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15 Best Places to Visit in Missouri for Your Bucket List

June 3, 2022 by //  by  Midwest Explored Leave a Comment

There are so many cool places to visit in Missouri that you should not overlook!

Missouri is a beautiful Midwest state full of activities for every type of traveler. Whether you want to make memories with your family, are looking for a romantic getaway, or would love to enjoy an empowering solo trip, Missouri should be on your bucket list!

From lively cities full of art and culture to cute, small towns drenched in history, there are so many Missouri tourist attractions to make the perfect itinerary. You can road trip along the historic Route 66 or spend time deep in the wilderness.

No matter what you do on your Missouri vacation, you are sure to have a great time and want to come back! Missouri is the Show-Me State, so get ready to be shown beautiful nature, fascinating history, and cool cities.

Here are some of the best attractions in Missouri for your next trip!

15 Places to Visit in Missouri for Your Bucket List

Gateway arch national park.

The Gateway Arch in St. Louis Missouri is one of the most famous places to visit in Missouri. Constructed from 1963 to 1965, this elegant, stainless steel structure is the tallest arch in the world at 623 feet.

The Arch and the area around it became the smallest U.S. National Park in 2018.

Ride the tram to the top to get amazing views of the city and the Mississippi River.

Since this is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Missouri, it is recommended you buy tickets in advance. They often sell out, and you do not want to miss out on this awesome experience!

If you are afraid of heights, visit the museum on the ground to learn about the history of the Arch, America’s westward expansion, and the story of Native Americans and pioneers.

Admission to the museum is free!

Mark Twain Boyhood Home

Head to Hannibal Missouri to visit the Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum . The famous writer was born Samuel Clemens in Florida, Missouri, in 1835.

He then moved with his family to Hannibal when he was four.

The museum is full of unique, interactive exhibits based on Twain’s books. Learn about his life and how his boyhood experiences and friends influenced his writing.

Hannibal is proud of its Mark Twain association and many other things in town have his name. You can visit the Mark Twain Memorial Lighthouse for great views or explore the Mark Twain Cave.

A cruise on the Mark Twain Riverboat is another great Missouri activity.

Hannibal also has a ton of other historic buildings and museums to check out while you are in town. Hannibal is a great day trip from St. Louis .

Branson Is One Of the Coolest Places to Visit in Missouri

Branson MO is the Las Vegas of Missouri and with so many things to do, it is easily one of the best places to visit in Missouri. While it is a small town, Branson is a lively place that draws in a ton of tourists.

There are a bunch of theaters where you can catch a show or concert. A trip to the Titanic Museum Attraction will make you feel as if you have stepped onto the famous, doomed ship.

Kids will love learning with a fun twist at WonderWorks. The Aquarium at the Boardwalk looks like a giant, glass octopus and will wow everyone.

Silver Dollar City is probably the most famous Branson attraction. This 1880s-inspired amusement park is full of thrilling roller coasters, a train, and more kid-friendly rides.

There are also demonstrations of things like blacksmithing and candy making. There are shows, shops, and restaurants as well.

Another unique attraction in Branson is Dolly Parton’s Stampede. This is an awesome dinner with a show that you will be talking about long after it ends.

This is the perfect Branson attraction to visit if celebrating Christmas in Branson!

You will enjoy a tasty meal while horseback riders put on a Wild West show.

There are many romantic wineries in Missouri located near Branson!

Table Rock State Park

Table Rock State Park is just outside of Branson and is a great place for a weekend trip in Missouri.

There are great campsites here if you are looking for a classic American vacation or you can rent a rustic cabin nearby.

This is one of the best places to visit in Missouri if you want to spend time on the water.

There is an assortment of water equipment you can rent at the lake, including ski boats, kayaks, and paddleboards. You can also have fun swimming or fishing.

There are hiking and mountain biking trails to explore. Bring a picnic to enjoy in a scenic spot. All Missouri state parks are free to enter, so this is one of the best budget things to do in Missouri.

Fantastic Caverns Is One Of The Most Unique Places To Visit In Missouri

There are a ton of caves in Missouri , and Fantastic Caverns is probably the most famous.

Found just outside of Springfield, this natural wonder attracts a ton of people every year.

This cave system is especially great because of how accessible it is. Instead of climbing in like most caves, you ride a tram through during a 55-minute tour.

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

Visiting Fantastic Caverns is not the cheapest thing to do in Missouri, though. Adult tickets are $30 and children six through twelve are $17.

Kids five and under are free. However, it is a great experience and there are not many other caves you can tour in a tram.

Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World

It might seem a little random, but the Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World is one of the most popular tourist spots in Springfield . Millions of people actually visit every year.

This outdoor specialty store was founded in Springfield in 1972 and has grown country-wide since then. The store is huge and holds more than just shopping opportunities.

Among the rustic, cabin decor, you will find fish tanks, alligators, waterfalls, and mounted animals.

Visit the Bass Pro Shops Museum to see what the original store looked like and learn how it expanded.

After spending the day exploring this unique outdoor shop, you can explore the delicious restaurants in Springfield MO.

Union Station in Kansas City

Kansas City, MO has so many great things to do.

It is a sprawling metropolitan area and one of the best places to visit in the state.

If you are looking for a place to go in Missouri that will entertain the whole family, then head downtown to Union Station.

This beautiful, historic building is more than a place to catch a train. Bring the kids to Science City where they can learn in a fun, interactive way. Watch a cool show at the planetarium or work together to beat the escape room.

There is a movie theater with a giant, 80-foot wide screen where you can watch the latest movies. Or you can catch a live show when the Kansas City Actors Theatre performs. The Museum of Illusions and the Model Train Gallery are also fun activities.

Union Station also has great Kansas City restaurants . For dessert, you can grab a goodie at the Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory. There are also different events held throughout the year. Experience Christma in this Midwest City, to see amazing decorations.

Ha Ha Tonka State Park

Ha Ha Tonka State Park is one of the best state parks in Missouri mostly because there are awesome castle ruins which are true Midwest hidden gems .

This is not the type of thing you would expect to find deep in the Missouri wilderness, but there is an interesting history here.

The castle was begun by Robert M. Snyder in 1905 and was eventually finished by his sons in 1922.

Unfortunately, a fire gutted the building in 1942. Today, the ruins are one of the coolest Missouri attractions to explore.

The park also has cool geological features, including a spring, caves, bluffs, and sinkholes. There are also views of the Lake of the Ozarks. There are hiking trails and places to picnic.

Route 66 Drive-In Theater

If you are driving along Route 66, make sure to stop in Carthage. This small town holds onto its history and is a great place to spend a few hours.

The Route 66 Drive-In Theater is one of the most unique places to visit in Missouri. This is a great activity for traveling back in time.

The theater is open from April to September. Grab some treats at the concession stand and enjoy a movie from the comfort of your car.

This theater first opened in 1949 and has been very well preserved. This is a great place to bring the kids to show them a piece of history or enjoy a classically Americana date.

Grand Falls Is One Of The Coolest Places To Visit In Missouri

Grand Falls is one of the best waterfalls in the Midwest and is a pretty place to hike or take pictures. The waterfall is only 12 feet high, but the width is an impressive 163 feet.

You will find this water feature on the Shoal Creek just south of Joplin.

This is the largest continuously flowing natural waterfall in Missouri which means you can visit year-round and still find water cascading down.

The trail to the waterfall is an easy .2-mile loop. The short walk is perfect for all ages and skill levels. Make sure to bring a camera to get some cool snaps of the waterfall.

This is certainly one of the more beautiful places to visit in Missouri!

Ozark Mountains

If you want to experience fiery foliage during fall in the Midwest head south to the Ozark Mountains.

This range of ancient mountains covers the bottom half of the state and stretches into Arkansas.

There are a ton of cute small towns, beautiful state parks, and expansive national forests to discover. The Lake of the Ozarks is one of the most popular vacation spots in Missouri for locals.

Rent a lake house and spend time boating, fishing, swimming, and soaking in the party vibe.

The Ozarks is also a photographer’s dream with many historic mills, caves, and scenic vistas to capture.

The Ozark Mountains cover such a large portion of the state. It is nearly impossible to miss some of the Missouri attractions held within them. You could not ask for a better vacation in Missouri!

Missouri State Capitol Is One Of The Best Places To Visit In Missouri

If you are even in Jefferson City, then take time to visit the Missouri State Capitol Building.

This is the third state capitol building to sit in the city after fires destroyed the first two. The present building opened in 1924.

