Where to stay

Question

We are planning a trip from St Paul to Mammoth Cave NP this May. I’m looking to break up the drive and stay one night around St Louis and then one night in Paducah, KY.

I’m looking for ideas of where to stay the first night. We are a family of 3 (19 yr old daughter). We’ve been to downtown St. Louis and seen the arch. Is there a nice suburb or small town? We won’t have a lot of time to spend, but like nature and scenery.

A friend recommended stopping by Elephant Rocks State Park. Is that worth a stop? Anyplace around there to stay?

We do like B&Bs, but want to keep the cost under $200. Unfortunately, our timing is putting our stop in this area Memorial weekend.

Answer

For a family road trip from St. Paul to Mammoth Cave NP with an overnight stop near St. Louis, you have several appealing options outside of downtown, especially if you want nature, scenery, and a quieter small-town vibe.

One highly recommended area is near the Elephant Rocks State Park. This is a scenic spot featuring giant granite boulders, short hiking trails, and picnic areas. It’s absolutely worth a stop if you enjoy nature and a bit of exploration. You could plan a late afternoon or early evening visit before heading to your accommodation.

Nearby towns suitable for a one-night stay include:

Potosi, MO: About 15 minutes from Elephant Rocks, Potosi is a charming small town with historic streets and some local dining options. Lodging options include small inns and affordable hotels within your $200 budget.
Ste. Genevieve, MO: About 45 minutes east of Elephant Rocks, Ste. Genevieve is the oldest European settlement in Missouri. It has a historic district with quaint B&Bs, local restaurants, and scenic areas along the Mississippi River. Perfect for a relaxing evening with some history and charm.
Park Hills, MO: Adjacent to Elephant Rocks, Park Hills offers practical hotel options and is convenient for families who want to explore the park without traveling far.

If you prefer a B&B experience closer to your budget, Ste. Genevieve has several options that combine charm with affordability. Be aware that since your stop falls around Memorial Day weekend, it's wise to book early to ensure availability and reasonable rates.

Practical tips for your trip:

Plan to arrive mid-afternoon at Elephant Rocks to enjoy a short hike and photos, leaving enough time to check into your hotel before evening.
Check for small-town dining options in Potosi or Ste. Genevieve; local diners and cafes offer good meals without the bustle of St. Louis.
If you prefer a quiet stay, Ste. Genevieve offers historic inns with more character than standard chain hotels.

Overall, stopping near Elephant Rocks gives you a nice blend of nature and scenery while still being on route to Paducah, KY for your second overnight. This allows for a relaxed pace and a scenic detour without straying too far from your planned route.

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