Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Chicago, Illinois and St. Louis, Missouri

Driving from the lively streets of Chicago to the Gateway Arch of St. Louis brings a sense of excitement and adventure. This road trip takes about 5 hours on a clear day, but can take much longer if traffic is an issue. The I-55 South connects Chicago to St. Louis and is shaded by trees making the journey beautiful and comfortable. You can make this trip in one day or take a few days to make the most of it. The journey is dotted with many towns, each with their unique sights and attractions. Here are five unexpected places to stop at on this exciting drive.

1. Atlanta, IL

Atlanta, IL is the town at the halfway point, located about 125 miles from Chicago and 122 miles from St. Louis. This charming was officially founded in 1853 and is home to a population of about 1,600 people. Atlanta, IL is an ideal place for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Visit the Route 66 Park, a public park that is dedicated to the famous Route 66. It features a water spray park, baseball field, and a playground. Another attraction to visit is the Gin Ridge Cemetery. It is one of the oldest and most historic resting places between St. Louis and Chicago. Lastly, visit the Atlanta Public Library. The Library recognized as a "Bright Idea" by the White House Initiative and has won numerous awards.

For food lovers, the Whisk Bakery and Coffee Shop is an excellent choice. This homely, yet modern, eatery offers a broad range of coffee and tea drinks, sweet-and-savory crepes, and fresh baked goods. Try their Espresso, almond latte, or cappuccino with cherry pie or a customized crepe.

2. Springfield, IL

Springfield, IL is located about 90 miles north of St. Louis and 200 miles south of Chicago, the town is well-known for its unique history rooted in Abraham Lincoln. Springfield is the capital city of the state of Illinois.

Visit the Lincoln Tomb, Abraham Lincoln's burial site. The tomb features a life-size bronze statue of the President and his family, and his famous address - The Gettysburg Address - is engraved into the wall of the tomb. Next, visit the Springfield Old State Capital, where Abraham Lincoln served as a state representative and gave his "House Divided" speech. Lastly, visit the Illinois State Museum. The Museum features millions of objects telling the story of Illinois from its geological beginnings to the present day.

For food lovers, visit Obed & Isaac's Microbrewery & Eatery. This restaurant offers a comfy and classy environment with an all-season beer garden where diners can relax while eating delicious burgers, sandwiches, and pizzas. Try their beer sampler, Moroccan meatballs, or Banh Mi sandwich.

3. Litchfield, IL

Litchfield, IL is located about 45 miles north of St. Louis and 60 miles south of Springfield. The town is small with a population of around 7000 people. If you are interested in history, architecture, and outdoor excursions, this is the place to stop.

Visit the Ariston Cafe, a Route 66 landmark that opened in 1924 and is still functioning. The cafe has been continuously providing decent service and mouth-watering food to travelers for over 90 years. Next, visit the SkyView Drive-in Theater. It is one of the last few remaining drive-in theaters in the region. Lastly, visit Lake Lou Yeager. It offers plenty of outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and camping.

For food lovers, the Perfectly Paired Wine Café is an excellent choice. This restaurant offers a casual and relaxing ambiance with the perfect dining experience. Diners can enjoy tapas-style dishes with a wine flight, a craft beer, or a cocktail. Try their spinach dip, meat-and-cheese platter, or chicken salad.

4. Greenville, IL

Greenville, IL is located about 40 miles east of St. Louis and 65 miles west of Indianapolis. This small town has a population of about 7000 people. It is an excellent place for history buffs, antique collectors, and nature lovers.

Visit the DeMoulin Museum which houses artifacts and exhibitions relating to American fraternal initiatory organizations, especially the secrets and initiation equipment used by such groups. Next, visit the American Farm Heritage Museum. The Museum tells the story of American agriculture and farm history from the early steam engine to modern agriculture through educational exhibits, interactive displays, and live demonstration. Lastly, visit the Greenville City Park and Lake. It offers plenty of outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and camping.

For food lovers, the Sweet Doll House Bakery and Tea Room is an excellent choice. This restaurant serves homemade baked goods such as cookies, pies, cakes, and cupcakes. They also do tea parties with a selection of tea sandwiches, scones, as well as loose-leaf tea. Try their apple strudel, quiche, or sandwiches.

5. Edwardsville, IL

Edwardsville, IL is located about 20 miles northeast of St. Louis and 200 miles away from Chicago. Edwardsville is a vibrant college town and the third oldest city in Illinois. The town has a population of about 32,000 people.

Visit the Edwardsville Arts Center. The center showcases regional artists and their works. Next, visit the Edwardsville Historic District. It encompasses over 50 acres of charming streets, grand homes, and public buildings that date back to the late 19th century. Lastly, visit the MCT Goshen Trail. It offers a perfect spot for biking, hiking, and walking.

For food lovers, Wang Gang Asian Eats is an excellent choice. This restaurant serves up fresh, healthy, and delicious pan-Asian cuisine. Try their Korean beef tacos, lettuce wraps, or the spicy Mongolian beef.

Conclusion

There are so many hidden gems along the Chicago and St. Louis drive that travelers can explore. The journey is dotted with so many sites and attractions such as the Lincoln Tomb, Route 66 landmarks, and the Old State Capitol building. Try the Perfectly Paired Wine Café in Litchfield, Wang Gang Asian Eats in Edwardsville, Sweet Doll House Bakery and Tea Room in Greenville, Obed & Isaac's Microbrewery & Eatery in Springfield, and Whisk Bakery and Coffee in Atlanta. These unexpected places offer perfect spots to stretch your legs, explore, and eat some delicious food.