Inside the grand building, you can admire the impressive architecture, statues, and paintings. Join a staff member on a 45-minute tour of the building.

Did we mention tours are free? This is a great way to save money and still learn about the history and culture of the building.

The state capitol building is also where you will find the Missouri State Museum. There are extensive exhibits that cover the state’s natural and cultural history.

There are plenty of cool artifacts, recreations, and dioramas.

This is one of the coolest places in Missouri to visit.

Hermann Wine Trail

Missouri might not be the first place you think of when you imagine wine tastings, but you would be wrong!

German immigrants brought vineyards to Missouri in the 1830s and started the Hermann Wine Trail.

Today, this scenic wine trail stretches for twenty-five miles in central Missouri, connecting seven small town wineries.

You can do a self-guided tour or take part in one of the themed events throughout the year, such as the Chocolate Wine Trail or the Say Cheese Wine Trail.

After tasting some award-winning wines, you can explore the small towns or spend a romantic weekend in a cute bed and breakfast.

St. Joseph Is A Historic Missouri Attraction

North of Kansas City MO, you will find the historic city of St. Joseph.

Along with beautiful, old architecture and an awesome downtown vibe, there are a ton of cool Missouri attractions here.

If you are interested in the Wild West, then St. Joe is definitely one of the best places to visit in Missouri for you.

This city is where the Pony Express mail line began. Riders would deliver mail all the way down to Sacramento, California. Visit the Pony Express Museum to learn about this fascinating history.

Another crazy event took place in St. Joseph in 1882 when the infamous outlaw Jesse James was killed here.

The Jesse James Home Museum is a little white building and is on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places.

While in town, you can also visit some of the many other museums, admire the mansions in the Hall Street Historic District, or relax at one of the many parks.

With so many Missouri tourist attractions to choose from, it is easy to see why this is one of the best places to visit in Missouri!

Dogwood Canyon Nature Park Is One Of The Best Places To Visit In Missouri

Dogwood Canyon Nature Park is in Lampe, Missouri, down in the Ozarks. This beautiful attraction in Missouri is 10,000 acres of idyllic nature and picturesque, old buildings.

This is a wonderful place to escape into nature and make memories with your family. The many fun activities make this one of the best places to visit in Missouri.

The hiking and biking trails will lead you through the forest where you can find waterfalls and pretty streams. A horseback ride is a memorable way to spend an afternoon.

Fishing, taking a wildlife tour, and exploring the working Dogwood Mill are more activities to check out.

Conservation is important to the park as well. You can learn more about nature conservation at the Conservation Center or find wildlife resources at the epic treehouse.

Packing List When Visiting Epic Places in Missouri

A  concealed travel pouch  may be one of the most important items you bring along when searching for the best places to visit in Missouri.

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.

If you have a pouch already that does not come with the 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 like I have. And wow is it fast!

I like that it holds its charging capabilities for several uses so I do not have to worry about it while out and about, and if I forget to recharge it at night, it will still be good to go the next day.

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 is so easy to use.

It has Bluetooth connectivity and is a breeze to use for taking selfies when visiting Wisconsin attractions.

Hydration is so important when traveling. You want to remain hydrated throughout your travels to support your immune system which in turn will be stronger to fight off any germs you will encounter during your travels.

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.

When filled with water, it is not too heavy to carry. And the charcoal filter ensures fresh clean water whenever you fill the Bobble.

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

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

You will want a  backpack or daypack  with you to store snacks, your water bottle, phone, extra clothes, etc.. then this   foldable water-resistant backpack   would be great.

There are so many unique and interesting places to visit in Missouri for everyone! History, culture, nature, adventure! This Midwest state has it all! Get ready to plan your epic Missouri vacation!

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• Destinations

25 Best Places to Visit in Missouri

Last Updated By VI on April 13, 2024 in Things to Do in Missouri & Places to Visit

Kansas City

• Complete List & Map

St. Louis is a large city and a major river port in Missouri on the banks of the Mississippi River. The city’s symbol and its most visible icon is the 30-foot Gateway Arch , which commemorates the 1804 start of the Lewis and Clark Expedition. Charming replicas of traditional Mississippi paddlewheelers tour the river, offering views of the city and the arch. The best spot to try famous St. Louis barbecue and hear some real blues is the Soulard district. To learn more about the Lewis and Clark Expedition, visit the Museum of Westward Expansion. Don’t miss the Cardinals Hall of Fame & Museum, check out the beautiful St. Louis Cathedral, and take the Anheuser-Busch beer factory tour. Take the kids to the Magic House or go on a stroll through the lush Forest Park.

Branson is a small Missouri town in the Ozark Mountains, a popular vacation destination for the region, famous for its diverse and lively entertainment offers. The theaters along 76 Country Boulevard once hosted only famous country music performers, but today include all kinds of music. One of the most popular attractions is Silver Dollar City, created as an 1880s town, with all manner of entertainment as well as tours of the famous Marvel Cave. Check out the Dolly Parton’s Dixie Stampede Dinner Attraction, created in the Wild West style, the Hollywood Wax Museum Branson, White Water, Ziplines, the National Tiger Sanctuary, the Butterfly Palace, the Rainforest Adventure, Ripley's Odditorium and several wineries.

Columbia is a lively Midwestern college town with a reputation for progressive politics, powerful journalism, and excellent public art. Visit the Museum of Art and Archaeology to learn about the city’s past, enjoy modern art at the Columbia Art League, have fun at the old-fashioned cornfield mazes at the Shryocks Callaway Farms, take a kayak to the tranquil Finger Lakes State Park, and catch a magnificent view of the whole area from the Eagle Bluffs Conservation Area. A visit to the campus of the University of Missouri will take you to the fascinating symbolic pillars at the Francis Quadrangle. Go see some beautiful tigers at the D&D Animal Sanctuary, which takes care of abandoned animals.

It comes as a surprise to many that Kansas City is not actually in Kansas, but in Missouri, on the state’s border with Kansas. Today one of the largest cities in the States, Kansas City was founded in the 1830s as a river port at the confluence of the Kansas and Missouri rivers. It is famous for its unique barbecue, jazz, craft breweries, and major league teams. Learn more about it at the downtown American Jazz Museum and the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum. Visit the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art with its world-class collection, stroll by the huge National World War I Memorial, take the kids to the Kansas City Zoo, catch a Chiefs game at the Arrowhead stadium, and enjoy the fragrant Lose Park Rose Garden.

Springfield

Springfield is a modern, thriving city in the Ozark Mountains with three universities that give it a lively vibe. The city was the site of some fierce battles during the Civil War and is famous for the legendary shootout between Wild Bill Hickok and Davis Tutt in the town square. The location of the shootout is marked by a brass plaque in the pavement on Park Central Square. Get the feel of the city by taking a stroll through historic C-Street District, enjoy a history tour, or even better a ghost tour of the magnificent, spooky Pythian Castle. Catch a game of the city’s pride, the Springfield Cardinals, or take a jeep-drawn tram tour of the Fantastic Caverns and go on an easy stroll through the Springfield Conservation Nature Center.

Carthage is a small Missouri town which, just like its Greek namesake, has had a turbulent history with historic battles during the Civil War as well as wild west outlaws, Fortune 500 capitalists, ragtime musicians, and women’s rights pioneers. Burned to the ground during the Civil War, the city was rapidly rebuilt with beautiful Victorian architecture spread across four districts and more than 600 buildings, all listed on the National Registry of Historic Places. The massive Jasper County Courthouse particularly stands out. Learn about Carthage’s history at the Battle of Carthage State Historic Site. Stroll through Red Oaks II, a reconstructed 19th-century town created by artist Lowell Davis. Enjoy the curious Precious Moments chapel and the art gallery created by artist and creator, Samuel J. Butcher. He was inspired by Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel to create colorful mural depicting scenes from the Bible.

Elephant Rocks State Park

Elephant Rocks State Park is located in the Saint Francois Mountains in southeastern Missouri. It is a geologic reserve and a popular hiking area with a very unusual outcropping of granite boulders that resemble a train of walking elephants. The elephant-looking rocks were formed about 1.5 billion years ago from a dome of molten magma that fractured and became eroded, exposing the old granite. The area was quarried in the 19th century and today is a popular rock climbing and hiking area and a heaven for geology buffs. The main trail through the park is the Braille Trail, which winds among the rocks, leading eventually to an old abandoned railroad engine house. There are picnic areas with benches and tables in the shade of the trees all over the park.

