Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Cape Girardeau, Missouri to New Braunfels, Texas
If you're looking for a road trip that has a little bit of everything, then a journey from Cape Girardeau, Missouri to New Braunfels, Texas might just be the perfect adventure. This 740-mile journey takes just over 12 hours to complete, and it passes through a number of beautiful towns and scenic landscapes. As you make your way from the northernmost point of Missouri to the sunny plains of Texas, there are plenty of unexpected places to stop and explore. Here are five of our favorite hidden gems along the way.
Texarkana, AR
As the halfway point of your trip, Texarkana makes for the perfect stopover. Located right on the border between Arkansas and Texas, it's a town that's steeped in history and full of Southern charm. A great spot to stretch your legs is the Texarkana Visitor Center, which features a large selection of local gifts, souvenirs and other travel essentials.
1. The Gateway Arch, St. Louis, MO
Right at the start of your journey (or end if you're returning from Texas), it's worth taking a detour to marvel at the Gateway Arch. This iconic structure in the heart of St. Louis is the tallest arch in the world, standing at 630 feet. Visitors can take a tram to the top, where they'll be treated to stunning views of the city and the Mississippi River. Don't forget to snap a picture to remember this momentous stop.
Food Tip: For a true St. Louis experience, grab a slice of their famous thin-crust pizza from Imo's.
2. Ha Ha Tonka State Park, Camdenton, MO
This stunning state park features a natural rock bridge, numerous caves, and a magnificent castle ruin. Located just south of Camdenton, the park's most famous attraction is the ruins of a stone mansion that was built in the early 1900s. Visitors can explore the ruins and take in the breathtaking views of the park's many trails and ponds.
Food Tip: After a long day of hiking and exploring, tuck into some classic American comfort food at the nearby Captain Ron's at the Lake.
3. Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, Bentonville, AR
Nestled in the small town of Bentonville is a true gem of American art. The Crystal Bridges Museum boasts a large collection of works from well-known artists such as Andy Warhol, Norman Rockwell, and Georgia O'Keeffe. There's also a collection of outdoor sculpture trails and beautiful walking paths throughout the expansive grounds.
Food Tip: For a unique taste of Bentonville, head to The Hive at 21c Museum Hotel for some elevated Southern cuisine.
4. Cadillac Ranch, Amarillo, TX
This quirky attraction is a must-see for anyone passing through Amarillo. Cadillac Ranch features a row of Cadillacs buried nose-down in the ground that have been painted with graffiti over the years. It's a testament to the wacky, weird spirit of roadside attractions, and it's not to be missed.
Food Tip: For some hometown Texan cooking, try The Big Texan Steak Ranch, where they offer free 72-ounce steaks to anyone who can finish them in under an hour.
5. Gruene Hall, New Braunfels, TX
The final stop of your journey takes you to Gruene Hall, which is the oldest dance hall in Texas, and one of the oldest and most famous in the country. Established in 1878, the hall has hosted a range of music and dance acts over the years, and it's still a beloved spot for locals and visitors alike. And if you're lucky, you might catch some live music during your visit.
Food Tip: For some Texas-sized portions, head to the nearby Gristmill River Restaurant & Bar.
A Road Trip to Remember
From the iconic Gateway Arch to the wild Cadillac Ranch, this road trip has something for everyone. With a mix of natural beauty, fascinating museums, and wacky roadside attractions, it's a journey that will leave you with memories to cherish. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your next adventure along the open road.