Grab a quick fuel-up and coffee at Kwik Trip (St. Joseph) and check tire pressures and route; aim to leave by 3:15 PM to begin the scenic drive into Wisconsin.
Drive east toward Wisconsin with a short scenic stop at Perkins Park (near St. Cloud) if you want a leg stretch and river views before the longer highway sections.
Quick dinner stop at The Griddle (Kimball) or choose a classic diner like McDonald's depending on timing-refuel both the car and the crew for the evening miles ahead.
Continue east, planning a brief photographer's pull-off at Interstate 94 scenic overlooks in Wisconsin for golden-hour countryside photos if conditions allow.
Stretch break and restroom stop at a well-rated traveler-friendly spot like Love's Travel Stop (Tomah, WI area) to reset before the final driving leg toward Illinois/Kentucky corridor.
Fill up gas and grab snacks for the overnight push at Pilot Travel Center (Tomah) or a comparable station, and check estimated arrival time into the Cincinnati/Williamsport corridor.
If you're feeling rested, make a short detour to stretch at Fort Atkinson River Walk (Fort Atkinson, WI) for fresh air and evening river views; otherwise take a cafe break at Perkins Restaurant & Bakery (Black River Falls).
Overnight driving checkpoint: switch drivers, log next fuel/rest stop, and plan for a larger rest or hotel stop near Madison, WI or southern Wisconsin depending on fatigue and timing.
Dinner on the road at The Griddle (Kimball) for homestyle plates, or grab sandwiches at Subway (Kimball) if you prefer a faster stop.
Hit the highway again and take a brief stretch at Perkins Park (near St. Cloud) for fresh air and river views before the longer interstate miles.
If pressing on, take a restroom and snack break at a well-lit rest area or TravelCenters of America to stay alert; otherwise search for last-minute hotel options near Madison, WI or southern Wisconsin.
Breakfast at Big Mike's Breakfast & Burgers or the hotel buffet to fuel up before a full day; pick up bottled water and a light snack for the Ark tour.
Arrive at The Ark Encounter right at opening to beat crowds; take the introductory orientation and map out highlights you want to see first.
Begin the guided/interactive walkthrough of The Ark Encounter exhibits, focusing on the full-scale ark model and the first-floor animal displays.
Pause for a mid-morning coffee or hot chocolate at The Ark Encounter Café and browse the gift shop for unique souvenirs and reference books.
Continue to upper-deck exhibits and special features like the craftsmanship displays and panoramic viewing platforms at The Ark Encounter.
Visit the on-site Ararat Ridge Zoo area or the animal encounters nearby for a brief, family-friendly stop before lunch.
Lunch at Emzara's Kitchen on-site for homestyle comfort food, then take a short walk to the outdoor exhibits to enjoy fresh air and photos of the Ark exterior.
Attend a scheduled talk or presentation in the Ark Encounter auditorium to dive deeper into the construction and historical interpretation.
Explore the interactive children's area and hands-on displays, or let kids enjoy the play spaces near Ararat Ridge Zoo while adults browse educational exhibits.
Visit the nearby Creation Museum shuttle stop if you're interested in a short ride over for comparative exhibits and botanical gardens (allow time for the shuttle round trip).
Relax with a specialty drink and dessert at The Ark Encounter Café or nearby snack kiosks, then shop for souvenirs and books in the main gift shop.
Take a final self-guided stroll along the scenic viewpoints and photo spots around The Ark Encounter, capturing sunset light on the structure if weather permits.
Depart the Ark grounds and head to nearby Williamstown dining options such as The Hopeful Local Eatery or return to your hotel to freshen up before dinner.
Dinner at Giuseppe's Italian Restaurant (Williamstown) or another local favorite to savor a relaxed evening meal and review tomorrow's plan to visit Lexington.
Optional evening activity: take a short drive to Devou Park (Covington) for skyline views of Cincinnati (if daylight and energy allow), otherwise enjoy quiet time at the hotel.
Return to your hotel, charge devices, and organize tickets and route notes for the drive to Lexington tomorrow; enjoy a final nightcap or light snack.
Drive a short distance to Williamstown Riverfront Park for a leisurely riverside stroll and photos as twilight settles over the Ohio River.