Grant's Farm

Grant's Farm is a 281-acre fascinating historic farm and landmark in Grantwood Village, St. Louis, Missouri. It was originally built and farmed by Ulysses S. Grant and later bought by the Busch family, known for their love of animals. In 1954 they turned it into a popular tourist attraction and animal reserve with buffaloes, elephants, donkeys, kangaroos, camels, goats, the famous Budweiser Clydesdales, peacocks, and many others. There is a tram tour through the deer park, where the Clydesdales graze near their barn. A cabin called Hardscrabble, built by Ulysses S. Grant in 1856, was brought to the farm from another property.

Ha Ha Tonka State Park

Ha Ha Tonka State Park is a 3,700-acre public recreation area on the Lake of the Ozarks, about 5 miles from Camdenton , Missouri. The park is breathtakingly beautiful with a number of fascinating geological features. There is a 70-feet wide natural bridge that has a span of 60 feet and is over 100 feet high. A steep sinkhole called The Colosseum is 300 feet wide and 500 feet long. The 150-foot-deep Whispering Dell sink basin has two caves – Robber's Cave and Counterfeiter's Cave – both known to have been hide-outs for 19th-century criminals. A 250-foot-high bluff towers over the gorge through which the Ha Ha Tonka Spring runs, discharging about 58 million gallons of water every day. High up on a bluff are the stone ruins of a castle built at the turn of the 20th century by a Kansas City businessman. There are over 15 miles of well-maintained trails in the park, which pass by natural sinkholes, bridges, and caves, ending at a lovely clear blue lake.

Hannibal is a city on the Mississippi River about 100 miles from St. Louis, best known as the childhood home of author Samuel Langhorne Clemens, better known as Mark Twain. Many of Tom Sawyer’s and Huckleberry Finn’s adventures were set in Hannibal. The Mark Twain Boyhood Home & Museum is one of the popular attractions. Rockcliffe Mansion is a beautifully restored museum home with many original furnishings and décor. Kids will love exploring Mark Twain Cave and Cameron Cave on a hot summer day, especially if they read about them in Tom Sawyer’s adventures. The Mark Twain Memorial Lighthouse is worth the steep climb as it offers fantastic views. Get a real feel of the place by taking one of boat tours on the mighty Mississippi.

Hermann is a small picturesque town in the Missouri River Valley, in the heart of the Missouri Rhineland. Its colorful 19th-century brick buildings line the sidewalk, as they often do in Germany. Start your exploration of Hermann at the Deutschheim State Historic Site, where the restored 1840s and 1850s structures tell the story of how Germans settled the Hermann area. Catch a play at the Showboat Theatre and take a tour of the Stone Hill Winery and the lush vineyards that cover the surrounding steep hills. You can taste some of the best wines produced in Missouri in one of many typical German taverns, or try some of their famous German sausages.

Independence

Today a part of the Kansas City metropolitan area stretched along the south bank of the Missouri River, Independence was once an important frontier town, a starting point for many adventurers heading to California or Oregon. Follow the path of the California, Santa Fe, and Oregon Trails along the tracks carved by real wagon trains, go for a mule-drawn wagon ride, or take a tour of historic Independence Square and the jail, where famous outlaw Frank James spent some time. Stop by the Mormon Visitors Center to learn about the importance of this faith in Independence. Visit the Englewood Station Arts District, filled with art galleries, small shops, and restaurants. Don’t miss the Harry S. Truman National Historic Site.

Jefferson City

Jefferson City is the capital of the state of Missouri, stretched along the picturesque Missouri River and surrounded by tree-lined bluffs. The historic downtown is dominated by the stately Missouri State Capitol, supreme court building and the governor’s mansion. Learn more about the city’s history at the very informative Cole County Historical Museum. Next to the Governor’s Mansion is the lovely Carnahan Memorial Garden, with walkways, flowers, and pools. See the latest exhibit at the Elizabeth Rozier Gallery at Jefferson Landing. Couples will get a kick out of a ghost tour of the former Missouri State Penitentiary, which was once a temporary home to some of the country’s most notorious criminals. Take a bike ride through the Binder Park Bike Trails or enjoy a slow kayak cruise on the lake.

Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park

More ideas: Best Missouri State Parks

Joplin, Missouri

More ideas: Best Missouri Beaches

Lake of the Ozarks

The Lake of the Ozarks is a huge reservoir in the northern Ozark mountains that formed when the Osage River was dammed. As it twists and turns, the lake looks like a dragon, earning it the nickname the Magic Dragon. The lake is surrounded by small and large communities, which offer all kinds of accommodations, from fancy resorts to campgrounds, as well as services to the visitors that flock to this popular tourist destination. The lake offers world-class boating, fishing, golfing, camping, hiking, and much more. Kids will enjoy the Big Surf Waterpark and games at Miner Mike’s and Busters Adventure. Learn to paddleboard on the lake’s tranquil waters or get a view from high up while parasailing.

Lee's Summit

More ideas: Best Caves in Missouri

Meramec Caverns

Meramec Caverns is a 4.6-mile-long cavern system in the Ozark Mountains near Stanton, Missouri. The caverns were created by millions of years of water eroding the limestone rocks. Today, Meramec Caverns is the largest commercial cave in Missouri and a major tourist attraction on famous Route 66. The cave system has seven levels and is best explored by taking one of the guided tours led well-trained rangers. Some of the most popular attractions are the Wine Room with its famous Wine Table, which is a 6-foot high onyx table; a sheet wall cavern called the Greatest Show Under the Earth, where the popular show is run; the Mirror Room, a cavern with a 1.5-foot deep stream of water that mirrors the cavern’s ceiling; and many others.

Ste. Genevieve

More ideas: Best Lakes in Missouri

Rolla is located approximately midway between St. Louis and Springfield, a lively college town home to the Missouri University of Science and Technology, famous for its engineering and computer sciences departments. The hills around Rolla were planted with vines by Italian immigrants a century ago, and Rolla is today a part of the Ozark Highlands American Viticultural Area. After strolling through the charming Rolla downtown, visit the fascinating Ed Clark Museum of Missouri Geology. Take a hike through the lush Mark Twain National Forest on the slopes of the Ozark Mountains. Take the kids to have some fun at the Zone Rolla's Family Entertainment or Kokomo Joe's Family Fun Center. Catch a play at the Ozark Actors Theatre and take a splash at the Fugitive Beach, located at an old rock quarry.

Saint Charles

Located on the Missouri River, St. Charles is a suburb of rapidly growing St. Louis, Missouri. Founded in 1769 mostly by French-Canadian fur traders, Lewis and Clark considered it “the last civilized stop” when their expedition passed through in 1804. Today’s St. Charles has a charming historic shopping area on Main Street lined with a number of meticulously restored historic buildings that now house boutiques and restaurants. Forest Park was the site of the 1904 World's Fair and today is home to the famous St. Louis Zoo, the local Art Museum, the hands-on interactive Science Center, and the fascinating Missouri History Museum. Try to catch a Cardinals game at Busch Stadium and enjoy the lush and highly renowned Missouri Botanical Garden.

Saint Joseph

A rough frontier town and a busy fur trading post at the end of the 19th century, today’s Saint Joseph is a thriving modern town where history blends seamlessly with culture, art, wonderful green spaces, and endless entertainment for all ages. There is so much beautiful architecture left from times past here, such as highly ornate movie palace, the Missouri Theatre, and the Patee House, once a luxury hotel and today a museum of transportation. All Saint Joseph green spaces are linked into the St. Joseph Parkway, which threads through the city of Saint Joseph for 26 miles. Just outside Saint Joseph is the Walnut Park Farm Historic District, well worth the visit. More things to do in St. Joseph

Table Rock Lake for Couples

More ideas: Hotels & Resorts in Missouri

Talking Rocks Cavern

Talking Rocks Cavern is a system of caves located about 15 minutes from Branson, discovered by accident in the late 1800s. It is privately owned and operated by Herschend Family Entertainment, which offers regular tours of the caves. The tour starts by going down a series of 265 steps connected by platforms that reach to the floor of the cave. The caves are well lit and have a number of beautiful crystalline formations, such as “curtain” and the “bacon.” The tour includes a sound and light show and on the outside offers visitors additional activities such as a SpeleoBox crawl maze, a lookout tower, nature trails, and picnic areas.

