Points of Interest between Bloomington, Illinois to Knoxville, Tennessee

picture of Bloomington, Illinois

Top Places to See When Driving From Bloomington, Illinois to Knoxville, Tennessee

Are you planning a road trip from Bloomington, Illinois to Knoxville, Tennessee? There are so many places to stop and see along the way! Whether you prefer natural beauty or historical landmarks, this route offers something for everyone.

In this blog post, we've compiled the top places to see when driving from Bloomington, Illinois to Knoxville, Tennessee. So buckle up and get ready to hit the open road!

Discovering the Ozarks

As you head south from Bloomington, Illinois, you'll pass through the Ozarks, a stunning mountain range that stretches across several states. Take in the breathtaking views as you travel along the winding roads.

  1. Mark Twain National Forest - This vast expanse of forest spans over 1.5 million acres and offers endless opportunities for hiking, fishing, and camping. The forest is home to an abundance of wildlife, including eagles, black bears, and white-tailed deer.

  2. Top of the Rock - This stunning resort and attraction in Ridgedale, Missouri, offers breathtaking views of the Ozarks. Take a ride on the Ozark Mountain Highroad, a 2.5-mile-long experience that includes stunning vistas, a cave tour, and even a chance to see some buffalo.

  3. Table Rock Lake - This scenic lake, located in southwestern Missouri, offers many activities, including boating, fishing, and swimming. It's also a great spot to take in the natural beauty of the Ozarks.

History Comes Alive

Along the route from Bloomington, Illinois to Knoxville, Tennessee, there are many historic landmarks and sites that offer a glimpse into the past.

  1. Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum - Located in Springfield, Illinois, this museum is dedicated to the life and legacy of Abraham Lincoln. Visitors can see artifacts such as the President's top hat and visit exhibits like Mrs. Lincoln's Attic, which explores the lives of the President's family.

  2. Land of Lincoln Murals - Located in downtown Lincoln, Illinois, these murals depict the life and times of Abraham Lincoln. The murals were painted by local artist Jay Allen, who spent years researching and creating the detailed scenes.

  3. Shiloh National Military Park - This park in Shiloh, Tennessee, is the site of a major Civil War battle. Visitors can tour the battlefield and see the historic Hornet's Nest, a prominent position held by Union soldiers during the battle.

Tennessee Beauty

As you near Knoxville, Tennessee, you'll find many beautiful natural areas that are worth a visit.

  1. Great Smoky Mountains National Park - This park, which spans Tennessee and North Carolina, is one of the most popular national parks in the country. Visitors can enjoy hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing, as well as breathtaking views of the mountains.

  2. Cherokee National Forest - This stunning forest in eastern Tennessee offers a diverse range of hiking trails, fishing spots, and scenic drives. It's also home to several wilderness areas, including the Bald River Gorge Wilderness and the Citico Creek Wilderness.

  3. Devil's Racetrack - This unique rock formation, located in Rocky Top, Tennessee, is well worth a visit. The rocks, which are said to resemble a racetrack, offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Conclusion

As you can see, there are many amazing places to see and explore along the route from Bloomington, Illinois to Knoxville, Tennessee. Whether you're interested in history, natural beauty, or just the thrill of the open road, this journey has something for everyone. So pack your bags, fire up the car, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure!