5 missouri tourist attractions

15 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Missouri

Written by Lana Law Updated Sep 26, 2022

Home to the lovely Ozark Mountains , culturally rich capitals, and deep threads of United States history, Missouri offers a long list of attractions. While there are plenty of things to see and do in Kansas City and St. Louis , other sights and cities in Missouri offer even more to explore.

Branson is a wonderful place for outdoor attractions, as well as its thriving live music scene, and the Wilson Creek National Battlefield in Springfield preserves a dynamic moment in Civil War history. To really savor the flavor of Missouri relaxation, Lake of the Ozarks , and its welcoming waters, is a defining vacation destination, with resorts, campgrounds, and thousands of miles of shoreline.

Plan your itinerary with our list of the top attractions in Missouri.

1. Visit the St. Louis Gateway Arch

2. hear the music in branson, 3. nelson-atkins museum of art, 4. enjoy the rides at silver dollar city, 5. visit the animals at the saint louis zoo, 6. stroll through forest park, 7. wilson's creek national battlefield, 8. mark twain boyhood home and museum, 9. harry s. truman presidential library and museum, 10. enjoy nature at the lake of the ozarks, 11. national world war i museum and memorial, 12. see the sights of jefferson city, 13. springfield, 14. missouri botanical garden, 15. university of missouri, columbia.

The Gateway Arch is the iconic structure that visually defines St. Louis and is also the symbolic " Gateway to the West. "

Visitors can take a tram up to a viewing platform at the top, which reaches 630 feet, for stunning views out over the city. Tram rides include a series of exhibits about the history of the arch, and visitors can also explore the numerous galleries within the Museum at Gateway Arch .

The arch is located in Jefferson National Expansion Memorial Park but can be seen from all over the city and even from great distances on the surrounding highways.

Other ways to enjoy the arch are helicopter tours, riverboat cruises, and visiting the Old Courthouse for some historical perspective on the area.

Official site: http://www.gatewayarch.com/

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in St. Louis

Branson, in southwest Missouri, with no false modesty, calls itself the " Live country music capital of the universe. " It draws millions of tourists each year, mainly country music fans.

The "Strip" is crowded with music palaces, motels, restaurants, and souvenir booths selling all imaginable kinds of kitsch. The music venues here host some of country music's greatest performers.

Branson is also a good base for excursions into the surrounding Ozark Mountains. Natural points of interest include Table Rock Lake State Park and Talking Rocks Cavern .

A fun way to experience Branson's wild side is to hop aboard the Branson Scenic Railroad , complete with refurbished 1930s passenger cars. For more adrenaline action, the roller coasters and rides at Silver Dollar City provide the thrills.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Branson, MO

One of Kansas City's most important cultural attractions is the Nelson Atkins Museum of Art. It holds a comprehensive collection, with pieces from around the world, but with a particular emphasis on East Asian art. On the museum grounds is a sculpture garden that everyone can appreciate without even having to enter the building.

Admission is always free to the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, and rotating exhibits keep each visit unique. Community events at the museum include free-fun weekends for the family, live music on every third Thursday of the month, and a wide variety of art classes for all ages.

Address: 4525 Oak Street, Kansas City, Missouri

Official site: http://www.nelson-atkins.org/

Silver Dollar City in Branson combines a major theme park with crafts and the preservation of 1880s Ozark culture. Craftsmen in the park demonstrate glassblowing, basket weaving, blacksmithing, pottery, candy making, and candle making. The park also has rides and attractions, shops, restaurants, and live shows .

Marvel Cave is part of Silver Dollar City. It carries on the tradition of the 1880s mining town, which once stood at the entrance to the cave. The cave was first discovered by the Osage Indians in the 1500s and since that time has attracted explorers looking for the Fountain of Youth, miners of marble and bat guano, and archaeologists.

Address: 399 Silver Dollar City Parkway, Branson, Missouri

Official site: http://www.silverdollarcity.com/

One of the best free things to do in Missouri is visit the Saint Louis Zoo. Take the family to see the animals and keep your wallet in your pocket. You won't lack for furry creatures to see – the zoo has over 14,000 animals from around the world, which represent almost 500 species.

The zoo has six major regions: River's Edge, The Wild, Discovery Corner, Historic Hill, Red Rocks, and Lakeside Crossing. Each of these areas has its own set of animals related to that particular environment.

The zoo also offers popular behind-the-scenes tours for a fee, including opportunities to hand-feed reticulated giraffes, see the incubator area for the zoo's rare birds, meet the staff at the park veterinary hospital, and help prepare specialty meals with the zoo's nutritionists.

Official site: https://www.stlzoo.org/

Host to the 1904 World Fair, this wonderful St. Louis city park sprawls out over more than 1,300 acres and receives millions of visitors a year.

Regarded as one of the most beautiful urban parks in the world , Forest Park not only delivers appealing natural settings via ponds, gardens, and more than 45,000 trees, but it's also home to many of the city's top cultural attractions.

Tourists can visit the St. Louis Zoo , Saint Louis Art Museum , the Missouri History Museum , and the St. Louis Science Center all on the grounds, or enjoy a live show at The Muny , America's oldest and largest outdoor musical theater.

Address: 5595 Grand Drive, St. Louis, Missouri

Official site: https://www.forestparkforever.org

Around 5,400 Union troops and 11,000 Confederates fought on the site of Wilson's Creek National Battlefield on August 10, 1861. The Confederates were victorious, but this battle led to more fighting in Missouri.

On site is the Wilson's Creek Civil War Museum housing artifacts that include the sword belt and sash of Arkansas General Patrick Cleburne.

Visitors can tour the battlefield and remaining historical structures via a 4.9-mile tour road , which provides plenty of parking spots to explore the seven miles of trails that connect throughout this scenic area.

Address: 6424 West Farm Road 182, Republic, Missouri

Official site: http://www.nps.gov/wicr/index.htm

• Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Springfield, MO

Samuel Clemens, before adopting the pen name Mark Twain, first moved into this two-story home with his family in 1843 and lived there from the age of seven to 18. The home has been open for public tours since 1912 and has since been restored and decorated in period.

The adjoining museum consists of two buildings that contain Twain memorabilia, such as first editions of his books, photographs, original manuscripts, and the desk where he sat to write The Adventures of Tom Sawyer .

Address: 120 North Main, Hannibal, Missouri

Official site: http://www.marktwainmuseum.org/

Historic and artistic objects are displayed at the Harry S. Truman Presidential Library and Museum in Independence. Truman's career and US history covering the period from 1945 to 1953 is the main focus of the museum. A replica of Truman's office in the White House is on display, and President and Mrs. Truman's graves are in the courtyard.

A mile down the road, at the Harry S. Truman National Historic Site , visitors can tour the Victorian home where the Truman family lived from 1919 until his death in 1972. The house contains original furnishings and other Truman family possessions.

Harry S. Truman Presidential Library and Museum

• Address: 500 W US Highway 24, Independence, Missouri
• https://www.trumanlibrary.gov/

Harry S. Truman National Historic Site

• Address: 219 N. Delaware Street, Independence, Missouri
• https://www.nps.gov/hstr/index.htm

Created by an impoundment of the Osage River in 1931, Lake of the Ozarks is one of the most popular lake destinations in the Midwest. Favorite reasons to visit include professionally designed golf courses , scenic campgrounds , and lakefront resorts, as well as an array of water activities including boating, fishing, and swimming at sandy beaches .

Lake of the Ozarks State Park is reason enough to visit, but the massive shoreline offers plenty of attractions and things to do , including shopping, dining, and a community that always welcomes out-of-towners. To see the marvel of engineering that created the Lake of the Ozarks, a drive over the Bagnell Dam is recommended.

Another top attraction in the area is Bridal Cave located in Camdenton. This subterranean cathedral beneath Thunder Mountain was used by Native Americans for centuries. Today it's a major tourist attraction known for its beautiful rock formations.

Home to one of the largest collections of World War I artifacts in the world, the National World War I Museum first opened in 2006 and has since hosted millions of visitors from around the world. Long before the museum was established, the adjacent Liberty Memorial has looked over the streets of Kansas City for more than 90 years.

Completed in 1926 and dedicated by President Calvin Coolidge in front of a massive crowd, the Liberty Memorial still stands tribute today to the Great War. Visitors to the museum can learn more about this history through interactive exhibits, documented eye-witness accounts, and more than 75,000 historical items on rotating display.

Address: 2 Memorial Drive, Kansas City, Missouri

Official site: https://www.theworldwar.org/

As the state capitol, Jefferson City is worth a visit. The museums and galleries are home to some of the finest collections in the state, and the historic government buildings give the city a well defined sense of grandeur.

Some of the must-see sights are the state capitol building, the Governor's Mansion , the Missouri State Penitentiary, and the Missouri State Museum . The Lewis & Clark Monument at the Lewis & Clark Trailhead Plaza , located near the state capitol building, is a beautiful sculpture and a tribute to these explorers.

Springfield is a lovely city with a small town feel and all kinds of parks, green space, and other attractions.

Among the outdoor highlights are the Nathanael Greene/Close Memorial Park , with walking trails, gardens, and playgrounds, and the beautifully laid out Mizumoto Japanese Stroll Garden .

Another interesting site near Springfield is the Fantastic Caverns , which claims to be "America's only drive-through caverns." There is no walking required on this tram tour of the cave.

Another popular Springfield attraction is the Wonders of Wildlife National Museum and Aquarium , adjacent to the original Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World, which provides a look into an underwater world.

Spread out over 79 acres, the Missouri Botanical Garden is a wonderful spot for a stroll. One of the state's National Historic Landmarks, the gardens date from 1859 .

Not content to rest on its historical laurels, the gardens are undertaking a significant upgrade to their facilities with the new addition of the Jack C. Taylor Visitor Center.

One of the highlights of a trip to the gardens is to experience the Climatron. This giant geodesic dome encloses 24,000 square feet, and growing within are 2,800 plants spread over 1,400 species.

Other notable places to visit in the gardens are the Japanese Garden and the Linnean House. A tram runs throughout the park on the half hour.

Address: 4344 Shaw Blvd., St. Louis, Missouri

Official site: https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/

Located in Columbia, the university is the heart of the city, with a lovely campus that radiates from the David R. Francis Quadrangle . As popular with locals and tourists as it is with students, this picturesque area is on the National Register of Historic Places. It is home to the stunning Jesse Hall and six imposing columns that are the last remains of Academic Hall, which was destroyed in a fire in 1892.

There are many cultural events on campus throughout the year, and the university is also home to the Museum of Art and Archaeology. This free museum offers a wide range of exhibits, as well as docent-led tours and workshops.

Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Columbia, MO

More on Missouri

41 Fun Things To Do & Places To Visit In Missouri

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Published: December 6, 2020  - Last updated: October 15, 2023

With busy streets framed by mountains, forests, lakes and waterfalls, Missouri is a state that has it all.

You can enjoy resorts and restaurants in the big cities; you can go camping under the stars in the wilderness.

You can also enjoy the cultural depth of Missouri.

From the iconic landmarks to the little-known shops, diners and roadside attractions, there’s a reason why this uniquely Midwestern destination is nicknamed the “Show Me State.”

Maybe you’re planning an imminent vacation.

Maybe you’re making a bucket list for the distant future.

Either way, here are 41 awesome things to do in Missouri!

Table of Contents

1. Gateway Arch

f11photo / Shutterstock

The Gateway Arch is one of the most famous places in Missouri.

Located in the heart of St. Louis , its gleaming curve peaks at more than 600 feet above the city skyline, and it can be seen for miles around.

You don’t have to admire it from afar, however.

One of the coolest things about the arch is its observation deck!

You can take a ride to the very top and gaze out at the marvelous scenery below, including parks, bridges, buildings and the Mississippi River.

There’s also a visitor center if you want to learn more about the construction of the arch and the role that it played in the city’s development.

Additionally, there’s a gift shop if you want to do the tourist thing and grab a “I (Heart) St. Louis” key chain.

The Gateway Arch is one of the premiere tourist attractions of Missouri.

It’s the kind of place that you won’t want to miss.

Every time you tell someone that you visited St. Louis, they’ll ask if you visited the arch, so make it a true story and go!

Address: St. Louis, MO 63102, United States

2. Bogart’s Smokehouse

Bogart’s Smokehouse

Ask a dozen different people about the best restaurants in Missouri, and you’ll get a dozen different answers depending on what that person likes the most.

However, one common thread is simple: barbecue.

Missouri loves its barbecue!

Bogart’s Smokehouse isn’t the only place specializing in things like pulled pork sandwiches and sauce-slathered ribs served on piping hot platters, but it’s one of the most renowned.

All of its meat is smoked for more than 24 house before being rubbed down with herbs and spices and slow-cooked on cherry wood.

Its head chef actually trained in Memphis , another barbecue haven, before bringing his talents north, and you can taste his experience in every juicy bite.

You can’t leave Missouri without tasting some of its barbecue.

When you work up an appetite during your vacation, stop by Bogart’s Smokehouse for some life-changing pork.

Address: 1627 S 9th St, St. Louis, MO 63104, United States

3. City Museum

Chris857 , CC BY-SA 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

At first glance, City Museum might seem like any other plain, square-bricked building in St. Louis.

When you look a little higher, however, you’ll see the strange shapes jutting off the roof, and you’ll realize that it’s actually one of the craziest vacation spots in Missouri!

Planes and school buses jut over the edge of the building.

A Ferris wheel slowly turns over a pond filled with stepping stones and gigantic statues of bugs.

A glass dome, salvaged from the renovations of a local science center, sits in the middle of twisted metal sculptures that are both viewable and climbable.

The fun continues inside of the building as well.

Exhibits include everything from taxidermy animals to mineral collections.

Interactive rooms will let you paint, build, ride a train, skateboard in an indoor park or attend lessons at circus school.

Oddities include things like “The World’s Largest Underwear.”

Long story short, City Museum isn’t your typical museum.

It’s a crazy cross between a playground, fun house and kooky art installation, and it’s definitely one of the top things to do in Missouri.

Address: 750 N 16th St, St. Louis, MO 63103, United States

4. Lake of the Ozarks

TommyBrison / Shutterstock

With its slow, lazy waves surrounded by beautiful foliage, the Lake of the Ozarks is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Missouri.

Visitors can enjoy swimming, boating, rafting, hiking, biking, camping and more.

The surface of the lake covers 54,000 acres, so there’s plenty of space to spread out.

There’s also a lot of room on the sandy coasts; the shoreline stretches for 1,150 miles.

That’s more shoreline than the entire state of California , and it’s located in the landlocked state of Missouri!

Events are common on the lake.

There are fireworks in the summer and holiday lights in the winter; there are garden shows in the spring and food festivals in the fall.

You can also have fun year-round at destinations like the “Party Cove,” a gathering hole for swimmers.

If you’re looking for a good time in Missouri, visit the Lake of the Ozarks.

You can hop in for a quick swim; you can rent a lakeside cabin for the entire summer.

It’s a place with endless possibilities.

5. Silver Dollar City

Shane Adams / flickr

As one of the biggest amusement parks in Missouri, Silver Dollar City definitely lives up to its name.

It’s so big that it’s actually divided into “districts” as a play on its theme.

Rivertown has rides and restaurants along the water.

Wilson’s Farm has fun, family-friendly activities with an agricultural motif.

Midtown has more carnival games that you can shake a stick at, and Homestead Ridge offers vintage-style shops for all of your souvenir needs.

Main Street is a boulevard that connects them all.

You can choose your own adventure at this amusement park.

Whether you want to watch a demonstration at a pottery store or make your stomach drop with death-defying roller coasters, there’s a little something for everyone here.

Silver Dollar City is another one of those Missouri attractions that everyone knows.

If you don’t want to be left out of the fun, book your tickets this weekend and get ready for a wild ride!

Address: 399 Silver Dollar City Pkwy, Branson, MO 65616, United States

Visiting other areas of Missouri? Why not check out some of the fun things to do in Springfield, MO ?

6. Adrenaline Zone

Adrenaline Zone

If you’re wondering where to go in Missouri on a rainy day, look no further than the Adrenaline Zone .

It offers all kinds of heart-pumping activities to get your blood racing, and since they’re all indoors, you can enjoy them rain or shine!

Traditional games include pool, foosball, skeeball and laser tag.

More involved activities range from timed laser mazes to “demolition ball,” a unique basketball-and-hockey hybrid that’s played in bumper cars.

You can eat and drink when you’re done, or you can play arcade games to earn tickets and win prizes.

If you’re traveling to Missouri with a group, you can rent out the entire facility for parties, work retreats or “lock-in” events.

Long story short, the fun never stops at the Adrenaline Zone.

Rain or shine, its doors are always open for folks who want to unleash their inner child by running around and shooting at each other with laser guns.

Address: 1875 S Old Hwy 94, St Charles, MO 63303, United States

7. Hermann Wine Trail

Hermann Wine Trail

What’s the first place that comes to mind when you think about wine?

It probably isn’t Missouri, but the Hermann Wine Trail has every bit of splendor as Napa Valley .

Founded by German immigrants in 1836, the Hermann Wine Trail started as a single vineyard that grew over the years to encompass everything from wine halls to artisan wine shops.

Today, it stretches for more than 25 miles, and there’s a trolley that connects all of the stores and villas in the area.

Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities on the trail.

There’s wine tasting, of course, but there’s also shopping and sightseeing, and you can sleep at cozy little bed-and-breakfasts if you want to stay overnight.

Have you always wanted to wake up to a home-cooked breakfast in a soft bed with rolling green hills outside of your window?

The Hermann Wine Trail can turn your dreams into reality.

There’s a reason why it’s a top 10 spot in Missouri, so pack your goblets and get ready to drink!

Address: 150A Market St, Hermann, MO 65041, United States

8. National World War I Museum

EQRoy / Shutterstock

World War I isn’t always studied as much as World War II, but this museum is a great way to educate yourself on a major point in U.S. history.

Located in Kansas City , Missouri, it’s been designated by the government as the country’s official WWI museum .

You’ll start by following the 265-foot tower to the main building.

From there, you’ll walk across a glass bridge that covers 9,000 red poppies symbolizing the 9,000,000 lives lost during the war.

Features of the museum include photos, videos, maps, flags, letters and artifacts ranging from rusted guns to old propaganda posters.

There’s a sound booth for audio recordings; there are two theaters that run educational films and reels.

There’s also a preserved Renault FT tank and a 1918 Ford Model T ambulance.

You don’t have to be a history buff to appreciate the National World War I Museum.

It’s one of the most interesting places in Missouri, so do yourself a favor and check it out if you’ll be near Kansas City during your trip.

Address: 2 Memorial Dr, Kansas City, MO 64108, United States

9. Waterfall Park

Lemuwah / Shutterstock

Waterfall Park is one of the most fun things to do in Missouri.

Its namesake is a beautiful, ten-foot waterfall that crashes over rocks and into the pool below, and it’s surrounded by boulders and mossy lichens that make it look like something out of a fairy tale.

You don’t have to hike into the wilderness to see it, however.

The best thing about Waterfall Park is that it’s a man-made feature located in the middle of a metropolis!

The city is called Independence, Missouri, and it’s a tourist attraction in its own right.

You’ll find plenty of entertainment options in the form of bars, shops, restaurants and movie theaters.

That said, the main draw of the city is definitely Waterfall Park.

How many times in your life can you see a waterfall in the middle of a busy street?

If you’re looking for cool and unique vacation ideas in Missouri, put this one on your shortlist.

Address: 4501 S Bass Pro Dr, Independence, MO 64055, United States

10. Chocolate Chocolate Chocolate Company

Chocolate Chocolate Chocolate Company

There’s chocolate, and then there’s chocolate chocolate chocolate.

The latter can be found at the Chocolate Chocolate Chocolate Company located in St. Louis, Missouri.

Treats include bars, bites, truffles, drops, crunches and caramels.

There are handcrafted, artisan-made gourmet chocolates tucked carefully into gift boxes; there are sloppy, sticky and messy chocolates offered on factory tours and during tasting events.

That’s right: You don’t have to stay behind the counter.

You can wander deep inside Willy Wonka’s playground and see how your favorite fudges and peanut butter cups are made.

It won’t even cost you anything since tours are free!

You just have to make arrangements in advance.

The Chocolate Chocolate Chocolate Company is one of the best places to see in Missouri.

Even if you aren’t a sweets person going in, the cascading waterfalls of chocolate are sure to change your mind.

Address: 5025 Pattison Ave, St. Louis, MO 63110, United States

11. St. Joseph

APN Photography / Shutterstock

Saddle up, boys, because this one is a doozy!

St. Joseph was one of the last frontier towns of the Wild West.

Not only is it rich with history, but it’s also home to a number of world-famous tourist attractions, including the starting point of the Pony Express and the death site of outlaw Jesse James.

While some parts of the city have been modernized, others are still dedicated to days gone by.

You can see this historical preservation in everything from the architecture to the large number of museums, mansions and courthouses dotting the downtown area.

Modern features at St. Joseph include shopping malls and high-class restaurants.

You don’t have to eat 17th century jerky just because you’re in a place with 17th century buildings!

If you enjoy learning about the Wild West, you won’t want to miss St. Joseph.

It’s one of the coolest vacation spots in Missouri, especially for those with an interest in old-school American.

Grab your spurs, don your cowboy hat and get to riding!

12. Meramec State Park

Rklawton , CC BY-SA 2.5 , via Wikimedia Commons

Most Missouri attractions are located above ground.

Every so often, however, you’ll come across a subterranean area with a story to tell, and that’s exactly the case with Meramec State Park .

Located in Sullivan, Missouri, Meramec State Park is home to a diverse range of landscapes.

These include forests and glades as well as canyons and caves.

One of the most famous places to visit is Fisher Cave.

Filled with stalagmites and stalactites, it offers a dark, dimly-lit adventure into passageways filled with hard rock.

If you’re science-minded, you might recognize them as limestone and dolomite.

If you’re a layman, you can still appreciate the cool-looking rock formations!

Grab your flashlight and head down into the caves of Meramec State Park… if you dare.

Address: 115 Meramec Park Drive, Sullivan, MO 63080, United States

13. Busch Stadium

Joe Hendrickson / Shutterstock

Attracting thousands of visitors each year, Busch Stadium is one of the best sites in Missouri.

It hosts everything from concerts to championship baseball games, and it’s also adjacent to a “ballpark village” that offers bars, shops, breweries and hall-of-fame exhibits, so it’s always bustling with energy!

The stadium itself has seen all kinds of events.

Baseball is the most common sport played on the green, but there’s also been football, soccer and hockey.

Concerts have welcomed everyone from Ed Sheeran to Metallica.

As for the village, it’s also a lively place.

There’s an outdoor marketplace under a retractable canopy; there are bars with mechanical bulls and restaurants with karaoke machines.

If you’re wondering what to do on a Missouri vacation, you might enjoy a trip to Busch Stadium.

There’s always something on the schedule, so whether you’re visiting during the blazing hot days of summer or the cold, windy days of winter, you can find something fun to do here.

Address: 700 Clark Ave, St. Louis, MO 63102, United States

14. National Museum of Transportation

artistmac / flickr

If you like planes, trains and automobiles, you’ll love the life-sized models at the National Museum of Transportation .

Like its name suggests, it transcends the boundaries of Missouri to serve as the biggest transportation museum in the whole of the United States.

It’s a national treasure in every respect.

Visitors can enjoy all kinds of exhibits about the various transportation methods of the past.

While the emphasis is on railroads and locomotives, just about everything is covered, including planes, ships, trucks, cars and more.

Models are displayed in both real and miniature sizes.

Engines are dissected and labeled.

A tiny railroad chugs around the tracks of the museum, and a real, rideable trolley echoes it, giving you the chance to get off your feet for a while as you explore the grounds.

If you’re the type of person who never grew out of their train phase, the National Museum of Transportation is the destination for you.

It’ll awaken all of your old passions while also introducing you to exciting new facts about the hobby!

Address: 2933 Barrett Station Rd, St. Louis, MO 63122, United States

15. Missouri Botanical Garden

Rob Neville Photos / Shutterstock

Missouri is renowned for its scenery, but you don’t have to trek into remote mountains to enjoy it.

You can find a slice of paradise in the heart of downtown St. Louis when you visit the Missouri Botanical Garden .

Covering almost 80 acres, this “garden” is actually a collection of landscapes that showcases everything from flowers and trees to sculptures and cultural artifacts.

Many of the gardens are themed, so you can travel the world with the Seiwa-en Japanese Garden and the Strassenfest German Garden, or you can learn more about specific species with rose gardens, woodland gardens and even “Biblical gardens.”

Other features of the garden include fountains, bridges, reflection pools, hedge mazes and historic houses.

There’s also a geodesic dome greenhouse that was the first of its kind!

The Missouri Botanical Garden is one of the best things to do in Missouri.

It’s a resplendent place, and you won’t believe that so much greenery can be located right in the middle of a bustling city.

Address: 4344 Shaw Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63110, United States

16. Hollywood Wax Museum

Branson Convention and Visitors Bureau / flickr

Snap a selfie with a celebrity when you visit the Hollywood Wax Museum .

While the celebrity won’t be able to sign any autographs, they also won’t be able to deny your requests for silly or ridiculous poses.

That’s because they’re all made of wax!

The star-studded lineup includes everyone from Bruce Lee to Michael Jackson, so you’ll have your pick of photo ops.

Some of the statues are so lifelike that you’ll do a double take; others are so funky-looking that you’ll split your sides at the thought of the artist who created them.

There are other attractions at the museum as well.

From mirror mazes to interactive adventures, you’ll find plenty of kitschy, touristy ways to pass the time.

The Hollywood Wax Museum isn’t a particularly dignified place.

However, that’s exactly why it’s so much fun.

If you just want to cut loose for awhile, this is a great place for having a blast!

Address: 3030 W 76 Country Blvd A, Branson, MO 65616, United States

17. Hidden Valley Ski Resort

Hidden Valley Ski Resort

Missouri might not be the first state that comes to mind when you think about snow, but at the Hidden Valley Ski Resort , you can perform alley-oops like you’re at the Alps!

The powder is artificial, but it’s so cold and crisp that you won’t be able to tell the difference from the real thing.

It blankets the hills of the landscape like a winter wonderland that’s ready for all sorts of outdoor activities.

Skiing is popular, of course, but there’s also sledding, snowboarding and snow tubing.

There’s even a zipline that will send you hurtling over the snow in midair!

When you’re too cold to carry on, visit the ski lodge; there’s an open fireplace for warming up, and you can order food and drink while enjoying the ambiance of a cozy wintertime setting.

Who needs the Alps when you have the Hidden Valley Ski Resort?

Address: 17409 Hidden Valley Dr, Eureka, MO 63025, United States

18. Katy Trail

Wspin / Shutterstock

Nature lovers, you won’t want to miss the Katy Trail.

It runs for 240 miles along the Missouri River, and it crosses other famous trails like the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail, so it offers all kinds of opportunities for outdoor adventures.

Located within Katy Trail State Park , the Katy Trail gets its name from the “KT” abbreviation that originally defined the Missouri–Kansas–Texas Railroad.

The railroad was abandoned over the years, but the path became a popular site seeing destination.

Today, Katy Trail is used by hikers, joggers, cyclists, dog walkers and more.

It’s open every day of the year from sunrise to sunset, and its landmarks include everything from steel bridges to rugged limestone deposits framing canyon-like paths.

Pedal through the Katy Trail if you’re looking to experience beautiful places in Missouri.

Whether you’re traveling in spring, summer, autumn or winter, the scenery will always be waiting for you.

Address: 101 Lewis St Machens to Clinton, Boonville, MO 65039, United States

19. Laumeier Sculpture Park

Cheryl Zion / Shutterstock

If you’ve never seen a seven-foot eyeball sitting in the middle of a grassy green field, have you really lived at all?

This is a question posed by Laumeier Sculpture Park , one of the most eclectic places to visit in Missouri.

Its sculptures range from mythical creatures in flight to oil tanks tossed on top of each other as an expression of modernist art.

A walking trail will take you on a tour of the park’s outdoor pieces, or you can explore an indoor gallery or the preserved remains of a Tudor mansion built in 1816.

If you time your trip right, you can catch special shows, events and educational programs centered around art.

Laumeier Sculpture Park is definitely one of the weirder things to see in Missouri, but if you want to make unforgettable memories, it’s also one of the best.

Drop by with your camera to start a one-of-a-kind vacation scrapbook.

Address: 12580 Rott Rd, St. Louis, MO 63127, United States

20. Highway 76 Strip

Blayne Downs / Shutterstock

Located in Branson , Missouri, the Highway 76 Strip is one of the best places to visit to get your groove on.

It’s home to dozens of clubs, studios, theaters and dance halls, including famous tourist attractions like Dick Clark’s American Bandstand Theater.

There’s other entertainment to be enjoyed, too.

You can dine on everything from trendy salads to thick, gourmet cuts of steak, and there are also shops, museums, hotels and more.

The main draw of the Strip is definitely its music scene, however.

Whether you’re interested in a top-tapping concert at the Grand Country Music Hall or a wild and wacky adventure at Dolly Parton’s Dixie Stampede Dinner Attraction, the Grand Country Music Hall is a must see destination when you’re in Missouri.

21. Elephant Rocks State Park

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The gigantic boulders of Elephant Rocks State Park are some of the most impressive sights in Missouri.

In addition to their size, they’re also a rosy pink color, which is where they get their nickname.

They can look a lot like circus elephants when you squint!

Natural trails will let you explore all of the rocks at length.

In an impressive first, the trails are accessible to all travelers, including those with disabilities.

One is actually named the “Braille Trail” for its use of braille on signposts.

Other places to visit include “The Maze,” a series of scattershot rocks that will require a strong sense of direction to navigate, and “Fat Man’s Squeeze,” a gap between two boulders that’s narrow enough to be quite the crunch.

All things considered, Elephant Rocks State Park is one of the most fun things to do in Missouri.

The landscapes are unique; the attractions are accessible for everyone.

Why wouldn’t you want to visit?

Address: 7390, 7406 MO-21, Belleview, MO 63623, United States

22. Activity and Recreation Center

ARC (Activity & Recreation Center)

You’re in Missouri.

You’re eating your weight in barbecue and cole slaw.

Are you wondering what to do to burn off some calories?

Consider a trip to the Activity and Recreation Center (ARC) of Columbia .

Covering more than 73,000 square feet, it’s a massive space with everything from pools to gyms to indoor tracks, so it’ll be more than suitable for anyone who wants to work up a sweat.

Do you like sports?

Join a friendly game at the basketball, volleyball or pickleball courts.

Are you serious about your weekly workout?

Hit the cardio or weight training rooms.

Do you like to swim?

Enjoy the pools, slides, vortexes, lazy rivers and lap lanes of the aquatic floor.

The Activity and Recreation Center of Columbia, Missouri is a must do for folks who want to stay active while on vacation.

There’s never an excuse for skipping leg day, right?

Address: 1701 W Ash St, Columbia, MO 65203, United States

23. Ha Ha Tonka State Park

Ben Stults / Shutterstock

Located near the small town of Camdenton, Missouri, Ha Ha Tonka State Park is named for the natural springs located on the grounds of its ruined castle.

“Ha ha tonka” translates to “smiling waters.”

You might not expect Missouri to have ruined castles, but that’s exactly why the park is so popular.

It’s one of the most unique places to visit in the state!

The landscape is filled with fun and unusual features, including caves, sinkholes, bluffs and overgrown woods.

Another nice thing about the park is that it’s located near the Lakes of the Ozark, so if you’re interested in normal summertime activities like swimming and camping, those are an option as well.

Ha Ha Tonka State Park is a must see destination when you’re in Missouri.

Between its caves and its castles, it has so many cool things to do that you won’t want to miss it.

Address: 1491 Missouri D, Camdenton, MO 65020, United States

24. Missouri State Capitol Building

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With its gigantic white dome flanked by towers, columns and archways, you can be forgiven for thinking that the Missouri State Capitol Building is a piece of Roman architecture rather than a government building.

It’s a real workplace, however, and it’s one of the major places of interest in the state.

Tours are available for anyone who wants to wander the plushly-carpeted halls and admire the winding staircases and heavy bronze doors.

You can also view a sizable collection of artwork on loan from the Missouri State Museum.

Statuary is everywhere, including on top of the dome; a statue of Ceres, the Roman goddess of agriculture, towers more than 235 feet above the skyline.

She’s often one of the first things that people see when they enter the city.

Whether you’re interested in art, culture, history or government, the Missouri State Capitol Building can be a fun day trip for some unusual site seeing.

You don’t even need a reservation, so feel free to drop by at any time!

Address: 201 W Capitol Ave, Jefferson City, MO 65101, United States

25. Lake Taneycomo

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Lake Taneycomo is one of the nicest places to vacation in Missouri.

With its deep blue waters surrounded by misty forests, it’s very picturesque, and it’ll make an ideal destination for couples, families and travelers of all types.

Outdoor enthusiasts can go swimming, boating or water skiing.

Nature lovers can wander the trails and picnic in the parks.

Lovers can hold hands under shaded tree groves; kids can run around like crazy in open fields.

You can also rent cabins along the coastline if you want to wake up to the sounds of the waves.

Another possibility is camping or renting an RV to take into the woods.

Maybe you’re a honeymooner looking for romantic spots in Missouri.

Maybe you’re an overworked career professional who just wants to “get away from it all” for awhile.

Either way, a visit to Lake Taneycomo can relax your body and soothe your spirits, so it’s a must do for anyone who desires tranquility on their trip.

26. Boulevard Brewing Company

Boulevard Brewing Company

Do you like beer?

Are you looking for free things to do in Missouri?

Enjoy the best of both worlds with a tour of the Boulevard Brewing Company .

Located in Kansas City, Missouri, the Boulevard Brewing Company is a place where alcohol is turned into an art form.

Its brewers have been toiling for decades to perfect their craft, and rather than locking away their secrets, they’ve opened their doors to anyone who’s curious about their process.

Take a tour of the factory.

Sample different brews.

Visit the “Beer Hall” and marvel at more than 100,000 square feet of taps.

Some activities do require a paid ticket, but most are free.

You just have to reserve your spot in advance.

If you’re thinking about what to see in Missouri that won’t cost you an arm and a leg, schedule a tour at the Boulevard Brewing Company.

It’ll be so much fun that you won’t believe it’s free!

Address: 2501 Southwest Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64108, United States

27. Hannibal

Photos BrianScantlebury / Shutterstock

Hannibal isn’t just a character played by Sir Anthony Hopkins.

It’s also a town in Missouri, and though it lacks the grand, flashy tourist attractions of the big cities, it’s a great place to spend the weekend.

Part of its appeal comes from its down-home Midwestern charm.

The city is nicknamed “America’s hometown,” and it takes the moniker seriously.

The locals are friendly; the servers in the old-fashioned diners will remember your name.

Many of the shops are mom-and-pop establishments with deep roots in the community.

As for things to see, you can visit the homes of author Mark Twain or Titanic survivor Molly Brown.

There are also parks, caves, trails, lighthouses and other scenic points of interest.

If you’re looking for nice places to stay this weekend, consider a stop in Hannibal, Missouri.

It’s highly accommodating to visitors, and it’ll give you a taste of the real Missouri while you’re there.

28. J.C. Nichols Memorial Fountain

While not the biggest or wildest of Missouri attractions, the J.C. Nichols Memorial Fountain is worth a visit if you’re in Kansas City.

Not only is it a great place for photo ops, but it’s also centrally located to help you explore the rest of the city.

The fountain itself is a collection of marble sculptures that shoot water jets into a central pool.

There are bucking horses; there are children riding dragons; there are scowling bears with their paws extended for a swipe.

At night, the city illuminates the fountain with bedazzling lights and colors.

When you’re done snapping selfies with the dragons, hit the sidewalks of Kansas City.

There are lots of fun places to see, including malls, museums, bars, pubs and performance halls.

Did we mention that a visit to the J.C. Nichols Memorial Fountain is free?

You won’t have to pay a dime.

If you’re wondering what to do in Kansas City when you’re on a budget, this fountain is a great idea.

Address: 47th Mill Creek Pkwy, Kansas City, MO 64111, United States

29. Sea Life Kansas City Aquarium

CameliaTWU / flickr

If you’re looking for cool places in Missouri, it’s hard to beat the glass tunnels of Sea Life Kansas City .

You won’t just peer into fish tanks; you’ll actually walk underwater through ghostly, blue-colored corridors with all kinds of brilliant sea life swimming overhead.

Live feedings are open to the public if you want to see sharks and stingrays gobble up their lunches.

If you enjoy hands-on interaction with the animals, there’s a touch pool where you can feel the slippery backs of sea jellies and the sticky surfaces of anemones.

There are also countless displays, exhibits and information stands where you can learn more about the animals that you’re seeing.

Sea Life Kansas City is one of the most delightful places to visit in Missouri.

Kids will love it, and adults will feel like kids again as they marvel at all of the wonders of the deep.

Book your tickets today, and you could be petting a sea urchin as soon as this weekend!

Address: 2475 Grand Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64108, United States

30. Missouri State Penitentiary

Nagel Photography / Shutterstock

A prison might not be at the top of your list of tourist attractions, but if you’re looking for unique things to do on your vacation, the Missouri State Penitentiary can provide a rare glimpse into a little-known world.

The prison itself is a maximum security facility that was built in 1836.

It shut down a few years ago, which is why it’s available for tours today, but it still retains a heavy atmosphere that befits its gruesome legacy.

Inmates were executed here.

The gas chambers were used multiple times.

Inmates were also killed during riots, escape attempts and interpersonal conflicts.

In short, there’s a lot of history within the walls of the Missouri State Penitentiary.

You can learn all about it by visiting the museum across the street from the prison, or you can arrange for a tour of the prison itself.

Just make sure that you’re emotionally ready for it!

Address: 115 Lafayette St, Jefferson City, MO 65101, United States

31. Alley Mill and Spring

Steven Schremp / Shutterstock

You won’t find the Alley Mill and Spring in a lot of Missouri travel guides.

It’s a little-known spot located a few miles outside of the nearest city, and it doesn’t offer the flashy trappings of famous tourist attractions.

If you’re looking for authenticity, however, the Alley Mill and Spring has it in spades.

It’s a real gristmill that operated for years to provide Missouri residents with grain, and its springs were a popular place for swimming in colonial times.

At various points in history, it also served as a home, farm, schoolhouse and gathering place for the community.

Today, you can take tours of this iconic, red-colored mill, and you can explore the grounds around it to take some really beautiful pictures.

It’s particularly striking in the fall when the leaves scatter across the water, but it’s open during all seasons.

The Alley Mill and Spring is one of the nicest places to go in Missouri.

If you want to see what life was really like for Midwesterners at the turn of the century, this is a prime destination to get a little taste of history.

Address: Eminence, MO 65466, United States

32. Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park

Lilith Munck / Shutterstock

Missouri is no stranger to state parks, but Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park is special.

The “shut-in” part of its name refers to the fact that its hard rock formations are resistant to erosion, so they form pools, tides and natural springs that are amazingly beautiful.

Some people go to the park just for sightseeing.

Others don their swimming trunks and take a dip when the water levels aren’t too high.

It’s allowed; you just have to be careful.

When you’re done in the water, shake yourself off and go for a hike along one of the many nature trails around the park, or set up a tent and spend a night under the stars.

If you know how to rock climb, you can also scale the cliffs to reach observation decks that overlook miles and miles of scenery.

If you’re wondering what to do in Missouri that’s different from the usual tourist attractions, you’ll love Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park.

Its unique geology will make an unforgettable vacation destination for all.

Address: 148 Taum Sauk Trail, Middle Brook, MO 63656, United States

33. Porter’s Candy World and Ice Cream Parlor

Porter’s Candy World and Ice Cream Parlor

If you’ve always wanted to kick your heels at a high-topped counter while licking at a strawberry ice cream cone, this is your chance to make all of your 1950s visions come true!

Porter’s Candy World and Ice Cream Parlor is a candy shop in Arcadia, Missouri that offers dazzlingly colorful displays of sweet treats.

Some are frozen, including their famous ice creams and malts; others are warm and freshly-baked, including their breads, cookies and cinnamon rolls.

Visitors can pull up a chair in the bright, clean dining areas, or they can wander the walls stuffed with jars, bags and candy boxes to see if there’s anything that they’d like to take home.

The ambiance is just as awesome as the sweets, so it’ll be a fun experience either way.

Porter’s Candy World and Ice Cream Parlor is one of those Missouri attractions that you won’t want to miss.

It’s a small destination in a small town, but that just adds to its charm.

As a bonus, its goodies are genuinely delicious!

Address: 211 south College St, Arcadia, MO 63621, United States

34. Heartland Harvest Garden

Heartland Harvest Garden

If you’re looking for educational opportunities in Missouri, consider a trip to the Heartland Harvest Garden .

It’ll take you and the kids on a fun, informative journey through agricultural practices in Midwestern farmlands.

One of the coolest things to see at the garden is the vineyard.

Its grapes and blueberries are grown on beautiful, storybook vines surrounded by green fields in every direction.

Another great attraction is the “Seed to Plate” greenhouse that follows every step of the planting, growing, harvesting and cooking process; you’ll learn a lot even as your stomach rumbles.

Other features of the garden include barns, gardens, silos and similar agricultural staples.

There are even fun things like an Apple Cider Court!

The Heartland Harvest Garden calls itself an “edible landscape” where every flower, tree, bush and shrub has a story to tell.

If you’re intrigued by the thought, pack up the family and take a tour of the grounds and greenhouses.

It’ll be an educational experience for everyone!

Address: 1609 NW US Hwy 50, Kingsville, MO 64061, United States

35. Shepherd of the Hills Adventure Park

The Shepherd of the Hills Adventure Park is one of the most fun things to do in Missouri.

On top of offering all sorts of fun, family-friendly activities, it’s also host to seasonal events that are famous for their festive spirit!

The year-round attractions at the park are the outdoor activities.

There’s a zipline and a rope course; there’s an area for off-roading in an ATV; there’s an observation deck with incredible views at the top.

You can also take in historical re-enactments at the old-fashioned villages or musical performances and puppet shows at the theater.

When the holidays roll around, the activity roster is even more packed.

The “Trail of Lights” offers a scenic drive through thousands of twinkling lights, and there’s always a Santa Claus on site to hear the requests of good little boys and girls.

If you’re looking for ways to enjoy yourself in Missouri, check out the Shepherd of the Hills Adventure Park.

No matter when you’re traveling to the Show Me State, it’ll have something interesting for you to do.

Address: 5583 W 76 Country Blvd, Branson, MO 65616, United States

36. Dogwood Canyon Nature Park

Jordan Schaefer / Shutterstock

Missouri is one of the most beautiful states in the US, and when you’re walking under a canopy of red-and-yellow leaves in Dogwood Canyon Nature Park , you’ll feel like you’re traveling through a postcard.

There are stone bridges over babbling brooks; there are waterfalls cascading down stone cliffs; there are prairies filled with wildflowers.

It’s definitely one of the most scenic places in the state.

Activities range from leisurely strolls around the ponds to epic horseback rides through the open fields.

You can take the whole family and go camping; you can rent a cabin for a honeymoon or work retreat.

There’s also a tram tour if you don’t want to spend all day on your feet.

Consider a trip to Dogwood Canyon Nature Park if you’re looking for amazing sites to see in Missouri.

Between its landscapes and its activity rosters, it’ll provide plenty of entertainment for your vacation.

Address: 2038 West, State Hwy 86, Lampe, MO 65681, United States

37. Butterfly Palace and Rainforest Adventure

Butterfly Palace & Rainforest Adventure

You’ve heard of butterfly houses.

Have you ever visited a butterfly palace?

The Butterfly Palace and Rainforest Adventure is an incredible destination where you can cover yourself in butterflies from head to toe.

The aviary has colorful species from all around the world, so whether you’re interested in handling exotic insects or learning to recognize common, everyday butterflies, this place has you covered.

There’s other cool stuff to do as well.

You can pet snakes in a science center; you can undertake a “tree adventure” through a labyrinth of hanging vines; you can twist yourself in circles in a mirror maze.

Offering all kinds of fun, family-friendly entertainment, the Butterfly Palace and Rainforest Adventure will provide an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages.

It’s easily one of the best trips to take in Missouri, so you’ll be in the area, buy a ticket and prepare for an amazing time!

Address: 4106 W 76 Country Blvd, Branson, MO 65616, United States

38. Welch Spring Hospital Ruin

Sandra Sapp / Shutterstock

Nestled in the woodlands of Missouri, the Welch Spring Hospital Ruin is one of those hidden places that you won’t find in a lot of travel guides.

It’s quiet and remote, and it doesn’t even have an exact address; you just have to set out from a nearby trail and head in the right direction.

The ruins themselves are the remains of a building purchased by a doctor in 1913.

He called it a hospital, but it was really more like a health spa; he believed that the natural springs would have healing properties for his patients.

Unfortunately, those patients never materialized, and the doctor died without passing on the property to anyone.

It was left to deteriorate in the wilderness.

Today, the Welch Spring Hospital Ruin is a crumbling, vine-covered building that makes for a nice sightseeing spot.

You can hike, bike or even canoe to it.

It might not heal you, but it’ll be fun to explore.

Address: Jadwin, MO 65501, United States

39. Saint Louis Zoo

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With more than 13,000 critters, the Saint Louis Zoo is one of the best places to go for animal lovers.

It’s also a favorite of budgeters and penny pinchers since admission is free!

That’s right: You can enjoy everything that the Saint Louis Zoo has to offer without paying a dime.

It’s funded through a cultural subsidy granted by the state of Missouri, so you can laugh at the lemurs, gawk at the geckos and marvel at the monarchs without ever reaching for your wallet.

Other attractions at the Saint Louis Zoo include aquariums, butterfly gardens, reptile houses, bird aviaries and “touch pools” for marine life.

You can ride a trolley throughout the park; you can hop aboard an old-fashioned, hand-painted wooden carousel.

There’s a lot of fun to be had at the Saint Louis Zoo.

As a bonus, the experience won’t cost you anything but time.

If you’re looking for free things to do in Missouri, this should be one of your top picks!

Address: 1 Government Dr, St. Louis, MO 63110, United States

40. Noir Arts and Oddities

Noir Arts and Oddities

You’ve never seen an antique shop quite like this one.

Rather than selling grandma’s jewelry and embroidery, it sells things like skulls, coffins, porcelain dolls, weird medical devices and eerie scientific specimens in jars.

That’s the way of Noir Arts and Oddities , a location that specializes in the macabre.

Its shelves are filled with everything from snake oil tonics to iron-wrought mirrors that are said to be cursed.

Nothing is too strange for this little shop.

You don’t have to buy anything to explore it.

The owner welcomes anyone who’s interested in the strange and the unusual, and she’ll often chat with visitors and share stories about the more grisly items that she’s highlighting at the time.

A visit to Noir Arts and Oddities will be unlike anything else that you do in Missouri.

If you have the stomach for it, however, it’ll also be one of the most memorable.

Address: 1101 Mulberry St, Kansas City, MO 64101, United States

41. National Museum of Toys and Miniatures

The National Museum of Toys and Miniatures is one of the best places to visit for folks who have never grown up.

It boasts more than 72,000 objects in total, and they include dolls, instruments, puzzles, model trains, board games, stuffed animals and more.

Some of the toys can be played with, so if you want to fly a colorful hang glider or walk the dog with an old-fashioned yo-yo, those are distinct possibilities.

Other toys are so old or valuable that they’re hidden behind glass, but you can still admire them, and you can learn their history through helpful museum exhibits.

If you want to rediscover a little of the delight and wonder of childhood, plan a visit to the National Museum of Toys and Miniatures.

If you’re able to walk by a 1800s Victorian dollhouse without fiddling with it, you’ll be a stronger person than most!

Address: 5235 Oak St, Kansas City, MO 64112, United States

Start Planning Your Trip To Missouri

These are just a few of the best things to do in Missouri.

Whether you’re looking for major points of interest or hidden gems that are only known to locals, this list should give you some idea of the fun that can be had in the Show Me State.

Happy travels!

65 Best Things to Do in Missouri

Explore the ultimate guide to Missouri's top attractions! From the iconic Gateway Arch to thrilling rides at Silver Dollar City and serene beauty of the Missouri Botanical Garden. Ideal for travelers seeking fun.

When traveling to Missouri, it’s important to have a plan in place and an exact list of things to do to make the most out of your vacation. Missouri is friendly, full of surprises, and filled with hidden gems. Let’s get your Missouri vacation in place and get your list ready to go!

With the number of things to do in Missouri, it's impossible to complete everything all in one day. From the most popular attractions to Missouri’s hidden gems, you'll want to add these to your list to get the most out of your vacation. You'll discover restaurants, museums, music venues, shopping, distilleries, tours, water activities, and more!

No matter what you have planned, Missouri has much to offer. Let’s dive into the 65 best things to do in Missouri.

65 Best Things To Do in Missouri

Visiting Missouri can seem overwhelming at a glance and you may have some trouble deciding where exactly to start on your trip. Below, we’ve put together an extensive list of things to do in Missouri to make your trip an unforgettable one.

1. Visit the Gateway Arch

Map It : Gateway Arch, St. Louis, MO 63102 | Phone:  (877)-982-1410 |  Website  |  Hours:  Open Daily: 9 AM-8 PM |  Entrance:  Free

The Gateway Arch is one of the most iconic landmarks in St. Louis. When you visit the Gateway Arch, you’ll take a tram ride to the top. The Arch celebrates the westward expansion of the United States and the pioneers who made it possible.

You’ll begin your tour with their new pre-boarding exhibits featuring 60s era animation and Gateway Arch trivia. Each tram tour is around 45-60 minutes long. If you want the best experience, purchase your Tram Ride to the Top tickets before you arrive. What you’ll need to know: The Tram Ride to the Top of the Gateway Arch is not fully accessible for guests with mobility impairments, as no wheelchairs, scooters, or strollers are permitted on the Observation Deck.

2. The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art

Map It : 4525 Oak St, Kansas City, MO 64111 | Phone:  (816)-751-1278 |  Website  |  Hours:  Thursday: 10 AM-5 PM, Friday: 10 AM-9 PM, Saturday-Monday: 10 AM-5 PM  |  Entrance:  Prices Vary

If you have a love for art, you’ll want to add the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art to your list of things to do. During your tour, you’ll connect with others while exploring art and cultural history from around the world. You’ll explore the museums and discover the art on the tour that is facilitated by one of its educators.

Some of their past exhibitions include The Art of Illusion, Objects of Devotion, The Creativity Studio, and Van Gogh Alive. For gifts as unique as their collection, you can stop by their shop. Tickets are not required for entry into the store.

What you’ll need to know: Most member and museum events are free for members. If there is a cost, members typically receive a discount.

Related Read: 40 BEST Things To Do in St. Louis

3. Missouri Botanical Garden

Map It : 4344 Shaw Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63110 | Phone:  (314)-577-5100 |  Website  |  Hours:  Tuesday-Sunday: 9 AM-5 PM, Monday: Closed |  Entrance:  Adults: $14, Child: $0, Military: $7, Senior: $14

With every visit you make to the Botanical Garden, it opens up new opportunities to discover something you didn’t know about plants. Whether we believe it or not, plants are connected to our lives. Whether you’re a first time guest, or frequent visitor, you can choose one of their special tours.

Tours are rotated seasonally so you can learn about new areas when it comes to plants. The Botanical Garden offers seventy-nine acres of displays. They also have a fourteen-acre Japanese Garden that is one of the largest in North America.

What you’ll need to know: You can visit their website to purchase tickets ahead of time.

4. Silver Dollar City

Map It : 399 Silver Dollar City Pkwy, Branson, MO 65616 | Phone:  (416)-336-7100 |  Website  |  Hours:  Tuesday-Friday: 10 AM-6 PM, Saturday & Sunday: 9:30 AM-10 PM, Monday: Closed |  Entrance:  Adults: $14, Child: $0, Military: $7, Senior: $14

When you visit Silver Dollar City, you’ll discover a unique adventure and world class entertainment that is nestled in the Ozark Mountains. From record-breaking rollercoasters to festival entertainment, Silver Dollar City provides hours of excitement! Silver Dollar City is an 1880s-style theme park that shows concerts, has crafts, restaurants, and sixty unique shops.

There are a variety of ways to play at Silver Dollar City from 1,2,3 day tickets to season passes. There are always special offers and convenient add-ons to customize your visit.

What you’ll need to know: There are plenty of free parking spaces available at Silver Dollar City. At most parking locations, a tram or bus will pick you up and take you to the admission gate.

Related Read: 15 Best Romantic Getaways in Missouri

5. City Museum

Map It : 750 N 16th St, St. Louis, MO 63103 | Phone:  (314)-231-2489 |  Website  |  Hours:  Open Daily: 10 AM-6 PM |  Entrance:  $18. $20 at the gate

If you want to add a fun thing to do for the kids, you’ll want to consider stopping by the City Museum. City Museum is a mixture of children’s playground, funhouse, and architecture that is made out of repurposed objects. Twenty artisans came together and constructed the museums using concrete, iron, limestone, bricks, tile, stone, belts, valves, tanks, and more.

What you’ll need to know: The museum highly recommends that sneakers or closed-toe shoes are worn in the museum. Sandals/flip flops are strongly discouraged.

6. Gateway Arch National Park

Map It : 11 N 4th St #1810, St. Louis, MO 63102 | Phone:  (877)-982-1410 |  Website  |  Hours:  Open Daily: 5 PM-11 PM |  Entrance:  Free

If you’re traveling to Missouri during the summer, stop by the Gateway National Park. This park is more than just observing the city from the top of the arch. In the summer, the park has Ranger-led outdoor walking tours where you’ll learn about the history of the area.

There are also Ranger-led indoor tours available. During this tour, you’ll explore museum themes with people who know them best. Each day’s tour topics will be posted in the museum and on the information boards when you arrive.

What you’ll need to know: All visitors must pass through an airport-style security checkpoint to get to the lower level of the Arch facility.

7. Saint Louis Zoo

Map It : 1 Governmenr Dr, St. Louis, MO 63110 | Phone:  (314)-781-0900 |  Website  |  Hours:  Tuesday-Saturday: 9 AM-5 PM, Sunday & Monday: 8 AM-7 PM |  Entrance:  Free, One day pass: $14.95

The Saint Louis Zoo is home to over 14,000 animals and nearly 500 species. Being one of the few free zoos in the nation, they attract nearly 3 million visitors annually and is the most-visited attraction in the region. As a free zoo, their visitors are always encouraged to come back.

When you visit the zoo, you’ll have plenty of time to see attractions. The zoo has 90 acres of animal exhibits, attractions, shopping, and dining for you and your family to enjoy. During your visit, you can also find zoo activities and programs to enjoy.

What you’ll need to know: All-day parking is available on the Zoo's North Lot on Government Drive and South Lot on Wells Drive. For current parking costs, please visit Parking & Directions .

Related Read: 40 Best Camping Spots in Missouri

8. Saint Louis Art Museum

Map It : 1 Fine Arts Dr, St. Louis, MO 63110 | Phone:  (314)-721-0072 |  Website  |  Hours:  Tuesday-Thursday: 10 AM-5 PM, Friday: 10 AM-9 PM, Saturday & Sunday: 10 AM-5 PM, Monday: Closed |  Entrance:  Free

The Saint Louis Art Museum collects and conserves works of art that are the highest quality across time and cultures. It educates, inspires discovery, and will elevate your human spirit, all while representing the full diversity of the Saint Louis community. Some of their past exhibits include Paintings on Stone, Impressionism and Beyond, Art Along the Rivers, and Oliver Lee Jackson.

If you are visiting, especially with young kids, it’s important to not touch the works of art. The art on display are unique, fragile, and irreplaceable.

What you’ll need to know: The Museum loans strollers free of charge. Child carriers can be worn only on the front or checked at a coat check. Wagons are not allowed in the Museum.

9. Forest Park

Map It : 5595 Grand Dr, St. Louis, MO 63112 | Phone:  (314)-367-7275 |  Website  |  Hours:  Open Daily: 6 AM-10 PM |  Entrance:  Free

Forest Park is one of the most beautiful parks in the world and one of the greatest civic treasures in St. Louis. It is the 6th most visited park in the United States and spans over 1,300 acres. It’s also home to five major cultural institutions: Saint Louis Art Museum, Saint Louis Science Center, Missouri History Museum, The Muny, and the St. Louis Zoo.

What you’ll need to know: They are a private nonprofit conservancy that depends on generous members, donors and volunteers, so it’s always recommended to make a donation.

10. National WWI Museum and Memorial

Map It : 2 Memorial Dr, Kansas City, MO 64108 | Phone:  (816)-888-8100 |  Website  |  Hours:  Open Daily: 10 AM-5 PM |  Entrance:  Adults: $18, Seniors: $14, Military: $14, Youth: $10, Children under 6: Free

The National WWI Museum and Memorial is America’s Museum that is dedicated to remembering, interpreting, and understanding the Great War and the enduring impact on the global community. During your visit, you’ll discover many architectural and symbolic elements that make the museum one of Kansas City’s iconic landmarks.

You’ll be able to view the names that are inscribed on the wall in bronze in the Memory Hall who were residents of Missouri and died serving the Great War. During your visit, check out the Liberty Tower that rises 217 feet above the main courtyard.

What you’ll need to know: Free parking (including accessible parking) is located on the south side of the Museum and Memorial in the U-shaped drive and in the West Visitors Lot.

Related Read: 20 Top Treehouse Rentals in Missouri

11. Titanic Museum Attraction

Map It : 3235 W 76 Country Blvd, Branson, MO 65616 | Phone:  (800)-381-7670 |  Website  |  Hours:  Monday: 9 AM-8 PM, Tuesday-Thursday: 9 AM-6 PM, Friday: 9 AM-4 PM, Saturday & Sunday: 9 AM-6 PM |  Entrance:  Adults: $32, Child: $15, Children under 4: Free

The Titanic Museum Attraction is located in Branson Missouri and one of the two Titanic-themed museums that are owned by John Joslyn. The museum holds 400 pre-discovery artifacts in twenty galleries. During your visit, you’ll step through the artificial iceberg into the museum and receive a passenger boarding ticket of an actual Titanic passenger.

During your tour, you will learn of the individual stories of several Titanic passengers. At the end of your tour, you will be told whether or not your passenger survived.

What you’ll need to know: Many days are sold out, to secure your preferred date and time reservations are required.

12. World’s of Fun

Map It : 4545 World’s of Fun Ave, Kansas City, MO  | Phone:  (816)-454-4545 |  Website  |  Hours:  Saturday: 11 AM-9 PM, Sunday: 11 AM-8 PM |  Entrance:  From $39.99

World’s of Fun is every family’s go-to attraction destination in Kansas City. You’ll experience world-record attractions, world-famous food, world-class events, and world-changing fun! World’s of Fun is 236 acres of rides and slides and provides hours of enjoyment for all ages.

You’ll want to check out the Mamba rollercoaster while you’re there. It is the tallest coaster at the park, slithering up to 205 feet and a gravity-defying drop of up to 75 miles per hour.

What you’ll need to know: Your ticket includes unlimited use of all rides, shows, and attractions inside Worlds of Fun and Oceans of Fun for the day of your visit. It does not include extra charge attractions such as RipCord, or various concerts and special events.

13. Kansas City Zoo

Map It : 6800 Zoo Dr, Kansas City, MO 64132 | Phone:  (816)-595-1234 |  Website  |  Hours:  Open Daily: 9:30 AM-4 PM |  Entrance:  Tickets for all guests: $17-$20, Children under 2: Free

Grab the family and head on over to the Kansas City Zoo that is home to more than 1,700 animals and represents more than 200 species. The Kansas City Zoo is always changing and has many featured exhibits. These exhibits include Helzberg Penguin Plaza, Stingray Bay, and Orangutan Canopy.

What you’ll need to know: The Zoo permits the use of small coolers and ice chests. Please leave glass containers, disposable straws/lids and balloons at home.

14. Six Flags St. Louis

Map It : 4900 Six Flags Rd, Eureka, MO 63025 | Phone:  (636)-938-5300 |  Website |  Hours:  Saturday: 11 AM-7 PM, Sunday: 11 AM-6 PM |  Entrance:  Starting at $36.49

Six Flags St. Louis is an amusement park with thrilling rides and a waterpark that features characters from many Warner Bros films. Its layout consists of eight-themed areas that have attractions, dining locations, and live entertainment. The Hurricane Harbor waterpark is free with admission.

What you’ll need to know: Loose articles are not permitted in certain ride queue lines or on any of their rides. Guests may leave items in a locker or with a non-rider. Ride attendants are not responsible for articles left on any ride dock.

15. Saint Louis Science Center

Map It : 5050 Oakland Ave, St. Louis, MO 63110 | Phone:  (314)-289-4400 |  Website |  Hours:  Monday: 9:30 AM-5:30 PM, Tuesday & Wednesday: Closed, Thursday: 9:30 AM-3 PM, Friday-Monday: 9:30 AM-5:30 PM |  Entrance:  General Admission is Free

The St. Louis Science Center is a collection of buildings that include a science museum and a planetarium in Forest Park. It features over 750 exhibits over 300,000 square feet, making it one of the largest museums in the United States. One of the most recognizable features in the museum is the 5-story domed Omnimax Theater.

This theater shows a variety of films and documentaries year round. In 2016, they added the GROW exhibit agricultural landscapes.

What you’ll need to know: Parking at the Oakland Building at 5050 Oakland Avenue costs $12 during the regular season (Labor Day to Memorial Day) and $15 during the summer season (Memorial Day to Labor Day).

16. Busch Stadium

Map It : 700 Clark Ave, St. Louis, MO 63102 | Phone:  (314)-345-9600 |  Website |  Hours:  Game times vary|  Entrance:  Ticket prices vary per game

Busch Stadium is the Cardinal’s 46,000 seat ballpark that they play Major League Baseball in. When you arrive for a game, you will receive an information guide that will assist you in providing information about the stadium and its accommodations. If you’d like an autograph from a player, you can arrive before the game and you may be lucky to score one.

Located across from the stadium, you’ll find the ballpark Village that gives you options for drinks and entertainment. You can step it up a notch and purchase an all-inclusive ticket that includes a full buffet complimentary bar service, and a great view of the game.

What you’ll need to know: You can visit their website here to purchase a ticket for a tour of Busch Stadium.

17.Country Club Plaza

Map It : 4706 Broadway Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64112 | Phone:  (816)-753-0100 |  Website |  Hours:  Monday-Saturday: 10 AM-7 PM, Sunday: 12 PM-6 PM |  Entrance:  Prices Vary

The Country Club Plaza is a shopping center located in the Kansas City area. It features over 130 retailers and restaurants that include Array, The Tuscan Grille, and The Cheesecake Factory. During your visit, you can enjoy special events, seasonal celebrations, and great sales offered by your favorite brands.

What you’ll need to know: The Plaza offers several garages filled with free parking year round. Additionally, street parking is available throughout the Plaza.

18. Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art

4420 Warwick Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64111  | Phone:  (816)-753-5784 |  Website |  Hours:  Wednesday:10 AM-4 PM, Thursday: 10 AM-9 PM, Friday-Sunday: 10 AM-4 PM |  Entrance:  Free

The Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art is a free museum that hosts a permanent collection of modern and contemporary works of art. It has exhibitions, installations, lectures, workshops, and other creative programs for all ages. If you’d like, you can contribute a small donation to the Museum in assist in keeping it free.

At Kemper Museum there is no charge for admission, parking, special exhibitions, or programs. Your donations will underwrite these expenses and inspire many thousands with contemporary art each year.

What you’ll need to know: If you’re interested in a tour, Tours for non-school groups may be available on a case-by-case basis.

19. Missouri History Museum

Map It : 5700 Lindell Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63112 | Phone:  (314)-746-4599 |  Website |  Hours:  Tuesday-Sunday: 10 AM-9 PM |  Entrance:  Free

If you’re a history buff, you’ll want to plan a day to stop by the Missouri history museum. The Museum offers both continuing and long-term exhibits. These exhibits explore the history of those who call St. Louis home.

The collections include national artifacts as well as Missouri and St. Louis-related materials such as local colonial and native artifacts. A large number of artifacts from the Lewis and Clark Expedition are also housed in the permanent collection.

What you’ll need to know: Limited parking is available in the two lots adjacent to the Museum, including several accessible parking spaces. An additional 400 free parking spaces can be found in the nearby Twin lots and street parking is also permitted throughout Forest Park.

20. The Magic House, St. Louis Children’s Museum

Map It : 516 S Kirkwood St, St. Louis, MO 63112 | Phone:  (314)-822-8900 |  Website |  Hours:  Open Daily: 9:30 AM-5:30 PM |  Entrance:  Adults: $12, Children under 1: Free

Bring your kids to the Magic House: St. Louis Children’s Museum for a day of fun. Magic House offers hands-on learning experiences for all ages that will spark their imagination, trigger their curiosity, enhance creativity, and develop problem solving skills. They are aligned with national academic standards and promote 21st-century skills.

If you’re traveling with a group, Magic House offers a special group rate for groups of 15 or more. If you want a group rate, a minimum of one chaperone is required for every five children.

What you’ll need to know: Parking at The Magic House is free and available in the large lot behind the Museum.

21. Meramec Caverns

Map It : 1135 HWY W, Sullivan, MO 63080 | Phone:  (573)-468-CAVE |  Website |  Hours:  Open Daily: 9 AM-6 PM |  Entrance:  Adults: $26, Children: $14, Children under 5: Free, Military: $15

Meramec Caverns is a great place to add to your things to do list. You’ll have a guided tour along well-lighted walkways and it’s conducted by trained rangers and occur every 20-30 minutes. On the tour, you will see both the rarest and largest cave formations in the world.

On the tour, you’ll learn how the ancient Wine Table was formed completely under water. The cave complex stretches upward past the height of a 7-story building. Meramec Caverns is the largest commercial cave in the state of Missouri.

What you’ll need to know: No strollers are allowed on the cave tour. Due to the grooves in the concrete walkway (which allow moisture and water to drain from the walkways), the small size of stoller wheels tend to cause excessive vibration to the stroller and the child.

22. Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park

Map It : 148 Taum Sauk Trail, Middle Brook, MO 63656 | Phone:  (573)-546-2450 |  Website |  Hours:  See website |  Entrance:  By reservation

Johnson’s Shut-ins State Park offers walk-ins, basic and electric campsites . They have a special use camping area that is designated for group camping and other separate camping areas. If your family is more of the outdoorsy type, pack your camping gear and give this state park a go!

What you’ll need to know: You are now able to reserve your Missouri State Parks campsite up to 12 months in advance, expanding from the previous six-month window.

23. Ha Ha Tonka State Park

Map It : 1492 Missouri D, Camdenton, MO 65020 | Phone:  (573)-346-2986 |  Website |  Hours:  See website |  Entrance:  By reservation

Ha Ha Tonka State Park has intriguing history and outstanding geological features and should not be missed. The park features sinkholes, caves, a huge natural bridge, sheer bluffs, and Missouri’s 12th largest spring. There are ruins of a turn around castle that overlooks and offers impressive views of the Lake of Ozarks.

During your visit, you’ll run into a series of trails and boardwalks that will make it easy for you to experience all that the park has to offer. There are picnic sites available for you to bring lunch in a scenic setting.

What you’ll need to know: Avoid ticks by taking some simple precautions can help keep ticks off your body during your next outdoor adventure!

24. Harry S Truman Presidential Library and Museum

Map It : 500 W US Hwy 24, Independence, MO 64050 | Phone:  (816)-268-8200 |  Website |  Hours:  Monday-Saturday: 9 AM-5 PM |  Entrance:  Adults: $12, Youth: $5, Seniors: $10

The Harry S. Truman library and museum is an educational resource that inspires learning and supports national, local, and global citizenship. The library uses Truman’s life and legacy to inform and educate modern audiences about timeless wisdom. Through engaging exhibits and programs, the library and museum’s goal is to keep President Truman’s life and legacy alive.

What you’ll need to know: Visitors are allowed to take pictures throughout the museum but the use of a flash is prohibited.

25. Grant’s Farm

Map It : 7385 Grant Rd, St. Louis, MO 63123 | Phone:  (314)-843-1700 |  Website |  Hours:  Monday: 9 AM-5 PM, Tuesday-Thursday: Closed, Friday: 4 PM-9 PM, Saturday & Sunday: 9 AM-10 PM |  Entrance:  Free (Must purchase a parking ticket)

Grant’s Farm has become a refuge for more than 900 animals both large and small. During your visit, you will interact with many of the animals throughout the day and touch base with the expert team of caretakers . At the farm, they offer a variety of food and beverage options that you’ll be able to enjoy.

For guests over 21, you can take part in the long-standing tradition of a free beer sample. For a private behind the scenes tour, you can ride in their open air van to view the Busch family estate home, explore the inside of Grant’s Cabin, and hand-feed a variety of animals.

What you’ll need to know: When visiting the farm, you should purchase your parking ticket in advance .

26. Dogwood Canyon Nature Park

Map It : 2038 State Hwy 86, Lampe, MO 65681 | Phone:  (877)-459-5687 |  Website |  Hours:  Open Daily: 8:30 AM-5 PM |  Entrance:  General Admissiom: $15-$25, Child: $10.50-$17.50

Dogwood Canyon Nature Park is an outdoor paradise that is located in Lampe Missouri. It features 10,000 acres of natural rugged scenery in the Ozark Mountains. It is a popular family destination that offers hiking, biking, wildlife tours, horseback riding, and trout fishing.

In addition, you’ll see waterfalls, creek beds, handcrafted bridges, and wildlife. You’ll enjoy a carefully maintained landscape while also learning about conservation and interacting with nature up close.

What you’ll need to know: Dogs on a leash are welcome on all the trails and the restaurant patio. Pets are not permitted indoors or on the trams.

27. Negro Leagues Baseball Museum

Map It : 1616 E 18th St, Kansas City, MO 64108 | Phone:  (816)-221-1920 |  Website |  Hours:  Tuesday-Saturday: 10 AM-5 PM, Sunday: 12 PM-5 PM, Monday: 10 AM-2 PM |  Entrance:  Adults: $10, Seniors: $9, Kids: $6, Kids 4 & Under: Free

The NLBM is the world’s only museum that is dedicated and preserves the rich history of African American baseball and the impact that it had on America . The museum has welcomed more than 2 million visitors and has become one of the most important institutions in the world. If you have a love for baseball, this museum is worth checking out!

What you’ll need to know: Length of tours vary, but they recommend a minimum of an hour to fully enjoy the exhibit.

28. Fantastic Caverns

Map It : 4872 N Farm Rd 125, Springfield, MO 65803 | Phone:  (417)-833-2010 |  Website |  Hours:  Open Daily: 8 AM-8 PM |  Entrance:  Adult: $30, Child: $17, Child 5 Under: Free

Fantastic Caverns gives you a ride through experience in a deep drawn tram. You will tour the path left behind by an ancient underground river. During your 55 minute tour, trams will drive along a one mile route providing an up close and personal experience of the cave formations.

No walking is necessary and the trams are equipped with pull out ramps to accommodate wheelchairs and strollers. If you’re ready to experience Fantastic Caverns, just show up, purchase your ticket, and hop on a tram!

What you’ll need to know : Fantastic Caverns is open 362 days a year, with operating hours of 8 AM to dusk throughout the year except Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day.

29. Ozark National Scenic Riverways

Map It : 404 Watercress Rd, Van Buren, MO 63965 | Phone:  (573)-323-4236 |  Website |  Hours:  Monday-Friday: 8 AM-4:30 PM |  Entrance:  Free

The Ozark National Scenic Riverway is a recreational unit of the National Park Service in the Ozarks of Missouri. The park’s 80,000 acres are used for many forms of recreation, with canoeing being a popular activity. People also go kayaking and floating along the river on tubes.

Motorized boating with jonboats is also a popular activity of the locals. Other popular activities include horseback riding, hunting, hiking, fishing, camping, birdwatching, and nature Photography.

What you’ll need to know: In flood conditions, the river runs faster, carries debris, and is very treacherous. On land, flooding can make road crossings dangerous as well. Remember to never drive across a flooded roadway.

30. National Museum of Transportation

Map It : 2933 Barrett Station Rd, St. Louis, MO 63122 | Phone:  (314)-965-6212 |  Website |  Hours:  Wednesday-Monday: 9 AM-4 PM |  Entrance:  Adults: $15, Kids: $6, Seniore & Military: $12

The National Museum of Transportation is home to rail artifacts that include the Boston & Providence Railroad Passenger Coach built in 1833. The Museum’s rail and transit collections have grown to hold more than 190 exhibits. The collection is recognized as the largest collection of transportation vehicles in the world.

What you’ll need to know: There are $5.00 unlimited train rides (when operating), and it includes Handcar Rides (when operating).

31. Wonders of Wildlife National Museum and Aquarium

Map It : 500 W Sunshine St, Springfield, MO, 65807 | Phone:  (888)-222-6060 |  Website |  Hours:  Monday-Thursday- 10 AM-5 PM, Friday: 10 AM-7 PM, Saturday: 9 AM-7 PM, Sunday: 10 AM-6 PM  |  Entrance:  Adults: $32.50-$48.00, Child: $19.50-$24.95

Get an up close experience and see even more wildlife up close with a special tour. From interacting with penguins to swimming with sharks in the water, their interactive encounters will make it a trip to remember. With the penguin encounter, you’ll come face-to-face with all new penguin encounters at Penguin Cove.

You’ll learn about gentoo penguins and become immersed in the sights, sounds, and temperature of the environment. The penguin experience will last around 30-45 minutes. You’ll also experience meal time with the sharks.

What you’ll need to know: Parking is free across the Wonders of Wildlife and Bass Pro Shops campus.

32. Elephant Rocks State Park

Map It : 7390, 7406 MO-21, Belleview, MO 63623 | Phone:  (573)-546-3454 |  Website |  Hours: See Website  |  Entrance:  Free

Elephant Rocks State Park is known for its elephant-shaped boulders and are the stars of this unusual park in Missouri. These giant boulders stand end-to-end like a train of circus elephants. One of the easiest ways to make your way to the rocks is by Braille Trail.

The trail winds through the main area of rocks and leads back to the ruins of an old engine house. At the park, picnic tables are scattered among the trees and will be an inviting spot for you to take a rest or have lunch.

What you’ll need to know: For temporary closures related to weather, stewardship activities and maintenance, click here to visit the  Park and Site Status Map .

33. American Jazz Museum

Map It : 1616 E 18th St, Kansas City, MO 64108 | Phone:  (816)-474-8463 |  Website |  Hours: Tuesday-Saturday: 10 AM-5 PM, Sunday: 12 PM-5 PM, Monday: Closed |  Entrance:  Adults: $10, Seniors: $9, Child: $6, Children 4 & Under: Free

The American Jazz Museum highlights the sights and sounds of jazz through interactive exhibits and films. The museum hosts thousands of students, scholars, musicians, and fans of the arts for over 200 performances each year. For groups of 25 more, the museum offers guided tours that must be reserved in advanced.

The museum’s permanent exhibit has listening touch stations, touch screen interactives, custom mixing boards, and the John H. Baker film collection that displays artifacts and graphics. The changing gallery exhibit near the front entrance, displays work centered around Jazz and baseball. This museum is worth adding to your to-do list!

What you’ll need to know: The museum is easily accessible by car and bus . Unless there are highly attended 18th & Vine District events, parking on the street is readily available. Visitors may also choose to park in the lot behind the Museums at 18th & Vine.

34. Arabia Steamboat Museum

Map It : 400 Grand Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64106 | Phone:  (816)-471-1856 |  Website |  Hours: Tuesday-Saturday: 10 AM-5 PM, Sunday: 12 PM-5 PM, Monday: 10 AM-5 PM |  Entrance:  Adults: $14.50, Seniors: $13.50, Child: $5.50, Children 3 & Under: Free

The Arabia Steamboat Museum is one of the most unique museums in Kansas and shows a time capsule of life on the American frontier in the mid 19th-century. You’ll have a one-of-a-kind opportunity to experience everyday objects that made life possible for pioneers in the 1800s. It is the largest, single collection of pre-Civil War artifacts in the world.

What you’ll need to know: They recommend 90 minutes to view the entire museum. There are no required stairs, and seating is available throughout the museum.

35. The Butterfly Palace and Rainforest Adventure

Map It : 4106 W 76 Country Blvd, Branson, MO 65616 | Phone:  (417)-332-2231 |  Website |  Hours: Open Daily: 9 AM-5 PM |  Entrance:  Adults: $23.95, Kids: $15.95, Seniors: 21.95

The Butterfly Palace is a unique activity that the whole family will enjoy. During your visit, you’ll see the exotic butterfly aviary with over 1,000 live exotic butterflies that are imported from the rainforest. You’ll see the living rainforest science center and get to view over 25 reptiles and amphibians from the rainforest.

In addition, they have the Rainforest Theater where the kids can begin their butterfly excursion. Other activities include the Emerald Forest Mirror Maze, Banyan Tree Adventure, and the Base Camp Gift Shop.

What you’ll need to know:  Due to limited capacity at their facility, online ticket sales are currently disabled. Tickets can still be purchased at their ticket counter on a first-come-first-serve basis.

36. Dickerson Park Zoo

Map It : 1401 W Norton Rd, Springfield, MO 65803 | Phone:  (417)-833-1570 |  Website |  Hours: Open Daily: 9 AM-5 PM |  Entrance:  Adults & Teens: $16, Children: $11, Seniors: $13, Children 2 & Under: Free

Dickerson Park Zoo is located in Springfield Missouri and homes more than 500 animals that represent 160 species. During your visit, you can go on a 1.2 mile tour to spot these animals from all around the world. You’ll also be able to visit the outback petting zoo where you can spend $1 per token to feed the giraffes.

What you’ll need to know: Families can rent single stroller for $8 and double strollers for $10.

37. White Water

Map It : 3505 West Highway 76, Branson, MO 65616 | Phone:  (417)-336-7100 |  Website |  Hours: Summer hours vary |  Entrance:  $69

White Water Waterpark is a great day of summer fun for people of all ages and it’s been voted one of America’s best outdoor water parks! This park features 2 million gallons of fun and 13 acres of water rides, slides, and waves. You’ll be able to enjoy the high tide of the 500,000 gallon surfs up wave pool, float tour cares away on the Aloha River, or splash in Coconut Cove.

What you’ll need to know: Changing rooms and showers are on site. Standard Lockers are available to rent for $15 per day. Family Lockers are also available for rent for $23 per day and a $5 refundable deposit is required for both locker sizes.

38. The Shepherd of the Hills

Map It : 5583 W 76 Country Blvd, Branson, MO 65616 | Phone:  (417)-334-4191 |  Website |  Hours: Monday-Saturday: 9 AM-8 PM, Sunday: 9 AM-5 PM |  Entrance:  Ticket prices vary per show

The Shelherd of the Hills is a family entertainment park & farm that is centered around the legendary Outdoor drama and historic farm of the namesake novel, The Shepherd of the Hills. During the fall, you can visit their pumpkinfest where you can pick out a pumpkin, go on a hayride, paint a pumpkin, and more! Sit under the stars and enjoy this rustic outdoor theater.

What you’ll need to know: All tickets purchased online can receive a refund before 48 hours of showtime or tour.

39. Stone Hill Winery

Map It : 1110 Stone Hill HWY, Hermann, MO 65041 | Phone:  (573)-486-2221 |  Website |  Hours: Monday-Thursday: 10 AM-5 PM, Friday & Saturday: 10 AM-5:30 PM, Sunday: 11 AM-4 PM |  Entrance:  Prices Vary

Stone Hill Winery is the largest winery in the state of Missouri. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions and welcomes thousand of visitors each year. During your visit, you can take a guided tour of the winery’s arched underground cellars before settling in for wine tasting in one of three tasting rooms.

What you’ll need to know: You must be 21 or older to participate in the wine tasting events.

40. Hollywood Wax Museum

Map It : 3030 W 76 Country Blvd Unit A, Branson, MO 65616 | Phone:  (417)-337-8700 |  Website |  Hours: Open Daily: 8 AM-12 AM |  Entrance:  Regular-$23.99-$29.99, Children: $13.99-$17.99, Children under 2: Free

At the Hollywood Wax Museum, you’ll get up close and personal with your favorite stars. You can get right next to them and snap a selfie and even use photo props. You’ll get to be a star amongst the stars while walking the red carpet and hanging in the Old West Saloon.

What you’ll need to know: If you’re visiting with 15 or more guests, you can book online for 15-25% OFF.

41. Outlaw Run

Map It : 399 Silver Dollar City Pkway, Branson, MO 65616 | Phone:  (800)-888-7277 |  Website |  Hours: Monday & Tuesday: Closed, Wednesday & Thursday: 10 AM-9 PM, Friday: 10 AM-10 PM, Saturday: 9:30 AM-10 PM, Sunday: 10 AM-9 PM |  Entrance:  $69 - Price for Silver Dollar City Ticket

Try out Outlaw Run and test your grit as you blaze west through the great Ozarks frontier. The $10 million dollar ride sends passengers soaring through the Ozark Mountains on a ground-breaking wood coaster that features several firsts. Outlaw Run features the world’s first and only double barrel roll on a wooden coaster.

Outlaw Run is one of the fastest wood coasters in the world, reaching 68 miles per hour. You must be 48 inches or taller to ride this ride.

What you’ll need to know: A test seat is available at the front of the ride entrance so you may determine if you meet the seating requirements.

42. Fritz’s Adventure

Map It : 1425 W 76 Country Blvd, Branson, MO 65616 | Phone:  (417)-320-6138 |  Website |  Hours: Monday-Wednesday: Closed, Thursday: 10 AM-6 PM, Friday & Saturday: 10 AM-8 PM |  Entrance:  Starting at $24.95

Bring the kids and head over to Fritz’s Adventure for a day filled with fun and adventure! There is much to explore that includes an indoor/outdoor Treetop Course. The Treetop Course features 45 obstacles including 17 high-flying Ziplines, 8 suspension bridges, 2 free falls, and a crows nest.

Other activities include a ropes course, underground tunnels, laser maze, and more. This will be a day that won’t disappoint.

What you’ll need to know: The average family spends 2-4 hours at Fritz’s, but some have been known to stay 8+ hours.

43. Sea Life Kansas City

Map It : 2475 Grand Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64108 | Phone:  (816)-471-4386 |  Website |  Hours: Monday-Friday: 10 AM-4 PM, Saturday & Sunday: 9 AM-5 PM |  Entrance:  Starting at $22.99

Sea life is the largest family of aquariums and includes sea life aquariums all over North America. At Sea Life, you’ll voyage into jaw-dropping underwater world’s. You’ll escape into an 180-degree underwater world, come face to face with sharks and sea turtles, touch a sticky anemone, and explore 12 exhibits.

What you’ll need to know: The best way of ensuring your family's entry is by reserving your tickets online (while receiving special online discounts).

44. Top of the Rock Golf Course

Map It : 150 Top of the Rock Rd, Ridgedale, MO 65739 | Phone:  (417)-339-5343 |  Website |  Hours: Open Daily: 7 AM-9 PM |  Entrance:  Prices Vary

Grab the boys and spend the day discovering and playing a round at Top of the Rock Golf Course. You’ll discover the beauty of the Ozark’s finest courses that Big Cedar Lodge has to offer. They were designed by some of the top names including Tiger Woods, Tom Watson, Gary Player, and Ben Crenshaw.

What you’ll need to know: In order to gain access to Top of the Rock amenities and attractions, there is a $10 entry fee.

45. Ameristar Casino Resort Spa St. Charles

Map It : 1 Ameristar Blvd, St. Charles, MO 64161 | Phone:  (636)-949-7777 |  Website |  Hours: Open Daily: 24 hours |  Entrance:  Prices Vary

Sit back and relax at the Ameristar Casino Resort & Spa. The Ameristar offers a gaming and entertainment experience in the St. Louis Metropolitan Area. The Ameristar feature a 130,000 square foot casino, a full-service luxury suite hotel, an indoor-outdoor pool, dining venues, 12 bars, a luxury day spa, and an entertainment venue.

What you’ll need to know: The casino is closed Wednesdays from 5:00am to 6:00am.

46. Mark Twain Cave

Map It : 300 Cave Hollow Rd, Hannibal, MO 63401 | Phone:  (636)-949-7777 |  Website |  Hours: Open Daily: 9 AM-6 PM |  Entrance:  Adult: $24.99, Child: $14.99

The Mark Twain Cave was named after Mark Twain whose real name was Samuel Longhorne Clemens. It is the oldest operating show cave in the state of Missouri. The guided tour of the Mark Twain Cave takes around 55 minutes and is open year round.

What you’ll need to know: Before booking your tour, you should know that this cave does not have any steps and it is not wheelchair accessible.

47. Ripley’s Believe It or Not

Map It : 3326 W 76 Country Blvd, Branson, MO 65616 | Phone:  (417)-337-5300 |  Website |  Hours: Sunday-Thursday: 10 AM-8 PM, Friday & Saturday: 10 AM-10 PM |  Entrance:  Adult: $24.99, Child: $14.99

Ripley’s Believe It or Not was established in 1918 and is inspired by stories of people and places that are incredibly hard to believe but undeniably true. You’ll be welcomed to the world where truth is always stranger than fiction. You’ll explore the unusual and fascinating exhibits collected by the world-famous traveler Robert Ripley.

What you’ll need to know: The Odditorium is self-guided, allowing you to walk through at your own pace. Everyone’s experience is different, but it’s recommend planning up to 2 hours for your visit.

48. Legoland Discovery Center Kansas City

Map It : 2475 Grand Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64108 | Phone:  (816)-471-4386 |  Website |  Hours: Monday-Friday: 10 AM-4 PM, Saturday & Sunday: 9 AM-5 PM |  Entrance:  Starting at $19.99

Legoland Discovery Center is a place where families and people of all ages will have a great day out! You’ll enjoy the ultimate two-story indoor playground and have the best day ever. You’ll surround yourself with millions of Lego bricks, take flight on Merlin’s apprentice, blast skeletons on Kingdom Quest ride adventure, and see your favorite characters on the Lego 4D theater.

What you’ll need to know: Adults must be accompanied by children to enter LEGOLAND Discovery Center. They will host exclusive adult nights for our Adult Fans of LEGO without children!

49. Weston Bend State Park

Map It:  16600 MO-45, Weston, MO 64098 | Phone:  (816)-640-5443 |  Website |  Hours: See website  |  Entrance:  Free

Spend the day at Weston Park, where you’ll be offered picnic sites, a campground, and sweeping views of the Missouri River. You’ll come across trails and a scenic overlooks that is accessible by those with disabilities. Also, at the park, is a 3 mile-paved bicycle trail that will take hikers and bikers through the park’s woody terrain.

What you’ll need to know: For temporary closures related to weather, stewardship activities and maintenance, click here to visit our Park and Site Status Map .

50. Bogart’s Smokehouse

Map It: 1627 S 9th St, St. Louis, MO 63104  | Phone:  (314)-621-3107 |  Website |  Hours: Tuesday-Saturday: 10:30 AM-4 PM |  Entrance:  Prices Vary

Stop by for a bite to eat at Bogart’s Smokehouse for the best BBQ in town! The crew at Bogart’s invites you to experience their spin on America’s favorite food. From pulled pork and Smokey brisket, to moist Turkey and pastrami, you’ll get the freshest and flavorable dining experience around.

What you’ll need to know: You can visit their website to shop their sauces, rubs, and gift boxes.

51. Adrenaline Zone

Map It: 1875 S Old HWY 94, St. Charles, MO 63303  | Phone:  (636)-940-7700 |  Website |  Hours: Friday & Saturday: 12 PM-10 PM, Sunday: 12PM-10 PM  |  Entrance:  Call for availability.

Stop by Adrenaline Zone for a game of Demolition Ball. It is played in a supercharged bumper car with two five-player teams. Demolition Ball created a unique opportunity for people of various ages and athletic abilities to face off in some fast-paced fun.

What you’ll need to know: To schedule a time you’ll need to call and make a reservation and check availability.

52. Hermann Wine Trail

Map It: 150A Market St, Hermann, MO 65041  | Phone:  (573)-294-2228 |  Website |  Hours: Open Daily: 10 AM-5 PM |  Entrance:  Prices Vary

The Hermann Wine Trail is a group of seven family-owned wineries that are located in Hermann Missouri. They have a quaint, country farm setting with historic wine cellars, and a rich style of wines. They are open year round so you can enjoy daily wine tastings and participate in six trail events featuring wine and food pairings.

What you’ll need to know: Ticket price includes a wine & food sample at each winery, and a souvenir wine glass you will receive at your first winery stop.

53. Chocolate Chocolate Chocolate Company

Map It: 5025 Pattinson Ave, St. Louie, MO 63110  | Phone:  (888)-222-7710 |  Website |  Hours:  Monday-Friday: 9 AM-4:30 PM |  Entrance:  Prices Vary

If you have a sweet tooth, stop by the Chocolate Chocolate Chocolate Company. They hand craft chocolate truffles, caramels, peanut butter cups, and craft chocolate bars. If you like truffles, you’ll get to choose from Raspberry, Chocolate, Mint, and Espresso.

What you’ll need to know: Tours are limited to 10 people at a time.

54. Hidden Valley Ski Resort

Map It: 17409 Hidden Valley Dr, Eureka, MO 63025  | Phone:  (636)-938-5373 |  Website |  Hours:  Times Vary |  Entrance:  Prices vary per attraction.

Hidden Valley Ski Resort is the perfect place to bring your snowboard and have a fun day outdoors. They have what you call “ski the week” where you can have the mountain to yourself. Enjoy wide open runs, untouched snow, and more time doing what you love.

What you’ll need to know: For inquiries specific to resort offerings such as lessons or general questions please reach out to the resort directly.

55. Boulevard Brewing Company

Map It: 2501 Southwest Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64108  | Phone:  (816)-474-7095 |  Website |  Hours: Call for hours |  Entrance:  Prices vary

Grab your friends and head to Boulevard Brewing Company for a tour to see just how it’s made. They have tours for every occasion, whether you want to see the campus or brewing facility, you’ll learn about the beauty of beer and food. You can schedule an Unfitlered Tour to learn about the science of making and testing beers.

What you’ll need to know: Closed toes shoes are required when doing a tour.

56. Porter’s Candy World and Ice Cream Parlor

Map It: 211 College St, Arcadia, MO 63621  | Phone:  (573)-546-4249 |  Website |  Hours: Thursday-Tuesday: 11 AM-8 PM |  Entrance:  Prices vary

Everyone loves ice cream, so grab the family and stop by Porter’s Candy World and Ice Cream Parlor. This is a great place for getting ice cream and many other snacks, candies, baked goods, etc. The place smells of delicious flavors with vanilla being the fan favorite!

What you’ll need to know: Visitors have said you can’t leave without trying their delicious rolls.

57. National Museum of Toys and Miniatures

Map It: 5235 Oak St, Kansas City, MO 64112  | Phone:  (816)-235-8000 |  Website |  Hours: Wednesday-Monday: 10 AM-4 PM |  Entrance:  Adult: $8, Seniors: $7, Ages 6-17: $5, Ages 5 & Under: Free

The National Museum of Toys & Miniatures is home to the world’s largest collection of fine-scale miniatures and one of the largest collections of historic toys. The toy collection documents societies cultural beliefs and the hopes and dreams of generations of children. Families and kids of all ages will love this museum.

What you’ll need to know: You can save time and purchase your tickets directly on the Museum’s website.

58. Blue City Deli, St. Louis

Map It: 2438 McNair Ave, St. Louis, MO 63104  | Phone:  (314)-773-8225 |  Website |  Hours: Monday-Saturday: 10:30 AM-3 PM |  Entrance:  Prices vary

Grab a bite to eat at the infamous Blue City Deli. You can stop by and have a po-boy, red beans and rice, old fashioned soda, or an ice cold beer. You’ll also be able to listen to some of the best blues music you’ll ever hear.

What you’ll need to know: Due to meat shortages, their prices are subject to change.

59. Pappy’s Smokehouse, St. Louis

Map It: 3106 Olive St, St. Louis, MO 63103  | Phone:  (314)-535-4340 |  Website |  Hours: Hours vary|  Entrance:  Prices vary

Pappy’s Smokehouse prepares fresh food daily. They serve the best Memphis-style BBQ right in their location at downtown St. Louis. They make everything fresh, slow smoking their meats for 24 hours over sweet apple or cherry wood.

What they’ll need to know: They do not take reservations, as they operate on a first come, first serve basis.

60. Flat Branch Pub & Brewing

Map It: 115 S 5th St, Columbia, MO, 65201 | Phone:  (573)-499-0400 |  Website |  Hours: Sunday-Thursday: 11 AM-9 PM, Friday & Saturday: 11 AM-10 PM |  Entrance:  Prices vary

Flat Branch Pub & Brewing offers a diverse menu as well as award-winning hand-crafter beers on tap. You’ll enjoy your stay in an upscale industrial setting, their outdoor patio, and their friendly bar. You can try their pub favorites like Cat Fish and Chips, Bratwurst, or their Romaine Salad.

What you’ll need to know: Dine-in is first come, first served. Please check in with host to be seated or placed on the waiting list.

61. Garrozo’s Kansas City

Map It: 526 Harrison St, Kansas City, MO 64106  | Phone:  (816)-221-2455 |  Website |  Hours: Monday-Thursday: 11 AM-9 PM, Friday: 11 AM-10 PM, Saturday: 3 PM-10 PM, Sunday: 3 PM-9 PM |  Entrance:  Prices vary

Garrozo’s is an itslian restaurant that provides first class service and dining. Try their Garrozo that is topped with amogio, a blend of olive oil, garlic, lemon juice and herbs,  Served with side of pasta and Maggie’s sugo. One thing’s for certain, you’ll leave with a full stomach!

What you’ll need to know: It is recommended that you make a reservation to dine at this location.

62. Big Surf Waterpark

Map It: 954 State Highway Y, Linn Creek, MO 65052  | Phone:  (573)-346-6111 |  Website |  Hours: Summer hours vary |  Entrance:  $39.95

If you’re traveling to Missouri in the summer, you’ll want to stop by Big Surf Waterpark for a day of fun in the sun! This is a wonderful waterpark for the whole family that is clean and the grounds are beautiful. If you have younger children, you’ll want to check out their Tropical Splash Island.

What you’ll need to know: There is no food or drink permitted into the park.

