3-Day Curvy Road Trip & Stargazing Adventure from St. Louis

Day 1: Curvy Roads & Historic Town

St. Louis to Ste. Genevieve, Missouri, USA on June 13, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Rooster

Start your day with a hearty Southern-style breakfast in Maplewood, known for its flavorful biscuits and farm-fresh eggs, preparing you well for the road ahead.
USD15, 1h0m

9:30am

Drive to Ste. Genevieve via Highway 61 and Route 32

Enjoy approximately 1.5 hours of scenic curvy roads with lush greenery and gentle hills, perfect for a leisurely drive filled with photo stops and countryside views.
USD0, 1h30m

11:00am

Explore Historic Ste. Genevieve

Discover Missouri’s oldest European settlement with its well-preserved French colonial architecture, artisan shops, and local history museums.
USD5 for museum entry, 2h0m

1:15pm

Lunch at La Borne Bakery

Relish a delicious artisanal sandwich or quiche paired with fresh-baked bread at this charming, locally beloved bakery opened till 4 pm.
USD20, 1h0m

2:30pm

Drive scenic Highway 32 to Mark Twain National Forest

This 2-hour drive is famous for its winding roads and beautiful forested landscapes, a perfect road trip stretch for driving enthusiasts.
USD0, 2h0m

4:30pm

Check in at local cabin or lodge near Mark Twain National Forest

Settle into your rustic accommodation close to nature, ideal for relaxing after the day's drive and preparing for evening adventures.
USD120, N/A

9:00pm

Stargazing at Mark Twain National Forest

Head out after dark to one of the forest’s clearings, a designated International Dark Sky Park area, to witness breathtaking night skies and constellations.
USD0, 2h0m
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Day 2: Nature & Adventure

Mark Twain National Forest, Missouri, USA on June 14, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at the lodge

Enjoy a quick and wholesome breakfast onsite to fuel a day full of forest hiking and exploration.
USD12, 0h45m

8:30am

Hiking and Curvy Drive in Mark Twain National Forest

Explore scenic trails like Cedar Creek Trail and enjoy the winding forest roads, offering waterfalls, wildlife viewing, and stunning natural beauty.
USD0, 4h0m

12:30pm

Picnic Lunch at a designated area within the forest

Relax and have a packed picnic lunch amidst peaceful woodland surroundings, perfect for a nature break.
USD15 (packing own lunch), 1h0m

2:00pm

Continue scenic drive exploring more curves and overlooks

The afternoon is perfect for driving along neglected forest roads and discovering hidden scenic overlooks and small streams.
USD0, 2h0m

4:30pm

Return to lodge for rest

Unwind at your accommodation, freshen up for the evening.
USD0, N/A

6:30pm

Dinner at local eatery, The Blue Owl Restaurant

Enjoy homestyle Missouri cooking with BBQ and classic comfort dishes at this popular local joint open until 9 pm.
USD25, 1h15m

9:00pm

Optional Night Drive on Forest Roads

Experience a peaceful night drive on safe forest routes to enjoy nocturnal sounds and stargazing from your vehicle.
USD0, 1h0m
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Day 3: Return & Scenic Stops

Mark Twain National Forest to St. Louis, Missouri, USA on June 15, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast and pack-up at lodge

Have a relaxed breakfast and prepare for checkout before heading back towards St. Louis.
USD12, 1h0m

9:00am

Drive towards Castlewood State Park

On your return, take a detour to Castlewood State Park which offers curvy and scenic roads along the Meramec River, great for a final day drive.
USD0, 1h45m

10:45am

Hiking and photo stops at Castlewood State Park

Explore trails with river overlooks, cliffs, and wildflower fields; a beautiful spot for nature lovers and photographers.
USD0, 2h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at The Blue Owl BBQ & Ale House nearby

Enjoy casual BBQ plates and craft beers in a friendly ambiance to celebrate the trip.
USD25, 1h0m

2:30pm

Final scenic drive back to St. Louis city centre

Conclude your trip by driving back the last stretch into the city, reflecting on your curvy and star-filled adventure.
USD0, 1h0m
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