Return to the hotel to freshen up, then stop by The Ark Encounter gift shop online portal or hotel lobby kiosk to order any items you decided on earlier.
If you're up for a low-key outing, visit Covington's MainStrasse Village for a drink or dessert at a cozy pub or café and take in the historic streetscape.
Wind down back at the hotel with a light nightcap or herbal tea, review tomorrow's Lexington route and reservations, and set alarms for an efficient departure.
Check out of your Williamstown hotel and drive toward Lexington; stop for a quick breakfast at First Watch (Covington) or grab coffee and pastries to go from Coffee Emporium (Covington) to enjoy on the road.
Arrive in downtown Lexington and park near Courthouse Plaza; take a short orientation stroll to get a feel for the grid and note must-see spots for later.
Visit Mary Todd Lincoln House for a guided tour of the historic home and learn about the life of Abraham Lincoln's wife through curated exhibits.
Walk over to Rupp Arena/State Botanical Garden area and enjoy a coffee break at Coffee Times Café while planning the remainder of your Lexington exploration.
Head to Keeneland Race Course (short drive) for a self-guided tour of the grounds, take photos of the historic grandstand, and browse the gift shop for racing memorabilia.
Lunch at Coles 735 Main back in downtown Lexington for Southern-inspired fare and a chance to rest before afternoon activities around the Bluegrass region.
Walk off lunch with a short drive to The Arboretum, State Botanical Garden of Kentucky and enjoy the winter plant displays and peaceful walking paths; pop into the visitor center for maps and seasonal highlights.
Head to Ashland, The Henry Clay Estate for a guided tour of the historic mansion and formal gardens, learning about Kentucky politics and 19th-century life.
Drive to Lexington Distilling Co. for a tasting or tour (check availability) and sample locally made spirits while learning about the craft distilling scene.
Stroll through the charming blocks of Cheapside Market and nearby boutiques, picking up local goods and stopping for a mid-afternoon pastry or coffee at Miriam Market & Cafe.
Visit the University of Kentucky campus to wander the campus green and pop into the Lexington Visitor Center or the UK Art Museum for a quick cultural stop.
Return toward downtown for pre-dinner drinks at The Grey Goose or a craft cocktail at Eddie Merlot's (Lexington) before settling in for an evening meal; use this time to freshen up at your hotel if needed.
Dinner at Distilled on Jefferson or Jeff Ruby's Steakhouse for an elevated meal; enjoy local bourbon suggestions from the sommelier and savor classic Kentucky flavors.
Take an evening walk through Cheapside Park and the nearby historic downtown blocks to admire adaptive-reuse architecture and pop into a boutique or gallery still open for late shoppers.
Catch live music or a performance at Lexington Opera House (check the schedule) or opt for a laid-back acoustic set at The Burl for local talent and craft cocktails.
Stop by The Barrel House or Bluegrass Tavern for a nightcap and a chance to sample regional bourbons or craft beers in a convivial setting.
Return to your hotel and, if you want a late stroll, visit the illuminated grounds of Keeneland (if open for evening events) or enjoy a quiet courtyard walk near your accommodation.
Wind down with a final review of tomorrow's route and plans; charge devices, set out any items needed for departure, and enjoy a restful night at your Lexington lodging.
Check out of your Lexington hotel and pick up breakfast to go from First Watch or grab coffee and pastries from Common Grounds Coffee Shop for the drive toward Benton.
Short stretch break in Madisonville at Mayfield Creek Park or a quick refuel and restroom stop at Pilot Travel Center (I-69) to refresh before continuing the drive.
Arrive in Benton, KY and start with a walk through downtown to admire local storefronts and pop into the Marshall County Courthouse square for photos and orientation.
Visit the small but informative Marshall County Historical Society Museum to learn about the area's history and pick up local maps or pamphlets for nearby sights.
Grab an early lunch or hearty snack at The Mayfield Café & Diner (or a popular local spot like Benton Family Restaurant) to sample home-style Kentucky comfort food before afternoon exploring.
Take a short drive to Kentucky Lake and stroll along the shoreline at Benton Harbor Public Access, enjoying water views and a peaceful post-lunch walk.