63. Splash Country

Map It: 1945 W 76 Country Blvd, Brandon, MO 65616  | Phone:  (417)-335-3535 |  Website |  Hours: Monday-Thursday: 1 PM-9 PM, Friday: 1 PM-10 PM, Saturday: 10 AM-10 PM, Sunday: 10 AM-9 PM |  Entrance:  Prices Vary

Splash Country waterpark is Branson’s premier indoor and outdoor waterpark. It features nine water-filled attractions from a lazy river to an action packed treehouse with 1,000 gallon tipping bucket. You can even try out Driller’s Cove and test out your basketball skills to see who has the best shots in the family!

What you’ll need to know: Splash Country waterpark has all inclusive packages available here .

Related Read: 20 Treehouse Rentals in Missouri (Accommodating With Attractions!)

64. Bigfoot Fun Park

Map It: 3608 W 76 Country Blvd, Branson, MO 65616  | Phone:  (800)-562-2416 |  Website |  Hours: Open Daily: 10 AM-10 PM |  Entrance:  Starting at $12.95

The Bigfoot Fun park offers a variety of attractions that are all themed around Bigfoot and designed for people of all ages. This park features indoor and outdoor activities including the Bigfoot Action Tower and Bigfoot adventure mini park. It has a large outdoor patio, indoor and outdoor party spaces, a visitor center and free light shows.

What you’ll need to know: If you’re planning on riding rides, make sure you wear closed toe shoes.

65. Raging Rivers Waterpark

Map It: 100 Palisades Pkwy, Grafton, IL  | Phone:  (618)-786-2345 |  Website |  Hours: Hours vary |  Entrance:  Prices vary

Located just forty minutes from St. Louis is Raging Rivers Waterpark. Raging Rivers has a giant wave pool, body flumes, Endless River, Tree House Harbor, and a family interactive play area. You can buy day passes and spend the entire day here!

What you’ll need to know: It’s highly recommended that you bring water shoes along for the trip.

Tobi Miles is a University of Florida graduate turned globe-trotting culinary explorer and digital nomad expert. As the founder of "Bytes & Bites," he combines his passion for international cuisine with practical advice on remote work, inspiring others to experience the world through food and cultural immersion. With 32 countries under his belt and a knack for uncovering hidden culinary gems, Tobi is redefining the intersection of work, travel, and gastronomy for a new generation of adventurers.

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Learn how to easily plan your dream trip to the Midwest!

15 Best Attractions in Missouri You Must Visit

August 16, 2023 by //  by  Midwest Explored Leave a Comment

There are so many amazing tourist attractions in Missouri to explore!

The best things to do in Missouri include national monuments, historic homes, amazing museums, and natural wonders.

There really is something for everyone in Missouri no matter your interests.

If you are a history buff, there are a ton of sites significant to Wild West history. Interested in literature? Visit the homes of famous writers.

If exploring lively cities is your idea of a fun time, you need to visit St. Louis, Kansas City, and Branson. Many of the top places to visit in Missouri are located in or near these metropolitan areas.

Let’s look at what to do in Missouri!

Gateway Arch

Gateway Arch National Park is not only one of the best things to do in St. Louis but one of the most famous sites in the whole country!

Constructed from 1963 to 1965, it is the tallest arch in the world at 623 feet. Easily recognizable from its bright, silver color and curved shape you will be amazed by this Missouri attraction.

For a bucket list activity, ride the tram to the top to get amazing views of St. Louis and the Mississippi River.

As one of the most popular tourist attractions in Missouri, you should book tickets in advance to secure a spot. Tickets can sell out fast, and you do not want to miss this opportunity!

After checking out the views, visit the museum on the ground level to learn about the history of the Arch, America’s westward expansion, and the story of Native Americans and pioneers.

As one of the best national parks in Missouri, you cannot miss out on seeing the iconic Gateway Arch!

Where to Stay in St. Louis:

Luxury: The Last Hotel . Check Rates: Booking.com

Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum

Hannibal is one of the cutest small towns in Missouri and is best known as being the home to one of the most famous American writers.

Mark Twain was born Samuel Clemens in Florida, Missouri, in 1835. When he was four, his family moved to Hannibal. He lived here until 1853.

The museum has interactive exhibits based on Twain’s books. Learn about his life and how his boyhood experiences and friends influenced his writing.

After exploring the wooden, white home, you can visit the Mark Twain Memorial Lighthouse or explore the Mark Twain Cave.

A cruise on the Mark Twain Riverboat is another of the best Missouri tourist attractions.

Where to Stay in Hannibal: Affordable: Sleep Inn & Suites Hannibal . Check Rates: Booking.com

Fantastic Caverns Is One Of The Attractions In Missouri Not To Miss

If you are looking for one of the best things to do in Springfield , you need to check out Fantastic Caverns!

As one of the best caves in Missouri , this natural wonder attracts people who are looking for a unique experience.

This cave system is popular for all ages and abilities because it is very accessible. No hiking or spelunking is required. Instead, you ride a Jeep-drawn tram through the caverns during a 55-minute tour.

This is a relaxing way to admire all the cool stalactites, stalagmites, and other cave formations.

This cave was discovered in the Ozarks in 1862, and it still wows people today as one of the best Missouri attractions.

If you are vacationing in Missouri, add this spot to your itinerary.

Where to Stay in Springfield:

Affordable: Homewood Suites By Hilton Springfield Medical District . Check Rates: Booking.com

Missouri State Capitol

Come to Jefferson City in central Missouri to visit the grand State Capitol.

The current capitol building was completed in 1917 and is in the Classical Revival style. Two previous state capitols were destroyed by fires in 1837 and 1911 respectively. The original was built in 1826.

During a free tour, spend time admiring the impressive architecture, statues, and paintings. A staff member will guide you on a 45-minute tour and answer all of your questions.

The Missouri State Museum is also found in the capitol.

There are extensive exhibits that cover the state’s natural and cultural history. There is an array of artifacts, recreations, and dioramas.

This is one of the top landmarks of Missouri for anyone who is interested in the state’s history or architecture.

Where to Stay in Jefferson City:

Affordable: Best Western Plus Capital Inn . Check Rates: Booking.com

Silver Dollar City

The 1880s-themed Silver Dollar City is one of the top attractions in Branson. If you want a family Missouri vacation full of fun rides and live entertainment, this Ozarks destination is for you!

There are a bunch of cool rides and attractions including multiple rollercoasters, the FireHouse Splash Yard, the Frisco Silver Dollar Line Steam Train, the Giant Barn Swing, and more.

Dotted throughout the park, you will also find many faux historic buildings such as a schoolhouse, church, and homestead. At the barnyard, you will find a petting zoo.

There are also many live demonstrations by craftsmen and artisans. Learn all about blacksmithing, woodworking, glass blowing, pottery, and soap making.

Listen to live country and bluegrass music. Eat tasty BBQ, pizza, kettle corn, funnel cakes, and ice cream.

Silver Dollar City also has many great festivals and events throughout the year. Visit during Country Music Days, the Harvest Festival during Halloween, and Christmas in Branson is not to be missed!

During summer, you can also cool off at the White Water water park.

Where to Stay in Branson:

Affordable: Lodge of the Ozarks . Check Rates: Booking.com

Ha Ha Tonka State Park

Just south of Lake of the Ozarks, Ha Ha Tonka State Park is one of the best state parks in Missouri.

The most interesting feature found here is the ruins of a historic castle. They make for an amazing photoshoot location or spot to explore in the woods.

While the decrepit stone walls look out of place surrounded by trees, they have an interesting history.

In 1905, Robert M. Snyder began construction on the castle. It was eventually finished by his sons in 1922. Unfortunately, a fire destroyed the building in 1942.

Today, the castle ruins are one of the coolest attractions in Missouri for anyone looking for a hidden gem in the Midwest .

The park also has cool geological features, including a spring, caves, bluffs, and sinkholes. Hike one of the trails or have a picnic.

Where to Stay Near Ha Ha Tonka State Park: Mid-Range: Cheerful Camdenton Cottage Steps to Lake . Check Rates: Booking.com

Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield

The Battle of Wilson’s Creek took place on August 10, 1861, near Springfield. It was one of the first major battles at the beginning of the Civil War. It was a Confederate victory.

The 1,920-acre Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield is a great place to step back in time. Wander the grounds and imagine what it would be like to be a soldier fighting in the Civil War.

You can explore this Missouri national park along the 5-mile driving tour or the hiking and horseback riding trails. There is a Civil War Research Library on-site with over 12,000 books and artifacts.

In the summer, visit the preserved Ray House. It was used as a field hospital during the war.

History buffs with an interest in the Civil War will claim this as one of the best attractions in Missouri!

Where to Stay Near Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield :

Affordable: AmericInn by Wyndham Republic . Check Rates: Booking.com

Patee House Museum and Jesse James Home

Anyone interested in Wild West history will love the many great attractions in St. Joseph, located about an hour north of Kansas City.

The Patee House originally opened as a hotel in 1858. It had many other roles through the years including a college and a factory.

In 1965, the property became a museum operated by the Pony Express Historical Association. The exhibits focus on 1800s history.

You will find many antique vehicles, furniture, horse buggies, telephones, and more. You will love the recreated dentist’s office, blacksmith shop, and the Buffalo Saloon where you can order a sarsaparilla.

Near the Patee House is the little, white Jesse James Home. It was here on April 3, 1882, that the infamous outlaw Jesse James was shot and killed by his gang member Robert Ford.

The home is now a Missouri museum dedicated to James’ life with many fascinating artifacts. His grave is found in Kearney, Missouri.

Where to Stay in St. Joseph:

Affordable: Vineyard Mansion B&B . Check Rates: Booking.com

Route 66 Red Rocker

The Route 66 Red Rocker in Fanning was once the world’s largest rocking chair from 2008 to 2015.

While it was knocked to second place by a chair in Illinois, it still remains one of the best Route 66 attractions in Missouri.

The bright red chair stands at just over 42 feet tall with rockers that are 31.5 feet long. While it was once able to rock, it was permanently stilled for safety reasons.

You also can no longer sit on the chair, but it is still a great photo op from the ground.

Where to Stay Near Fanning:

Budget: Super 8 by Wyndham Cuba . Check Rates: Booking.com

Titanic Museum

Another of the best things to do in Branson is the Titanic Museum which offers a unique and memorable experience.

The building is modeled after the ill-fated ship, so it really feels as if you are boarding the Titanic.

When you enter, you are given a boarding pass with the name of a real passenger. As you go through the museum you can learn more about your person and whether or not they survived the incident.

The museum has reproductions of many parts of the ship, some of which are to scale. These include the amazing Grand Staircase, the engine rooms, and some passenger rooms.

Check out artifacts from the ship, balance on the slope of the ship as it sank, and put your hand in 28-degree water.

Whether you are interested in the 1912 event or the classic 1997 movie, this is easily one of the top places in Missouri to visit. it is just one of many amazing Branson, MO, attractions!

Where to Stay in Branson: Affordable: Still Waters Resort . Check Rates: Booking.com

Missouri Botanical Garden

Nature lovers will want to stop by the Missouri Botanical Garden in St. Louis. This 79-acre garden was founded in 1859 and is now a National Historic Landmark.

There are a variety of themed gardens, greenhouses, and historic buildings. With so much to explore, you can easily spend a couple of hours here.

Wander through different flower gardens, a Japanese garden, a German garden, an English woodland garden, a children’s garden, and so many more pretty spaces.

The Climatron is a geodesic dome conservatory with over 2,800 plants, half of which are tropical.

Some of the historic buildings and structures to check out include the Stephen and Peter Sachs Museum, the Tower Grove House, the Piper Observatory, and the Linnean House.

The garden also has many events throughout the year.

Mid-Range: Hyatt Regency Saint Louis at The Arch . Check Rates: Booking.com

Union Station

One of the best things to do in Kansas City is visit Union Station downtown which has something to entertain everyone.

The historic train station opened in 1914, and it is easy to admire the beautiful Beaux-Arts architecture.

One of the best things to do here is Science City. The family-friendly, interactive exhibits will have visitors of all ages learning in a fun way.

Make sure to ride the Sky Bike 30 feet above the ground! Catch an astronomy show at the planetarium too.

Union Station also has restaurants, a fudge shop, a Model Train Gallery, a movie theater, and an escape room.

This is also one of the best places to visit in Missouri for a festive Christmas in the Midwest . The many trees and pretty decor is sure to leave you awed.

Where to Stay in Kansas City:

Mid-Range: Hampton Inn & Suites Country Club Plaza . Check Rates: Booking.com

Laura Ingalls Wilder Home and Museum

Another historic attraction in Missouri to visit is the Laura Ingalls Wilder Home and Museum in Mansfield.

The Little House on the Prairie author moved to Mansfield in 1894 and lived here until her death in 1957. She was 90 years old when she died and is buried in the Mansfield Cemetery beside her husband Almanzo.

Laura Ingalls Wilder’s home is called Rocky Ridge Farm. It was here that she penned her iconic children’s book series based on her time growing up as a settler and pioneer.

In the Wilder’s farmhouse, you will see Laura’s writing desk as well as other original furniture and personal belongings.

On the property is also the Rock House which belonged to Laura’s daughter, Rose Wilder Lane. Construction began in 1928 and this is where Laura wrote her first four books.

The museum features even more artifacts, handwritten manuscripts, Pa’s fiddle, Laura’s needlework, and more. It is a very comprehensive collection that fans will love!

If you love the Little House on the Prairie books or TV show, you will agree this is one of the top attractions in Missouri you must visit!

Where to Stay Near Mansfield: Budget: Americas Best Value Inn – Seymour . Check Rates: Booking.com

City Museum Is One Of The Fun Attractions In Missouri

One of the best attractions in St. Louis for kids is the super unique City Museum.

Do not let the name turn you off! This is far from your typical museum. It is a playground, funhouse, and surreal art piece wrapped into one.

Housed in an old warehouse, the City Museum features a school bus, and Ferris wheel on the roof, and an airplane hanging on the side.

Inside, there are four floors of fun! There are over 30 slides, including a ten-story spiral slide. An epic treehouse, tunnels, and caves provide a place to climb and explore.

See a show by Circus Harmony or take a picture with the world’s largest pencil.

If you are looking for a vacation spot in Missouri to bring the kids, the City Museum in St. Louis is a must!

Mid-Range: Angad Arts Hotel . Check Rates: Booking.com

One Of The Attractions In Missouri Is Elephant Rocks State Park

Elephant Rocks State Park is full of giant, granite boulders that were formed about 1.5 billion years ago.

Spend time climbing on the rocks and hiking the Braille Trail. This easy-rated trail is a one-mile loop with great views. It is a National Recreation Trail specifically designed to be accessible.

The main portion of the trail is paved with interpretive signage that has braille. The spur trails bring you to the ruins of an old railroad Engine house, quarry views, and an outcrop.

This park is found near Belleview, about an hour and a half south of St. Louis. It is easily one of the most unique natural attractions in Missouri!

Where to Stay Near Elephant Rocks State Park : Affordable: Fort Davidson Hotel . Check Rates: Booking.com

Packing List When Visiting Attractions In Missouri

Whether you will be traveling by plane or by car to Missouri, here are some  tips on how to pack lightly.

A  concealed travel pouch  may be one of the most important items you bring along when visiting Missouri attractions.

It is  always   important  to protect your personal information. Identity thieves are everywhere.

This  unisex RFID-blocking concealed travel pouch is  lightweight and comes in several colors. It has lots of organization to give you peace of mind.

You can place it under your clothes next to your body to carry your ID safely.

If you have a pouch already that does not come with RFID protection, as I do, these  RFID sleeves are the perfect solution.

This configuration comes with enough credit card sleeves that the entire family would be protected. They are slim too, so they will easily fit into your pouch or wallet. 

If you are planning on taking a lot of pictures with your phone you will definitely want to consider an  external charging battery .

This  Anker high-speed phone charging battery  is  the exact one  I carry with me on all of my trips.

It can be used on a variety of phones, not just an iPhone as I have. And wow is it fast!

My daughter gifted me with this  FugeTek selfie stick and tripod   setup for my birthday. I absolutely love it! It is made of lightweight aluminum and so easy to use.

It has Bluetooth connectivity and is a breeze to use for taking photos.

You will want to bring your own  refillable water bottle  with you. 

I never leave home on a trip without my   Bobble filtration bottle . The 18.5-ounce size is perfect for hiking and it fits nicely in the pocket of a backpack.

And here are the carbon filter replacements.

Perhaps you are traveling a long distance and packing space is a premium in your suitcase, or in your car.

Then this collapsible silicone foldable water bottle  would work well for you. Would not take up much space at all. 

There really are amazing attractions in Missouri for any type of traveler. Whether you love history, theme parks, or nature, you will have a fun MO vacation!

Hopefully, you discovered some new fun things to do in Missouri!

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The Top 10 Things to Do in Missouri

 Suman Roychoudhury/Getty Images

From human-made wonders like the Gateway Arch to the natural beauty of the Johnson's Shut-Ins , Missouri has a lot to offer. The state's two biggest cities, St. Louis and Kansas City, are filled with museums, monuments, and other urban treasures. In more rural areas, visitors will find small communities brimming with history and hospitality. Here are the top ten places to visit in Missouri.

National World War I Museum: Kansas City

The brave Americans who fought in the Great War are honored and remembered at the National World War I Museum and Memorial in Kansas City . The museum houses one of the world's largest collections of war artifacts, along with interactive exhibits and displays depicting key moments and battles. But the most powerful part of the experience is the personal stories and eyewitness accounts of what it was like to be in the war.

The museum's Main Gallery is home to a permanent exhibit, The World War, 1914-1919 . It provides a comprehensive history of the war though original documents, videos and other artifacts. There are also several limited-run exhibits that focus on particular aspects of the war. Another highlight is the Liberty Memorial Tower. Visitors can enjoy a great view of the Kansas City skyline from the open-air observation deck at the top of the tower.

The National World War I Museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. There are extended summer hours from Memorial Day to Labor Day. During the summer, the museum is open Sunday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is $16 for adults and $10 for children.

Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park: Reynolds County

The natural beauty of Missouri is on full display at Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park in Reynolds County. The popular swimming and hiking area formed millions of years ago when molten volcanic rock cooled along the Black River. Today, that cooled volcanic rock protrudes from river bed creating waterfalls, chutes, and deep pools for swimming. For those who prefer to see the beauty of the shut-ins from a distance, there is a hiking trail and observation area high above the river.

Johnson's Shut-Ins is a great place to spend the day, but the park can also accommodate longer visits. There are six log cabins for overnight stays, as well as a campground for both tents and RVs. Other amenities include a general store and a visitor's center with information about wildlife, plants and the history of the area. The main gates to the park open daily at 8 a.m. 

The Gateway Arch: St. Louis

The Gateway Arch in St. Louis welcomes visitors from around the world. The iconic symbol of the city rises 630 feet above the St. Louis Riverfront, making it the tallest monument in the United States. The Arch is an impressive sight from the ground, but don't miss the chance to see it from the top. A tram system shuttles visitors to an observation area inside the top of the Arch. Windows offer a great view of the surrounding city and the Mississippi River below.

The Arch just part of the Jefferson National Expansion Memorial. The memorial celebrates Thomas Jefferson and his role in the expansion of the American West. It also includes the Old Courthouse where slave Dred Scott sued for his freedom.

The Gateway Arch is open daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., with extended summer hours from Memorial Day to Labor Day. In the summer, the Arch is open from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. The entrance fee is $3 for adults. Children get in free. Tram rides are $10 per person. 

Missouri Wine Country: Gasconade & St. Charles Counties

German immigrants brought their wine-making skills to Missouri more than 150 years ago. The fertile soil along the Missouri River proved a great location for growing grapes. Today, the state has more than 120 wineries. Many of the most popular vineyards are located west of St. Louis in St. Charles and Gasconade Counties.

The small town of Hermann in Gasconade County is the heart of Missouri Wine Country. It's home to two of the state's most well-known wineries, Stone Hill  and Hermannhof. It's also where to explore the Hermann Wine Trail. The trail is a cooperative effort of seven local wineries that come together to host events and celebrations throughout the year.

Another favorite stop in wine country is Augusta in St. Charles County. Augusta's largest vineyard is  Mount Pleasant Winery , with its award-winning wines, wine cellar tours, and live entertainment. In addition, Augusta is home to three smaller wineries located along the Missouri Winestrasse. These wineries offer a more intimate tasting experience.

Pony Express National Museum: St. Joseph

Learn about the nation's first "high-speed" mail service at the Pony Express National Museum in St. Joseph, Missouri. St. Joe was the starting point for Pony Express riders who delivered mail to California in the early 1860s.

A visit today includes a tour of the stables where the riders began their 2,000-mile journey. The museum also has interactive exhibits telling the brief history of the Pony Express and showing the many dangers the riders faced. Visitors can also see other historic exhibits like a 1860s coin collection and a one-room schoolhouse. 

The Pony Express National Museum is open Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is $6 for adults, $3 for students and $1 for children.

Mark Twain's Boyhood Home: Hannibal

Hannibal is a small Mississippi River town in the northeast corner of the state. Its claim to fame is as the boyhood home of the author Mark Twain . Readers can learn all about historic Hannibal in Twain's novels, The Adventures of Tom Sawyer and The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn .

The most popular tourist spots in Hannibal celebrate this connection to Twain. Visitors can tour the author's boyhood home, see Tom Sawyer's whitewashed fence, visit nearby caves or navigate the Mighty Mississippi on the Mark Twain Riverboat.   

The Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is $11 for adults and $6 for children ages six to 17. Children five and younger get in free.

Bonne Terre Mine: St. Francois County

With more than 6,000 caves and caverns, Missouri is also known as the Cave State.

One of the most unique is Bonne Terre Mine in St. Francois County. It's one of the largest underground caverns in the world. The lower part of the mine is filled with a billion gallons of groundwater creating the world's largest subterranean lake. 

Visitors can take a walking or boat tour of the mine. The walking tour follows an old mule trail down the first two levels of the mine. From there, it's a boat ride across the huge underground lake. The crystal clear water offers 100 feet of visibility. For those looking for more adventure, Bonne Terre Mine also offers scuba diving. There are 24 lighted, dive trails exploring the submerged architecture of the mine.

Bonne Terre Mine is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m, from mid-May to October 1. It's open weekends only in the winter. Walking and boat tours are $27 for adults and $20 for children. Prices vary for scuba diving tours.

Missouri's Oldest Settlement: Ste. Genevieve

The history of Missouri starts in Ste. Genevieve, a small town on the Mississippi River. The area was first settled by the French in the early 1700s, making it the state's oldest settlement. Visitors can still experience much of that French Colonial heritage. The town has retained its historic feel with narrow streets, fenced gardens, and colonial buildings.

Ste. Genevieve's most historic buildings are located in an area known as the National Landmark Historic District. The district includes the 1792 Bolduc Museum House, the 1818 Felix Valle State Historic Site and four other prominent sites. Visitors can see all six sites during the Historic Passport Tour. 

In addition to its rich history, Ste. Genevieve is a charming small town with nice boutique hotels and bed & breakfasts. There are restaurants, wineries and quaint stores for shopping.

Lake of the Ozarks: Camden & Miller Counties

For fun in the sun in Missouri, there's no better place than the Lake of the Ozarks. The 85 square miles, man-made lake is the state's top destination for boating, swimming, and other water sports. Along the lake's extensive shoreline, there are several small towns with a variety of hotels, restaurants and resorts to cater to tourists.  

Another option for enjoying the area is the Lake of the Ozarks State Park. The park offers a more outdoorsy experience. Lodging includes log cabins, RV and tent camping. Visitors can also rent canoes and kayaks, or spend the day at a public swimming beach. For those looking to spend time out of the water, there are 12l hiking and biking trails spread out over thousands of wooded acres.

Berlin Wall Sculpture: Fulton

Fulton is a small Missouri town with a big history. Fulton's Westminster College is where former British Prime Minister Winston Churchill gave his famous "Iron Curtain" speech in 1946. Visitors can learn more about the speech and the Cold War at the Churchill Museum on the college campus.    

One prominent exhibit at the Churchill Museum is the Berlin Wall Sculpture. The artwork titled Breakthrough was created by Edwina Sandys, Churchill's granddaughter. It's made from a section of the wall that was located near the Brandenburg Gate.

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20 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Missouri

Famous for providing the inspiration and backdrop for the legendary ‘Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, ‘ the state is located in the Midwestern United States.

Bordering Iowa , Illinois, Kentucky , Arkansas, Kansas, and Nebraska, it’s a laid-back place filled with wide-open spaces, a famous sprawling mountain range, extensive plains, meandering rivers, and gorgeous hidden gems. Here are my favorite spots I’d like to share…

1. Ozark Mountains and Lake of The Ozarks

Made famous by a popular Netflix series and a huge sprawling expanse covering Missouri, Arkansas , Oklahoma and the far southeastern corner of Kansas, in my opinion this is a must-see (and stay!).

The area comprises three separate areas: Boston, Springfield, and Salem Plateaus, and it is heavily forested. 

It’s a tranquil place and a family vacation favorite. There are many great things to do here, including hiking, golfing, boating, camping, and exploring the many quirky little gems dotted around the area.

I highly recommend not missing the Lake of the Ozarks, a reservoir created by impounding the Osage River and one of Missouri’s premier vacation destinations! 

• Location: southern part of the state 
• Location Map
• Best time to visit: summer

My favorite highlights…

• Photographing the magnificent rock formations at the Bridal Cave, known as one of the most scenic caverns in America.
• Visiting the ruins of the 20th-century castle in Ha Ha Tonka State Park where I saw spectacular views of the lake.
• Tasting the delicious flavors of handmade dipped chocolate, fudge and saltwater taffy at Grandma’s Candy Kitchen.

2. Blue Spring

Located in Eminence Township, the spring is stunning with its clear turquoise water! It has been around for over four decades, and I thought it was a wonderful natural attraction.

Surrounding the spring are trails that you can hike for roughly three miles; they end right where the spring is. Both the trail and the spring are very easy on the eye.

Even if all you want to do is visit the spring and take photographs (sadly, you can’t swim here to preserve its beauty), it’s still worth a trip to Eminence Township.

• Location: Near Eminence, in the Ozark National Scenic Riverways
• Best time to visit: May to September

My highlights…

• Snapping an Insta-worthy shot of the vibrant blue water.
• Admiring the scenery along the hiking trail to get to the Blue Spring and going for a picnic along the way.

3. Wah’Kon-Tah Prairie

This is a gorgeous and unspoiled spot to explore in Missouri. It’s a huge 3,350-acre area, and a large part of it is a conservation area owned by The Nature Conservancy of Missouri .

The trust aims to restore native grasslands and protect the prairie ecosystem that once covered a much larger part of Missouri.

It’s a stunning and tranquil spot dotted with wildflowers such as purple coneflowers , rare plants, and wildlife such as deer and coyotes, and is well worth exploring with your camera, especially during the fall when the leaves change.

• Address: Wah’Kon-Tah Prairie Conservation Area State Highway 82 El Dorado Springs, MO 64744
• Best time to visit: late spring to fall.

My personal highlights…

• Experiencing the tranquillity of the area and admiring the beautiful wildflowers.
• Going for a walk through the unspoiled area before catching a breathtaking sunset.

4. Big Cedar Lodge

Big Cedar Lodge is located in Ridgedale on Table Rock Lake. It is a beautiful vacation resort that many people visit yearly. It sits in the heart of the Ozarks and offers an incredible view regardless of where you are.

With mountains in the background and plenty of trees to enjoy, you will love Big Cedar Lodge, regardless of which season you choose to visit.

Indeed, from the bright orange and red leaves in the Fall to the warm temperatures of the summer, I promise you’ll fall in love with this place just like I did! 

• Address: 190 Top of the Rock Road, Ridgedale, MO 65739
• Best time to visit: late spring to early fall
• Taking the 2.5-mile golf cart tour and discovering the rock formations and waterfalls surrounding the Top of the Rock Lost Canyon.
• Playing a round of golf at the award-winning course designed by famous players.
• Staying overnight at a super-cute glamping tent at Camp Long Creek. 

5. Dogwood Canyon

With water, trees, and lots of stuff to do, this facility in Lampe truly offers something for everyone. You can go riding, bike riding, or even take a Segway tour for unique fun!

There’s a restaurant and a great view of some fantastic waterfalls, so if you’re looking for a fun and stunning place, I would suggest this one! 

Dogwood Canyon is much-loved but not well-known to tourists outside the state, so the facility is working hard to make this happen.

• Best time to visit: spring to early fall
• Hiring a bike and cycling through the designated paths to view the picturesque scenery.
• Discovering nature on a wildlife tour on an open-air tram (Segways tours were also available).
• Going hiking on a trail to explore Dogwood Canyon. 

6. Elephant Rocks State Park

Located in Belleview, Elephant Rocks State Park offers gorgeous views and many hiking trails for those who love hiking or jogging.

It also offers picnic tables for anyone wishing to relax and enjoy a nice lunch.

In my opinion, the highlight of the entire park is the set of rocks shaped like elephants in an old-fashioned circus line!

• Address: 7406 Highway 21, Belleview, MO 63623
• Capturing the uniquely formed rocks for Instagram.
• I hiked along the Braille Trail, which was an easy hike. I saw striking rocks and an old railroad engine house.
• Walking to the lookout point which then took me down to a sheltered cove and a small swimming spot.

7. Missouri State Capitol and Governor’s Mansion, Jefferson City

These are both impressive historical attractions to add to your Missouri itinerary. Located in the capital of Missouri Jefferson City, the State Capitol Building was completed in 1918 and covers a sprawling three acres in the downtown area.

It’s a beautiful Neoclassical-style Dome building and is also home to The Missouri State Museum , where you can learn about the state’s history. Free guided tours are also offered year-round, and I  suggest going on one if you can.

The Governor’s Mansion is another great historic attraction. Built in 1871, the three-story brick  mansion is a fine example of Renaissance Revival Architecture. It offers tours that allow guests  to step back in time and learn about the state’s history.

When in the city, I highly recommend visiting Jefferson City’s attractions, including the Carnahan Memorial Garden, Missouri State Penitentiary Museum, and the Missouri State Penitentiary .

• Address: 201 W Capitol Ave, Jefferson City, MO 65101
• Best time to visit: 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m
• Going on a historic tour inside the Governor’s Mansion was like stepping back in time!
• Wandering through the city to admire the stunning architecture and well-known landmarks.
• Exploring the many markets and boutiques around the area. 

8. Prairie State Park

Located at NW 150th Lane in Mindenmines, it is the state’s largest remaining tallgrass prairie. Its perfect combination of lush green grass that blooms most of the year and tons of gorgeous wildflowers during the summer months makes it a must-visit place.

Picture a beautiful field filled with lavender wildflowers and healthy green grass dotted with buffalo, birds, deer, and snakes, and you’ll understand what makes this state park so unique.

I’m a big fan of the natural beauty and colorful landscapes here!

• Address: 128 NW 150th Lane, Mindenmines, MO 64769
• Best time to visit: spring to fall
• Visiting the coast and enjoying a picnic on the beach.
• Hiking along the Prairie Creek Redwoods Walk (this trail is excellent for all abilities).
• Checking out the 50-foot-tall canyon covered with majestic primal ferns.

9. Gateway Arch, St. Louis

This St. Louis icon promises not to disappoint, and it is one of the most recognizable spots in the state. If you are anywhere near St. Louis, I highly recommend exploring this iconic landmark.

I suggest visiting the museum and cruising the waters surrounding the Arch for an even better look.

I would also recommend visiting the Arch at nighttime to see how it lights up the sky and makes the entire area look stunning! 

• Address: 11 N 4th St, St. Louis, MO 63102
• Best time to visit: all year round
• Taking a ride in the historic Otis Traction Elevator.
• Taking a riverboat cruise tour and admiring the city skyline.
• Photographing the Instaworthy Bridge.

10. Ha Ha Tonka State Park

This is a beautiful park with gorgeous protected scenery. It spreads across over 3,700 acres and is located on the Niangua arm of the Lake of the Ozarks.

