The Ultimate Road Trip: Top Places to See When Driving From Bethalto, IL to Madison, WI
Are you looking for the ultimate road trip? Maybe you just want to get away from the routine of everyday life for a while and experience something new and exciting. Whatever the reason, a road trip from Bethalto, Illinois to Madison, Wisconsin might be just what you need. From beautiful parks to unique museums and quirky roadside attractions, this route offers something for everyone. In this blog post, we'll highlight the top places to see as you travel from Bethalto, Illinois to Madison, Wisconsin.
A Journey through the Heartland of America
The route from Bethalto, Illinois to Madison, Wisconsin takes you through the heartland of America, where you'll see rolling fields of corn and soybeans, small towns with friendly locals, and some of the most beautiful scenery in the country. Along the way, you'll encounter a variety of attractions that are worth stopping for. Whether you're traveling with family or friends, you're sure to find something that will make your journey memorable. So, buckle up, get ready to hit the road, and let's get started!
1. Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site
Located in Collinsville, Illinois, just a few miles from Bethalto, Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site is one of the most fascinating and unique destinations in the region. This UNESCO World Heritage site was once the home of the largest pre-Columbian settlement north of Mexico. Today, visitors can explore the ruins of this ancient city, which include earthen mounds, plazas, and other architectural features that provide insight into the way of life of the Mississippians who lived here more than 1,000 years ago.
2. Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum
About 150 miles north of Cahokia Mounds, in Hannibal, Missouri, you'll find another must-visit destination: the Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum. This is where Samuel Clemens, better known as Mark Twain, spent his childhood years. The museum includes several attractions, such as the Mark Twain Boyhood Home, the Becky Thatcher House, the Huckleberry Finn House, and the Tom and Huck Statue. You can also take a cruise down the Mississippi River on a replica of a 19th-century riverboat.
3. House on the Rock
Just over the border in Wisconsin, the House on the Rock is an attraction like no other. Built by the eccentric architect and collector Alex Jordan Jr., the house is perched atop a 60-foot chimney of rock. Inside, you'll find a bizarre and eclectic collection of art, antiques, and oddities. The most popular exhibit at the House on the Rock is the Infinity Room, a narrow bridge that extends 218 feet out from the house and hangs over a sheer drop, giving visitors the sensation of walking on air.
4. Circus World Museum
Located in Baraboo, approximately 40 miles north of Madison, the Circus World Museum is a fascinating celebration of the history and culture of the circus. The museum features exhibits on circus history, performers, and animals, as well as a collection of circus wagons, costumes, and memorabilia. You can also watch live performances, see circus animals up close, and take a ride on a vintage carousel.
5. Wisconsin State Capitol
No trip to Madison would be complete without a visit to the Wisconsin State Capitol. Completed in 1917, the Capitol building is an impressive example of neoclassical architecture. You can take a guided tour of the building, which includes a visit to the observation deck, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the city. Don't miss the chance to see the colorful glass mosaics in the rotunda, which illustrate scenes from Wisconsin's history.
Conclusion
From the ancient ruins of Cahokia Mounds to the quirky collections at the House on the Rock, and from the history of Mark Twain to the excitement of the circus, there's something for everyone along the route from Bethalto, Illinois to Madison, Wisconsin. Whether you're looking for a fun family vacation or a unique adventure with friends, this road trip has it all. So, pack your bags, hit the road, and enjoy the journey!