Day 14 - Lebanon to St Louis, Missouri.
After checking out the famous Munger Moss Motel in Lebanon we headed East on the I-44 towards the city of St Louis, following Route 66 through hills and trees just starting to drop their leaves.
Searched out these old log cabins built in the 1930's "John's Modern Cabins" on a dead end section of 66 (Arlington Rd) cut off by the interstate. The Cabins are collapsing and slowing being taken over by the forest.
Took a photo of Tony next to a giant Hillbilly sign out side the Mule Trading Post just past a town called Rolla before doing a quick side trip towards Stanton where there was a roadside Reptile Ranch (snakes, alligators etc.) - looked a bit dodge, so we moved on.
Had lunch at a rest area right in the middle of the interstate at a sheltered picnic table before moving off the 44 for a while on 66 following the railway through Allenton past scenic limestone cliffs. Caves and tunnels into the cliffs all over the place with one even set up with a makeshift stage, picnic tables and lighting!
Greater St Loius crept up pretty fast and soon we could see the Gateway Arch in the skyline. Had managed to secure a great deal at the Ramada Plaza Hotel in downtown, walking distance to the Arch, from a border hotel magazine with on the night walk in space available prices.
Had a few problems with our interstate exit number we had been given not existing, but after stopping (in a rather dodgy looking area, windows up - lock the doors!) set up the trusty iPad and Google maps to help us find the way!
A well deserved swim on the 2nd floor above the lobby preceded an evening walk around the city to view the Mississippi River and Gateway Arch. We ended the evening having a meal at Hooters and a balmy walk back to the hotel.
Miles travelled today: 182.4, Hours Driving: 4:05. A rest day (from travelling) tomorrow, but we have quite a bit planned so check out the blog update tomorrow.