Roaring River State Park

Roaring River State Park is a 4,093-acre park about 8 miles from Cassville in Barry County. It is snuggled into a deep, shady, narrow valley and surrounded by the rugged rocks of the Ozark Mountains. Roaring River State Park is a popular state park for many reasons, but the presence of rainbow trout in the river is one of the main ones, bringing anglers from all over the place. The park has seven hiking trails, picnic areas with tables and barbecues, a swimming pool, and a nature center. There is a large campground, charming rustic cabins, or the Emory Melton Inn for those who are not keen on roughing it.

• 1. St Louis
• 3. Columbia
• 4. Kansas City
• 5. Springfield
• 6. Carthage
• 7. Elephant Rocks State Park
• 8. Grant's Farm
• 9. Ha Ha Tonka State Park
• 10. Hannibal
• 11. Hermann
• 12. Independence
• 13. Jefferson City
• 14. Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park
• 15. Joplin, Missouri
• 16. Lake of the Ozarks
• 17. Lee's Summit
• 18. Meramec Caverns
• 19. Ste. Genevieve
• 21. Saint Charles
• 22. Saint Joseph
• 23. Table Rock Lake for Couples
• 24. Talking Rocks Cavern
• 25. Roaring River State Park

Defined by the magnificent Ozark Mountains, caves , lakes and the Missouri and Mississippi rivers, Missouri is a Midwestern state that was once known for its thriving, rough frontier towns, outlaws, and adventurers. It is a state with modern metropolitan centers such as Kansas City and charming, touristy towns like Branson . Visitors on their weekend getaway or day trip can enjoy great beaches , resorts , parks , and more.

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20 Top Things to Do in Missouri

Midwest Living's experienced editors create best-in-class travel, lifestyle, food, home and garden content you won't find anywhere else. We're loudly, proudly Midwestern, and we're passionate about helping our audience explore and create through award-winning storytelling.

The iconic Gateway Arch recalls Missouri's historic role as jumping-off point to the West. Today, big-city attractions in Kansas City and St. Louis, natural beauty in the Ozarks and rollicking shows in Branson make the Show-Me State a destination in its own right.

Lake of the Ozarks

Missouri's largest lake has 1,150 miles of shoreline—and just about as many ways to get out and enjoy it. Lake of the Ozarks was formed in 1931, with the completion of Bagnell Dam. Since then, Bagnell Dam Boulevard, known as "the Strip," has evolved into a colorful kitsch-central, with fudge shops, old-time photo studios and souvenir shops.

But the lake is still the biggest draw, and fishing here is fabulous. Hire a guide to show you the best spots, or head out on your own for a little lake-style lounging on the water. Nearly 50 full-service marinas can hook you up with boat rentals.

St. Louis' Forest Park

Larger than New York's Central Park and chock-full of activities, this sprawling 1,293 acres is full of free and inexpensive attractions. Tour the park by foot, bicycle, paddleboat or even Segway. Spend a day—or more—at the park's Missouri History Museum, Saint Louis Art Museum (pictured) , Saint Louis Science Center, and Saint Louis Zoo .

Missouri's wineries

The wine scene in Missouri long predates the current fad for vineyard tours. German winemakers arrived in the region around Hermann (about 80 miles west of St. Louis), on the banks of the Missouri River, in the 1800s.

Today, Missouri has 80-plus vineyards and wineries throughout the state. But because Hermann's wine tradition reaches back almost 175 years, its wine trail offers activities you won't find elsewhere, like being able to tour underground wine cellars that were dug by hand before the Civil War.

Some of our favorite wineries are Hermannhof Winery ; Stone Hill Winery ( pictured) ; and OakGlenn Vineyards and Winery.

The nation's longest rails-to-trails bike path starts northwest of St. Louis in St. Charles and loosely follows the Missouri River west for 225 miles, through small towns, farmland, prairie and wine country. Ultimately, the Katy Trail will link to city and county bike paths to Kansas City, making it possible to pedal across all of Missouri.

Gateway Arch

The 630-foot Gateway Arch soars above downtown St. Louis, reflecting sunlight and glowing different colors depending on the time of day. Visitors can take a four-minute tram ride up the hollow arch legs to get a panoramic view from the top. A fully reimagined history museum in the base of the arch was part of a multi-year $380 million renovation, as were new green spaces surrounding the arch.

Kansas City barbecue

For slow-smoked bliss, no city tops the Missouri River metropolis of Kansas City, where every meat is on the menu. Sample the city's signature 'cue (burnt ends) at dozens of joints. A few of our favorites to whet your appetite: Arthur Bryant's , BB's Lawnside BBQ , Char Bar , Fiorella's Jack Stack Barbecue , Gates Bar-B-Q , Q39 and Woodyard Bar-B-Que .

Branson's entertainment

While many visitors come to the Branson area to enjoy water adventures on Table Rock Lake, Branson has plenty to entertain on the land as well.

Neon marquees light the night sky of Branson , where theaters stage splashy, family-friendly shows. Families also enjoy hourly fire-and-water shows at the Branson Landing outdoor shopping center as well as visits to The Titanic Museum Attraction .

Within a 10- to 30-minute drive of the city, major area attractions include Silver Dollar City , with amusement park rides, traditional hill-country crafts and Ozarks foods; Top of the Rock (pictured), where sunsets look glorious from a blufftop destination with multiple attractions; and Branson Zipline at Wolfe Mountain, with zips, suspension bridges and scenery.

Elephant Rocks State Park

Visitors can't resist this 129-acre preserve' s billion-year-old, house-size humps of smooth granite. Youngsters crawl and scramble over the boulders. Trails penetrate surrounding woods, and a small lake, once a rock quarry, attracts anglers. A self-guiding Braille trail for the visually impaired winds through the state park, which also includes an easy paved trail with gentle slopes that attracts walkers of all ages.

St. Louis' Citygarden

Art mixes with play at St. Louis' downtown sculpture garden, where kids and adults clamber on sculptures, jump through fountains or just chill. This massive urban playground has 235 trees and more than 4,000 perennials. Citygarden feels fresh, fun—and worth a couple of hours in a city that has plenty of cool places to play.

Kansas City museums

Kansas City's rich museum offerings include top-notch art centers, the nation's only World War I museum and a museum dedicated to cargo from a sunken steamboat.

The free Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art packs a lot into a relatively small space, while at the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art (pictured) , a 22-acre sculpture park acts as prelude to the global collection. Exhibits at the National World War I Museum and Memorial reveal the high cost of a war often overshadowed by World War II. Visitors to the Arabia Steamboat Museum can see well-preserved cargo recovered from a steamboat that sank in 1856. At the National Museum of Toys and Miniatures, peer at tiny masterpieces and vintage toys among the 72,000 objects collected by the University of Missouri-Kansas City. The Negro Leagues Baseball Museum gives insight into racial segregation's effect on America's pastime and also celebrates the talented players.

Mark Twain in Hannibal

The tales of Tom Sawyer and Huck Finn began in this riverfront town, where local son Samuel Clemens (Mark Twain) grew up.

At the Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum , explore the Hannibal of Clemens' childhood. The Mark Twain Cave Complex lets visitors climb through the underground passages where Clemens played as a boy (and which were later immortalized in his books). On the Mark Twain Riverboat, cruise the Mississippi River on an old-fashioned paddle wheeler. Actor Richard Garey (pictured) performs his show, Mark Twain Himself , throughout the summer at Hannibal's Planters Barn Theater.

Ha Ha Tonka State Park

Most visitors head straight for the stone ruins that overlook Lake of the Ozarks. And with good reason-no other state park has skeletal remains of a bluff-top mansion. But Ha Ha Tonka (80 miles northeast of Springfield) also has wonderfully varied nature trails, which snake along a hilltop, along a spring-fed river and under a natural bridge.

Springfield's renewed energy

Just an hour north of Branson, Springfield—home to Missouri State University—is being reinvigorated with businesses such as the Hotel Vandivort (pictured), which brings upscale accommodations to a former Masonic temple downtown; Askinosie Chocolate, which makes its treats with pure sugar and cocoa beans direct from the farmers; and Golden Girl Rum Club, which promises the finest in mixology craftsmanship. Area attractions include the Springfield Art Museum's 10,000-piece collection; Fantastic Caverns , where trams carry guests past lit caverns, curtains of stone and ponds; and Mizumoto Japanese Stroll Garden, created in cooperation with Springfield's sister city, Isesaki, Japan.

