails, and camping spots.

Parks

Missouri is home to several beautiful parks, and this area is no exception.

  1. Trail of Tears State Park - Located near Cape Girardeau, this park is an important piece of Missouri's past. The park's centerpiece is a monument commemorating the forced relocation of thousands of Cherokee and other Native Americans from their homelands in the Southeastern United States to Oklahoma. The park also has hiking trails, campsites, and RV sites.
  2. St. Joe State Park - This park has something for everyone, from hiking and horseback riding to fishing and swimming. The park covers over 8,000 acres and features several hills, forests, and creeks.
  3. Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park - This state park is a nature lover's paradise, with several picturesque hills and crystal-clear streams full of colorful fish. Johnson's Shut-Ins also has several hiking trails and picnic areas where you can relax and soak up the stunning surroundings.

In Conclusion

Driving from Bell City to Festus is a fun and exciting journey full of history, nature, and picturesque views. There's something for everyone along this route, from wine lovers to history buffs and nature enthusiasts. So pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready to explore all that Missouri has to offer.