Exploring the Heart of America: Best Places to Visit from Austin to St. Louis

Traveling across the heart of America, one can experience the charming small towns, rolling hills, and breathtaking natural beauty. The journey from Austin to St. Louis covers an impressive 800 miles, taking you through a diverse range of landscapes, cultures, and experiences. In this blog post, we’ve put together a list of the best places to stopover, explore, and unwind on this road trip. So buckle up, pack your bags, and let’s hit the road!

Texas Hill Country

As you depart from Austin, treat your senses to the scenic beauty and rolling hills of the Texas Hill Country. Take a detour and explore Fredericksburg, the charming historic town that once served as the center of the German settlements. The town is famous for its unique architecture, delicious German cuisine, and wineries. Don’t miss a visit to the Enchanted Rock State Natural park, featuring a 425-foot pink granite dome. This park is a hiker’s paradise with numerous trails that take you through the rugged terrain and offer stunning views of the surrounding area.

Little Rock, Arkansas

Continuing the journey, you’ll soon reach Little Rock, Arkansas. This city has some iconic landmarks that will take you back to the Civil Rights era. Visit the Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site, the site of a major racial crisis in 1957 when nine African American students were blocked from entering the school by the national guardsmen. The museum’s collection includes striking exhibits and historical artifacts from the Civil Right Movement. Head to the Clinton Presidential Library, dedicated to the 42nd president of the United States, Bill Clinton. The library explores the tumultuous times of his presidency and offers fascinating insights into the achievements and scandals that defined his administration.

Memphis, Tennessee

No road trip across America is complete without a stopover in Memphis, Tennessee, the birthplace of rock ‘n’ roll and blues music. Memphis is home to legendary attractions such as Beale Street, Graceland, and the National Civil Rights Museum. Explore Beale Street, which has attracted music lovers from across the globe for over a century. The street is lined with music clubs, souvenir shops, and barbecue restaurants. At Graceland - the former home of Elvis Presley, you’ll get a chance to see and experience the king of rock ‘n’ roll’s life. The mansion is filled with his personal belongings, including cars, costumes, and gold records. Lastly, visit the National Civil Rights Museum, which chronicles over 400 years of African American history and the challenges they have faced along the way to claim their rights and freedom.

Meramec Caverns, Missouri

As you enter Missouri, make a point of stopping over at the Meramec Caverns, which date back millions of years. These caverns are home to some of the rarest and most impressive geological formations, including stalagmites and stalactites. Take a guided tour and explore the beauty and mystery of this natural wonder. There are plenty of activities, including boat rides and zip lines, to keep the whole family entertained. If you’re lucky, you might even get a chance to participate in one of their fun events, like concerts or the annual Haunted Caverns Halloween event.

Gateway Arch and St. Louis, Missouri

This marks the end of your Austin to St. Louis road trip, and we’ve saved the best for last! Take a tour of the iconic Gateway Arch and learn about its fascinating history and architecture. The arch stands at a height of 630 feet, making it the tallest monument in the United States. The view from the top is breath-taking, offering panoramic views of the skyline and the Mississippi River. To fully experience St. Louis, take a stroll through Forest Park, which is home to multiple art and history museums, a zoo, and a science center. For a unique treat, stop by Ted Drewes Frozen Custard, a world-famous frozen custard shop that has been serving frozen treats for over 80 years.

Conclusion

From the rolling hills of Texas Hill Country to the breathtaking beauty of Meramec Caverns, the journey from Austin to St. Louis offers plenty of experiences and attractions. Whether you’re a history buff, an adventure seeker, or a nature lover, this road trip will leave you with unforgettable memories and stories to share. So pack your bags, grab your maps, and get ready to explore the heart of America.