Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Bridgeport, AL to Sikeston, MO

Driving from Bridgeport, Alabama to Sikeston, Missouri can be a long journey, but it doesn't have to be boring! There are exciting places to visit, learn new things, and try new foods on the way. The journey from Bridgeport to Sikeston takes approximately seven hours when driving without stopping. However, with these five unexpected places, the journey can be a fun-filled and enjoyable experience.

Halfway Point: Clarksville, TN

Clarksville is an ideal halfway point during this long-drive journey. This city is located on the Cumberland River and has plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy. Visitors to Clarksville can explore the Dunbar Cave State Park, which is home to over eight miles of caves filled with fossils, Native American drawings, and bats. For those who love history, the Fort Defiance Civil War Park and Interpretive Center is a great place to visit. This park features a complex of earthen fortifications that were used in the Civil War as well as a museum to learn about the local history.

When in Clarksville, visitors shouldn't miss out on having a Nashville-style hot chicken. Invented in Nashville in the 1930s, hot chicken is now a staple dish throughout Tennessee. Perhaps the best place to try it in Clarksville is at The Looking Glass Restaurant. This restaurant has been serving hot chicken for over a decade, and their unique blend of spices is sure to leave your taste buds with an unforgettable experience.

1. Paducah, KY: The Quilt City

Paducah, Kentucky, is the quilt capital of the world, boasting over 50 quilt-related businesses in the area. The National Quilt Museum is located in Paducah, featuring a collection of over 600 quilts from all over the world. Visitors to the museum can take workshops, attend lectures, and participate in special events.

While in Paducah, visitors are encouraged to visit the Paducah Riverwalk, a paved, tree-lined walking path along the Ohio River. Visitors can also try a dish of Kentucky Hot Brown, a regional specialty sandwich made with turkey, bacon, and Mornay sauce.

2. St. Louis, MO: Gateway Arch

St. Louis is a bustling city with many exciting things to do. The Gateway Arch is one of the most iconic landmarks in the United States, standing at 630 feet tall. Visitors can take a tram to the top to get an incredible view of the cityscape. The City Museum is another must-visit attraction in St. Louis, an exciting and interactive museum that features a giant playground, an aquarium, and a circus.

While in St. Louis, visitors should try the city's most famous dish, the St. Louis-style pizza. This pizza is thin crust with cheese to the edges and topped with a unique blend of provel cheese.

3. Cape Girardeau, MO: Mark Twain's Hometown

Cape Girardeau is the hometown of Mark Twain, the famous American author. The Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum is a fascinating place to learn about the author's early life. Visitors can tour Mark Twain's childhood home, see historic buildings that are still standing from his time, and see samples of his work.

While in Cape Girardeau, visitors should try the city's famous frozen custard. Berries Frozen Custard is a local favorite, serving creamy custard that is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.

4. Carbondale, IL: Shawnee National Forest

Carbondale is a small town located in southern Illinois and is the gateway to the Shawnee National Forest. The forest spans 280,000 acres and is a great place to enjoy the great outdoors. Visitors can hike, go rock climbing, or visit the Little Grand Canyon. The Garden of the Gods is another popular attraction, featuring stunning rock formations.

While in Carbondale, visitors should try the local barbecue. 17th Street BBQ is a local favorite, serving mouthwatering ribs, pulled pork, and chicken with their signature BBQ sauce.

5. Sikeston, MO: Lambert's Cafe

Sikeston is a small town that is famous for Lambert's Cafe, also known as the Home of Throwed Rolls. Lambert's Cafe is a unique dining experience where servers throw hot, fresh rolls at diners throughout the meal. The restaurant serves up classic Southern dishes like fried chicken and catfish.

Visitors can't leave Sikeston without trying the local staple: the Sikeston-style grilled cheese sandwich. The sandwich is made with white bread, American cheese, and a healthy dose of mayonnaise grilled to crispy perfection.

Conclusion

Driving from Bridgeport, Alabama to Sikeston, Missouri can be an enjoyable experience with these five unexpected stops along the way. Each stop offers unique and exciting experiences, delicious foods, and beautiful sights. Whether you're interested in history, nature, or simply trying out new cuisines, these stops are sure to make the journey worthwhile. So pack up the car, put on your favorite playlist, and get ready for an adventure!