Missouri Botanical Garden

More than 75 acres of formal gardens, greenhouses and woodlands flourish in the heart of the St. Louis, surrounded by the Tower Grove neighborhood. Do visit the Japanese strolling garden, one of the largest in the Western Hemisphere. Come early in the morning and you might have the Missouri Botanical Garden nearly to yourself, save for a few photographers.

St. Charles' small-town charm

A cobblestone Main Street lined with shops and cafes shows off the steeped-in-history side of St. Charles. Just beyond, take in the sweep of the Missouri River from the Lewis and Clark Boat House and Nature Center, devoted to chronicling the famous expedition's departure in 1804. Rent a bike or pedal car from Bike Stop Cafe for a cruise along the Katy Trail adjacent to Frontier Park . Tours of the First State Capitol building illuminate the state's early development.

University of Missouri

As the first university established west of the Mississippi, "Mizzou" in Columbia has a distinctly historic feel, with 18 of its buildings on the National Register of Historic Places. The University of Missouri 's grounds are also a designated botanic garden, with more than 6,500 trees. The gardens and buildings (including The Residence) around the David R. Francis Quadrangle should not be missed.

History in St. Joseph

St. Joseph has great history: Jesse James, Pony Express and, more recently, birthplace of Walter Cronkite.

At the Pony Express Stables , much of the building where the horses were stabled is original. The little museum has an interactive map of the route and saddles you can sit on. The Jesse James Home Museum is the house where the outlaw was shot and killed; (816) 232-8206. At the Patee House Museum, you can climb on an 1860 train and see what the streets of St. Joseph looked like from the 1860s to 1880s.

Truman in Independence

Independence celebrates hometown hero Harry Truman with a variety of sites and tours. At the Truman Presidential Museum and Library (pictured), permanent displays examine Truman's life and presidency, while temporary exhibits highlight political and historical themes. Visitors can also tour the Truman Home where Truman lived before and after his presidency. Independence's website details other Truman-related buildings and offers a Truman walking trail.

Powell Gardens

Powell Gardens outside Kansas City features eight gardens, including the Heartland Harvest Garden celebrating Midwest agriculture with some 2,000 varieties of fruits and vegetables. Other places to explore include the Fountain Garden, Perennial Garden, David T. Beals III Woodland and Stream Garden and Children's Garden. Special events throughout the year include a butterfly festival, harvest days and holiday festival of lights.

Meramec State Park

Every summer, thousands of people canoe near Mark Twain National Forest on the Meramec River (pictured) , but most never realize they've entered one of the Midwest's most diverse river ecosystems. (There are 45 varieties of freshwater mussels alone!) In addition to canoe rentals, Meramec State Park (70 miles southwest of St. Louis) has a good nature center, nicely spaced cabins and guided cave tours.

50+ Places To Visit and Fantastic Things to Do in Missouri (From a Local)

Last updated on April 5th, 2024 at 10:29 am.

Missouri is a state with a rich history and culture, and there is something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you are a local looking to explore more of what your state has to offer, a visitor planning a vacation, or a student doing research for a project, this guide will provide you with a comprehensive overview of the many things to do in Missouri.

As a resident of Kansas City for over 3 years, I have had the opportunity to experience many of the things that Missouri has to offer. I have spent weekends exploring different towns, attending local events and festivals, and learning about the state’s wild west history. I am passionate about sharing my love of Missouri with others, and I hope that this guide will help you to plan a memorable trip or simply learn more about this beautiful state.

This guide is divided into several sections, each of which focuses on a different type of activity or attraction as well as the most popular cities to visit. Whether you are interested in history, culture, nature, or food and drink, you will find something to pique your interest.

No matter what your interests are, I am confident that you will find something to love in Missouri. I encourage you to use this guide as a starting point for planning your trip or simply learning more about this amazing state.

Some of the fun Missouri activities you can do are going to thrilling amusement parks, exploring stunning nature locations, and even visiting the tallest monument in the United States.

The Best Adventures & Tours in Missouri

Missouri’s Hidden Getaways

Last updated on August 28th, 2023 at 07:33 am.

Getaway has recently added “two camps” in Missouri; in Osceola (2 hours from Kansas City) and Bloomsdale (45 minutes from St. Louis). Even the most avid Missouri adventurist might not know these locations…, but they are purposely in the middle of no where.

Table of Contents

Best Things To Do In Missouri

Nature lovers will enjoy hitting the mountains and rivers for hiking, climbing, camping, floating trips and kayaking.

History buffs might be interested in the many museums and landmarks associated with President Harry S. Truman , Mark Twain, wild west outlaw Jesse James and the Civil War Era.

Located on the Mississippi and Missouri Rivers, the state was an important hub of transportation and commerce in early America and a key state in the infamous Route 66.

So start planning your trip with this list of the best things to do in Missouri.

1. Drive The Missouri Route 66

Route 66 in Missouri runs from downtown St. Louis at the Mississippi River to the Kansas state line west of Joplin. Some of the best stops on Route 66 in Missouri are Gateway Arch, St Louis, the Route 66 Drive-In Theatre in Carthage, the Route 66 Mural City in Cuba, the Route 66 Red Rocker in Fanning, and the Route 66 Museum in Lebanon.

2. Visit the Mark Twain Boyhood Home

The Mark Twain Boyhood Home & Museum is located in Hannibal on the west bank of the Mississippi River. The Mark Twain Boyhood Home is a National Historic Landmark and is open year-round and is one of the most iconic places to visit in Missouri.

It was the home of Samuel Langhorne Clemens, better known as Mark Twain who was the author of Tom Sawyer and the Adventures of Huckleberry Finn . He is considered one of the most important American Authors and the first stand-up comedian.

Address: 120 N Main St, Hannibal, MO 63401

3. Tour the Jesse James Museum

The wild west outlaw Jesse James was born and lived his life in Missouri. You can visit the home where he was born in Kearney which is now a museum and historic landmark.

The Jesse James Home Museum is divided into three parts for visitors to learn about Jesse, his older brother Frank and their parents. This includes a 20-minute movie, three museum galleries and the James House. The museum has the world’s largest collection of James family artifacts including the boots Jesse was wearing when he was murdered, the bullet that killed Jesse, and Frank’s surrender letter.

You can also visit the house where he was assassinated in St, Joseph and much many more James Gang locations. We have even created a 3-Day Jesse James Roadtrip !

Address: 21216 Jesse James Farm Rd, Kearney, MO 64060

Fun Fact: Missouri is known as “the Show Me State,” "the Cave State" and “Mother of the West.”

4. Visit the George Washington Carver National Monument in Diamond

Carver discovered more than 300 uses for peanuts and hundreds more uses for soybeans, pecans, and sweet potatoes. Nature and nurture ultimately influenced George in his quest for education to become a renowned agricultural scientist, educator, and humanitarian.

He was born about 1864 (exact year unknown) to Moses Carver on a farm near Diamond, Missouri.

Address: 5646 Carver Rd, Diamond, MO 64840

5. Tour the Missouri State Capitol Building

The Missouri State Captial offers free guided tours of the Capitol year-round and are a very popular thing to do in Missouri. Tours of the circa-1826 government building are about 45 minutes and highlight the history of the state through the artworks and architecture of the building.

The Missouri Capital is a grand building, full of artwork and history. Highlights include the Thomas Hart Benton mural " A Social History of the State of Missouri” in the House Lounge, the hall of busts of famous Missourians including Walt Disney, Stan Musial, and Emmett Kelly as well as visiting the Senate and House Chambers.

Standing atop the Missouri State Capitol is the historic bronze statue of Ceres, the Roman goddess of agriculture.

Reservations made at least 24 hours in advance are required.

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

6. Visit the Walt Disney Museum

The Walt Disney Hometown Museum is located in the restored Santa Fe Railway Depot in Marceline, Missouri. Opened in 2001, the museum houses a collection of memorabilia from the Disney family's farm in Marceline where they lived from 1905 to 1909 along with Walt Disney's return to the town in 1946.

The Walt Disney Hometown Museum is open from March through mid-December.

  Address: 120 E Santa Fe Ave, Marceline, MO 64658

7. Stay in a Treehouse Overnight

Missouri is filled with beautiful forests perfect for hiking, mountain biking, and picnicking. But another way to experience the stunning trees of Missouri is to rent a treehouse to stay in overnight as a standard hotel alternative and get a memorable vacation rental experience.

Throughout Missouri, you can find authentic treehouses and unique treehouse-like structures for rent and our favorite place for the best rentals is Vrbo .

