Everyone knows they can get their kicks on Route 66; they may not know about all the fun on Route 61, also known as “The Blues Highway” and “The Avenue of the Saints.” Using the St. Louis metro area as a central point, you’ll find charming small towns, great outdoor opportunities, famous folks and artistic communities, as well as views of the Mississippi River, whether you travel north or south. Note for travelers, Route 61 overlaps with several highways throughout Missouri; some of these stops may be in cities that aren’t on Route 61.
Heading north from St. Louis on U.S. 61 (which overlaps with routes 64 and 40 around St. Louis), you’ll find the city of Troy, home to Cuivre River State Park. Located less than 10 minutes from the highway, this site is a great place to take a light breakfast and/or picnic lunch, then enjoy the solitude of Lake Lincoln. If you’re up to it, the park offers several trails for walking and hiking, some lead to Frenchman’s Bluff, a 120-foot peak that offers views of the river valley.
Located at 678 Route 147, 636-528-7247.
There are a variety of places to see in Hannibal, among them is the Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum, which is about three miles from U.S. 61. Twain’s home is a designated National Historic Landmark, at 120 N. Main St., 573-221-9010. This property features six historically significant properties and two interactive museums. (Just a note for those with a sweet tooth: between Troy and Hannibal, you’ll find Bowling Green, home to Bankhead Chocolates, 810 Business Route 61, 573-324-2312.)
While you’re downtown, take in the mix of shopping and dining options, or hop aboard the Mark Twain Riverboat. Cruise the Mississippi River and enjoy live music while taking in beautiful scenery and a dinner cruise.
The boat leaves from Center Street Landing, 573-221-3222. See website for pricing and cruise times, which vary by season.
This cave is listed as a National Natural Landmark. This is a labyrinth cave, one of few in the world, where the passages form criss-cross style patterns. There are no steps, but good walking shoes are recommended. Located two miles from Historic Downtown Hannibal on Missouri Route 79.
300 Cave Hollow Road, 573-221-1656
Civil War buffs may know something about the Palmyra Massacre.
North of Hannibal on Route 61 approximately 12 miles.
Sure to be a nice diversion. Terrible's Mark Twain Casino is a stationary boat Casino in La Grange.
104 Pierce St., 573-655-4770