Hannibal is a town everyone should visit and enjoy. If you're in the area and don't think you have time to see the sights or if you're planning a trip but already have other plans, you can still enjoy America's Hometown.

This guide will get you in and out of Hannibal in around an hour, while still allowing you to see some attractions and take in the ambiance of this historical river town.

The major routes into Hannibal are Highway 36, heading east and west, and Highways 61 and 79 heading north and south. Highway 36 turns into Interstate 72 when it crosses the Mississippi River into Illinois. These routes will get you in and out of Hannibal quickly.

When you enter Hannibal, get on Highway 36 and head towards the Mississippi River. Get off on the downtown exit and park anywhere in the downtown area. This will give you and anyone traveling with you time to stretch and get out of the car. Head to the corner of Hill Street and Main Street.

Mark Twain's boyhood home is located at the corner of Hill and Main streets and is surrounded by several other historical buildings. Take some time to look around and tour of the home. After taking a step back in time, head north on Main street to the base of Cardiff Hill, only two blocks away.

Here you will see the statue of Tom Sawyer and Huck Finn. Cardiff Hill is a landmark used in several of Twain's books. If you're feeling adventurous, hike to the top of the hill for a beautiful view of the town and the Mississippi. Also on top of the hill, is the Mark Twain Memorial Lighthouse, the largest inland lighthouse in the U.S.

If you're hungry after your walk there are several unique restaurants in the downtown area to fill you up before you continue your trip. Lullabells offers an interesting atmosphere and good food. The Mark Twain Family Restaurant is located right next to Twain's boyhood home and serves a good verity. The Becky Thatcher Diner has a small diner feel and has low prices.

After lunch, it's time to get back on the road. Head back the way you came, or if you're heading south take 79 into St. Louis. This is a great drive and shows you more of the beautiful surrounding country side. The drive also heads past the historical town of Ilasco.

If you need gas, whatever route you take out of Hannibal, there are several gas stations to fill up at. Top off the tank and you're on your way.