It’s home to caves, lakes, sinkholes, a large natural bridge, towering bluffs, and Missouri’s twelfth-largest spring.

There are many excellent hiking trails (including some paved walkways) here, a special-use camping site,  and flora and fauna such as prairie grasses, wildflowers and valley woodlands.

I would highly recommend visiting the ruins of the Ha Ha Tonka castle , built in 1905 by businessman Robert McClure Snyder.

Even though it was severely burned in a fire, it’s still a photogenic sight on a 250-foot bluff. The park offers cabins, a campsite, and an RV park for vacationers .

• Address: 1491 State Road D, Camdenton, MO 65020
• Visiting the naturally formed bridge over 100 feet tall was once the castle’s entrance.
• Climbing up the 316 wooden steps from the spring head to the top of the bluff.
• Kayaking and exploring the river trail.

11. Grand Falls

Grand Falls, located in Joplin, is one of Missouri’s many incredible waterfalls. It is the largest continuously flowing natural waterfall in the state.

In my opinion, it’s breathtaking, and while these incredible waterfalls surround you, you can enjoy a picnic on the shore or even dip in the cool water.

Most people in Missouri consider this the most beautiful waterfall in the state, and once you visit it just once, I’m sure you’ll understand what the fuss is about! 

• Address: 5400 Riverside Drive, Joplin, MO 64804
• Best time to visit: spring is when the waterfall is the most swollen after the rainy season.
• Going for a swim in the still pools located downstream of the falls (if you go don’t forget your water shoes).
• Watching a dramatic and vibrant sunset go down over the west side of this location.
• Embarking on a kayak journey in the calm water pools by the waterfall before heading downstream with the current. 

12. Jacob L Loose Park, Kansas City

Kanas City is known for its fountains, great shopping, and jazz heritage. There are many awesome things to do in Kansas City, but I personally think one of the prettiest attractions is Jacob L Loose Park, a major tourist site and the third largest park in the city.

It is home to a lovely lake with a central fountain, a shelter house, Civil War markers, and recreational highlights such as tennis courts, a water park, picnic areas, and a Rose Garden.

It’s located at 51st Street and Wornall Road. Once you have explored it, I recommend visiting some of the other attractions in the city, including the beautiful Union Station, The Vine District, Arabia Steamboat Museum , and its many excellent Craft Beer Breweries.

• Address: 5200 Wornall Rd, Kansas City, MO 64112
• Admiring the beautiful rose garden which is filled with nearly 3,000 flowers across 1.5 acres of land.
• Checking out a horticultural exhibition at the Garden Center which also hosts a library.
• Wandering along the trails throughout the park and discovering the wonderful greenery.

13. Clifty Creek Natural Bridge

I love this place! This stunning natural bridge is 40 feet long and is located at the end of the 2.5-mile Clifty Creek Natural Area Trail.

Offering breathtaking views and scenery, the bridge is something you’ll want to see when visiting this town that sits almost smack-dab in the middle of the state!

Mother Nature provides us with some amazing natural phenomena, and I highly recommend not missing this one!

• Location: Clifty Creek Conservation Area, near Dixon, MO
• Taking the scenic 2.5-mile trail that led me from the conservation area right to the bridge.
• Photographing the striking stone bridge.

14. Cape Girardeau

This city, perched on the western bank of the Mississippi River, has been named one of the prettiest towns in the state.

The city is located in Cape Girardeau and Scott County in the state of Missouri in the U.S., with over 250 bars of history.

I suggest heading for the historic Old Town for the most charming part. You’ll also find a great collection of restaurants, boutique shops, and historic landmarks here.

Other awesome things to do in Cape Girardeau include the Trail of Tears National Historic Trail , the Cape Girardeau Conservation Nature Center , the Missouri Wall of Fame, the many Antique Shops, and also the nearby Bollinger Mill State Historic Site, which is home to one of the only few covered bridges in the state and is incredibly stunning in the Fall.

• City Hall Address: 401 Independence Street, Cape Girardeau, MO 63703
• Visiting the Wall of Fame and checking out the murals created by famous Missourians.
• Spending an afternoon shopping at the West Park Mall.
• Discovering the historic site of Fort D, which was built during the civil war.

15. Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park

This has a funny name, but it’s a great place! This state park is located in Little Brook, and if there’s one thing you can say about it, there is a lot of water surrounding it.

You’ll see lots of large rocks and swimming holes, so if you go there any time during the summer, consider bringing your swimming suit! 

Here, you can hike, view waterfalls, picnic, and explore some seriously stunning and unique terrain. I highly recommend visiting if you’re looking for a great family-oriented activity! 

• Address: 148 Taum Sauk Trail, Middle Brook, MO 63656
• Stopping by the visitor center and learning all the park and its history.
• Hiking through the forest to the valley, along the stream bed and up to the ridge on the Scour Trail loop.
• Taking a quick refreshing dip in the cool waters after hiking along the trails.

16. Meramec Caverns

Meramec Caverns is located in Sullivan, and it’s a breathtaking and interesting attraction! The area is the largest cave than allows tourists in the state and the huge limestone deposits which have been formed over millions of years are an incredible sight!

You can choose between a half-hour tour or a slightly longer one when you book here.

When you come up above ground, you can enjoy activities such as zip-lining and a great climbing wall to make a fun-filled day! 

• Address: 1135 Hwy W, Sullivan, MO 63080
• Exploring the caverns and seeing the spectacular natural mineral formations which have taken thousands of years to create.
• Soaring through the sky and across the Meramec River on a fun zip line.
• Stopping for home-style food at the restaurant located by the caverns.

17. Table Rock Lake

Located in Branson, this large man-made offers gorgeous clear water, stunning natural views and over 800 miles of beautiful shoreline.

Although no areas are considered official beaches, you can still swim there in several locations, such as kayaking, canoeing, and boating.

It is such a versatile lake I love spending the entire day here, and I’ve never get bored it’s just a very relaxing place.

I recommend heading to Moonshine Beach, Trace Hollow Resort, Indian Point and Table Rock Lake Dam for some of the best places to enjoy this river.

If you love beautiful sunsets and water-based activities, then I highly recommend you visit!

• Location: in southwestern part of the state.
• Going kayaking on the lake.
• Watching a live country music band at Black Oak Amp. 
• Soaking up the gorgeous views and tranquil vibes! 

18. Meramec River and State Park

This is a gorgeous protected area and public recreation space which spans nearly 7,000 acres and is filled with over 40 caves, thick forests and pretty glades. 

I’m a big fan of the Meramec River, perfect for rafting, canoeing, or simply relaxing on the shore. It offers sand, lots of green trees, and water!

Many activities are on offer here, including hiking, biking and camping but I personally suggest getting involved in the fun rafting (there are rentals available here).

• Address: 115 Meramec Park Drive, Sullivan, MO 63080
• Taking a guided tour inside the fascinating and large Fisher Cave.
• Going rafting along the magnificent river.
• Relaxing and having a picnic along the river shores.

19. Powell Gardens

Powell Gardens is located in Kingsville, Kansas City. It consists of seven themed gardens, many pretty wildflowers to admire, and unique sections such as the Fountain Garden, the Heartland Harvest Garden, and the Perennial Garden.

If you love flowers, natural grasses, and lots of color, then I personally think you’ll love Powell Gardens. It is a great place for flower-lovers and nature-lovers alike, and just one trip there will help you understand why this is one of Kansas City’s most popular tourist attractions, especially if you’re a nature lover!

• Address: 1609 NW U.S. Highway 50, Kingsville, MO 64061
• Best time to visit: spring and summer
• Attending an interesting gardening tips class.
• Wandering around and admiring the beautiful garden displays and incredible contemporary architecture.
• Checking out the interesting Visitor Education Center which also had a cafe.

20. Taum Sauk Mountain State Park

This is a stunning protected spot filled with unspoilt rugged natural scenery including dense forests, rocky glades and Taum Sauk Mountain, which is actually the highest point in the state – the views here are just incredible!

There are many hiking trails here and you can also try primitive camping, I love truly getting away from it all here, it feels like the wilderness.

If you’re near Highway CC in Ironton, I recommend stopping by! 

• Address: Hwy. CC, Ironton, MO 63650
• Hiking to Mina Sauk Falls which is the highest wet-weather waterfall in the state.
• Witnessing the spectacular panoramic views from the top of the mountain.

4 thoughts on “20 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Missouri”

Great list! I’ve always wanted to visit the Gateway Arch in St. Louis – it’s such an iconic landmark. I’ll have to add some of these other destinations to my bucket list too. Thanks for sharing!

Wow, I had no idea Missouri had so many beautiful places to visit! As a fellow Midwesterner, I’m definitely adding some of these to my bucket list. Thanks for sharing!

Been to about 15 of 21 of these, they’re all beautiful places!

Wow! I loved these pictures and these places are such beautiful. I want to visit these places in Missouri. Thank you for your article.

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10 Best Places to Visit in Missouri

By Alex Schultz · Last updated on February 4, 2024

Despite often being overlooked, the Midwest state of Missouri is a fascinating place to visit that has a number of different sides to it. You can find everything from incredible wilderness, wide-open spaces and waterways to large and lively cities and quiet country towns.

While metropolises such as St. Louis and Kansas City boast lots of spectacular sights and thriving culinary and music scenes, others like Hamilton offer a taste of down-home country life.

Map of Places to Visit in Missouri

Named after the roaring river that runs through it, the ‘Show-Me State’ is home to beautiful scenery and landscapes. While hiking and horseback riding can be enjoyed in the rolling Ozark Mountains, the lovely Lake of the Ozarks and Ozark National Scenic Riverways offer some excellent swimming and boating. With so much going for it, the best places to visit in Missouri are a perfect fit if you want to experience life on the Great Plains.

10. Springfield

Known for being the ‘Birthplace of Route 66’, Springfield is located in the southwest of Missouri and is the third-largest city in the state. Dotted around town are numerous attractions related to the famous and historic road, with themed diners and motels found alongside an antique mall and vintage car museum.

The city also boasts some great interactive and educational tourist attractions. Its excellent Discovery Center and the well-preserved Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield both attract plenty of visitors. Its standout attraction, however, is undoubtedly Fantastic Caverns – a vast cave system that guests can explore in a jeep-drawn tram.

On top of this, Springfield is also nicknamed the ‘Queen City of the Ozarks’ due to all the great forests, mountains, and natural beauty lying nearby. Many people who visit go hiking and cycling amid the splendid scenery and landscapes surrounding the city.

9. Mark Twain National Forest

Encompassing everything from mountains and forests to springs, streams and lakes, Mark Twain National Forest is a wonderful place that will delight nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Spread across a huge swathe of the southeast of the state, it consists of various wilderness areas and national scenic rivers.

It is named for the famous author and Missouri native Mark Twain. Joining the pockets of pristine forest and untouched nature is the lovely Ozark Trail, which winds through the idyllic landscapes for more than 350 kilometers. Due to the stunning scenery, hiking and cycling in the national forest are very popular; fishing, swimming and canoeing in its rivers and lakes are just as delightful.

Dotted about are numerous campsites and picnic areas. Eleven Point National Scenic River is one of the most scenic spots to visit as it cuts its way through the picturesque Ozark hills. Another of the many highlights is the Glade Top Trail National Scenic Byway, which boasts phenomenal views over the surrounding countryside.

8. Ha Ha Tonka State Park

While it is most known for the hulking castle ruins lying at its heart, Ha Ha Tonka State Park in the center of Missouri has much much more to it. Set alongside the Niangua arm of the Lake of the Ozarks, the park was bought and developed in 1905 to be a private property by Robert McClure Snyder, Sr, a Kansas City businessman.

Sadly destroyed by a fire in the 40s, the remains of the stone mansion he built now make for fabulous viewing and are the defining feature of the park. Modelled after European castles of the 16th century, its beautiful brick arches and sturdy stone walls overlook the glimmering lake below, which is now used for swimming and boating.

Surrounding the castle are some amazing caves, sinkholes, and bluffs, while scenic hiking trails weave through the park’s forests and karst landscapes.

Set in the southwest of Missouri, Branson is a fun, festive place often billed as a ‘family-friendly Las Vegas.’ This is because it hosts a myriad of mesmerizing magic, music, and comedy shows, with more than a hundred entertainment theaters dotted about its neon-lit strip.

Alongside its flashily decorated performance venues are countless motels and restaurants, as well as sights such as the Titanic Museum, Ripley’s Odditorium, and Hollywood Wax Museum. Amusement parks also abound in Branson, while go-karting, mini-golf, and ziplining make for some fun family-friendly activities.

While the bright lights and loud music are what attract most people, the city’s setting amid the pristine and picturesque nature of the Ozarks means there is plenty of marvelous scenery nearby. At Table Rock Lake, for instance, locals and tourists can enjoy swimming, kayaking, and watersports or go hiking along the scenic lakeshore.

6. Meramec State Park

Full of majestic bluffs, lush forests, and gloomy caves, Meramec State Park is a beautiful place to visit if you want to immerse yourself in nature. Located not far from St. Louis in the east of the state, it encompasses lovely landscapes and lies on the banks of the magnificent Meramec River.

While hiking along its trails or kayaking and fishing in its roaring waters is a treat, the park is most known for its captivating caves, which number more than 40. Of these, Fraser Cave is the most impressive due to the spectacular stalactites and stalagmites covering its sparkling interior.

Guests can learn all about its fantastic formations and the park’s ecology and environment at its interesting and informative visitor center. Many people choose to camp or stay the night in one of Meramec State Park’s lodges so they can wake up to the breathtaking scenery.

5. Ozark National Scenic Riverways

Remarkably the first national park to protect a river system, Ozark National Scenic Riverways was established all the way back in 1964. Set around the Current and Jacks Fork rivers, it includes everything from meadows and forests to springs, caves and cliffs.

Due to its wondrous wilderness and outstanding natural beauty, many people visit every year to enjoy the ample outdoor activities it offers up. While hiking and horseback riding along the idyllic Ozark Trail are popular pastimes, you can’t beat floating lazily along one of the peaceful waterways in a kayak or canoe.

The scenic rivers and streams are great for fishing and swimming, and there are more than 300 caves for visitors to explore. The headquarters of the park are at Van Buren, where you’ll find a visitor center and small museum dedicated to its history.

4. Hannibal

Lying in the northeast of the state, on the border with Illinois, Hannibal is a pleasant and picturesque city best known for being the boyhood home of Mark Twain. In fact, the settings of his two most famous and popular novels, The Adventures of Tom Sawyer and Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, were inspired by the lovely laidback town he grew up in.

As such, you’ll come across numerous historical sites either depicted in his writings or related to the revered novelist himself while wandering around town. One of the best places to get a sense of the author and the inspiration behind his works is at the Mark Twain Boyhood Home & Museum, which is full of memorabilia and personal artifacts.

Besides this, visitors to Hannibal can enjoy strolling along the town’s Mississippi River waterfront or take a trip to the magical Mark Twain Cave Complex, which featured in five of his works.

3. Lake of the Ozarks

The Midwest’s most popular lake resort destination, the Lake of the Ozarks is home to lots of divine scenery and a wealth of outdoor recreation opportunities. Nicknamed ‘Puff the Magic Dragon’ due to its serpentine shape, the vast human-made reservoir and its three tributaries were formed in 1931 by damming the Osage River.

Altogether, they boast more than 1,800 kilometers of scenic shoreline – more than the whole of California. Nestled away along its coves, creeks, and channels are countless waterfront accommodations and restaurants, with Osage Beach its largest city. While some parts of the lake are quiet and laidback, others are more loud and lively, with fantastic boating, fishing, and watersports wherever you go.

In addition, there are some great waterparks and golf courses, as well as excellent shops and state parks. Whether it’s for a family holiday or weekend getaway with friends, the Lake of the Ozarks certainly has something for everyone.

2. Kansas City

Although often overlooked by tourists, Kansas City has a lot going for it and is one of the largest and liveliest metropolitan areas in the Midwest. Straddling the Kansas-Missouri state line, it lies on the banks of the Missouri River, somewhat confusingly bordered by the smaller Kansas City, Kansas (KCK).

Besides boasting more boulevards than any other city on Earth except for Paris, it is also delightfully nicknamed the ‘City of Fountains’ – more than 200 of them are dotted about its scenic streets. Wandering around is a treat: world-class museums and performing arts theatres lie side-by-side with attractive and artsy neighborhoods.

While the city has also attracted great renown for its jazz and live music scene, it is equally noted for its Southern Cuisine and Kansas City-style barbecue. With more than a hundred barbecue joints scattered around town, no visit can ever be complete without sampling some of its sizzling strip steaks.

1. St. Louis

Presided over by the iconic Gateway Arch, which dominates and defines the city’s skyline, St. Louis is a lovely yet laidback place to visit. Located on the west bank of the Mississippi River, it lies on the border with Illinois and is named after Louis IX of France.

Long nicknamed the ‘Gateway to the West’, it now fittingly boasts the gorgeous Gateway Arch, the world’s tallest human-made monument. Besides this show-stopping sight, the city is very pretty and pleasant to explore. Abundant green spaces can be found amid its delightfully different districts and neighborhoods.

While Downtown is home to lots of upmarket hotels, corporate headquarters, and sparkling sports stadia, Laclede’s Landing and Lafayette Square both have magnificent old architecture on show. In addition, St. Louis has a number of fantastic museums for visitors to check out, as well as thriving culinary, nightlife, and live music scenes.

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34 Best & Fun Things to Do in Missouri

Missouri is a Midwestern state which lies between Kentucky and Kansas, both states also in the United States.

It is a vast land that is covered in a grassy plain. This grassy plain continues for miles and can be seen from the Ozark Mountains.

There are so many things to do in Missouri due to the vast number of cities and each of these cities are filled with places and things that attract the world to Missouri like a magnet.

Some of these spots of attraction include the National World War 1 Museum which can be found in Kansas City. There is also the Gateway Arch which is located right inside St. Louis. And more. You can (by judgment) rightly call Missouri a “state of tourism”

Among other things that make the state all the more intriguing is the ways the city rowdiness is balanced by the peace from nature. Thus, you can readily escape the bustle in business places to the state parks and nature retreats which offers you all the peace, quietness and fun you need.

You can see there is so much to explore and enjoy. Would you like to know what to do in Missouri?

Let’s explore the best things to do in Missouri.

Things to Do in Missouri

1. the gateway arch.

Amongst a big list of what to do in Missouri is paying a visit to the Gateway Arch.

Located downtown of the city of St. Louis, it is without doubt that the Gateway Arch is the tallest monument in the whole of the United States of America.

The curved structure is 630 feet tall. It was erected as a tribute to the vision Thomas Jefferson had for St. Louis as the gateway to Western Expansion.

The monument is breathtaking. Its display of artistry and workmanship tells you that it was designed by none other than the renowned architect Eero Saarinen.

It took Eero over 20 months, from February 1964 to October 1965. A look at it will make you believe it was worth all the pain. There are about sixteen tram cars that can take you on a 4 minute trip to the top. Once you get to the observation deck, you are at liberty to stay as long as you like.

A visit to see this architecture should be one of the top things to do in Missouri on your list. Here, you will see how beautiful St. Louis (and Missouri as a whole) is.

Address: 11 North 4th Street, St.Louis, MO 63102.

2. National Blues Museum

One of the best things to do in Missouri is to visit the National Blues Museum.

A museum for music lovers! The National Blues occupies about 15,000 square feet of a 23000 square foot space just downtown of St. Louis.

It is dedicated to exploring both the musical history and the influence of the genre of music known as blues.

It is also a known fact that blues music originated from the Deep South. It is also said that nearly all popular music over the last century derived its foundation from it.

The museum is also dedicated to the display of artifact-driven exhibits, interact technology e.t.c. The museum also has a theatre and a special event space. Other fun activities the Museum offers to visitors is a chance to explore the various styles of blues. You will also have the opportunity to know about who created it.

Sometimes, the museum holds other public programs or activities like films, musical performances and lectures.

Address: 615 Washington Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63101.

3. Negro Leagues Baseball Museum

Founded in 1990, the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum is completely dedicated to the preserving and securing the history of African-American Baseball. It is a 10,000 square foot museum that is located in Kansas City. It is a popular spot as it also shares space with the American Jazz Museum.

African-Americans have been playing baseball here since the 1800s.

Though it wasn’t professional at first, it was played by college, company teams, military before it became the professional baseball is it today.

Two notable persons who changed and influenced this game at that time were Moses Fleetwood and Bud Fowler.

Through the “lens” the Museum offers, you can experience with your imagination what the history of the baseball league was like, and what it is today as you scan through the museum.

Some of the exhibits in the museum include, baseball artifacts, hundreds of photographs of the league, film exhibits and multi-media computer stations.

This makes the best of Missouri things to do and should be on your list of fun things to do in Missouri.

Address: 1616 East 18th Street, Kansas City, MO 64108.

4. Visit the Fantastic Caverns

One of the cities in Missouri is Springfield. In this city, you will find the Fantastic Caverns. The fantastic caverns will allow you to explore a cave.

It has a Jeep-drawn tram. You will get to ride through the cave completely in this tram! Oh, what a thrill!

Don’t think you will get a better offer elsewhere, for this cave is the only cave in the whole of North America that offers this ride.

The cave was discovered in 1862 by John Knox, who was on a hunting trip with his dog. It was five years later that twelve brave women from Springfield Women’s Athletic Club explored the cave.

Due to their bravely, their names are immortalized in this cave. You will see these twelve names etched on the cave wall when you visit the cave. It will always be a motivation for you.

Address: 4882 North Farm Road 125, Springfield MO 65803.

5. Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art

No museum can boast of beautiful pieces of artwork that can be found in the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art.

The museum which is of a neoclassical design is located in Kansas City. It contains about 35,000 works of art and each year, about 500,000 people visit the art museum just to watch them.

You will find ancient artworks here. For instance, the Egyptians and Near Eastern, Romans, Greek and early Christian Exhibits. There are also a collection of Native American artwork, some of which are sculptures, textiles, quill and beadwork, paintings, basketry and a lot more.

In addition to all these above, the museum also has collections that are of Japanese, European, Chinese, American and Southeastern Asia origin.

You may also visit the museum’s restaurant which is styled like a 15th-century courtyard.

This restaurant is called the Rozzelle Court Restaurant. You can visit it when you need to relax or eat something.

Address: 4525 Oak Street, Kansas City, MO 64111

6. Heard of the Contemporary Art Museum St. Louis?

The Contemporary Art Museum (known as CAM) is a 27,000 square door building that is situated in St Louis, Missouri.

The building was designed by Brad Cloepfil, a renowned American architect.

The main purpose of this museum is to celebrate the art of our time. It also offers exhibitions that are unique in a thought-provoking way.

Contemporary Art Museum holds more than 20 exhibitions every year. In these exhibitions, the guest will be allowed to view various collections of art. Sculptures, paintings, drawings, conceptual, performative and interactive arts are also on display.

CAM also aids to grow the community through the workshops they hold for families. They also hold monthly neighborhood art crawls and film screening.

You will surely enjoy your visit to this museum. It is at the heart of the city.

Address: 3750 Washington Boulevard, St. Louis, MO 63108.

7. Harry S. Truman Presidential Library and Museum

Have you been to the Harry S. Library and Museum? Then you have been missing out on all the fun it offers!

The Harry S. Truman Presidential Library and Museum is the home to so many collections that tells about Truman’s presidency.

It is located in Independence, Missouri and it houses two major permanent exhibitions.

The first of these exhibitions is “Truman: The Presidential Years”. The second is “Harry S. Truman: His Life and Times”. Sometimes, the museum host other exhibitions, but they are only temporary. One of those exhibitions is the 2017 “Saving the White House: Truman’s Extreme Makeover”.

The 2017 exhibition told guests the story of the controversial 1,222-day $5.7 million renovation of the white house. If you visit this museum, amongst other things, you will see the letters that Harry and Bess Truman exchanged over the years. You will also see the two decision theatres.

Let this museum be on your “things to do in Missouri” bucket list.

Address: 500 West US Highway, 24, Independence, MO 64050.

8. The Titanic Museum

The question of What to do in Missouri can be answered with the Titanic Museum

The Titanic Museum was founded in 2006 in Branson Missouri. The main aim of its establishment is to give it’s visitors a clear picture of how the Titanic was before it capsized.

It goes further to share the experience that both the crew and the passengers aboard this great ship endured as woe betide it during that fateful voyage.

It’s not surprising that the museum is shaped like the Titanic, but it’s worth noting that it is a bit smaller than the real ship. When you arrive, you will be shown real artifacts and personal belongings of the passengers of the ship. All these were obtained from the wreck site.

Also, all videos and papers that bear the news reported during the period the shipwreck happened as still kept in the Museum.

The whole tour will last for 2 hours. You will be allowed to dip your hand in water at a temperature of 28F, if you like. You can also touch an iceberg. All these go far in making the whole experience so real to you.

Address: 3235 West 76 Country Boulevard Brandon. MO 65616.

9. George Washington Carver National Monument

Now, about 2 miles west of Diamond, Missouri, you will find a 210-acre park. This park is the George Washington Carver National Monument.

This National monument has a lot to tell, and it is of much significance to both the history of Missouri and the United States as a whole.

It is dedicated to George Washington Carver who was an American agricultural scientist and an inventor. The monument in itself is the first national monument ever which is dedicated to someone who was both a black American and non-president.

Some of the fun activities offered include a guided tour which takes the visitor through a three quarter mile nature.

In this tour, you will be shown the Moses Carver house built in 1881, a Civil War Cemetery where the Carvers buried their family members then a museum which contains wonderful exhibits.

As you tour through these places, you will pass through streams, woodlands, a tall grass prairie restoration area, and lots of other places.

Visiting this monument should be on top of the list of things you will do in Missouri.

Address: 5646 Carved Road, Diamond, MO 64840.

10. See Branson Scenic Railway

Just as the name implies, this historic railway originates in Branson, Missouri. Its tracks run through the Ozarks Mountains on a 40 miles round trip.

Are you looking for the best things to do in southern Missouri, do pay a visit to this railway.

In this railway, you will get to ride in a vintage passenger train. This train will take you through tunnels, over trestles and you will get to see nature in display through its wildlife as you travel through the middle part of Arkansas wilderness and Missouri in this train.

Everything you see will thrill you. It’s gonna be an unforgettable moment for you.

In case you want to tour the three-domed cars which occupy every passenger’s attention, you are free too. The experience you will receive from the dome cars is going to be the same as what should be expected 50 years ago.

This is because the dome cars though refurbished, has the same settings as it had  50 years ago. It is usually a 1 hour 30 minutes tour and one of the best you will get on a vacation in this beautiful state. It should make your list of Missouri things to do

Address: 206 East Main Street, Brandon, Missouri

11. Jefferson National Expansion Memorial

Located at the very heart of St. Louis Missouri, the Jefferson National Expansion Memorial is home to cultural history collections.

The Memorial is very easy to locate as it is near the beginning point of the Lewis and Clark Expedition. The cultural history collections that you will find in the Memorial are distinguished by artifacts that represent it in five major categories.

Those categories are Gateway Arch, St. Louis History, the Old Courthouse, Westward Expansion and Museum archives.

You will also learn about the lives of people like Virginia Minor, Thomas Jefferson, the Lewis and Clark Journey of Discovery and African-American Life in St Louis, 1804-1865.

The Memorial is regarded also as a part of the National Park Service.

Address: 11 North 4th Street, St Louis, MO 63102.

12. Visit Kansas City Zoo

Another place to include in your “fun things to do in Missouri” list is a visit to the Kansas City Zoo that is in Swope Park.

The Kansas City Zoo, which is the home for wildlife exhibits is built on 202 acres of land.

The Zookeeper guides the visitors throughout the tour. On the tour, you will learn about the different species of wildlife and their behavior as you pass them. Some of these animals include polar bears, deers, lions, antelopes, rhinos, tigers, cheetahs and elephants.

You will also get to watch the zoo’s animal shows like the Sealion Splash and a bird show titled Wings of Wonder.

You can also enjoy the zoo ride. Some of which are Zebra Tram, Boat Ride, Train Ride, African Sky Safari and Endangered Species Carousel.

No other spot in Missouri offers much fun for the whole family than Kansas City Zoo.

Address: 6800 Zoo Drive, Kansas City, MO 64132.

13. Check out the City Museum

Right in the middle of St. Louis Missouri, you will find the City Museum. The building was one time an international Shoe company building.

Today, this building is a house to a playhouse museum which occupies about 600,000 square foot. The building on its own is a work of art. It was designed by Bob Cassilly who was both a world-renowned artist and a classically trained sculptor.

He built this building together with a team of artisans. Thus, the house can be described as a funky funhouse or a playhouse museum.

Inside the Museum you will find unique items that have been transformed into interactive architectural marvels. Some of the things that are on display there include an old chimney, construction cranes, salvaged bridges, two abandoned aircraft and a lot more.

Address: 750 North 16th Street, St Louis, MO 63103.

14. Mildred Lane Kemper Art Museum

The Mildred Lane Kemper Art Museum is located inside the Washington University Campus in St, Louis.

The museum is under the university’s Sam Fox School of Design and Visual Arts. Thus, it is a teaching museum and at that, the oldest in the whole country. The building itself is an art as it was designed by Pritzker prize-winning architect Fumihiko Maki.

Some of the permanent connections you will see in the museum are contemporary arts that represent a period that begins at the turn of the 20th century and spans up to today.

Some of the exhibitions, though temporary you will see in the museum include The Modern Meal: Sustenance through Ritual.

You will also see pieces from renowned artists. The likes of Henri Matisse, Theo Van Doesburg, William Hogarth, Thomas Eakins, Jackson Pollock, Willem de Kooning and Charles Ferdinand Wimar

Address: 1 Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO 63130.

15. National Museum of Transportation

The National Museum of Transportation is situated on a 42 acres of land right inside the city of Kirkwood, Missouri. It tells a lot of how transportation started, it’s footprint through time and where we are today.

In your visit, you will see rail and transit collections of 190 exhibits obtained from the 1800s and the 1900s.

You will see also, freight cars, interurban and city transit, passenger cars, rail motive power, rail maintenance and test cars e.t.c. There is also a rare collection of very classic trucks and autos, these are kept separately due to their worth.

You will find in this collection Bobby Darin’s “Dream Car”, the 1901 St. Louis Motor Carriage Co. Automobile, a 1959 Ford gas turbine tractors and a Chrysler turbine car.

You can also see airplanes like the Douglas aircraft C-47A and the HT Potts rowboat.

Address: 3015 Barrett Station Road, St. Louis MO 63122.

16. Missouri Botanical Garden

Missouri Botanical Garden is a 79 acre of land with an exceptional horticultural design that is located in St. Louis, Missouri. Its formal name was Shaw’s Garden, as it was originally named after Henry Shaw who was both its founder and sponsor.

You can come with your family and friends, there is something fun to do for everybody.

The garden is divided into sections/garden/displays. Some of these beautiful displays you will see include the English Woodland Garden, Chinese Garden, Victorian District and Ottoman Garden.

Each of them is peculiar to the other. For instance, the Japanese Garden covers about 14 acres and it is the largest strolling garden in the whole of North America

Sometimes, events like the Orchid show, Gardenland Express, Japanese Festival, and Whitaker Music Festival are hosted in the Missouri Botanical Garden.

Address: 4344 Shaw Boulevard, St. Louis, MO 63110.

17. Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum

Remember Mark Twain? Surely you must know the man who by his imaginations gave us Tom Sawyer and his friend Huckleberry Finn.

The Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum is dedicated to the wonderful man who lived. His real name was Samuel Langhorne Clemens, while Mark Twain (gotten from sailors call to one another) was his pen name.

