Top Places to See When Driving From Bloomington, Illinois to Orange Beach, Alabama

If you are planning an exciting road trip from Bloomington, Illinois to Orange Beach, Alabama, you are in for a real treat. This drive offers plenty of opportunities to explore new places, savor new foods, and create unforgettable memories. Buckle up and let's go on a journey through these top places to see when driving from Bloomington, Illinois to Orange Beach, Alabama.

The journey from Bloomington, Illinois to Orange Beach, Alabama is approximately 770 miles long, and it takes about 12 hours and 30 minutes to drive. Along the way, you will come across unique attractions, historical landmarks, delicious food, and interesting people. To make your road trip more fun and enriching, we have compiled a list of the top places to see while driving from Bloomington, Illinois to Orange Beach, Alabama.

Exploring St. Louis, Missouri

As you travel from Bloomington, Illinois to Orange Beach, Alabama, the first city you must stop by is St. Louis, Missouri. It is where you can find thrilling attractions and enjoy an excellent culinary experience.

The iconic Gateway Arch

St. Louis is most famous for its iconic Gateway Arch, which stands at 630 feet tall, making it the tallest monument in the United States. Visitors can take an elevator to the top of the Gateway Arch and marvel at the breathtaking view of the city and the Mississippi River.

The St. Louis Zoo

Another attraction in St. Louis that you should not miss is the St. Louis Zoo, one of the best free zoos in the United States. The zoo features over 17,000 animals from over 600 species, including a polar bear, lions, and tigers.

The St. Louis food scene

St. Louis is also known for its food scene. Make sure to try the famous toasted ravioli, gooey butter cake, or St. Louis-style pizza while you are in town.

The Tennessee Countryside

The next stop on your journey from Bloomington, Illinois to Orange Beach, Alabama is the charming Tennessee countryside. Tennessee offers picturesque scenery, southern hospitality, and delicious food to indulge in.

Nashville, Tennessee

If you are a music fan, then you must make Nashville your next stop. Known as the “Music City,” Nashville is home to the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum and the Grand Ole Opry. You can also find a vibrant nightlife scene in downtown Nashville, where you can enjoy live music at numerous bars and clubs.

The Great Smoky Mountains

Another attraction in Tennessee that is too good to miss is the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It is a perfect place for outdoor enthusiasts, featuring spectacular hiking trails, scenic drives, and stunning views of the mountains.

Memphis BBQ

Before leaving Tennessee, make sure to indulge in some Memphis-style barbecue. Memphis is famous for its slow-smoked ribs and pulled pork, so it’s a must-try for any foodie.

The Gulf Coast of Alabama

Your last stop, Orange Beach, Alabama, is a beautiful seaside town situated on the Gulf Coast. It features miles of pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and excellent seafood.

The Gulf State Park

The Gulf State Park, located in Orange Beach, is a must-visit. It features miles of white sand beaches, a fishing pier, and a freshwater lake perfect for kayaking or paddleboarding. Visitors can also hike or bike along the park’s beautiful trails and observe the local wildlife.

The Wharf at Orange Beach

The Wharf at Orange Beach is another favorite attraction among visitors. It has an impressive Ferris wheel, excellent dining options, shops, and live music shows on weekends.

Seafood dining experience

Finally, you cannot leave Orange Beach without trying some of the fresh seafood on offer. Gulf shrimp, oyster po-boys, and grilled fish are some of the local delicacies that you should not miss.

Conclusion

As you can see, there are plenty of incredible places to see when driving from Bloomington, Illinois to Orange Beach, Alabama. Along the way, there are many opportunities to explore different cultures, enjoy scenic views, and indulge in delicious food. So, get your camera ready, pack your bags, and make your next road trip unforgettable.