8. Visit Hermann Wine Country

The Hermann area is known as the Missouri Rhineland and is located on the Missouri River.

The area is named after the Rhineland region in central Europe, a wine-growing area around the Rhine river, by German-Americans who noticed similarities in the two regions' soil and topography.

There are nine area wineries, five distilleries, and two breweries within a 15-mile radius of Hermann including Missouri’s oldest winery, Stone Hill Winery which has been making award-winning wines since 1847. There is also a Hermann Wine Trail that focuses on a group of seven family-owned wineries.

9. Visit a Covered Bridge from the 1800's

While an estimated 30 covered bridges spanned Missouri's rivers and creeks from the 1820s to the end of the century, today there are four still standing. They are filled with history and well worth including on a day trip.

The four bridges are Burfordville Covered Bridge, which is the oldest remaining covered bridge in Missouri. The other three are Locust Creek Covered Bridge in Laclede, Sandy Creek Covered Bridge in Hillsboro, and Union Covered Bridge in Paris.

Best Things to do In St. Louis

The Gateway Arch in St. Louis is a monument to Missouri’s role as the “Gateway to the West.” St. Louis, Missouri, is home to Anheuser-Busch, the maker of Budweiser beer, and boasts the largest beer-producing plant in the country.

Famous as the 'Gateway to the West', The heart of St. Louis city is the iconic Gateway Arch, but St. Louis has some amazing BBQ, the Cardinals Baseball franchise, a great blues music scene and so much more.

10. Gateway Arch National Park

Gateway Arch is a national historic landmark and the tallest monument in the U.S. at 630 feet in height. It is the perfect place to begin any St. Louis adventure. It's also one of the most popular things to do in the Missouri as a whole.

The Gateway Arch reflects St. Louis' role in the Westward Expansion of the United States during the nineteenth century. The park is about 91 acres and is a memorial to Thomas Jefferson's role in opening the West, to the pioneers who helped shape its history, and to Dred Scott who sued for his freedom in the Old Courthouse.

Of course, the most iconic thing to do is rake the tram to the top of the arch! Each tram consists of eight capsules (aka tram cars) that have clear doors on the front.

11. Missouri Botanical Garden

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Also known as Shaw's Garden, the Missouri Botanical Garden is one of the nation's oldest botanical gardens in continuous operation and a National Historic Landmark. Founded in 1859, the geodesic-dome greenhouse has 1,200 species of plants that are grown under computer-controlled conditions simulating a rainforest. The 79-acre (32-hectare) garden also has the largest traditional Japanese garden in North America.

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

12. Saint Louis Art Museum

The St. Louis Art Museum is located in Forest Park and is known for its collection of paintings, sculptures, cultural objects, and ancient masterpieces from all corners of the world. The art changes often, so there are always new exhibits to explore. Plan for two-three hours to see all the collections.

Address: 1 Fine Arts Dr, St. Louis, MO 63110

13. Saint Louis Zoo

The Saint Louis Zoo, officially known as the Saint Louis Zoological Park, is also located in Forest Park. If you want to see most of the zoo and many of the special talks, you should plan for 5-7 hours to see the zoo.

Some of the most popular exhibits of the zoo are the River's Edge sections with elephants, cheetahs, and hippos, the Wild section with penguins, bears, and great apes as well as the Red Rocks section with big cats, giraffes, and zebras. Of course, that is really one scratching the surface of what can be seen at the St. Louis Zoo.

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

14. Saint Louis Science Center

The Saint Louis Science Center offers 700+ interactive experiences, the GROW agricultural pavilion, a four-story IMAX Dome theater, and McDonnell Planetarium, one of the world's largest planetariums.

Lots of hand on activities and most are geared more for children than older kids. That being said, if your older kids are into science, they'll most likely still have a fun time.

General admission is always free, but special exhibits and the IMAX theater have fees.

Address: 5050 Oakland Ave, St. Louis, MO 63110

15. Missouri History Museum

The Missouri History Museum in another Forest Park museum and it's free. It is operated by the Missouri Historical Society, which was founded in 1866. The museum looks at the history of the St. Louis region from the Mississippian people to the present day.

Visitors can discover the city’s baseball history from the Browns to the Cardinals, see “The Spirit of St. Louis” — sister plane to Lindbergh’s, explore life on the Mississippi River, learn about the magnitude of the 1904 World’s Fair, and understand more about Missouri during the Civil Rights movement.

Two fun facts about the Missouri History Museum

• The Museum’s historic building was the first national monument to Thomas Jefferson, and opened to the public in 1913.
• The Museum is located on the site of the entrance to the 1904 World’s Fair. 

Address: 5700 Lindell Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63112

16. Civil War Museum

St. Louis was home to many Civil Rights leaders whose efforts made a difference in our nation's civil rights story, from women's suffrage and the abolishment of slavery to the struggle for African-American equality.

Located at Jefferson Barracks, is the state’s premier Civil War Museum dedicated to honor the thousands of men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice. Through the weapons, equipment, items, and uniforms of those who lived during our nation’s defining moment in history, we aim to tell their story in an unbiased interpretation.

Address: 222 Worth Rd, St. Louis, MO 63125

17. Griot Museum of Black History

A very interesting museum with unique exhibits that are a mix of entertaining and moving. The Josephine Baker exhibit is beautiful. While the exhibit about the slave trade and the middle passage is heart-wrenching and thought-provoking. Definitely one of the more unique attractions of St Louis.

Address: 2505 St Louis Ave, St. Louis, MO 63106

18. Take a Tour of the Anheuser-Busch Brewery

St. Louis is home to the largest and oldest Anheuser-Busch Brewery site. Enjouing a beer in the Biergarten is always fun, but we suggest taking a Beermaster Tour.

The tour lasts about 45 minutes and you walk all over the grounds, visit the famous Clydesdale horse stables, see the aging tanks and the brewing building all while getting a short course in beer brewing. The best part? Trying a sample of the freshest beer you'll ever taste, poured directly from the finishing tank plus a hat and commemorative glass.

Address: 1200 Lynch St, St. Louis, MO 63118

19. Eat Gooey Butter Cake

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There are many origin stories of gooey butter cake, with one common denominator—like toasted ravioli, it's purported to be a mistake of huge proportions. The most agreed upon story dates back to the 1930's when a new baker at a German bakery mixed up batter proportions for coffee cake instead of regular cake and it became an instant hit.

One of the most iconic places to try the sweet treat is Park Avenue Coffee where they make the cake from scratch daily. They have seven locations throughout St. Louis .

Best Things to do In Branson

Some of the best places for outdoor beauty can be found in Branson and the Ozark Mountains. Branson may be famous for its live entertainment, with shows covering just about every genre of music, but it's also a great vacation for XXX

20. Silver Dollar City

Silver Dollar City is an 1800s-themed, 61-acre amusement park with rides, live music, a water park and craftsmen showcasing old-time crafts.

 40 rides & attractions, a demonstrating crafts colony 100 artisans strong and hosts 10 world-class festivals/special events. 

The theme park is scheduled to open this year on March 11, 2023, and the water park is scheduled to open on May 27, 2023.

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

21. Marvel Cave

Marvel Cave, a Registered Natural Landmark, opened for tours in 1894. The cave, which lies beneath Silver Dollar City theme park, was the first attraction to bring tourists to the Branson area. One of the deepest caves in Missouri, it has one of the largest subterranean entry-rooms in the United States. Traditional guided cave tours are included with standard admission to Silver Dollar City.

22. Dolly Parton’s Dixie Stampede

Dolly Parton’s Dixie Stampede is the world's most visited dinner attraction. The theater is 35,000 sq ft and more an arena than theater! This is a high-spirited adventure experience with live entertainment, thrilling horse-riding stunts, spectacular special effects, musical productions, and a delicious four-course feast.

Address: 1525 W 76 Country Blvd, Branson, MO 65616

23. Titanic Museum

Each guest entering the ship will receive a boarding pass of an actual Titanic passenger or crew. Then, as “passengers”, you'll experience what it was like to walk the hallways, parlors, cabins and Grand Staircase of the Titanic while surrounded by more than 400 artifacts directly from the ship and its passengers.

Discover the stories of the passengers and crew who sailed Titanic, as the crew and interactive galleries bring them to life.

Address: 3235 W 76 Country Blvd, Branson, MO 65616

24. Visit Lake of the Ozarks State Park

Missouri's largest state park has 89 miles of shoreline and features marinas, boat-launching areas, two swimming beaches, and an aquatic trail.

