Branson to Chicago

Question

We will be driving from Branson, Mi to Chicago next march. We (husband and myself, late 60s) plan to take around 5 days to do the drive. Any suggestions for places to visit on route? We like small towns, gentle hikes, historical stuff, rivers, waterfalls and anything similar. Also, whats the weather likely to be as we arrive in C? Thanks

Answer

That sounds like a wonderful road trip! Driving from Branson to Chicago in March will give you the chance to explore some charming small towns and enjoy scenic spots along the way. Here's a suggested itinerary with stops that fit your interests in history, nature, and small-town charm, as well as some tips on what to expect weather-wise:

Day 1: Branson to Springfield, MO
Start your trip with a short drive to Springfield, Missouri, just about 1.5 hours from Branson. Springfield is known for its history, particularly its role in the Civil War. You can visit the Wilson's Creek National Battlefield for a fascinating historical site with gentle hikes through the park. Another nice stop is the Missouri State Penitentiary, a former prison that now offers tours, showcasing the state’s history.
Day 2: Springfield, MO to St. Louis, MO
Next, make your way to St. Louis, about a 3-hour drive. St. Louis has a lot of historical attractions and is a great city to explore. You can visit the Gateway Arch, which is an iconic American landmark. If you’re interested in more natural sights, the Missouri Botanical Garden offers peaceful walks and beautiful landscapes. For a gentle hike, Forest Park is a great place, and you can visit the St. Louis Art Museum within the park for a bit of culture too.
Day 3: St. Louis, MO to Alton, IL
From St. Louis, head across the river to Alton, Illinois (about 30 minutes), a charming town on the banks of the Mississippi River. Alton has rich history, including the Lincoln-Douglas Debates historical sites. If you enjoy waterfalls and nature, the Rocky Fork Creek in Alton is a lovely stop for a short hike, and there are nearby scenic viewpoints overlooking the Mississippi River.
Day 4: Alton, IL to Springfield, IL
From Alton, head to Springfield, Illinois (about 1.5 hours), the state capital, which is known for its association with Abraham Lincoln. You can visit the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum and take a stroll through Lincoln’s Tomb in Oak Ridge Cemetery. There are several historic sites related to Lincoln’s life and legacy in Springfield, which would be a perfect fit for your interests in history.
Day 5: Springfield, IL to Chicago, IL
The final leg of your trip takes you to Chicago (about 3.5 hours). Once in Chicago, you can visit Millennium Park and explore the Chicago History Museum, which offers a wealth of information about the city’s rich history. For a gentler hike, the Chicago Lakefront Trail offers beautiful views along Lake Michigan.

Weather Considerations: In March, weather can be quite variable. In Branson, you may experience cool but manageable temperatures, ranging from the mid-40s to low-50s°F (7-10°C). As you move north, the temperatures will likely get colder, especially as you near Chicago, where you can expect average highs in the 40s°F (5-9°C) and occasional colder spells, possibly dipping into the 30s°F (0-5°C) at night. Snow is possible in both St. Louis and Chicago, though it’s not guaranteed. Layering will be key to staying comfortable throughout your journey, and it’s a good idea to check weather forecasts closer to your departure date to pack accordingly.

Other Tips:

If you enjoy charming small towns, consider adding stops like Hannibal, Missouri, the boyhood home of Mark Twain, which is full of history and a peaceful, scenic location along the Mississippi River.
Don’t forget to check out some of the local diners and roadside stops for a taste of regional cuisine as you travel through these areas.
Be sure to leave time for some relaxing strolls and perhaps a visit to a local park to enjoy the outdoors as you drive through these towns.

With these stops and the scenic, leisurely pace, you’ll have a wonderful trip filled with history, nature, and relaxation. Safe travels!