Roadtrip from Bellevue, Washington to Mount Vernon, Illinois
Welcome to our road trip guide from Bellevue, Washington to Mount Vernon, Illinois! This cross-country adventure will take you through stunning landscapes, charming towns, and fascinating landmarks. So, buckle up and get ready for an unforgettable journey!
Interesting Fact: Did you know that the distance between Bellevue, Washington, and Mount Vernon, Illinois is roughly 2,000 miles? This road trip is an amazing opportunity to immerse yourself in the vastness of the United States.
Halfway through your journey, you'll find yourself in New Underwood, South Dakota. This small town is not only a great pit stop for fuel and snacks, but it also offers beautiful views of the iconic Badlands National Park.
Embarking on this road trip means you'll be covering a significant distance of approximately 2,000 miles. Depending on your pace and the stops you choose to make along the way, the trip duration can vary. However, allocating around 4 to 5 days allows for a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
Now, let's get to the exciting part – the top five places you must visit on this road trip:
1. The Museum of Glass (Tacoma, Washington): Stop by the Museum of Glass in Tacoma to witness incredible glassblowing demonstrations and marvel at stunning works of art. Explore the exhibits that showcase glass in all its forms, from delicate sculptures to intricate creations. This unique museum offers a glimpse into the world of glassmaking and will leave you amazed.
Point of Interest Recommendation: Don't forget to visit the Chihuly Bridge of Glass, located adjacent to the museum. This impressive pedestrian overpass displays dazzling glass sculptures created by renowned artist Dale Chihuly.
2. Glacier National Park (Montana): Prepare to be awestruck by the pristine wilderness of Glacier National Park. With over a million acres of breathtaking landscapes, including shimmering lakes, snow-capped peaks, and dense forests, this national park is a nature lover's paradise. Take a scenic drive along the famous Going-to-the-Sun Road, hike the numerous trails, or simply find a peaceful spot to soak in the beauty of this untouched wilderness.
Point of Interest Recommendation: Make sure to stop at Logan Pass Visitor Center, where you can learn about the park's ecosystem, spot wildlife, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding peaks.
3. Mount Rushmore National Memorial (South Dakota): No road trip through the United States would be complete without a visit to Mount Rushmore. Marvel at the colossal sculpted faces of George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln as they gaze out over the Black Hills. This iconic landmark is a testament to the nation's history and its famous presidents.
Point of Interest Recommendation: Take a hike on the Presidential Trail, which offers unique close-up views of the monumental faces. It's the perfect opportunity to appreciate the intricate details of this impressive sculpture.
4. Gateway Arch National Park (St. Louis, Missouri): As you approach St. Louis, make sure to stop at Gateway Arch National Park. This iconic steel monument, standing at 630 feet, symbolizes westward expansion in the United States. Take a ride to the top of the arch for breathtaking views of the city and the Mississippi River.
Point of Interest Recommendation: Explore the Museum of Westward Expansion located beneath the arch. Here, you can delve into the history of westward expansion in the United States through interactive exhibits and fascinating displays.
5. Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site (Collinsville, Illinois): Discover the ancient civilization of Cahokia at the Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site. This UNESCO World Heritage Site preserves the remains of a pre-Columbian Native American city. Explore the massive earthen mounds, climb Monk's Mound for a panoramic view, and learn about the culture and history of the Mississippian people who inhabited this area centuries ago.
Point of Interest Recommendation: Don't miss the Woodhenge, a reconstructed wooden calendar used by the Native Americans for astronomical observations.
To wrap up your road trip, you can look back on an incredible journey through diverse landscapes, from the Pacific Northwest to the heartland of America. The road trip from Bellevue, Washington to Mount Vernon, Illinois allows you to experience the beauty of nature, appreciate remarkable landmarks, and uncover hidden gems in charming towns. With proper planning, expect this adventure to take around 4 to 5 days, giving you ample time to truly enjoy the incredible sights along the way.
Happy travels!
Note: The information provided in this article is subject to change. It is always advisable to check the latest travel information and plan accordingly.