On shore, hikers, backpackers, equestrians, and bicyclists can wind through open woodlands, sunny glades, small springs, and streams to blufftop views of the Lake of the Ozarks .

25. Zip Line at Wolfe Mountain

Trek across swinging suspension bridges, cross walkways covered in the canopy and literally soar into an adventure along numerous ziplines for a one-of-a-kind outdoor adventure in the heart of the Ozarks!

The tour features 7 ziplines, 10 sky bridges, and lasts between 1-2 hours.

Wolfe Mountain is 7 miles North of Branson.

Address: 2339 US Hwy 65 Walnut Shade, MO 65771

Best Things to do In Kansas City

Kansas City sits on Missouri's western edge just a few miles from the Kansas border.

The best Kansas City activities and attractions include tailgating, chowing down on BBQ, visiting the many art museums, taking a photo with the giant shuttlecocks, and listening to lots of jazz.

26. National WWI Museum and Memorial

The WWI Museum and Memorial of the United States is located in downtown Kansas City. If you have a curiosity about the role the United States played in WWI, this museum offers an abundance of ways to learn about the war.

Opened to the public as the Liberty Memorial museum in 1926, it was designated in 2004 by the United States Congress as America’s official museum dedicated to World War 1 and is home to the most comprehensive collection of WWI objects in the world.

Address: 2 Memorial Dr, Kansas City, MO 64108

27. Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art

The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, with giant shuttlecocks out front, houses nearly 40,000 works of art, from ancient to contemporary collections. Beyond the museum collection, there is also a beautiful sculpture garden that surrounds the museum grounds.

The museum is open Thursday–Monday and there is always free admission.

Address: 4525 Oak St, Kansas City, MO 64111

28. Take a Fountain Tour

Kansas City, Missouri has more fountains than any city in the world except Rome. Kansas City is known as the “City of Fountains” with more than 200 fountains scattered throughout the metro area. These showpieces are located in courtyards, parks and tree-lined boulevards.

One of the city's most recognizable landmarks is the centerpiece of Mill Creek Park, situated near the iconic Country Club Plaza; it was dedicated as the J.C Nichols Memorial Fountain in 1960.

If you want to learn about the history, fun, quirky facts, and have the opportunity to take some great fountain shots a fountain tour is your best bet!

29. Worlds of Fun Amusement Park & Water Park

Worlds of Fun is the largest amusement park and water park in the Midwest. It's located on 235 acres and there are 64 fun and wild rides.

World’s of Fun amusement park is that it’s not just about coasters. There are plenty of options for kids of all ages, and next door you can enjoy the Oceans of Fun water park during the warmer months. Plus, World’s of Fun offers seasonal events such as Worlds of Fun Halloween Haunt and Worlds of Fun Winterfest for Christmas.

Address: 4545 Worlds of Fun Ave, Kansas City, MO 64161

30. Eat Kansas City BBQ

Kansas City, a city renowned for its barbeque, has more barbeque restaurants per capita than any other U.S. city. Traditional Kansas City barbecue is seasoned with a dry rub, slow-smoked over a variety of woods and served with a thick tomato-based barbecue sauce.

Look for burnt ends on the menu for a true KC BBQ experience. There are more than 100 barbecue restaurants in the Kansas City metro area, and our two personal favorites are Q39 in midtown and Chef J BBQ in the West Bottoms.

31. Visit a Craft Brewery

There is somewhere around 50 breweries in Kansas City and there is a wide range of beer styles to choose from. Many of the breweries offer tours, several have beer gardens or outdoor spaces, and several offer live music. Boulevard is the largest; founded in 1989, it is also the largest specialty brewer in the Midwest.

One of the most popular breweries is KC Bier Co . which specializes in authentic, German-style lagers and ales and has a great beer garden.

A personal favorite brewery of Todd's is Crane Brewery in Raytown (near the stadium where the Chiefs play).

32. River Market & City Market

The River Market neighborhood is a great place to start a KCMO adventure. City Market is the largest farmers market in the Midwest and the epicenter of this neighborhood.

In the City Market square, beyond the produce stalls, there are many shops to explore as well as the Arabia Steamboat Museum, which showcases 200 tons of sunken treasure dating back to 1856. 

Adjacent to the market is a beautiful, shaded park with lots of grass areas, benches and spots to take in some great views of the downtown skyline. 

33. Union Station

Built in 1914, Union Station was designed in the beaux-arts architectural style popular in the United States and France in the late 1800s and early 1900s. 

The train station, like Missouri itselt has roots in wild west history. It was the scene of the Kansas City massacre involving “Pretty Boy” Floyd, who was in the process of being returned to the U.S. Penitentiary at Leavenworth, Kansas.

Today, the train depot still operates as a major train station hub but also houses Science City, a Model Railroad Experience, Arvin Gottlieb Planetarium, permanent and temporary art and photography exhibits, and restaurants and shops.

34. Ride the KC Streetcar

The KC Streetcar is a free trolley with a 2-mile route from Union Station to River Market and through the heart of downtown.

35. Visit a Jazz Club

There are not quite as many jazz clubs today as there were in the 1930s but there are more than 40 venues around the city that feature regular live jazz.

The Green Lady Lounge is a great option! The iconic jazz club offers live music every night amid a retro vibe, scarlet walls and a marble bar and features Kansas City Jazz musicians and only their original compositions.

In fact, if jazz is your thing, the American Jazz Museum (1616 E 18th St, Kansas City, MO 64108) should also be on your list as well!

36. Negro Leagues Baseball Museum

The Negro Leagues Baseball Museum is dedicated to preserving the history of Negro league baseball in America. It is the world's only national institution dedicated to preserving the rich history of black baseball and its impact on America.

If you are a baseball and history fan, you can't go wrong with this museum. Start your visit off with movie and then explore the exhibits that are full of pictures, newspaper clippings, stories and movie clips.

Address: 1616 E 18th St, Kansas City, MO 64108

37. Explore Country Club Plaza

Country Club Plaza is an upscale area filled with shops, restaurants, bars and gorgeous architecture. It opened in 1923, and was the first planned suburban shopping center and the first regional shopping center planned to accommodate shoppers arriving by car.

If you visit between Thanksgiving and the end of January, make sure to visit at nigh to see the Plaza Lights.

Location: between Ward Parkway, JC Nichols Road, 46th Street and Jefferson Street.

38. Visit Loose Park

Loose Park is the third largest park in Kansas City, Missouri, located at 51st Street and Wornall Road. It has a lake, fountains, picnic areas and a rose garden as well as Civil War markers.

The park has two walking trails, a small loop that is 1.04 miles and a large loop that is 1.16 miles.

The park is also the location of the largest stage of the Battle of Westport which took place on October 23, 1864. During this battle, soldiers fought along a mile front that included modern-day Loose Park. The Union outnumbered their invading enemy 2:1 with 20,000 troops compared to the Confederates' 10,000 troops.

Address: 5200 Wornall Rd, Kansas City, MO 64112

Best Things Independence

Below are a few of my favorite things to do in Independence , but you could easily spend two exploring this town just 20 minutes from Kansas City.

39. Harry S. Truman Presidential Library

The Harry s. Truman library includes sections devoted to all parts of Truman’s life, marriage, presidency, and beyond. There are a wide array of TV clips, movies, headlines, and more media that share world events, presidential speeches and so much more.

The museum has a replica of Truman’s White House Oval Office as well as Truman's actual office that he used after he left the White House.

Address: 500 W. U.S. Highway 24. Independence, Missouri 64050

40. Bess & Harry Truman Home

You can also visit the Truman home where he lived from the time he married Bess until his passing (besides his time at the White House). The beautiful Victorian home in Independence is preserved as a national historic site. Free ranger-guided tours are available.

We have even created a Harry Truman Trail & Roadtrip !

Address: 216 N Delaware St, Independence, MO 64050

41. 1859 Independence Missouri Jail Museum

Also in Independence is the  1859 Independence Missouri Jail Museum  where Confederate guerrilla leader William Quantrill and the outlaw Frank James were incarcerated.

The jail was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1970. The museum is a self-guided tour of the marshal’s home as well as the jail and a small museum along with a courtyard and tiny schoolhouse.

Address: 217 N Main St in Independence, MO 64050

42. Vaille House (It's Haunted!)

The Vaile Manion tour is both a history tour as well as a glimpse into living in Missouri in the 1880s and also why this victorian home is so important.