The home is located at his birthplace which is in Hannibal, Missouri. This is a famous place for him and all fans of Tom Sawyer. Thiis Home will take the first spot on the list of fun things to do in Missouri.

Also, it is a place of pilgrim for writers, for Mark Twain is one of the best novelists of literary realism of all time. He is best known for his novels, The Adventures of Tom Sawyer and Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, which is a sequel of the first.

Also, you will get the chance to see the home Mark Twain grew up in, Tom & Huck Statue, the Huckleberry Finn House, the Becky Thatcher House, the museum gallery and the interpretive center.

Address: 120 North Main Street, Hannibal, MO 63401.

18. Missouri History Museum

Missouri History Museum was founded in 1866 by the Missouri Historical Society. It is situated in the Forest Park neighborhood of St. Louis.

As a visitor to this museum, you will see so many peculiar exhibitions here. For instance, you will see the “Civil Rights: The African American Freedom Struggle in St. Louis”.

Others are, “Looking back at the looking forward” “World War 1: Missouri and the Great War” and the “Seeking St. Louis”. You will also get to see the historic clubhouse.

The museum does offer other range of services like workshops, lectures, music, films, theatre, lectures, community events, yours e.t.c. There is also a restaurant called Bixby on the second floor of the building in case you get hungry on the tour.

Address: 5700 Lindell Boulevard, St. Louis, MO 63112.

19. Pulitzer Arts Foundation

Located in the city of St. Louis, the Pulitzer Art Foundation was designed by Tadao Ando. Tadao Ando, a Japanese, was an internationally renowned architect.

The Foundation was launched in the year 2001, and since that time, it has become one of the most remarkable art foundation on earth. Having only three permanent art installations, which were commissioned by the Pulitzers, the rest of the arts are temporal and ever-changing.

The reason for this is because the Pulitzer Arts Foundation is a non-collecting institution. Therefore, you can visit the museum more than once without seeing the same thing twice.

The three arts with are permanently installed in the foundation are Scott Burton’s Rock Settee, Ellsworth Kelly’s Blue Black and Richard Serra’s Joe.

Other side variety of exhibitions you may likely see if you visit the foundation includes the Old Masters and Modern Contemporary artists Ann Hamilton and Dan Flavin, Buddhist art e.t.c.

The foundation also offers an impressive roster which shows leaders in the fields of arts, architecture, science and technology, urban planning e.t.c.

Address: 3716 Washington Boulevard, St. Louis MO 63108.

20. Lake of the Ozarks

The Lake of Ozarks is a very large reservoir that was created in Missouri by the impoundment of the Osage River and its tributaries. It is located in the Northern part of the Ozark Mountains right in Central Missouri.

One peculiar attribute of the lake is it’s slow and lazy curves. Their curves have earned it the name “The Magic Dragon”. It was the largest man-made lake when it was created in 1931.

It is a very beautiful sight to behold and the best place to experience a lakefront vacation. This should make your checklist of the best things to do in southern Missouri.

21. Hermann Wine Trail

Amongst the fun things to do in Missouri is going on the Hermann Wine Trail.

In 1837, a group of German immigrants arrived in Missouri. When they arrived, they set up a community called Hermann (the Hermanns are famous as winemakers).

Since they arrived in Missouri, they have been holding Weinfest every year. To this day, every Sunday, after service, they gather at their wine halls to drink wine and make merry. It’s now a lifestyle.

A visit here will answer your question of what to do in Missouri today. Will you like to have a taste of good wine? Visit Missouri today!

22. Saint Louis Art Museum

Right inside St. Louis’s Forest Park, you will find the Saint Louis Art Museum. This art Museum is so spectacular, let it be among your top 10 things to do in Missouri.

Quite on a class of its own, the museum was designed by the great architect, Cass Gilbert. Cass Gilbert got the inspiration for the design of the building from the Baths of Caracalla in Rome, Italy.

The Museum houses more than 33,000 works of art. All these works are arranged in collections. These collections include: American, African, Ancient American, Ancient, African-American and Pacific Islands.

Other collections you will see are Asian, contemporary, decorative and design, Native American, modern, Islamic, European, textile arts, sculpture, photograph, prints e.t.c.

You will also be shown famous exhibits like Lost in space by Shimon Attie, The Hats of Stephen Jones and the Realm of Trees.

Address: 1 Fine Arts Drive, St. Louis, MO 63110.

 23. Forest Park

One of the best places to visit in St. Louis, Missouri is Forest Park. Forest Park, also known as the “Heart of Saint Louis” is the perfect place to visit if you seek a place that is calm, peaceful and close to nature.

The whole of the park sits on 1371 acres of land. It was opened in 1876 and served as a hosting ground for the 1904 summer Olympics.

There is a beautiful scenery in the park, with fine trees, ponds, wetlands e.t.c. Don’t forget to come with a camera!

24. St. Louis Zoo

Would you like to know what to do in Missouri with kids? Pay a visit to the zoo, the Saint Louis Zoo got you covered and I’m sure you would you love that!

When it comes to education, conservation, and animal management, the Saint Louis Zoo which is situated in the Forest Park comes first before any other Zoo.

Due to their excellence, it is not surprising that it is considered one of the top free attraction spots in America. It should come top on your “best things to do in Missouri” list.

The zoo covers about 90 acres of property. It is home to more than 14,840 wild animals with more than 603 different species amongst them.

Therefore, when you get to the Zoo, be sure that you will see grizzly bears, apes, elephants, cheetahs, snow leopards, bald eagles, owls, slender-tailed meerkats, Caribbean flamingos, jaguars, lions, penguins and monkeys.

You can also check out the zoo’s keeper chatts, sea lion feedings, safari tours, and penguin feedings.

Address: 1 Government Drive, St. Louis, MO 63110.

25. Science City at Union Station

The Science City at Union Station is another tourist flock site that is located in Kansa City.

It features more than 120 hands-on displays, the Arvin Gottlieb Planetarium and it also houses the City Extreme Screen Theatre.

Have you seen a real fossil before? You can find one here. Just visit the Dinolab and the Digsite to observe the tools and methods used in paleontology.

One of the fossils you will find is “Lyle” the Camarasaurus.

Other great attractions you can find here is the Force and Motion, Demo Area, Giant Lever, KC Rail Experience, Genetics: Unlock the Code, Maze Park and Nature Park.

You can also find fun activities and attractions like Sky Bike, Science on a Sphere, Science of Energy e.t.c. Science City makes science so magical. Come with your kids, friend and families. They are all going to love it. This is a nice addition to your list of fun things to do in Missouri.

Address: 30 West Perishing Road, Kansas City, MO 64108.

26. St. Louis Science Center

The St. Louis Science Centre was founded in the year 1963. It is a three-story building that is connected by a sky bridge to a three-story planetarium. This Science Centre can be easily located for it is in the southeastern corner of Forest Park.

Some of the variety of scheduled activities that are offered by the center include, Family Med School, Space Missions that are simulated, Camp-Ins, Science at Sunset, Data Might under the starsvetc

See to it that you partake in any of the fun activities listed above.

Also, you can feed your eyes on the attractions and exhibits that you will find in the center such as, The Discovery of King Tut, Mission: Mars, Human Adventure and the Life Science Lab.

There is also the Omnimax Theatre which shows movies like Mummies: Secrets of the Pharaoh’s, Dream Big: Engineering our World, Born to be Wild and Extreme Weather. The centre is open for everyone and will be a great add to your checklist of top things to do in Missouri.

Address: 5050 Oakland Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63110.

27. Anheuser-Busch “Budweiser” Brewery

Located at the Soulard neighborhood right inside St. Louis, the Anheuser-Busch “Budweiser” Brewery produces one of the finest beer in the whole country.

Since it’s inception in 1852 till date, it has maintained its “one batch at a time” tradition, all to ensure the production of a beer that is so unique. It is the oldest brewery and the largest one at that, in the whole area. It is also very close to the Mississippi River.

When the Brewery began in 1852, then there was no refrigerator, the Brewery had to depend on the natural cave formation which can be found in the area to store their beer.

Fortunately, the tours offered by the brewery is open to everyone. Some of the tours it offers include, Beer Museum Tour, the Day Fresh Tour, Complimentary Tour and also the Beermasters Tour.

After the Tour, you can head to The Biergarten, there, you will be given a bite to eat and a very chilled bottle of Budweiser. This should get to your checklist of fun things to do in Missouri if you will love to learn about the Brewery industry.

Address: 1200 Lynch Street, St. Louis, MO 63118.

28. Meramec State Park

The Meramec State Park is located along the Meramec River which is close to Sullivan Missouri, thus, the name. It is home to diverse ecosystems ranging from blades to hardwood forest. There are several caves throughout the park.

This vast area of land is owned by the state and it was developed by Civilian Conservation Corps in the year 1927.

Some of the buildings in this park include the Observation Tower, Park Shelter House, and the Beach Area Historic District. The parks have rooms to rent and you can stay in the campground overnight if you like.

While you are there, do not forget to take a cave tour, after that, go fishing or swimming on the Meramec River and enjoy all that nature has to offer.

29. Innsbrook Resort

Are you looking for a home where you can spend a beautiful vacation? Innsbrook Resort is the place you need. Innsbrook Resort is the last beautiful vacation home community and cover up to 7,500 acres of land. It is just 45 minutes to the West of St. Louis.

In the resort, you will find an event center, restaurant, an 18-hole championship golf course and other recreational properties like a lawn tennis court that will keep you entertained. It also has 100 plus lakes.

Some fun things you can engage in the resort include, canoeing, sailing, hiking, horseback riding and lots more.

Thus, if you seek for a place where you can spend your vacation and also escape all the bustle and the hustle of the city life, come down to Innsbrook Resort.

Address: 1 Aspen Lake Drive, Innsbrook, MO 63390.

30. Ha Ha Tonka State Park

The Ha Ha Tonka State Park is located along the Niangua Sen of the lake of the Ozarks in southern Missouri. The whole park covers about three thousand acres of land and it contains “Ha Ha Tonka” which is a mansion that was built in the 16th century.

“Ha Ha Tonka” is named after the natural springs on the property. The phrase means “smiling water”. The castle ruins and park was purchased by the state of Missouri, which then converted it to a state park.

It is open for all. And it’s 15miles trail track makes it one of the best places to hike in Missouri. This should be an addition to your list of things to do in southern Missouri if you love hiking.

31. Hike Katy Trail

There are a long list of what to do in Missouri but tourists do not miss going through The Katy Trail.

The Katy Trail can be found in the Katy Trail State Park. The whole trail is about 240miles and it passes through the former Missouri-Kansas Texas (MKT) Railroad.

It is used by joggers, hikers, cyclists and tourists all year long. Part of this trail is also part of the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail and the American Discovery Trail. As you enjoy your stay in Missouri, you can make out time to jog through this trail. It’s all fun!

32. Historical St. Joseph

Widely known as St. Joe, it is located in Buchanan County along the Missouri River. It was founded by Joseph Robidoux in 1843, who was a fur trader during the Wild West days.

Are you in northern Missouri and would like to know some of the best things to do in northern Missouri? A visit to St. Joseph will give you a good time during your visit to this state.

Some of the things St. Joseph has to offer is a Pony Express Museum for those interested in learning about history. You can also visit the Heaton-Bowman Smith Funeral Home which houses a small museum managed for Jesse James.

You can also check out the shops and restaurants downtown in the city as this area is packed with so many historical homes which you will enjoy having a view of.

33. Dogwood Canyon Nature Park

If you are an outdoor enthusiast, visit the Dogwood Canyon Nature Park, which offers myriads of outdoor opportunities for your pleasure.

Dogwood Canyon Nature Park is an outdoor haven situated in Lampe, MO. This nature park encompasses 10,000 acres of open natural space and a rocky landscape.

The whole place is serene and ideal for enjoying the solitude and connecting deeply with nature. This attraction is family-friendly and features plenty of activities that you can indulge in when you visit.

You can go biking, on wildlife tours, hiking, trout fishing, and horseback riding amidst lofty bluffs, creek beds, handmade bridges, waterfalls, and wildlife.

Dogwood Canyon Nature Park is also a place for people to learn about the significance of conservation while connecting with nature.

Address: 2038 State Hwy 86, Lampe, MO 65681, USA

34. Defiance Ridge Vineyards

Defiance Ridge Vineyards is located in the undulating hills of Historic Missouri Wine Country. This 42-acre land area features a serene lake, verdant garden scenery, and a vineyard. 

The historic farmhouse’s veranda and terraces offer magnificent views of the extensive Missouri River Valley that visitors can enjoy.

This attraction offers a perfect and serene environment for wedding celebrations. The beautiful vineyard, crystal clear lake, and verdant garden feature gorgeous backgrounds to take photos.

Defiance Ridge Vineyards has covered outdoor rooms, indoor rooms, and not covered outdoor spaces for people to use. Their large indoor room features both heating and air conditioning facilities.

Visitors can enjoy their vast selection of delectable wines and dishes or the spectacular views and peaceful atmosphere. 

Address: 2711 S Missouri 94, Defiance, MO 63341, USA

Plan a Trip to Missouri

Missouri has all it takes to keep you entertained. From the Parks to the Brewery, museums and science centers, how can there be a dull moment on a vacation?

So, come with your friends and family for no other state can give you such an unforgettable fun experience as you will get in Missouri.

With regards to your interest make your list of best things to do in Missouri as you go on your vacation, do check with your travel agent to get the best plan of your tour through Missouri.

Home » Travel Guides » United States » Missouri (MO) » 30 Amazing Hidden Gems in Missouri

30 Amazing Hidden Gems in Missouri

Popularly known as the “Cave State” after the 6,000 plus recorded caves in the state, Missouri is a part of the Midwestern region of the United States of America. Named after the third US president Thomas Jefferson, Jefferson City is the state’s capital and is regarded as the most beautiful town in America.

The 18th most populous state in the nation, Missouri has been the birthplace of several eminent personalities of American history, notably Mark Twain, Chuck Berry, Walt Disney, and Harry S. Truman, the 33rd President of the United States of America.

With Mississippi River to its east and the Ozark Mountains to the south, Missouri has been inhabited by human population for over 12,000 years.

Kansas City is the largest city in the state and is most famous around the country and the world for its barbeques and jazz music. Officially dubbed as the ‘City of Fountains’, Kansas City is home to the fountains at Kauffman Stadium, the world’s largest privately funded fountain.

The ‘Show Me’ state of Missouri is known in the American history and culture as a pool of diverse opportunities and attractions. From the indigenous tribes to the 21st-century literati, the state has seen it all and done it all.

Let’s take a moment to delve deeper and find out the best hidden gems in Missouri so we can cherish them for years to come.

1. Welch Spring Hospital Ruins, Jadwin

Now nothing more than a camping spot to passing tourists, Welch Springs Hospital Ruins, by the banks of Current River in Jadwin, Missouri was once a popular healing site (or could have been) which was discovered and later bought by C.H. Diehl in 1913, an Illinois based doctor, who claimed that the water at the springs had brilliant healing powers.

Reportedly, the fresh, pollen-free waters that sprouted out of the surrounding caves had helped him with his hay fever which made him believe that the soothing waters could heal prolonged ailments such as tuberculosis, asthma, and emphysema. And, in an attempt to materialize the same and invite visitors to gain from the discovery, he established a ‘hospital’ at the mouth of the caves.

Unfortunately, accessibility to the caves was not so convenient, and, so, his plans of building a natural health spa never took a substantial shape. After the good doctor passed away, his family couldn’t be bothered about the site, and, thus, the site today sits as just another ruin forgotten in time.

2. Bonne Terre Mines, Bonne Terre

Once the largest lead ore producer in the world, Bonne Terre Mines were used to dig ores from 1870 till 1962. Hundreds of workers mined at the site and huge mining machinery was installed around the underground caves to reap the maximum benefit out of the chambers.

However, flooding and a sudden strike of underground water submerged the chambers underwater and with it sank millions of dollars’ worth of equipment that resulted in permanent closure of the mining business.

As if nature had other plans for the wonderful channels of caves and tunnels, the chambers were reopened and now are regarded as the largest freshwater diving site in the world.

Completely lifeless due to the toxic lead particles in the flowing water, the dive location offers 24 different diving pathways across 17 miles of subterranean channels and an amazing collection of rusted mining tools and machinery resting at the bottom of the “Billion Gallon Lake.”

If you are not a professional diver, you could take a boat tour or a walking trail to the regions which allow access.

3. Glore Psychiatric Museum, St. Joseph

While most of the original building serves as a section of the city’s prison, what’s left of this brilliant structure are the four floors of collection that depict the evolution of mental illness cure and medicine along with 130 years of State Lunatic Asylum’s history.

The Glore Psychiatric Museum in St. Joseph, Missouri is named after George Glore who dedicated the majority of 41 years of work and expertise to creating replicas of the devices that were used in the 16th, 17th, and 18th century to treat mental illness patients.

A collection that started off as a passion of a history buff, the present-day museum is an end result of Glore’s work which was highly encouraged and respected by the officials of Missouri Department of Mental Health, his workplace.

Aside from the original equipment like the Wheel, lobotomy instruments, and Benjamin Rush’s Tranquilizer Chair, the museum also displays life-like replicas and dioramas along with artworks created by patients.

4. Devil’s Icebox, Columbia

Missouri may be known to the world as the ‘Show Me’ state or the home of the ‘Cave City’, but there is more to this Midwestern gem than meets the eye. The Devil’s Icebox, amidst the Rock Bridge Memorial State Park, is a one-of-a-kind cave that manages to retain its calm, 56-degree temperature throughout the year.

Frequented by students and visitors from Columbia, the Icebox serves as an entrance to two other caves and houses a flowing river within.

From April to May and August to October each year, the Icebox holds caving tours through its various sections – starting with level A for the novices to level D for the expert spelunkers.

During summer, the caves are flocked by numerous bats and the karst topography of the surrounding ambiance makes for a perfect vacation for those in search of a natural retreat.

5. Lemp Mansion, St. Louis

The story of Lemp Mansion goes hand in hand with the history of German immigration and beer brewing in the city of St. Louis, Missouri.

One of the first beer breweries in the United States of America, Western Brewery was the brainchild and prodigy of Johann “Adam” Lemp who moved to the city in 1839 and started brewing and selling beer in 1840. The business was handed over to Adam’s first son, William J. Lemp, under whose supervision, Western Brewery grew to be the largest of its kind in the city and outside New York with a sole owner.

Even though William’s fourth son, Frederick, was to run the company as per his desire, but William J. Lemp Jr. aka Billy, William Sr.’s first son followed the family path and inherited the heirloom. William and his wife moved to the Lemp Mansion in 1873 and changed the business name to William J. Lemp brewing company.

Frederick, the fourth son, had significant health problems which were unknown to the Lemp family, and after his death of a heart attack in 1901, hell came crashing down on the family and family business. As if the whole family was cursed, William Sr. committed suicide by shooting himself in 1904. Shortly after, Billy faced a divorce charge and shot himself to death in 1922.

Elsa Lemp Wright, William Sr.’s daughter and the youngest child, shot herself in bed in 1920, and the last remaining of the family, Charles Lemp shot his dog and himself in 1949.

Now, the property serves as a restaurant and inn and hosts periodic tours into the history and haunting past of the Lemp Mansion.

6. Kansas City Library’s Giant Bookshelf, Kansas City

Undoubtedly, the magnificent town of Kansas City is known to the world for its amazing collection of caves, however, that is not all. Aside from the caves, the garage for the public library Central branch is considered as intriguing as the Cave City’s other jewels.

A thoughtful façade that looks like a Giant Bookshelf with a row of books that are 25 feet in the air and nine feet wide encloses the parking garage from outside. Built in 2006, this themed parking garage was designed to solve the parking problems of the downtown area and the idea for the ‘Bookshelf’ exterior was a joint effort of the community members.

Among many others, some of the book titles include J.R.R. Tolkien’s Lord of the Rings, Ralph Ellison’s Invisible Man, Lao Tzu’s Tao Te Ching, and Charles Dickens’ A Tale of Two Cities.

7. Kansas City Workhouse, Kansas City

Known as the “Workhouse Castle”, this giant hulk of a structure was built in 1897 and was meant to serve as a towered prison. The prisoners, often beggars and drunks who committed petty thefts, were involved in local public work by the jail. The “castle” is known to be one of their first creations which were created by the first inmates using limestone boulders dug right out of the surrounding ground.

The prison’s medieval European architecture not only made the structure stand out but also gave it an air of dominance in the area.

After a few decades of passing over from one owner to another, the Workhouse Castle finally shut down permanently in 1972.

The abandoned structure was soon discovered by graffiti artists who used the walls to create bold, intriguing expressions of their artwork. Though talks of turning the space into a community center have been going around for some time now, ironically, the walls of this imposing castle stays preserved and decorated in art created by those who may have easily found their way in if the prison still stood to function!

8. Leila’s Hair Museum, Independence

So, you thought you know of all the ‘strange’ museums in the world and there is nothing more to surprise you? Think again. Leila’s Hair Museum, the ONLY one of its kind in the whole universe, is located in Independence, Missouri, and it boasts of collection that includes over 600 wreaths and 2000 pieces of exquisite jewelry made from HUMAN HAIR!

The history to know when this art form was first started is slightly vague but it is believed that it goes all the way back to the Victorian era and the 12th century when hair was used to create memorabilia that could be kept as a keepsake from a loved one (no, there were no cameras back then!). These interesting pieces also served as a memory of a deceased family member.

The museum’s oldest brooch was made in 1680 and donated to the museum in the 1800s by the last standing member of a Swedish family.

Leila Cohoon, the owner and caretaker, reportedly has mastered 30 out of 35 techniques that were used to create the various pieces of jewelry and tokens, and offers classes to those who are interested.

9. Treasures of the Steamboat Arabia, Kansas City

On September 5th, 1856, the expansive Arabia hit a submerged walnut tree during its usual tour of the Missouri River, and despite several efforts, sank to the bottom of the river with 200 tons of cargo and a mule!

The steamboat hit the river bottom within a day and even after several attempts, neither the boat nor the cargo could be recovered. The shipwreck remained abandoned and a folklore for over a century until 1987 when Bob Hawley and his sons, located the ‘lost’ steamboat under a pile of mud and silt.

The Hawleys along with a few friends and family members decided to unearth the sunken monster, and after a year’s dedication and hard work, the group started to unveil the treasures of Arabia.

Today, all of Arabia’s treasures including remarkably preserved guns, tools, clothing, entire crates of China and food is stored at the Treasures of the Steamboat Arabia Museum in Kansas City, Missouri, and is regarded as the largest exclusive collection of pre-Civil War artifacts.

10. Turtle Playground, St. Louis

As a child, you probably have been warned numerous times about playing by the highway, but the Turtle Playground isn’t just another spot or stopover at the intersection between Oakland Ave and Tamm Ave, St. Louis, Missouri. An intriguing themed playground, the public park was designed by Bob Cassilly of the City Museum (St. Louis) fame.

Created in the late 90s, the Turtle Playground comprises larger-than-life sculptures of reptiles made of concrete. Most ‘reptiles’ in the park were inspired by the local species found in the area. Consisting many turtles and a really long snake, whose body is designed to serve as an entrance to the park, are the usual inhabitants of the Turtle Playground.

When threats of destroying the establishment due to a construction on Highway 40 surfaced in 2007, Cassilly disguised himself as a thief and chopped the snake’s head off, thus making a statement that only he had the power and rights to damage his creation. Message well-received, the ‘head’ and the playground have both been restored and reopened since then.

11. The Ozark Spooklight, Joplin

Also known as the Hornet Ghost Light, the Tri-State Spook Light, and the Joplin Ghost Light (and so on), the Ozark Spooklight is apparently a mysterious round glow that appears periodically eleven miles southwest of Joplin. The light has made infrequent appearances since 1881, though some claim to have seen the event way before the recorded time.

Several ‘logical’ explanations have been derived from the phenomenon, the most sensible of which that they are the reflections of car lights. However, the theory has been challenged by the fact that the lights were visible before there were any cars driving down this road.

There are several stories (read ‘rumours’) behind the Ozark Spooklight – some say it’s the ghost of a Confederate soldier looking for his head, or the ghost of a decapitated miner, or that it is the ghost of a beheaded Osage Indian who is searching for HIS head.

12. Taum Sauk Mountain, Ironton

The Ozarks dominate the southern part of Missouri, and Taum Sauk Mountain is known to be the oldest and the highest peak of St. Francois Mountains (a part of the Ozarks).

Apparently, Piankeshaw chief Sauk-Ton-Qua’s daughter fell in love with a warrior from an enemy tribe. When Sauk found out, he killed the warrior by throwing him off the cliff, and Sauk’s daughter followed her lover in death. This infuriated the mystical Storm King, who, out of his wrath, summoned a hurricane to destroy the entire tribe.

The Mountain is supposedly named after the tribe leader and his tragic tale.

Taum Sauk’s summit is marked by granite inscription from the Missouri Association of Registered Land Surveyors.

13. The Pinnacles, Sturgeon

Not to be confused by the national park in California, the Pinnacles in Missouri are considered as a geological anomaly. River erosion causing steep cliffs to be formed out of large boulders is not so uncommon, but, in this case, a 300-year-old limestone formation which was wedged between two rivers eroded over a period of time and formed the ‘Pinnacles’.

A spiky formation, the Pinnacles stand 75 feet high and stretch up to 1,000 feet. The limestone formation, known as the Burlington Limestone, stands between Kelley Creek and Silver Fork Creek, as the streams gradually dissolve portions of the stone.

A part of the Pinnacles Youth Park, the formations are unique and make a perfect spot for hiking and rock climbing.

14. Pruitt-Igoe’s Remains, St. Louis

Pruitt-Igoe, a housing project completed in 1954, was to be the most-perfect community in the entire United States of America, but, within a decade of habitation, it became the most notorious housing project in the nation.

Designer Minoru Yamasaki (best known for his work on World Trade Center) and George Hellmuth planned to house the whites in Igoe while the blacks were to stay at the Pruitt. But, the idea of coexisting in the same community didn’t charm the whites, and, soon, the whole community was taken over by African-Americans.

Though an iconic failure of what it was meant to be, the former residents recall the initial experience as that of extreme joy and a blessing filled with amenities from the 20th century.

As drug trafficking, gang wars, prostitution, and shooting became a daily thing, the residents and project owners finally gave up hope, and in a haunting display of their dismay, blew up the entire housing project with dynamites.

All that remains now is an urban jungle and a graveyard for all those aspirations of a better future attached to it in the middle of St. Louis, Missouri.

15. Bothwell Lodge, Sedalia

Worried much about the effects of air-conditioning on high consumption of energy and how it affects our environment (and pockets)? Take a page from the designing book of Bothwell Lodge – a house that has been built over a natural cave so it could keep the interiors pleasant and cool, naturally!

Originally named the Stonyridge Farm, the structure was built over 30 years ago by John Homer Bothwell, a wealthy lawyer, as a retreat location for himself and his friends. Spreading over 12,000 square feet, the Lodge had 31 rooms and a medieval European style of architecture.

Though the edifice itself resonated of ultimate beauty, the most intriguing feature of the Bothwell Lodge were the three underground caves that were discovered during construction. To benefit from this natural occurrence, Bothwell ordered several access points to be built within the building so fresh, natural breeze could pass conveniently through the whole house.

The estate grounds are open for biking and hiking, and tours are easily available.

16. Jesse James Home Museum, St. Joseph

Americans, as we know it, are fair to all – celebrities, humanitarians, soldiers, criminals! The Jesse James Home Museum in St. Joseph, Missouri is one such example of how a notorious criminal is remembered even after decades of him being shot dead.

As the story goes, Jesse James, one of the most notorious outlaws in the history of the United States of America, had a great run as a criminal, and finally decided to settle down with his family in the city. Despite being feared as one of the deadliest bandits, James was also known as a concerned family man.

Unfortunately, by the time he decided to come clean, there was a $10,000 bounty on James’ capture. An offer too lucrative to avoid, Robert Ford, a former accomplice of James, put a bullet to James’ head at his own residence.

While Ford was arrested for the crime and has been forgotten, Jesse James is considered an American icon and is celebrated as a legacy at his former home that has been redesigned to serve as the ‘Jesse James Home Museum’.

17. BoatHenge, Columbia

It is hard to explain America’s obsession with Stonehenge, a prehistoric monument in England, but, the nation sure has a way of expressing its appreciation towards the iconic structure. After the Foamhenge in Virginia and Carhenge in Nebraska, it is time we take a look at BoatHenge in Columbia, Missouri.

A work of anonymous artists, BoatHenge was first seen in 1993 on a lawn next to the Katy Trail. Seeming like a bunch of boats stuck in the ground in upright position at first, the collection of six fiberglass boats lined in a semilunar formation can only be reached via a canoe, a bicycle, or a lot of walking.

Mysteriously enough, research and observation of the site yielded that the boats’ height, width, and depth underground is EXACTLY the same as that of Stonehenge (Why, America, Why?).

18. The National Museum of Toys and Miniatures, Kansas City

Established in 1882 as the Kansas City Toy and Miniature Museum, the mansion boasts one of the largest and the finest collections of vintage toys and miniatures to be found in the United States of America. Rewarded with its current ‘national’ status in 2015, the Museum originally started with a collective assortment by Mary Harris Francis and Barbara Marshall.

Since its establishment, the Museum has expanded dramatically and had undergone multiple expansions in 1985, 2004, and 2014.

72,000 items were recorded at the museum during its 2004 expansion.

Expect to find antique dollhouses that look 1000 times better than the real ones we live in, wooden boats, vintage cars, tin toys, and thought-provoking miniature replicas that look like a shrunken version of the original items.

19. The Holy Finger of Kansas City, Kansas City

Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art is a highly recognized and valued collection that houses several significant Christian relics, but, one of the items on display at the museum stands apart than any other under the roof – a human finger bone and not just any finger bone, but, one that belongs to John the Baptist, the first cousin of Jesus of Nazareth.

A part of the Guelph Treasure housed in Germany’s Brunswick Cathedral, the artifact was brought here when the Nelson Trust decided to buy it.

Reportedly, the right hand of John the Baptist with which he baptized Jesus is in Serbian Orthodox Church, Montenegro, while other body parts are spread over various locations around the world including France and Bulgaria.

20. Kirksville Devil’s Chair, Kirksville

Officially the “Baird Chair”, the structure was placed by Kirksville’s prominent banker, William Baird.

Baird may not be alive anymore but his influence on the city can be easily spotted around Kirksville. His former home now serves as the Chamber of Commerce while his bank is now Pagliai’s Pizza.

Renamed (unofficially) as the Devil’s Chair by locals, it is believed that something ghastly will happen to those who dare to sit on it at midnight – like an undead hand will appear from the grave and drag you to hell. The legend further elaborates that these occurrences are more likely to happen during special occasions such as Halloween.

21. Former World’s Largest Rocking Chair, Cuba

Replaced by the new World’s Largest Rocking Chair created by Jim Bolin and installed in Casey, Illinois, the former World’s Largest Rocking Chair in Cuba, Missouri, was the first of its kind to have gained the reputation when it was created and installed on April Fool’s Day in 2008.

Standing at 42 feet, the welded steel Chair can be found on the stretch of Route 66 that passes through the town of Cuba.

Built with the sole purpose of breaking all records and making it to the Guinness Book of World Records, the Chair’s mammoth structure soon became a serious safety concern. The rocking chair that could actually sway back and forth was securely welded into the ground to save any possible accidents.

Sitting on the chair is prohibited except for a single day every year, the “Picture on Rocker day’, when a lift is commissioned to carry people up and down from the chair.

22. World’s Largest Shuttlecocks, Kansas City

The finger bone of John the Baptist may be the most intriguing piece of relic inside the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, but the Kansas City museum has much more in store for the keen visitors, for example, four 18-foot shuttlecocks!

