Spring Breakin' with the Mississippi: Columbia, MO to Quincy, IL
Ah, spring break. The smell of freedom (and maybe a faint whiff of sunscreen) hangs in the air. This year, ditch the crowded beaches and overpriced theme parks. Instead, buckle up for an adventure down the mighty Mississippi River, from Columbia, MO to Quincy, IL!
Day 1: Rolling out of CoMo
Cruise down Route 70, windows down, singing along to classic road trip anthems. Make a pit stop at Mark Twain National Forest for a short hike and stunning river views. Refuel in Hannibal, the inspiration for Twain’s iconic novels, and visit the Mark Twain Boyhood Home & Museum. Don’t miss the chance to snap a pic with Becky Thatcher’s statue!
Day 2: Lewis & Clark Trail and Historic Charm
Journey west on the Lewis and Clark Trail, learning about the explorers’ historic journey at the Lewis & Clark State Historic Site. Have dinner with a view in Alton! Alton, Illinois welcomes us with open arms and even wider Mississippi River vistas. Dinner is a feast at a local joint, plates piled high with comfort food and stories shared. We catch the sunset over the water, painting the sky in fiery hues before hitting the road again, the city lights twinkling like a promise of adventures to come.
Day 3: Cahokia Mounds and Quincy Quirks
Cross the mighty Mississippi into Illinois! Be awestruck by the ancient Cahokia Mounds, North America’s largest prehistoric city. Immerse yourself in history at the Cahokia Mounds Museum and imagine life here centuries ago. In Quincy, get your kicks at the unique Hands of Lincoln sculpture, a 19-foot-tall replica of President Lincoln’s hands. For dinner, try authentic German cuisine at the iconic Adams Street Restaurant, established in 1889.
Day 4: Nature & Nostalgia
Start your day with a rejuvenating hike at John Wood Nature Preserve, spotting diverse birds and enjoying the fresh air. Then, take a step back in time at the Quincy History Museum, learning about the town’s rich heritage. Treat yourself to a scoop (or two) of homemade ice cream at the iconic Maid-Rite, a Quincy staple since 1926.
Day 5: Farewell, Mississippi!
As your spring break adventure comes to an end, Stoney Creek Quincy is happy to be apart of your adventure, so enjoy one last stroll along the Mississippi Riverfront, soaking in the tranquility of the flowing water. Head back to Columbia with a heart full of memories, quirky stories, and a renewed appreciation for the Midwest’s hidden gems.
Bonus Tips:
- Pack snacks and drinks for the road.
- Download offline maps and playlists for when cell service gets patchy.
- Check local events and festivals happening during your trip.
- Don’t forget your camera! Capture the stunning scenery and unique experiences.
- Be respectful of the environment and local communities.
This is just a suggestion, of course! Feel free to customize your itinerary based on your interests and time constraints. Remember, the beauty of a road trip is the flexibility and discovery. So, hit the road, embrace the adventure, and let the Mississippi River guide you to an unforgettable spring break!
