The Breathtaking Scenic Drive Through Missouri That Runs Along The Mississippi
By Andrea Verschuyl|Published June 04, 2024
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Andrea Verschuyl
Author
Having grown up in Washington, Andrea is a self-admitted Pacific Northwest snob. In their opinion, there's simply nowhere else in the country with the Evergreen State's beauty. After attending university, Andrea devoted themselves to writing full-time. They're thrilled to represent Washington for Only In Your State while pursuing other professional and personal projects. They currently reside in Olympia, where they enjoy leaf-blowing their yard, perfecting homemade ramen, cuddling with their three tiny dogs, and feeding their pufferfish, Sea Biscuit.
Gas may be expensive, but hitting the road for an adventure remains as American as apple pie. A whopping one in nine Americans goes on a road trip every year. As any seasoned road-tripper knows, it takes more than a good packing list to ensure your getaway goes off without a hitch. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by possible destinations, consider this easy-peasy Route 79 excursion, a short road trip in Missouri that follows the Mississippi river from small-town Hannibal to big-city St. Louis.
Your route is actually a fraction of The Great River Road, an epic collection of state and local roads that follow the Mississippi River from Illinois all the way to Louisiana. For this road trip, you'll be biting off just 117 miles of the adventure's 2,340 miles.
Bid Hannibal adieu via Route 79, which hugs the stunning Mississippi. Your next pull-off is a scenic lookout that gives travelers an incredible view of the valley and— when traveling in autumn— jaw-dropping fall colors.
Your next chance to stretch your legs is at Missouri's Ted Shanks Conservation Area, one of several wildlife preserves along the river. Bring binoculars and your favorite snacks in case you get hungry while bird-watching!
From there, it's just 30 minutes until your next stop in Clarksville. Founded in 1817, this idyllic town is an artist's paradise. If you choose to spend the night, be sure to check out the local shops where talented artisans display their goods.
The following day, bring your best hiking shoes and hit the ground running at Clarence Cannon National Wildlife Refuge, where you'll have your pick of 2,100 miles of trails and boardwalks. Renowned for its biodiversity, this incredible park isn't one you'll want to miss.
An hour away is the Our Lady of River shrine in Portage De Sioux. Overlooking the Illinois bluffs and the Mississippi waves, this minimalist statue brings good luck to boaters. It will likely bring good luck to roadtrippers, too!
1553 River View Dr, Portage Des Sioux, MO 63373, USA
From here, it's just 40 minutes to big-city St. Louis. Everyone has their favorite St. Louis spot, but if you're open to suggestions, I recommend Adriana's on the Hill near the Missouri Botanical Garden. Its bread and butter are mouth-watering Sicilian pizzas, but I can't resist the Italian sausage and roast beef sandwiches.
Spend the night in St. Louis and wake up to a day of possibility. Either forge ahead on The Great River Road or head home with some well-earned ticks on the odometer and some unforgettable memories.
Are you looking for a short road trip in Missouri? Consider taking on this segment of The Great River Road. With small towns, big cities, and gorgeous Mississippi views, it’s hard to beat this 117-mile adventure.
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