The mammoth badminton shuttlecocks look like they have been left casually on the ground after a game of badminton played by giant humans. The structures were commissioned after the Sosland family donated the funds to the museum.

Crafted by Claes Oldenburg and his wife, Coosje Van Bruggen, the shuttlecocks are made from fiberglass and aluminum and were installed at the museum grounds in July 1994.

Now considered a permanent part of the city’s folklore, the surrounding grounds have become increasingly popular as a wedding destination and other community events.

23. Cotton Belt Freight Depot, St. Louis

Originally a cotton depot and a significant stopover in the then booming cotton trade that spread over the cities of Texas, Arkansas, and Missouri, the Cotton Belt Freight Depot, with its sculpted terra cotta elements and giant façade covered in remarkable paintwork is an abandoned but exquisite structure on the streets of St. Louis.

Constructed in 1911, the former Freight Depot is a quirky representation of the city’s industrial history.

Standing at a five-story height, the construction is extremely thin and extremely long – about 750 feet long.

Resembling a wall more than an actual building, most of the Freight Depot is covered in graffiti art, of which, the most notable is the “Migrate” mural that was drawn as a part of the depot’s renaissance project.

24. Laura Ingalls Wilder Historic Home & Museum, Mansfield

Laura Ingalls Wilder, a celebrated American Writer is best known for her children’s book series “Little House on the Prairie”, loved traveling and spent a lot of her time traversing through the states of Kansas, Wisconsin, Minnesota, South Dakota, Iowa, and Missouri.

While there are several significant sites across the trail dedicated to her life and travels, the Laura Ingalls Wilder Historic Home & Museum in Mansfield, Missouri, features the final years of her life when she lived with Almanzo, and their daughter, Rose, and wrote her Little House series.

At the Home & Museum, you can experience the writer’s home, her farmhouse, and the Rock House. A garden dedicated to Laura’s passion for gardening, “Laura’s Vegetable Garden”, was added later.

There are sections of the museum which are dedicated to Almanzo and Rose.

25. World Chess Hall of Fame, St. Louis

WCHOF, short for the World Chess Hall of Fame, is a museum, an educational center, a monument, and a dream destination for every chess lover in the world. The only museum of its kind in America, WCHOF was established in 2011 and is managed by the United States Chess Trust.

Among the many notable pieces in the museum, a book signed by Bobby Fisher depicted various chess openings, a Senet piece as old as 500 years, Paul Murphy’s silver chess set, and the first chess-playing computer stands out as special attractions.

Along with the local chess club, WCHOF offers educational programs for chess enthusiasts of all age and also hosts some of the most competitive tournaments in the nation.

26. Boots Court Motel, Carthage

Constructed in 1939 on the intersection of Route 66 and U.S. 71, the Boots Court Motel is a historic motel that was established by Arthur Boots, a machinery salesman.

Located at the ‘crossroads of America’, the iconic motel is most known for its “a radio in every room” feature (if not for its fabulous location”. The motel follows a Streamline Moderne Style of architecture and has a covered carport for night visitors.

Famed celebrities like Clark Gable are known to have stayed at the motel.

A neon sign announced its presence on the route for several decades until it was finally shut down. A demolition attempt in 2003 was objected by the locals, and in 2011, two sisters purchased the property and have been making restorations around the motel since then.

New elements have been added even though the owners are trying their best to restore the structure’s original set up from the 1940s.

The reopened Boots Court Motel offers all modern facilities except televisions, however, there is still “a radio in every room.”

27. Lyle Van Houten’s Automotive Museum, Clarence

At first glance, the structure looks like a functional gas station stuck in time, but, take a closer look and you will see that it is, in fact, a preserved filling station that now serves as an Automotive Museum.

Situated off the Highway 36 in Clarence, Missouri, the Automotive Museum was created by former owner and operator, Lyle Van Houten, who, instead of selling his little station after 40 years of working here, chose to turn it into a display of vintage cars stuck in the classic era filling station in America.

After retirement, Houten dedicated his time to preserving the original filling pumps and original signboards, a collection of vintage cars with mannequins in costumes from the old era.

An old Clarence squad car, a couple driving their fancy sedan, and an unusual taxi filled with figurines dressed as marching band monkeys are some of the notable displays.

28. Vacuum Cleaner Museum and Factory Outlet, Saint James

America’s fascination with the world’s weirdest collectibles is well-known by now. First, there is the shaker museum, then the hair museum, and now, we discover the Vacuum Cleaner Museum! Like really! Who would have thought Vacuum Cleaners were so important to mankind as to have a museum dedicated to them?

Tom Gasko, the collector of over 600 vacuum cleaners that form the Vacuum Cleaner Museum and Factory Outlet in Saint James, Missouri, started obsessing over these tools at a tender age of 16 (maybe even before that), just a few months before he started working as a sales boy for the product in 1979.

The President of the Vacuum Cleaner Club in 1995 (yes, there is a club like that), Gasko tied up a few other enthusiasts and started collecting different models, antique and modern, and formed the Vacuum Collectors Association (yes, this is also a thing).

Finally, in 2009, Gasko believed he collected enough to start a public display, now known as the Vacuum Cleaner Museum and Factory Outlet. Till today, the owner-turned-curator gives personal tours of his prized collection and is happy to answer all your vacuum-related questions.

29. Maxie, The World’s Largest Goose, Sumner

Sumner is known as the World’s Wise Goose Capital, and what could be more befitting to the city in Missouri than Maxie, a 40-foot Canadian Goose that stands proudly amidst a public park ready to fly.

More majestic than monstrous, the 4,000-pound goose is not only the mascot of Sumner but is also the reason behind the city’s strange reputation. Standing on its extremely skinny legs, Maxie is known to take a little flight when faced with heavy wind.

The city of Sumner attracts a lot of hunters every year as it sits on the migratory trail of a large number of wild geese that gather around the local lake. An annual goose-themed festival takes place in the city since 1955.

30. Missouri State Penitentiary, Jefferson City

Missouri gained statehood in 1821 and just after a year, Jefferson City was named as the state’s capital. However, John Miller, the then governor, realized that efforts had to be made to materialize the city’s significance. Hence, he ordered the construction of Missouri State Penitentiary, a maximum-security prison for the most notorious criminals.

The Penitentiary saw its first inmate in 1836 and its first female inmate in 1842. The cells at the prison and any other nearby homes were built by the Penitentiary prisoners. With over 5,000 prisoners, the compound was known to hold the largest outlaw population in the nation in 1932.

However, a major riot in 1954 and other related injuries and deaths gave the State Penitentiary its foul nickname – the bloodiest 47 acres in America.

Charles ‘Sonny’ Lisbon learned to box during his time at the prison and then went on to win the 1953 National Heavyweight Championship held in Chicago.

James Earl Ray was acquitted here in 1959, but, he managed to escape in 1967, and killed Martin Luther King Jr. in 1968.

Since its closure in 2004, the Missouri State Penitentiary serves as a museum and has been the subject of over 100 supernatural investigations. Scared much?

30 Amazing Hidden Gems in Missouri:

• Welch Spring Hospital Ruins, Jadwin
• Bonne Terre Mines, Bonne Terre
• Glore Psychiatric Museum, St. Joseph
• Devil's Icebox, Columbia
• Lemp Mansion, St. Louis
• Kansas City Library's Giant Bookshelf, Kansas City
• Kansas City Workhouse, Kansas City
• Leila's Hair Museum, Independence
• Treasures of the Steamboat Arabia, Kansas City
• Turtle Playground, St. Louis
• The Ozark Spooklight, Joplin
• Taum Sauk Mountain, Ironton
• The Pinnacles, Sturgeon
• Pruitt-Igoe's Remains, St. Louis
• Bothwell Lodge, Sedalia
• Jesse James Home Museum, St. Joseph
• BoatHenge, Columbia
• The National Museum of Toys and Miniatures, Kansas City
• The Holy Finger of Kansas City, Kansas City
• Kirksville Devil's Chair, Kirksville
• Former World's Largest Rocking Chair, Cuba
• World's Largest Shuttlecocks, Kansas City
• Cotton Belt Freight Depot, St. Louis
• Laura Ingalls Wilder Historic Home & Museum, Mansfield
• World Chess Hall of Fame, St. Louis
• Boots Court Motel, Carthage
• Lyle Van Houten's Automotive Museum, Clarence
• Vacuum Cleaner Museum and Factory Outlet, Saint James
• Maxie, The World's Largest Goose, Sumner
• Missouri State Penitentiary, Jefferson City

5 Unique and Interesting Missouri Road Trips

Last updated on September 7th, 2023 at 11:47 am.

Missouri is a state that has something for everyone, from bustling cities to serene natural wonders. But what’s the best way to see all that this state has to offer? A road trip, of course!

Taking a road trip in Missouri is a great way to experience the state’s rich history, diverse culture, and stunning landscapes. Whether you’re a local looking for a weekend adventure or a visitor wanting to explore the Midwest, there’s no shortage of fun and unique road trips to add to your bucket list.

In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through some of the best road trips in Missouri. From the haunted and eerie to the serene and beautiful, these road trips will take you to some of the state’s most unforgettable places. So, pack your bags, hit the road, and let’s explore the best of Missouri !

Table of Contents

Missouri Road Trips For All Kinds of Travelers

Whether you’re a local or a visitor, we hope these road trip ideas inspire you to explore some of Missouri’s hidden gems.

Missouri Outdoor Adventure Road Trip

Total Miles: 213 miles | Contributed by Jessica at Jessica Unearth The Voyage Recommend Time For Trip: 4 Days

One of the best Missouri road trips you can do is a trip starting in St. Louis that meanders through the backroads of Missouri and ends in Eminence, MO.

This trip is great for anyone that loves outdoor adventure activities. We would recommend taking 4 days to complete this road trip.

Day 1 starts in St. Louis and has you heading to Meramec State Park where you can spend a full day exploring the park and checking out Meramec Caverns.

There are cabins you can rent in the State park to stay the night or you can rent an VRBO vacation home nearby.

Day 2 head south to Mina Sauk Falls, which is the highest waterfall in Missouri. Hike the 3 mile round trip trail to the falls and spend an hour or so hanging out by the falls and having a picnic lunch.

Nearby is Johnson Shut-Ins State Park which is a super fun state park to explore in the summertime because there are a bunch of swimming holes to hang out in. You can also rent a cabin at Johnson Shut-Ins state park or stay at the nearby Shepherd Mountain Inn .

Day 3 head to Eminence, Missouri, a town that is the crossroads of two of the most beautiful rivers in Missouri, The Current River and Jacks Fork River.

The best thing to do here is spend the day going on a  Missouri float trip  down either of the rivers. Overall, this trip is a great way to see some off the beaten path destinations in Missouri and visit some of Missouri’s best state parks. 

Jesse James Road Trip / James Gang Trip

Total Miles: 392 miles | Recommend Time For Trip: 3 Days

For history buffs and fans of the Wild West, the Jesse James Road Trip is a must.

Day 1 start in St. Joseph, where Jesse James began his infamous criminal career, and follow his trail to Liberty, MO and the first daylight peace-time bank robbery in the U.S.

Day one continues to Kearney, where you can visit his childhood home and museum. Along the way, you’ll see historic sites, museums, and his gravesite.

Day 2 takes you to the home where he was shot in St. Joseph and a mortuary to see his burial casket. On this day you’ll also visit the 1871 Winston Train Depot, the site of one of the James Gang’s most famous Missouri crimes—the 1881 robbery of a Kansas City–Chicago passenger train. The day ends with a visit to the The Squirrel Cage Jail where you can see with exhibits of the trial of Frank James.

Day 3 includes the Jesse James Wax Museum in Stanton, visiting the James Gang hideout at Meramec Caverns.

We have a detailed Jesse James road trip itinerary with full details of each stop and hotel suggestions.

history buffs and nature lovers Road Trip

Total Miles: 280 miles | Contributed by Steven Geist from Bro On The Go Recommend Time For Trip: 4 Days

This road trip will take you from Kansas City to the Lake of the Ozarks in the span of five days. The 280-mile journey is perfect for history buffs and nature lovers.

Day 1 your first stop will be in the city of Independence , where it’s all about Harry S. Truman. The official library, museum, and former home of the 33rd president can be found here. 

Next, head down to Highway 50 for a beautiful one-hour outdoor stretch consisting of Cave Hollow Park and Knob Noster State Park. At Cave Hollow, you can see petroglyphs chiseled into the rocks by unknown tribes. 

Knob Noster is a great place to camp for the night and there are a few hotel options as well. The park is covered with lush trails for hiking and biking. It also features an oxbox slough, which is perfect for fishing and kayaking.

Day 2 you will drive into Boone County, which has something for everyone. You can meet new four-legged friends at Warm Springs Ranch, the official breeding facility of the world-famous Budweiser Clydesdales.

In nearby Columbia, the University of Missouri is packed with history, as it was the first public university west of the Mississippi River.

If more outdoor adventure is needed, check out the unique terrain of Finger Lakes State Park. At night, you can camp in Finger Lakes or stay in one of the many hotels in Columbia . 

Day 3 , head south and stop in Jefferson City. The Missouri State Capitol offers free guided tours year-round, just make sure to make a reservation at least 24 hours in advance.

The Runge Nature Center in Jeff City is also a solid destination for any time of the year. This wildlife-filled outpost offers indoor exhibits and an aquarium for cold days, as well as nature trails and bird watching to enjoy on nice days. There’s a wide variety of hotels, specialty homes for rent on VRBO , and camping found in “America’s Most Beautiful Small Town.” 

Day 4 will take you to Ha Ha Tonka, which was named the #4 state park in the nation by USA Today. This geological wonderland is home to caves, sinkholes, and Missouri’s 12th-largest spring. You can spend a half day here before heading to Old Kinderhook.  

If you’d like a luxurious night of sleep without the 5-star price tag, book a night at Old Kinderhook Resort. The charming facilities of this resort include activities such as golf and ice skating. You can read reviews on TripAdvisor or find best prices at Hotels.com or Booking.com .

Missouri Fall Colors Road Trip

Total Miles: 541 miles | Contributed by Linda of Midwest Explored Recommend Time For Trip: 4 Days

If you’re searching for one of the best road trips in Missouri then you cannot beat a fall foliage-inspired trip to some of the best parks in the state. 

So, this incredible 541-mile journey will start in Weston Bend State Park and end in Table Rock State Park.

And while this drive can be done in just over 9 hours, definitely plan to spend between 4 and 7 days doing this iconic trip. 

This way you can go on hikes, kayak through rivers, and enjoy some of the most incredible fall colors that Missouri has to offer. 

Day 1 you’ll start your fall in Missouri trip at Weston Bend State Park. While here, conquer the West Ridge Trail for it’s great fall colors.

From Weston Bend State Park, take the scenic drive to Hermann, which is situated in the heart of Missouri’s wine country. One of the most scenic routes to take is to head south on Highway 45 towards Weston, then take Highway 273 towards Missouri 94.

This route will take you through beautiful countryside dotted with vibrant fall foliage. As you drive, you’ll pass through small towns and farmland, and enjoy stunning views of the Missouri River.

Augusta and Defiance are two small towns along Highway 94 known for their beautiful fall colors and scenic views and worth a stop.

Day 2 take a drive to Hermann wine country and it’s famous wine trail. 

In total, this incredible trail takes you to seven different wineries in the Missouri wine region of Hermann. Just be sure to stop at Adam Puchta Winery, which has been producing delicious wine since 1855 and the most famous of the all, Stone Hill Winery .

We recommend staying at the Inn At Hermannhof for nights one and two. This will allow you to explore town and wine taste to your hearts desire on day two without having to drive.

Day 3 drive to the Ozarks to visit Elephant Rocks State Park to see the giant boulders this area is known. If you visit in fall, the leaves should be a site to behold.

You can easily also visit Taum Sauk Mountain or Johnson’s Shut-Ins in the same day. This peak is home to the tallest point in the state and is overflowing with stunning fall foliage. 

We recommend the nearby Shepherd Mountain Inn for lodging on this day.

Day 4 make your way towards the Table Rock State Park in the Ozarks. This stunning park offers visitors a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and camping. The park is also known for its breathtaking fall foliage, with vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow covering the trees.

One of the best ways to experience the colors of autumn in this area is by taking a kayak trip down the White River.

Begin your adventure at the Table Rock State Park Marina, where you can rent kayaks and get instructions on how to paddle and maneuver through the river. As you paddle downstream, you’ll be surrounded by trees painted in rich shades of red, orange, and yellow.

Along the way, take in the scenic views of the surrounding hills and bluffs, and keep an eye out for local wildlife like bald eagles, ospreys, and herons. You may also spot some trout swimming in the river, as this area is known for its excellent fishing.

Missouri Covered Bridges Road Trip

Total Miles: 438 | Time Without Stops: 7.5 Hours Recommend Time For Trip: 2 Days

Missouri has several historic covered bridges that are worth exploring, and a covered bridges road trip is a great way to see them all.

If you start in Kansas City, it’s possible to see all four of Missouri’s covered bridges in one day. Another option is to make it a two day road trip and stay the night in either St. Louis for a big city experience or Augusta if you enjoy wine tasting.

Day 1 starting from Kansas City, drive approximately 100 miles northeast to reach the Locust Creek Covered Bridge in Linn County. This bridge was built in 1868 and spans 151 feet across Locust Creek. It is the longest of the four covered bridges in Missouri and has been beautifully restored.

From there, drive approximately 85 miles southwest to reach the Union Covered Bridge in Monroe County. This bridge was built in 1871 and spans 81 feet across Indian Creek. It is the shortest of the four covered bridges in Missouri but is still a great sight to see.

• If you plan to stop in St. Louis for the night I recommend the historic St. Louis Union Station Hotel .
• If you plan an overnight in Augusta I recommend the H.S. Clay House Bed & Breakfast .

Day 2 drive approximately 1 hour from Augusta or 40 minutes from St. Louis to reach the Sandy Creek Covered Bridge in Jefferson County. This bridge was built in 1872 and spans 74 feet across Sandy Creek. It is the only covered bridge in Missouri that still carries vehicle traffic, so you can drive across it and experience what it would have been like to cross a covered bridge in the past.

Finally, drive approximately 86 miles northwest to reach the Burfordville Covered Bridge, located in Cape Girardeau County. This bridge was built in 1858 and spans 140 feet across the Whitewater River. The bridge is open to pedestrians and provides a great opportunity for photos.

We have a detailed Missouri Covered Bridge itinerary with full details of each stop and hotel suggestions.

So, there you have it – 10 fun Missouri road trips to add to your bucket list. Pack your bags, hit the road, and discover the best that Missouri has to offer!

No matter what your interests are, there’s a Missouri road trip that’s perfect for you. So pack your bags, hit the road, and explore all that this amazing state has to offer!

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25 Best Things to Do in Missouri — Fun Activities & Stuff to Do!

By: Author Jacob Phillips

Posted on Published: February 16, 2021  - Last updated: October 5, 2023

Barbecue, beer, and baseball are just some of the things that Missouri is known for.

But there are other popular tourist attractions in this Midwestern state that caters to all types of tourists.

History buffs, literary enthusiasts, nature lovers, music fans, and even admirers of kitsch art will find fun things to do in Missouri.

It’s all a matter of knowing where to go.

We can help you with that. Here’s a list of the best things to do in Missouri during your trip.

1. City Museum — St. Louis

750 N 16th Street St. Louis, MO. 63103 (314) 231-2489

The City Museum is an architectural museum located in the former International Shoe building in St. Louis.

It opened in October 1997.

Why You’ll Enjoy This Activity

Architecture fans, kids, and kids-at-heart are sure to enjoy going around this museum.

Constantly made and remade by artists using scraps from the city, this museum is like fitting an entire universe inside one hundred-year-old building.

Everything is happening inside. From brightly colored children’s spaces to incredible cave systems, this is definitely one of the fun places in Missouri you can’t miss.

Get here early because you can easily spend the entire day exploring the many nooks and crannies in this museum.

Chill out in an old school bus that extends from the rooftop or climb up to the museum’s old plane.

You can even crawl through fun tunnels, go down exciting slides, and just lose yourself in different worlds.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Angad Arts Hotel

Related: Places to Eat: St Louis, MO

Related: Fun Things to Do in Missouri with Kids

2. Ha Ha Tonka Castle Ruins — Camdenton

Natural Bridge Rd Camdenton, MO 65020 (573) 346-2986

Ha Ha Tonka was an early 20th-century mansion owned by a businessman.

It was inspired by 16th-century European castle designs.

Its ruins are located inside Ha Ha Tonka State Park and are one of the places to see in Missouri today.

History fans and lovers of nature can come together and enjoy a day inside the state park.

It has tons of trails that you can explore to see sinkholes, bluffs, and caves.

The walk itself can culminate in the castle ruins, where you’ll be treated to incredible views of the Ha Ha Tonka Spring and Lake of the Ozarks.

Make sure to wear comfortable clothing so that you can make the most of your visit.

After enjoying the ruins’ views, look for the natural bridge and rocky glades around the park.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Sleep Inn & Suites Lake of the Ozarks

3. Welch Spring Hospital Ruins — Jadwin

Jadwin, MO 65501 (573) 323-4236

The Welch Spring Hospital was built by Dr. C.H. Diehl, who believed that the spring had healing properties that can help with breathing conditions.

Today, its ruins still stand and are now a unique landmark for many hikers.

The Welch Spring Trail is a good choice if you’re looking for what to do in Missouri.

It is just a mile-long and is relatively an easy walk.

Plus, you get to relax since the trail isn’t usually busy.

At the end of the trail near the mouth of a cave lies the ruins of Dr. Diehl’s hospital.

You can go up close and take photos if you want. Remember to wear sturdy shoes.

Dr. Diehl built a campground as part of his hospital.

You can take a short break here if you want to eat a snack.

Just remember to pack everything up, including trash.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Crossroad Inn and Suites

4. Johnson’s Shut-Ins — Lesterville

148 Taum Sauk Trail Middle Brook, MO 63656 (573) 546-2450

Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park is an 8,781-acre park known for its naturally-made water park along the Black River.

It’s one of the best places to visit in Missouri if you love nature and playing in the water.

The natural shut-ins surrounded by picturesque rock formations are incredibly fun to dip in.

It’s hard to beat the beautiful views and the cool water combination.

But if you don’t want to get wet (though it’ll be hard to resist the temptation), you can always visit these natural pools to get fantastic nature photos.

To reach the natural pools, follow the 2-mile Shut-Ins trail inside the park.

Swimming is allowed but at your own risk.

No lifeguards will be there to keep an eye on you.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Shepherd Mountain Inn & Suites

5. Glore Psychiatric Museum — St. Joseph

3406 Frederick Avenue St. Joseph, MO, 64506 (816) 364-1209

Glore Psychiatric Museum is part of the museum complex in St. Joseph.

It opened in 1967.

The museum showcases the 130-year history of the State Lunatic Asylum No. 2 and mental illness treatment.

Yes, even its gory parts.

History buffs are sure to find the unique collection of this museum as one of the interesting Missouri activities they’d ever do.

You’ll be able to visit real-life rooms of the asylum, including its once fully-operational morgue.

Some of the artifacts displayed are lobotomy instruments, the Tranquilizer Chair, dioramas, and more.

While you’re here, make sure to visit the three other museums in the building, namely, the Doll Museum, the Black Archives Museum, and the Native American History wing.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Drury Inn & Suites St Joseph

Related: Things to Do in St Joseph, MO

6. The Pinnacles — Sturgeon

850 E Pinnacles Road Sturgeon, MO 65284 (573) 449-7946

The Pinnacles Youth Park Trail is 1.4 kilometers long and is near Hallsville.

It offers terrific views of the Silver Fork Creek Valley.

The Pinnacles Youth Park Trail is an idyllic hike for climbing enthusiasts.

It starts out nice and relaxing but will have a few difficult spots that might not be the most suitable for young kids and people afraid of heights.

The views, though, will be worth the tricky climb.

Be prepared for steep parts and tons of climbing and scrambling.

A good pair of climbing shoes will come in handy.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Comfort Suites – Columbia

7. Kansas City Workhouse

2001 Vine Street Kansas City, MO 64108 (816) 721-5830

The Kansas City Workhouse was built in the late 1890s as a jail for petty offenders.

It has been abandoned since the 1970s.

When you have a little time this weekend , a stop at the Workhouse might be fun, especially if you like taking photographs.

The castle’s facade mixed with the modern graffiti will make for interesting shots, indeed.

When you can, venture inside and see the many artworks that graffiti artists have left on the castle walls.

You might just find your new favorite street art there.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hotel Phillips Kansas City, Curio Collection By Hilton

Related: Restaurants: Kansas City, Missouri

8. Kansas City Library’s Giant Bookshelf

14 W 10th Street Kansas City, MO 64105 (816) 701-3400

The Giant Bookshelf by Kansas City Library is probably one of the cool places you can visit in the state.

It’s definitely one of the things to see in Missouri if you’re a bibliophile.

The Bookshelf is actually a downtown parking building for the public library that they turned into a beautiful line of books.

You’ll see works from famous authors like J.R.R. Tolkien, Gabriel Garcia-Marquez, and Ray Bradbury.

After parking inside the garage, make your way to the south wall of the Central Library.

Make sure to take different angles of the bookshelf so you’ll have photos with giant versions of your favorite book.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Argosy Casino Hotel & Spa

9. Meramec Caverns — Sullivan

1135 MO-W Sullivan, MO 63080 (573) 468-2283

The Meramec Caverns is a 4.6-mile cavern system located in the Ozarks.

The caverns are made from limestone deposits throughout millions of years.

The highlight of your visit to the Meramec Caverns is definitely the guided tour around the cave system.

You’ll get to know how these mesmerizing natural wonders were made and see interesting formations like the ‘Wine Table.’

You can even witness the fabulous light show inside the caves.

If you’re looking for where to go in Missouri, Meramec Caverns doesn’t just offer tours.

You can also do other activities like wall climbing, ziplining, riding on a riverboat, and even panning for gold.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Comfort Inn Sullivan

10. Bonne Terre Mines — Bonne Terre

185 Park Avenue Bonne Terre, MO 63628 (888) 843-3483

The Bonne Terre Mines is the world’s largest man-made subterranean lake.

It’s definitely one of the top places to go in Missouri if you love diving.

One of the most unique must see tourist spots in the state is this freshwater, former lead mine, lake.

It’s one of the top sites for freshwater scuba diving.

The toxic lead particles in the water made it impossible for anything to grow here.

That is why the waters are stunningly clear.

There are about 24 diving paths in Bonne Terre that you can go on.

You’ll be able to visit drowned chambers, swim through pretty arches, and even look at the rusting mining equipment at the bottom of the lake.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Crown Pointe Lodge; BW Signature Collection

Related: Best Family Vacations in Missouri

11. Lemp Mansion — St. Louis

3322 DeMenil Place St. Louis, MO 63118 (314) 664-8024

Lemp Mansion was owned by the Lemp family.

It was built in 1890 but is now a restaurant and in.

It’s one of the state’s famous sights for paranormal lovers.

Murder is always a grisly yet fascinating thing.

But multiple suicides in a single mansion is doubly impressive.

The Lemp Mansion is said to be one of the most haunted buildings in the US, and you can go on ghost tours here.

The mansion is a restaurant and inn right now, so you can actually book an overnight stay if you’re interested in staying at a ghostly location.

You can also attend their Mystery Dinner, where you need to solve a murder mystery while eating your food.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Marriott St. Louis Grand

Related: Top Things to Do in St. Louis

12. Noir Arts & Oddities — Kansas City

1101 Mulberry Street Kansas City, MO 64101 (816) 533-4589

Noir Arts and Oddities is a shop that’s targeted at fans of quirky and unusual things.

It’s absolutely a must-visit if you like weird stuff.

Go around the shop to look into pieces like Victorian Era memento mori, funerary antiques, natural science specimens, and embalming tools.

If strange and macabre is what you’re after, this is the place for you.

Ever wanted to buy an octopus in a jar?

Or do you want to take home a genuine human skeleton?

You’d probably find those and more when you go into this shop.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: 21c Museum Hotel Kansas City

13. Devil’s Icebox — Columbia

Devil’s Icebox Trail Columbia, MO 65203 (573) 449-7402

Devil’s Icebox is inside Rock Bridge Memorial State Park.

Its trailhead is located at Poverty Point Lane.

The Devil’s Icebox is aptly named because this natural cave system stays 56 degrees year-round.

The cool temperature makes it such a unique terrain to check out.

The Icebox itself is now closed to the public due to health concerns.

But the hike to the cave is still beautiful, making it worth the trip.

If you want to go exploring, you can continue on to Connor’s Cave.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Wingate by Wyndham Columbia

Related: Things to Do in Columbia, MO

14. SubTropolis — Kansas City

8300 NE Underground Drive Kansas City, MO 64161 (816) 455-2500

SubTropolis is the largest underground business complex in the world.

It is 55,000,000 square feet and is located in the bluffs of the Missouri River.

You might think that going to a storage facility seems boring.

But not if it’s an underground one that’s as big as a city.

Though there is no official visitor center in SubTropolis, you can always drive through it from Mondays to Fridays.

If you want to make your trip count more, why not take a break over at the paintball place found inside one of SubTropolis’s caverns?

Recommended Hotel Nearby: InterContinental Kansas City at the Plaza

Related: Top Things to Do in Kansas City

15. Eros Bendato — St. Louis

801 Market Street St. Louis, MO 63101 (314) 863-5811

Eros Bendato is a colossal sculpture inside Citygarden Sculpture Park.

Eros Bendato is a chilling sculpture of a man’s head lying on its side with bronze tape binding his face.

Its eyeless face makes the entire sculpture all the more spine-chilling.

A cheap way to go touring in St. Louis is to visit the city’s artworks.

One of the most famous works in the area is the Eros Bendato. Make sure to take a picture as a souvenir.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Four Seasons St. Louis

16. Missouri Botanical Garden — St. Louis

4344 Shaw Boulevard St. Louis, MO 63110 (314) 577-5100

The Missouri Botanical Garden was founded in 1859 by philanthropist Henry Shaw.

It is over 79 acres big.

Plant lovers are sure to enjoy over 4,800 varieties of trees inside the gardens, as well as the unusual specimens that date back to the 19th century.

The Botanical Garden has over 23 gardens that you can visit.

Some of the gardens you can walk to are the Chinese Garden, Japanese Garden, Temperate House (for Mediterranean species), and the English Woodland Garden.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: St. Louis Union Station Hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton

17. Silver Dollar City — Branson

399 Silver Dollar City Parkway Branson, MO 65616 (800) 888-7277

Silver Dollar City is an 1880s-themed amusement park that has over 40 exhilarating rides and attractions.

It’s a great place to bring the kids or go on fun dates for couples.

Spend the day happy and satisfied with the many attractions here in the park.

You can ride the tube on Mystic River Falls, experience the drop on American Plunge, or brave the deadly, rickety fall of Outlaw Run.

Not a fan of thrill rides?

Silver Dollar City also has tame ones like the Frisco Silver Dollar Line Steam Train and McHaffie’s Homestead.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Still Waters Resort

Related: Best Family Hotels in Missouri

18. National WWI Museum and Memorial — Kansas City

2 Memorial Drive Kansas City, MO 64108 (816) 888-8100

The National WWI Museum and Memorial is the country’s official museum for World War I.

It opened in 1926, and the memorial was designed by Harold Van Buren Magonigle.

One of the stuff to do in Missouri for lovers of history is to explore the collection of World War I artifacts in this museum.

The collection is currently going strong with over 33,000 items that range from simple soldiers’ belongings to rare national treasures.

The World War I Museum’s unique thing is that it tries to tell the war story from everyone’s point of view.

