Road Trip from Houston to WI-- Suggestions?

[ekatiel]

We're driving to visit the in-laws this summer. We're going to take our time getting there. I was thinking of stops in Hot Springs, AR, Branson, MO, and maybe a short overnight in St. Louis to do the arch. The in-laws live in southwest WI, near Illinois and Iowa-- It's about a 19 hour drive from Houston, according to Google. We've never driven up-- always flown, but last year we did a road trip all the way from Houston to Yellowstone, so I'm confident that we can make it. Anyone have suggestions for things to do in Hot Springs or Branson or any other spots along the way? So far, I'm thinking Silver Dollar City in Branson and crystal mining in Hot Springs (we've already done the diamond thing). We have two boys, who will be 8 and 9 (almost 10) when we travel. TIA!

 

[mom2alix]

Fantastic Caverns just north of Springfield is worth the trip. The cave is big enough they drive a tram through it and it's a good tour.

 

[McKelly]

North of Branson is Lambert's Cafe - Home of the Thrown Roll. It is right off the freeway. That might be a good stop for a meal. We actually WANTED to do that when we drove to Branson, but the line was long and my kids were STARVING so we didn't, but I was bummed.......

 

[NewRVLady]

One of the few "living" ie "still dripping " caverns are in central ARK

Blanchard Springs caverns...I'd do THAT rather than the diamond mining-it is really spectacular! (bring jackets its pretty cold)
This is not one of those tacky privately owned places-State run with nice welcome center-first class

http://www.recreation.gov/tourParkDetail.do?contractCode=NRSO&parkId=72270

 

[Gumbo4x4]

You could easily spend a week in Branson and not run out of things to do. Just depends on your interests. Lamberts is busy almost ALL the time. You'll have to find an odd time to eat or wait if you want to do that. We enjoy the Springfield zoo, Bass Pro Shop, and the drive-through animal park just East of SPFLD.

Edit: fill up your tank around mile 251 in Missouri. Gas will start creeping upward from there to STL, and then it takes a big jump in IL.

 

[Mrs.Malone]

Go to the City Museum in St. Louis! My boys that age thought it was one of the most fun things they had ever done.