Ste. Genevieve to Davis Road Trip: Historic Valleys to Mountain Escapes

Ste. Genevieve, Missouri, founded in 1735, is the oldest permanent European settlement in the state, boasting French Creole architecture. Your road trip target is Davis, West Virginia, a small town in the Allegheny Mountains near the headwaters of the Potomac River. The direct route via I-64 E and US-33 E spans roughly 700 miles (1,127 km) and takes about 11–12 hours of driving time without stops.

This journey crosses the Mississippi River, traverses the Bluegrass Region of Kentucky, and climbs into the Appalachian highlands. Along the way, you'll encounter diverse landscapes from limestone karst to rolling farmland and dense hardwood forests. Key highways include I-55 N to I-64 E, then US-60 E and US-33 E through West Virginia.

Fuel and costs: Average unleaded gas prices along the route fluctuate between $3.20 and $3.50 per gallon. Your vehicle, assuming 25 mpg, will need about 28 gallons, costing roughly $95. The best fuel strategy is to fill up in larger towns like Lexington, KY, and Charleston, WV, where prices are competitive.

• Tolls: Minimal; only use I-64 E and US-33 E, which are toll-free except for possible small tolls on the West Virginia Turnpike (I-77) if you detour.
• Rest stops: Interstate rest areas every 30–50 miles on I-64, with basic facilities. US-33 in West Virginia has fewer services; plan to stop in Elkins or Harman.
• Accommodations: Budget-friendly motels in Lexington ($80–120/night) and chain hotels in Charleston ($90–150/night). In Davis, book rustic cabins or inns ($100–200/night).

For an efficient journey, you can also refer to our guide on how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities to optimize your itinerary.

Just after leaving Ste. Genevieve, you'll cross the Mississippi River into Illinois. The next major natural highlight is the Daniel Boone National Forest in Kentucky, where I-64 runs near the Red River Gorge. This area features sandstone arches and rugged cliffs – a must-stop for short hikes like the Sky Bridge Trail (1 mile, moderate).

• Further east, the Bluegrass region offers horse farms near Lexington. A great detour is the Old Frankfort Pike, a scenic byway lined with stone fences and thoroughbred breeding farms.
• Entering West Virginia, US-33 climbs into the Monongahela National Forest. The Seneca Rocks (accessible near US-33) are a towering quartzite formation popular with climbers and photographers.
• Local commerce: In Davis, the town’s economy revolves around outdoor tourism. Visit the Blackwater Falls State Park for a 62-foot waterfall, and browse local galleries and the Purple Moose Saloon for Appalachian crafts and live music.

Road quality: I-64 and US-33 are well-maintained; however, US-33 in West Virginia has winding mountain sections with steep grades. Expect reduced speeds in fog or rain, especially near Davis. Always carry a spare tire and emergency kit.

• Family stops: The Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington (interactive museum, horse shows) and the West Virginia State Museum in Charleston. In Davis, an easy walk to Elakala Falls in Blackwater Falls State Park is child-friendly.
• Pet-friendly: Most rest stops along I-64 have pet areas. Hotels in Lexington and Charleston often allow pets; in Davis, the Bright Morning Inn is pet-friendly with a fee.
• Fatigue management: Schedule breaks every 2–3 hours. Ideal rest points: rest area at mile marker 76 on I-64 in Kentucky (near Winchester), and the town of Elkins, WV (coffee shop at The Front Porch).

Hidden off-route spot: The Zilpo Recreation Area in Daniel Boone National Forest, reachable via KY-715, offers secluded lake views. Another gem is the Dolly Sods Wilderness, a high-altitude plateau near Davis with alpine-like terrain.