It veers away from just one national narrative to be as objective as possible.

History fans will surely enjoy this experience very much.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Westin Kansas City at Crown Center

19. St. Louis Zoo

1 Government Drive St. Louis, MO 63110 (314) 781-0900

St. Louis Zoo is over 36 hectares big and is the home of about 18,700 animals like red wolves, zebras, polar bears, and penguins.

One of the top free attractions in the state is the expansive St. Louis Zoo.

You’ll be able to visit with your favorite animals and watch them in their habitats.

Besides visiting the animals, you can also check out the exhibits and attractions in the zoo like the Sea Lion Show, Stingrays at Caribbean Cove, and Wild Wonder Outpost.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Chase Park Plaza Royal Sonesta St. Louis

20. The Haygoods — Branson

3216 W Highway 76 Branson, MO 65616 (417) 339-4663

The Haygoods are local performers in Branson that provide modern family entertainment.

The Haygoods perform at Clay Cooper Theatre.

The current show line up for The Haygoods is 5 brothers and 1 sister, all musically inclined.

The siblings can play over 20 instruments and put on visually stunning shows that you won’t forget.

From death-defying guitar stunts to mesmerizing classical performances, The Haygoods are definitely musical geniuses.

Make sure to get your tickets well beforehand, as they do sell out fast.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Palace View Resort by Spinnaker

Related: Top Things to Do in Branson, MO

21. Mark Twain Boyhood Home & Museum — Hannibal

120 N Main Street Hannibal, MO 63401 (573) 221-9010

The Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum is the author’s home from 1844 to 1853.

It is located on the west bank of the Mississippi River.

Literary enthusiasts will have a fun time visiting the former home of the famous author Mark Twain.

You’ll be able to see some of the author’s personal artifacts up close.

When you’re done with the tour around the house, the museum also has other properties you might want to visit.

There are the Huckleberry Finn House, Becky Thatcher House, Grant’s Drugstore, and J.M. Clemens Justice of Peace Offices.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Quality Inn & Suites Hannibal

Related: Best Things to Do in Hannibal, MO

Related: Places to Eat in Hannibal, MO

22. Katy Trail

Katy Trail State Park Machens to Clinton, MO (573) 449-7402

The Katy Trail is a 390-kilometer recreational trail that starts in Machen and snakes mainly along the Missouri River to Clinton.

If you want a more active way to go over the state during your trip, why not traverse the Katy Trail?

You can choose to walk, ride a bike, or even meander atop a horse.

Besides the long winding paths, the trail also has some of the most scenic views of the Missouri River.

You’ll really feel the small rural vibes during your outing.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hollywood Casino St. Louis

23. Gateway Arch — St. Louis

11 N 4th Street St. Louis, MO 63102 (877) 982-1410

Gateway Arch is perhaps the most iconic monument in Missouri.

This 630-foot arch was built starting 1963 and was completed in 1965.

Its architect was the celebrated Eero Saarinen.

The Gateway to the West is an impressive example of stunning architecture that many fans love up to this day.

You should take the time to ride the tram up to the viewing platform to get panoramic views of St. Louis and the Mississippi River.

When you’re done taking in the views, go back down and explore the displays in the Museum of Westward Expansion.

It’ll show you what life in the 1800s was like.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hyatt Regency Saint Louis at The Arch

24. Hermann Wine Trail

150A Market Street Hermann, MO 65041 (800) 932-8687

The Hermann Wine Trail features 7 family-owned wineries and vineyards in Missouri’s Wine Country.

A relaxing way to spend time with your loved one is to go on a wine tasting trail.

There are many types to choose from, like the Chocolate Wine Trail, the Farmer’s Table Wine Trail, and the Berries & BarBQ Wine Trail.

So make sure to check the schedule for your trip.

Besides tasting some of the best wines in the state, you’ll be going over scenic views of the country when going from one vineyard to another.

Bring your camera with you to document your journey.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hermann Crown Suites

Related: Best Things to Do in Hermann

Related: Restaurants in Hermann

25. Lake of the Ozarks

403 Highway 134 Kaiser, MO 65047 (573) 348-2694

Lake of the Ozarks is a reservoir located in central Missouri.

It came from the Osage River and is 150 kilometers long.

One of the best things to do in Missouri is to visit the Lake of the Ozarks.

There’s always something fun to do when you’re here.

You can either explore the nearby underground caves or do some watersports in the water, like stand-up paddleboarding and water parasailing.

Go and look for an undeveloped cove along the lake’s shores and spend the day relaxing away.

You can go swimming, fishing, or boating.

If you want to stay longer, you can even do a picnic or set up a campsite overlooking the lake.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Camden on the Lake Resort

Map of Things to Do in Missouri

Missouri Things to Do: The 25 Best Activities for [currentyear]

• City Museum — St. Louis
• Ha Ha Tonka Castle Ruins — Camdenton
• Welch Spring Hospital Ruins — Jadwin
• Johnson’s Shut-Ins — Lesterville
• Glore Psychiatric Museum — St. Joseph
• The Pinnacles — Sturgeon
• Kansas City Workhouse
• Kansas City Library’s Giant Bookshelf
• Meramec Caverns — Sullivan
• Bonne Terre Mines — Bonne Terre
• Lemp Mansion — St. Louis
• Noir Arts & Oddities — Kansas City
• Devil’s Icebox — Columbia
• SubTropolis — Kansas City
• Eros Bendato — St. Louis
• Missouri Botanical Garden — St. Louis
• Silver Dollar City — Branson
• National WWI Museum and Memorial — Kansas City
• St. Louis Zoo
• The Haygoods — Branson
• Mark Twain Boyhood Home & Museum — Hannibal
• Gateway Arch — St. Louis
• Hermann Wine Trail
• Lake of the Ozarks

Everyone In Missouri Should Check Out These Attractions, According To Locals

W hat are your favorite must-visit attractions in Missouri? You know, those attractions that you always take visitors to and the ones that you rave about to just about anyone who will listen. If adventure calls, where do you go? We asked readers about their favorite places to visit in Missouri , and here are just a few that made the list. See if your favorite is among them.

1. Elephant Rocks State Park – Belleview

2. historic downtown st. charles, 3. the mine at bonne terre – bonne terre, 4. quilting capital of missouri – hamilton, 5. meramec caverns – sullivan, 7. forest park – st. louis, 8. dogwood canyon – lampe, 9. negro leagues baseball museum – kansas city.

What are your favorite must-visit attractions in Missouri? Let us know in the comments! We can all probably agree that one of the best ways to appreciate all of the natural beauty that Missouri has to offer is on a scenic hike. Find all of the best hiking trails in Missouri on AllTrails .

The post Everyone In Missouri Should Check Out These Attractions, According To Locals appeared first on Only In Your State ® .

Kansas City   Travel Guide

16 Best Things to Do in Kansas City, MO

Updated Feb. 11, 2021

From interesting districts like  Westport and the  Power & Light to history museums like the  National World War I  and  Steamboat Arabia , Kansas City offers its visitors a variety of things to do. Plus, there are all the stores you could want at the  Coun

• All Things To Do

Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art free

The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art appeals to many kinds of visitors, such as little kids who appreciate the giant badminton birdie installations (four 18-foot shuttlecocks, to be exact) on the 22-acre lawn, or adults who enjoy the play of light in Caravaggio's "Saint John the Baptist in the Wilderness." The art museum's permanent collection spans thousands of years, includes more than 35,000 pieces and features art from Europe, Asia and America. The museum also displays interesting architectural pieces like centuries-old furniture and stained glass windows, in addition to more modern paintings, prints and drawings, sculptures and photography. What's more, the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art showcases different exhibitions every year across a variety of mediums; check the site for upcoming exhibits during your visit.

Visitors are consistently impressed with this museum, saying they could spend hours perusing the interesting art. Recent travelers called out the massive sculpture park for its host of unique installations and said the grounds were delightful to stroll on a nice day. Many said they also appreciated that there was no fee to browse this museum's extensive collection of works.

Arabia Steamboat Museum Arabia Steamboat Museum

The side-wheel steamer Arabia was constructed in 1853 for powering through the muddy Missouri River waters with up to 200 tons of supplies in tow. But later, it snagged a felled tree trunk and quickly disappeared under the sea. More than a century later, David Hawley discovered the sunken steamer a half-mile from the river bank beneath 45 feet of earth; it then became the focus of the Arabia Steamboat Museum.

Today you can take a tour of the steamer's deck and hull, but there's also a great deal more to see. The museum features a general store, a cargo gallery and several other galleries with odds and ends recovered from the excavation of the great Steamboat Arabia. In addition to seeing many of the well-preserved cargo pieces that were excavated from the wreck, the tour includes a video summarizing the history of the Arabia and how they were able to retrieve the supplies.

Boulevard Brewing Company Boulevard Brewing Company free

Kansas City residents are a little bit prideful about the Boulevard Brewing Company, as if to say: "So what if  St. Louis has Anheuser-Busch , we have Boulevard." Among its many beers, this brewery offers its fans everything from unfiltered wheat (a favorite) to pale ale to pilsner. The brewery has become the largest specialty brewer in the Midwest and ships its beers to more than 30 states across the U.S, and Washington, D.C. The brewery has seen such success and growth that it opened a visitors center in the summer of 2016 with beer exhibits, a larger tasting room and an expanded retail shop.

Beer connoisseurs are in for a treat at this brewery. Visitors can take a  free guided tour, which includes a short video of how the beer is made, a history of the Boulevard Brewing Company, a walk-through and also some samples. Travelers said the tour guides are insightful, entertaining and funny and offer a thorough presentation of the various types of beer. 

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Westport Westport free

Just north of the Country Club Plaza , Westport is a popular neighborhood where people flock to enjoy shopping, dining and a night out on the town. It's known for being the oldest established community in Kansas City and, fun fact, Westport was where pioneers began their trek along the Oregon Trail in the mid-1800s.  Today, the area is filled with bars, restaurants, local shops, entertainment venues and hotels.  There's everything from Ernie Bigg's Piano Bar and The Kick Comedy Theater to laid-back and upscale eateries. (Travelers recommend stopping in Ca Va Champagne bar to try its sparkling wines and creative cocktails.)

According to visitors, Westport is a lively neighborhood brimming with local businesses and restaurants. Many say it's easy to maneuver on foot and the bars come to life at night and on the weekends.

Country Club Plaza Country Club Plaza free

One of Kansas City's most popular places to dine, shop, movie watch or simply just walk around is the Country Club Plaza. This outdoor shopping district offers mostly chain stores (Anthropologie, Gap and the like), hotels and eateries, but also a handful of high-end shops like Michael Kors and Coach. The biggest draw here, though, is the architecture. The plaza boasts Spanish-style fountains (modeled after those in Seville), tiles and statues that fill the district and make for some excellent photo ops.

Recent patrons said Country Club Plaza, while not all that exciting, is something visitors should take at least a stroll through to enjoy the fountains and expertly designed buildings.

National World War I Museum National World War I Museum

The National World War I Museum is arranged in narrative form, as if WWI soldiers were telling visitors their own war stories through the exhibits. The museum features replicas of trenches, theaters, propaganda posters and guns. What's especially moving is the glass bridge, which spans an abyss of 9,000 poppies, symbolizing the 9 million lives lost during the war.

Most agree that this private museum is a national treasure. Visitors were pleased with the wealth of information available, the interesting exhibits and the memorabilia on display.

Kauffman Stadium Kauffman Stadium

Major League Baseball's Kansas City Royals make their home at Kauffman Stadium and the Royals are beloved by their Kansas City fans. The stadium was renovated in 2009 and, even better, this team has seen a resurgence over the past few years, bringing a new wave of enthusiasm across town. The Royals made a trip to the World Series in 2014 and secured a World Series win in 2015 – the first championship won by the baseball team since 1985. The stadium itself is filled with food and drink vendors, plus tickets to a game are on the more affordable side. Kauffman Stadium offers ballpark tours year-round (Tuesday through Saturday during the season, Saturdays and select Tuesdays in the offseason). Ticket prices range from $15 to $35; discounts are available for seniors and children, and group rates are available with advance notice.

Baseball fans say this stadium is beautiful and encourage visitors to attend a game during their trip to Kansas City. Travelers say the energy inside the stadium is impressive and add that the fans are welcoming and friendly.

Kansas City's City Market Kansas City's City Market

As one of the largest public farmers markets in the Midwest, City Market features more than 30 permanent merchants selling produce, specialty foods, fresh meat, home decor, flowers and more every day of the week. On the weekends, though, you can expect to find more than 150 vendors bursting with local products. (Be sure to get an early start on Saturdays and Sundays, as the stalls are only open from 7 or 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. year-round.) When you’re finished exploring the pop-up shops, you can stop into a clothing boutique or grab lunch at one of the surrounding restaurants and cafes.

The market’s significance extends beyond fresh fruits and veggies, though. Founded in 1857, the space was once a site for commerce, horse trading, political rallies, circuses and more. In fact, this Kansas City staple is also home to the Arabia Steamboat Museum , which displays a collection of artifacts that were recovered from the bottom of the Missouri River 132 years after the Steamboat Arabia sank in 1856. Among the once-lost cargo items were dishes and other fine china, clothing, guns, children’s toys and even the world’s oldest pickles. Admission into the museum ranges from $5.50 (kids ages 4 to 14) to $14.50 for adults. Seniors receive a $1 discount and children 3 and younger get in free of charge. Your ticket includes a guided tour, which takes place every 30 minutes until 3:30 p.m. The museum itself is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday and noon to 5 p.m. on Sundays.

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Power & Light District Power & Light District free

This district (right next to downtown's Sprint Center) consists of more than 50 shops, restaurants and nightlife venues – and it's one of Kansas City's newer and most popular areas. One of its coolest features is its two-floor KC Live entertainment venue, which hosts about 150 concerts and other performances each year. But on an off night, there are plenty of other places to keep you busy – like PBR Big Sky (where you can ride a mechanical bull), Shark Bar (where you can dance to '90s music) or Howl at the Moon (where you can sing along with the dueling pianists).

Travelers say this is the place to go if you're looking to let your hair down and enjoy Kansas City nightlife, adding that with such a wide variety of restaurants and bars everyone should be able to find something to suit their fancy.

Kansas City Zoo Kansas City Zoo

The Kansas City Zoo opened in 1909 with a modest collection of animals: four lions, three monkeys, a fox, a wolf, a badger, a lynx, an eagle and some other birds. Since then, it has expanded to become one of the most respected zoos in the country, with exhibits ranging from the $15 million Helzberg Penguin Plaza to the interactive Stingray Bay to a chimpanzee habitat praised by Jane Goodall herself. Guests can also enjoy daily sea lion shows, zookeeper chats and elephant painting demonstrations, as well as safari boat rides across the zoo’s African Plains and overnight campouts in various exhibits for kids ages 6 and older. 

Recent visitors were impressed by the cleanliness of the zoo and the amount of exhibits throughout the property, but they warned that you should wear comfortable shoes. The 202-acre park requires a lot of walking, and you shouldn’t expect to see everything during your visit. Past zoogoers also recommend packing your own snacks and lunches if you plan to stay for most of the day, as the food in the park can be a bit expensive. 

The National Museum of Toys and Miniatures The National Museum of Toys and Miniatures

If you’re looking to take a trip down memory lane during your Kansas City vacation, The National Museum of Toys and Miniatures is the place to do it. Open since 1982, this museum has the world’s largest fine-scale miniature collection and one of the most robust antique toy collections on public display. You’ll find exhibits with Queen Anne-style dolls dating back as far as 1750, original Barbie dolls and vintage Hot Wheels cars. Many recent guests were thrilled to see the toys they played with as children from decades ago. Though – for that exact reason – some patrons felt this museum was better suited to nostalgic grown-ups than to children, who may quickly lose interest in the glass cases filled with old toys. Still, guests of all ages can appreciate the vast collection of small-scale items, from miniature handcarved tables and chairs to pint-sized animal figurines.

The National Museum of Toys and Miniatures is open Wednesday through Monday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (closed on Tuesdays). It is located on the University of Missouri-Kansas campus, a few blocks south of Country Club Plaza . Admission is free for children ages 5 and younger; $5 for minors between 6 and 17 (and college students with an ID); $7 for adults older than 65 and $8 for those ages 18 through 64. Free parking is available in front of the museum. For more information, check out The National Museum of Toys and Miniatures’ website .

Hallmark Visitors Center Hallmark Visitors Center free

Chances are you've given or received a Hallmark greeting card at some point in your life. What you may not know is that Hallmark originated in Kansas City. In 1910, 18-year-old Joyce C. Hall of Nebraska gathered two shoeboxes filled with postcards and set out to create a greeting card company. More than a century later, Hallmark – still run by Hall’s descendants – is one of the largest card brands in the world.

If you’re looking for the same warm and fuzzy feeling you get when you receive a card from a loved one, recent visitors say this museum is a must-see. Wander through the exhibits at your own pace, or give the visitor center a call to sign up for an hour-long guided tour (offered every day at 2 p.m.). Either way, you’ll take a journey through the history of Hallmark with interactive displays and detailed exhibits, and you can also view a short film about the company or take a break at the gift shop. For children, the Hallmark Visitors Center offers a scavenger hunt that will send them on a mission to find specific artifacts throughout the museum.

Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts

For a unique outing during your Kansas City getaway, consider seeing a performance at the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts. Unveiled in 2011, the center is home to the Kansas City Ballet, Lyric Opera and Kansas City Symphony. It also welcomes visiting artists ranging from famed photographers to well-known actors and actresses. Recent travelers were amazed by the property; they described the building itself as stylish and beautiful and the performances as phenomenal. Kid-friendly shows are also available throughout the year.

Parking for the events can be found in the adjacent Arts District Garage for $10 per vehicle. Though the garage has space for 1,000 cars, visitors are encouraged to arrive early to secure a spot.

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Union Station Union Station

Kansas City’s Union Station was built in 1914 and primarily used as a train station at that time. During World War II, the 850,000-square-foot compound continued to welcome patrons with restaurants, a barber shop and a cigar store, as well as professional spaces like railroad offices and the country’s largest Railway Express Building (for shipping freight and mail). Union Station shut down in the 1980s and almost faced demolition on several occasions. It reopened in 1999 (following a three-year revitalization project) and has since drawn tourists from around the world with its stunning chandeliers and 95-foot ceilings.

In addition to hosting weddings and business meetings, Union Station also displays exhibits ranging from the newly redesigned KC Rail Experience to an interactive center known as Science City . There is also a planetarium and theaters featuring giant-screen movies and live shows. The station still shows its roots, though; just like a century ago, you can still hop on an Amtrak train and head to a new destination. Recent visitors said the historical, beautifully restored building is a must-see. They also said it’s especially great for families traveling with kids (thanks to a number of child-friendly exhibits) but noted there is something there for people of all ages.

Science City at Union Station Science City at Union Station

Science City is an interactive science center within Kansas City’s Union Station . It is geared toward children, which makes it a great place to go with your littlest travelers. Daily exhibits include the Dinolab and Digsite, where kids can unearth fossils and learn more about paleontology; a genetics lab, where budding scientists can learn how the human genome makes everyone unique; the Mr. E Hotel, which is filled with more than 20 optical illusions; the Sky Bike ride, which is suspended on a high-wire 30 feet in the air; and more. Recent visitors loved Science City, noting that they had just as much fun as their kids. Many recommended arriving early, as the center can get very crowded (even during the week, due to school field trips) and some activities and demonstrations may finish earlier in the day.

Admission into Science City costs $13.25 for ages 3 and up, plus a $1 reservation fee if you book ahead of time. This ticket allows you to go in and out of the building as you please on the day you reserve. Children younger than 3 can enter Science City free of charge. The center is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. from Tuesday to Saturday and noon to 5 p.m. on Sunday. It is closed on Mondays and major holidays, though you can visit on Memorial Day, Independence Day and Labor Day. Parking costs between $5 and $15, depending where you park and how long you stay. Not every parking garage accepts all major credit cards, so be sure to check Science City’s website before your visit.

Arrowhead Stadium Arrowhead Stadium

Arrowhead Stadium has been the home of the Kansas City Chiefs professional football team since it opened in 1972. It is adjacent to Kauffman Stadium , where the Kansas City Royals professional baseball team plays. (In fact, there is even a private underground service tunnel between the two.)

Football fans can tour the roughly 80,000-seat Arrowhead Stadium in a number of ways. Public, guided tours last 90 minutes and take visitors through the press box, the CommunityAmerica Club Level, the locker room, the field and the Chiefs Hall of Honor Presented by Spectrum. Public tours are offered on Fridays at 2 or 4 p.m. and on Saturdays at 11 a.m. or 1 p.m., and tickets cost $30 for adults and $25 for kids. If you’re looking for a more exclusive experience, consider a private guided tour (which visits the same areas of the stadium, but in a one-on-one setting) or a game day tour, which includes a 60-minute walk through the press box and the Chiefs Hall of Honor Presented by Spectrum, followed by 20 minutes on the sidelines of the field during the pregame activities. To schedule a tour, visit the Chiefs website .    

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• 8 Underappreciated Towns to Visit in Missouri

Missouri is home to big cities like Kansas City, Columbia, Springfield, and several small towns. Unfortunately, some of these small towns are sadly underrated, and it is a shame because they boast a fair share of the state’s natural attractions, history, and culture. When it comes to natural attractions, the Missouri River and other rivers sweep through these towns, while some share borders with the iconic Ozarks . Discover more of nature’s beauty, historic allure, and serenity across these eight underappreciated towns in The Show Me State of Missouri.

Arrow Rock is one of the smallest towns in Missouri, with just about 60 residents, but that’s not enough reason to undermine this charming destination. For one, its location on a bluff overlooking the Missouri River makes it enchanting. But the town increases its attractive worth with its historical attractions such as the Courthouse (1834), the Old Jail (1873), and J. Huston Tavern (1834) still serving countryside meals.

After exploring these historic homes, visitors can catch interesting Broadway-like musicals and plays at Arrow Rock Lyceum Theatre. Meanwhile, one-fourth of the town is classified as Arrow Rock State Historic Site, comprising 169 acres overlooking the Missouri Valley. The historic site has a four-acre fishing lake, a museum complex for history buffs to learn about the town, picnic areas, a playground, a campground, and hiking trails.

Van Buren is one of the river towns in Missouri that gets unfairly neglected. The town has one of the finest rivers in the state, the Current River, a perfect destination for boating, fishing, kayaking, paddling, and canoeing adventures. Additionally, wildlife lovers can see and interact with animals such as kangaroos and tortoises, tour a cave, and mine gems at the Missouri Down Under Adventure Zoo. For visitors who would love to get entertained, the 21 Drive In Theatre is an amazing destination for movies.

However, the best place to lose track of time and have fun in Van Buren is at The Landing by the current river. This resort is beautiful and features many amazing things including equipment to float on the river, luxury accommodations, and Blue Heron Restaurant, offering exotic dining experiences.

Rocheport is a small river town of fewer than 300 residents that punches above its weight in terms of tourism. Here, visitors, especially outdoor buffs, will have a field day at the 240-mile-long Katy Trail that runs through Rocheport and offers stunning views of the Missouri River. Visitors can also recline back in the town or rent a canoe or kayak. After exploring the river, enjoy lunch at The Bistro on The Blufftop at Rocheport, which has views of the water.

The town's history is available at the Rocheport Historical Museum near the Katy Trail Tunnel. For those who appreciate the incredible world of arts, visit the ART Off the Trail Gallery to admire its collection.

Maryville is a charming university town along the One Hundred and Two River in the Missouri Point region. This town has much going on for it especially with attractions like the Missouri State Arboretum inside Northwest Missouri State University, featuring more than 100 species of trees, making the university campus a mini forest. Outdoor buffs are always welcome to chill at the Mozingo Lake Park to golf, boat, fish, camp, and ride horses around its 1,000-acre reservoir.

The town is also historic, and landmarks like the Nodaway County Courthouse (1881), Northwest’s Administration Building, and Thomas Gaunt House (1865) are worth exploring for every history fan. If visiting with the family, the town offers the Maryville Aquatic Center, featuring water slides, kids' and adult swim areas, splash areas, fountains, and diving boards. For shopping, Barnyard Boutique has different clothing for men, women, and kids.

Camdenton is one of the most underappreciated towns in Missouri, even though it is positioned at the doorsteps of premier attractions and is surrounded by the Lake of the Ozarks. Ha Ha Tonka State Park is one of the town’s major attractions remarkable for its geological marvels such as sinkholes, caves, a spring, and a natural bridge. The park also features around 15 miles of trails, ruins of an early 20th-century castle, picnic sites, and a lake where visitors can enjoy water sports.

Bridal Cave is another major attraction near Camdenton that visitors would love as it features stunning geological formations, an 18-foot Mystery Lake, and a Bridal Chapel for weddings. Tours are available to explore this natural wonder and marvel at the spectacular interiors. After the exploration, visitors are invited to shop for antiques at the Two Antique Girls Gift Shop and dine at The Tavern Smokehouse for a wholesome experience.

Parkville is a charming and often overlooked town in Platte County that’s surprisingly full of attractions and things to see and do. For starters, the Missouri flows by the town, and the English River Landing Park is a great place to savor views of the river along its three-mile riverfront trail. The 68-acre park also features a boat ramp, playground, and picnic shelters to relax and play. The town is also home to the 115-acre Parksville Nature Sanctuary, featuring about three miles of trails leading to waterfalls and wildlife.

Meanwhile, laid-back tourists can stroll downtown, grab coffee at Parksville Coffee, shop at J. Quinn Boutique, and appreciate artworks at Cathy Kline Art Gallery. Notably, the art gallery is housed inside the historic Parkville Train Depot, so history buffs can check it out after visiting the art gallery.

Carthage is an underappreciated town in Jasper County with much to offer. First off, this town is famously known as Maple Leaf City, and it hosts the Maple Leaf Festival, which is held every October. The town is also a haven for history with attractions like the 106-foot Jasper County Courthouse, built around 1894 and representing Romanesque Revival architecture. The Battle of Carthage Civil War Museum is another historic attraction in town, featuring Civil War artifacts, videos, and a large mural reflecting the iconic Battle of Carthage.

Art lovers will struggle to leave the Precious Moments Chapel and Gardens, lavish with sculptures, figurines, murals, artworks, and stained glasses. Before leaving, visitors are invited to enjoy thrilling movies at the 66 Drive-in Theater, one of the few remaining theaters of its kind in the state.

Ste. Genevieve

Ste. Genevieve is a charming town that sits on the west bank of the Mississippi River, waiting to give visitors a time of their lives. The Hickory Canyons Natural Area is a foremost draw here, featuring bluffs, hiking trails, occasional waterfalls, box canyons, and interesting plants and animals. River Rapids Waterpark is another exciting attraction in town, featuring a water walk, water slides, and the Lazy River for boat cruises around the park. For a unique experience, visit the Sainte Genevieve Museum Learning Center and explore its historic and ancient culture galleries, and interesting dinosaur replicas. To wrap up, enjoy the best meals in town at Café Genevieve or Audubon’s of Ste. Genevieve, then head to the Belle Ever After Boutique to go shopping.

Small towns are often undervalued and find themselves at the bottom or missing from a traveler's bucket list. Missouri, the famed Mother of the West, is not an exception to this marginalization. The state boasts hundreds of small towns that are not easily noticed, but a visit to one or two of these towns will leave one’s jaws dropped. From scenic natural destinations to pristine historic attractions, these small towns in Missouri always show why it is a mistake to underrate them. They drive this point home further with a warm and cozy atmosphere, safe streets, unstuffy air, and fewer crowds to enjoy a retreat.

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‘Sleep tourism’ promises the trip of your dreams. Beyond the hype plus 5 tips for a holiday at home

Senior postdoctoral research fellow, Appleton Institute, HealthWise research group, CQUniversity Australia

Adjunct Research Fellow, Appleton Institute of Behavioural Science, CQUniversity Australia

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The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

CQUniversity Australia provides funding as a member of The Conversation AU.

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Imagine arriving at your hotel after a long flight and being greeted by your own personal sleep butler. They present you with a pillow menu and invite you to a sleep meditation session later that day.

You unpack in a room kitted with an AI-powered smart bed, blackout shades, blue light-blocking glasses and weighted blankets.

Holidays are traditionally for activities or sightseeing – eating Parisian pastry under the Eiffel tower, ice skating at New York City’s Rockefeller Centre, lying by the pool in Bali or sipping limoncello in Sicily. But “ sleep tourism ” offers vacations for the sole purpose of getting good sleep.

The emerging trend extends out of the global wellness tourism industry – reportedly worth more than US$800 billion globally (A$1.2 trillion) and expected to boom .

Luxurious sleep retreats and sleep suites at hotels are popping up all over the world for tourists to get some much-needed rest, relaxation and recovery. But do you really need to leave home for some shuteye?

Not getting enough

The rise of sleep tourism may be a sign of just how chronically sleep deprived we all are.

In Australia more than one-third of adults are not achieving the recommended 7–9 hours of sleep per night, and the estimated cost of this inadequate sleep is A$45 billion each year.

Inadequate sleep is linked to long-term health problems including poor mental health, heart disease, metabolic disease and deaths from any cause.

Can a fancy hotel give you a better sleep?

Many of the sleep services available in the sleep tourism industry aim to optimise the bedroom for sleep. This is a core component of sleep hygiene – a series of healthy sleep practices that facilitate good sleep including sleeping in a comfortable bedroom with a good mattress and pillow, sleeping in a quiet environment and relaxing before bed.

The more people follow sleep hygiene practices, the better their sleep quality and quantity .

When we are staying in a hotel we are also likely away from any stressors we encounter in everyday life (such as work pressure or caring responsibilities). And we’re away from potential nighttime disruptions to sleep we might experience at home (the construction work next door, restless pets, unsettled children). So regardless of the sleep features hotels offer, it is likely we will experience improved sleep when we are away.

What the science says about catching up on sleep

In the short-term, we can catch up on sleep . This can happen, for example, after a short night of sleep when our brain accumulates “ sleep pressure ”. This term describes how strong the biological drive for sleep is. More sleep pressure makes it easier to sleep the next night and to sleep for longer.

But while a longer sleep the next night can relieve the sleep pressure, it does not reverse the effects of the short sleep on our brain and body . Every night’s sleep is important for our body to recover and for our brain to process the events of that day. Spending a holiday “catching up” on sleep could help you feel more rested, but it is not a substitute for prioritising regular healthy sleep at home.

All good things, including holidays, must come to an end. Unfortunately the perks of sleep tourism may end too.

Our bodies do not like variability in the time of day that we sleep. The most common example of this is called “ social jet lag ”, where weekday sleep (getting up early to get to work or school) is vastly different to weekend sleep (late nights and sleep ins). This can result in a sleepy, grouchy start to the week on Monday. Sleep tourism may be similar, if you do not come back home with the intention to prioritise sleep.

So we should be mindful that as well as sleeping well on holiday, it is important to optimise conditions at home to get consistent, adequate sleep every night.

5 tips for having a sleep holiday at home

An AI-powered mattress and a sleep butler at home might be the dream. But these features are not the only way we can optimise our sleep environment and give ourselves the best chance to get a good night’s sleep. Here are five ideas to start the night right:

1. avoid bright artificial light in the evening (such as bright overhead lights, phones, laptops)

2. make your bed as comfortable as possible with fresh pillows and a supportive mattress

3. use black-out window coverings and maintain a cool room temperature for the ideal sleeping environment

4. establish an evening wind-down routine, such as a warm shower and reading a book before bed or even a “ sleepy girl mocktail ”

5. use consistency as the key to a good sleep routine. Aim for a similar bedtime and wake time – even on weekends.

• Sleep deprivation
• Sleep hygiene
• wellness trends

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