Visit the interactive exhibits at The Kentucky Lake Museum (or a local visitor center) to learn about the lake's formation, TVA history, and regional ecology.
Head to Marshall County Fish Hatchery (if open) for a quick educational stop about local fisheries and a chance to see trout rearing ponds and interpretive displays.
Enjoy a mid-afternoon coffee or sweet treat at Coffee Mill & Deli (Benton) while planning a scenic drive around the lakeshore or a short photo stop at a nearby overlook.
Drive out to Tipping Point Park or another local green space for light hiking, birdwatching, and panoramic views of the surrounding farmland and waterways.
Explore local shops back in downtown Benton, including antique or gift shops near the Marshall County Courthouse square for unique finds and souvenirs.
Stop at El Rio Mexican Restaurant (Benton) or Kenny's Family Restaurant for an early dinner choice of regional favorites or casual homestyle cooking before evening plans.
If time allows, drive a short distance to Overlook Trail or a nearby sunset viewpoint along Kentucky Lake to capture golden-hour photos and relax before nightfall.
Freshen up at your hotel and walk to Marshall Landing Park for a gentle riverside stroll as twilight settles; the park's benches and waterfront views make a calm spot to unwind after the day's drives.
Dinner at El Rio Mexican Restaurant (Benton) or, if you'd prefer comfort classics, head to Kenny's Family Restaurant for homestyle plates and friendly service in a local setting.
Catch local evening life with a dessert or coffee at Coffee Mill & Deli (Benton), or try a craft beer at Marshall County Brewing Co. if they're pouring - enjoy relaxed conversation and people-watching downtown.
Take a short drive to Benton Harbor Public Access for stargazing and reflective lakeside views; bring a light jacket and a blanket for a peaceful end-of-day moment by the water.
Return to the courthouse square and browse any evening shop windows or pick up a locally made souvenir from a downtown boutique before heading back to your room.
Wind down at your hotel with a nightcap or herbal tea, review tomorrow's travel plan to St. Louis, and charge devices; jot down any last-minute notes after today's explorations.
Lights out or quiet reading - aim for a restful sleep to be refreshed for the drive toward St. Louis tomorrow morning.
Check out of your Benton hotel and pick up breakfast to-go from Coffee Mill & Deli (Benton) or grab fresh pastries and coffee at Kenny's Family Restaurant before the drive toward St. Louis.
Depart Benton and follow I-24/I-57 toward St. Louis with an easy morning playlist; plan a short restroom and stretch stop at WPSD Travel Center (Hopkinsville area) or a convenient highway rest area.
Mid-drive coffee and snack break at Starbucks (Mount Vernon, IL) or a local café like Two Brothers Coffeehouse, stretching legs and checking estimated arrival time into St. Louis.
Arrive in St. Louis and begin your morning with a visit to Forest Park, parking near the Saint Louis Art Museum grounds for a scenic walk and lakeside views to reset after the drive.
Take a quick cultural stop at The Saint Louis Art Museum (free general admission) to see highlights or a specific gallery wing, then enjoy a coffee at the museum café before lunch planning.
Lunch at The Boathouse at Forest Park for riverside seating and classic American fare, then take a short walk along the lagoon to enjoy the park scenery.
Visit the nearby Missouri History Museum to browse exhibits about St. Louis' past and the 1904 World's Fair; stop by the museum shop for local guidebooks or postcards.
Drive or take a rideshare to The Gateway Arch National Park and stroll the grounds, photographing the Arch from different angles and enjoying views of the riverfront.
Take the tram ride to the top of The Gateway Arch (reserve tickets if possible) for sweeping views of St. Louis and the Mississippi River.
Explore the interactive exhibits at the Gateway Arch Museum beneath the Arch, learning more about westward expansion and the Arch's construction.
Head north to Laclede's Landing for a relaxed coffee or late-afternoon pastry at Kaldis Coffee and wander the cobblestone streets lined with historic brick buildings.
Check into your downtown St. Louis hotel (suggestions: Drury Plaza Hotel St. Louis at the Arch or Hyatt Regency St. Louis at The Arch) and freshen up before evening plans.
