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Written by Bill Hanks
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 Drives can be breath taking and also relaxing. Some of the best scenic drives are located right in the Midwest part of the United States. This article takes a look at ten stretches of road in the heartland. They are listed in no particular order. Each of these drives is noted for something different. You will always find a State or National Park, winery, caves, covered bridge or a way of life.
1. Mississippi River Road; Alton to Grafton, Illinois. It is about a twenty mile drive that takes in the three confluences of the rivers Mississippi, Missouri and Illinois. You can view tugboats going up and down the rivers. It is also the winter home of the American eagle.
2. Shawnee Hills Scenic Driveway; From Harrisburg, Illinois head South on Highway 34. It will take you through Shawnee National Park. It is 270,000 acres of forest viewing.
3. Cave in Rock State Park; The drive follows Route 1 to the Ohio river and the park. Though peaceful now, it was once a haven for river pirates.
4. Amana Colonies; Highways 151, 6 and 220 connects the small colonies in Iowa. Enjoy a taste of old Germany in many different ways.
5. Old Route 66: Get your kicks on old US 66 from Chicago through the Illinois and Missouri heartland. In many places, the old highway still exists and is for use. Explore the way that Americans use to travel.
6. Boonslick Country; This drive begins in Columbia, and ends at Arrow Rock, Missouri. It is a 55 mile drive through the northern part of the Ozarks. This is an outstanding drive,especially during the Fall. Arrow Rock is a great place to end your journey and spend some time.
7. The Missouri Rhineland; This is a fifty mile drive, that goes from the Busch Conservation area through the German settled Missouri river Valley to Herman, Missouri. This area has many wineries to stop and visit.
8. Meramac Hills; St. James, Missouri to Onondaga Cave. This drive covers 44 miles of scenic Mark Twain National forest. It is a two lane drive most of the way. At the cave, take a tour of this underground wonder.
9. Southern Indiana Amish Country; This is a 68 mile trip through many Amish communities. It covers the counties of Washington and Orange. You will view the Amish working the land and traveling in their small horse pulled carriages.
10. Indiana Covered Bridge Tour; This drive is 219 miles long. He takes an entire weekend to do it justice. You begin West of Indianapolis and go through Parke county. The route takes State Road 40 west and picks up highway 240. There are many small towns and plenty of hotels and motels to stay as you make the trip.
If you live in the central part of the United States, you are not too far from one of these scenic drives. These drives are a great way to get away, from the rigors of life.
sources; www.trails.com
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Vacation & Travel 