Walk to Ballpark Village or nearby restaurants for pre-dinner drinks; try a craft cocktail at Mike Duffy's or a local brew at Urban Chestnut Bierhall to sample St. Louis flavors.
Walk from your hotel to Ballpark Village or the nearby riverfront and enjoy pre-dinner small plates and a cocktail at Mike Duffy's while soaking up the lively downtown atmosphere.
Dinner at Tony's (Italian-American) or Broadway Oyster Bar for local seafood and live music; reserve ahead if possible to avoid wait times on a busy evening.
Catch a performance or live music at The Pageant in The Delmar Loop (check listings) or enjoy a jazz set at Jazz St. Louis for a refined evening of local culture.
Head to The Edward Jones Dome / Citygarden area for a post-show stroll through illuminated sculptures and fountains, perfect for nighttime photos and a quiet wind-down.
Stop for a late-night dessert or coffee at Kaldis Coffee in Laclede's Landing (if still open) or return to your hotel's bar for a nightcap and recap the day's highlights.
Return to your hotel to pack any items for tomorrow, charge devices, and enjoy a final moment on your room's window view of The Gateway Arch before turning in.
Check out of your St. Louis hotel and grab a hearty breakfast at Rooster for farm-fresh plates and strong coffee to fuel the long drive north.
Load luggage and depart St. Louis heading northwest on I-70/I-72; plan a quick stretch stop about 90 minutes out and keep water and snacks from Rooster within easy reach.
Short restroom and coffee break at Casey's General Store (Hannibal, MO area) or a local café; take a brief walk along the Mississippi Riverfront if time allows to stretch your legs.
Resume your drive toward central Illinois with an optional detour to see the river views at Mark Twain Boyhood Home & Museum grounds if you'd like a quick cultural photo stop (outside viewing only).
Mid-morning snack and refuel at Starbucks (Quincy, IL) or a highway rest stop; use this break to adjust ETA and route toward I-35 for the final leg into Minnesota.
Continue the drive with a lunch stop at Annie's Barn (Pekin, IL) or a highway diner; stretch legs, enjoy a hearty sandwich or salad, and refill the tank for the afternoon leg.
Resume on I-72/I-74 heading northwest; take a scenic 15-minute detour to walk along the riverfront at Peoria Riverfront if you want fresh air and a photo break.
Pull over for a coffee and pastry at Jay's Coffee House (Bloomington, IL) to recharge; use this stop to swap drivers, check traffic, and update your ETA into Minnesota.
Stretch and snack break at Lincoln Landing Park (Lincoln, IL) or a convenient rest area; take a short walk to loosen up and enjoy a quick roadside picnic with snacks from earlier stops.
Refuel and grab cold drinks at Casey's General Store (Galesburg, IL area); pick up groceries or sandwiches if you prefer a later roadside dinner while keeping to your schedule.
Dinner stop at Brown's Restaurant & Brewery (Moline/Rock Island area) or a local family restaurant off I-74 for a relaxed meal and a chance to refresh before the final driving stretch into Iowa and Minnesota.
Resume the drive northward with a final restroom and stretch break planned near Davenport Riverwalk if time allows; enjoy an evening riverside stroll to break up the last hours behind the wheel.
Short caffeine or snack stop at Kwik Trip (near Interstate exits in Iowa) to stay alert for the remaining miles, check navigation for the quickest route into St. Joseph, and rotate drivers if needed.
Planned arrival window in the St. Joseph area; pull into your driveway or lodging, unload luggage, and take a few moments to relax and stretch after the day's driving.
Enjoy dinner at Brown's Restaurant & Brewery (Moline/Rock Island area) for a relaxed meal and local brews to break up the journey before the final leg home.
Take a short riverside stroll along the Davenport Riverwalk to stretch your legs and snap evening photos of the Mississippi before resuming the drive.
Quick caffeine and snack stop at Kwik Trip (near interstate exits in Iowa) to refuel the car and grab energy-boosting snacks for the remaining miles.
Drive the next stretch toward Minnesota while listening to a favorite podcast or playlist; rotate drivers if needed and check navigation for any traffic updates.