Built in 1881 for businessman Harvey M. Vaile, it is a significant example of Second Empire architecture. The house was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1969.

Beyond it's architecture, there are many ghostly tales of the Vaile Mansion and guides are more than happy to share the stories!

Address : 1500 N. Liberty St. Independence, MO 64050

43. Eat at Dixons

Dixon's restaurant has been around since 1919 serving up it's famous chili that President Truman says was his favorite restaurant. Entree's include the a plate of chili, a chili dog, a chili cheeseburger..... we'll you probably get the picture!

Diners at Dixon’s should be prepared to pay a 15-cent fine if they ask for ketchup—a tradition descending from the founder’s fastidiousness about his chili recipe.

Address: 9105 E US Hwy 40, Independence, MO 64055

44. Visit Civil War Sites

There is an Independence Civil War driving tour that includes five stops for the First Battle of Independence, one of the first urban battles of the Civil War on August 11, 1862. Ten stops for the Second Battle of Independence, the Battle of the Little Blue on October 21 – 22, 1864 — a battle between 15,000 Union and Confederate forces.

45. Sante Fe Trail

Covering approximately 800 miles, the Santa Fe Trail extends from Independence, Missouri to present-day Santa Fe, New Mexico. To see the trail head marker, head to East Old Lexington Road just west of North Blue Mills Road. It will be on the left when traveling west.

Best Outdoor Fun in Missouri

46. visit a state or national park.

Missouri has a wealth of national parks worth exploring. Visit one of 92 Missouri State Parks or one of the seven National State Parks in Missouri .

You probably already know about Gateway Arch National Park, but did know there are six more, including the homes of two U.S. presidents?

47. Elephant Rocks State Park

Elephant Rocks State Park is located in Arcadia Valley in the part of the Ozarks known as the St. Francois Mountains and is one of the most visited Missouri State Parks.

The park is home to one of Missouri’s most unusual geological formations and is very easy to access. There is a loop trail that takes you to an Engine House Ruin Elephant Rock formation and other boulders you can climb as well as an old quarry.

Address: 7406 Hwy 21, Belleview, MO 63623

48. Ha Ha Tonka State Park

The park is a geologic wonderland featuring sinkholes, caves, a huge natural bridge, sheer bluffs, more than 15 miles of trails and Missouri's 12th-largest spring.

Located on the Lake of the Ozarks, the park features the stone ruins of a turn-of-the-20th-century castle high atop a bluff.

Address: 1491 Missouri D, Camdenton, MO 65020

49. Johnson's Shut Ins

Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park is a hiking trail with hundreds of small swimming holes and natural waterslides with deep, clear water. The Missouri state park is located on the East Fork Black River in the Francois Mountains region of the Missouri Ozarks on the southeastern edge of the Mark Twain National Forest.

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

50. Fantastic Caverns

Fantastic Caverns, America’s Ride-Thru Cave, lies beneath the rolling Ozarks hills just north of Springfield, Missouri. Approximately five miles off Historic Route 66 and about an hour north of Branson, Missouri, this North American cavern offers a completely ride-through cave experience.

51. Meramec Caverns

The Meramec Caverns are the most well-known cave in Missouri, drawing in upwards of 150,000 visitors annually, thanks mainly to the fifty or so billboards advertising the site as a tourist destination along Interstate 44. The limestone cave, discovered in 1722, was opened to the public in the mid-1930s by Lester B.

52. Go Skiing, Snowboarding, or Sledding

Missouri has two ski resorts that offer skiing, snowboarding, and snow tubing. Snow Creek is a lovely ski resort located just 40 minutes from Kansas City in the town of Weston. Hidden Valley Ski Resort is located in Wildwood, Missouri, and just 30 minutes from St. Louis.

53. Explore the Katy Trail

The Katy Trail is a 237-mile trail across a good portion of the state of Missouri. It is the nation's longest rails-to-trails project, stretching from Machens to Clinton. Over half the trail's length follows Lewis and Clark's path, which is an extra bonus for history buffs!

There are 26 trailheads along on the Katy Trail, many offering modern restrooms and clean drinking water. There are also many historic and cute towns along the way, making it a great trail to walk, bike or ride by horseback and turn into a real adventure in Missouri.

Hope you found these hidden gems that the great state of Missouri has to offer exciting!

Believe it or not, this really only just scratches the surface of the many things you can do in Missouri. If you are looking for a good time in the Midwest, we highly encourage you to visit Missouri!

More Information For Your Trip To Missouri:

• Glamping in Missouri: 9 Cool Yurts, Campers, Treehouses, Silos
• Weekend Getaways: 7 Stunning Missouri Historic Towns
• Camping: 10 Of The Best Campgrounds In Missouri
• Johnson's Shut-ins State Park In Missouri: Your Essential Guide To Amazing Fun
• 11 Most Interesting Stops On The Jesse James Trail (3 Day Missouri Road Trip)

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Top 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.

From my time exploring, 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 would 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! 

My must-do highlights…

• Check out the magnificent rock formations at the Bridal Cave, well known for being one of the most scenic caverns in America.
• Visit the ruins of the 20th-century castle in Ha Ha Tonka State Park where you can also see spectacular views of the lake.
• Taste the delicious flavors of handmade dipped chocolate, fudge and saltwater taffy at Grandma’s Candy Kitchen.

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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, and 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), in my opinion, it’s still worth a trip to Eminence Township.

• Snap an Insta-worthy shot in the vibrant blue water.
• Admire the scenery along the hiking trail to get to the Blue Spring.
• Pack a picnic for lunch and stop off at one of the picnic areas for a break.

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, rare plants, and wildlife, and is well worth exploring with your camera, especially during the Fall when the leaves change.

My highlights…

• Soaking up the tranquillity of the area whilst surrounded by the most 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 visited by many people every year. 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! 

• Take the 2.5-mile golf cart tour to discover the rock formations and waterfalls surrounding the Top of the Rock Lost Canyon.
• Play a round of golf at the award-winning courses designed by famous players.
• Stay overnight at one of the unique accommodations in Camp Long Creek for an unforgettable experience.

5. Dogwood Canyon

With water, trees, and lots of stuff to do, this facility – located in Lampe – truly offers something for everyone. You can go riding, bike riding, or even take a Segway tour if you want some unique fun!

There’s a restaurant and a great view of some amazing waterfalls, so if you’re looking for a place that is fun and stunning at the same time, I would suggest this place! 

Dogwood Canyon is much-loved but not well-known to tourists outside the state, so the facility is working hard to make this happen.

• Hire a bike and go cycling through the designated paths to view the picturesque scenery.
• Discover the nature around the area by booking a wildlife tour on one of the open-air trams or segways.
• With over 15 miles of paved paths and nature trails, going for a hike is a must-do activity.

6. Elephant Rocks State Park

Located in Belleview, Elephant Rocks State Park offers gorgeous views and many hiking trails for those who love to hike or jog.

It also offers picnic tables for anyone who wishes to relax for a while and enjoy a nice picnic lunch. In my opinion, though, the highlight of the entire park is the set of rocks shaped like elephants in an old-fashioned circus line!

• Getting photos of the uniquely formed rocks for Instagram.
• Hiking along the Braille Trail for the easiest way to view the rocks and an old railroad engine house.
• I walked 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 .

• Embark on a historic tour inside the Gouverneur’s Mansion, perfect for those who want to step back in time.
• Wander through the city to admire the stunning architecture and well known landmarks.
• With many markets and boutiques around the area, a bit of shopping is an ideal way to spend an afternoon.

8. Prairie State Park

Located at NW 150th Lane in Mindenmines, it is the largest remaining tallgrass prairie in the state. 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 special.

I’m a big fan of the natural beauty and colorful landscapes here!

• Visit the coast with a picnic to enjoy a spot of lunch along the beach.
• Hike along the Prairie Creek Redwoods Walk. This trail is great for all abilities and is surrounded by a jungle of giants.
• Check 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 taking a cruise on the waters surrounding the Arch for an even better look at it.

I would also recommend visiting the Arch at nighttime so you can see how it lights up the sky and makes the entire area look stunning! 

• Ride in the retro elevator for a one-of-a-kind experience which rotates whilst you are in it.
• Cruise along the river with a riverboat tour to witness beautiful skyline views.
• Take a moment to appreciate the incredible architecture of this iconic landmark.

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 as well as 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 badly 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 .

• Visit the naturally formed bridge which reaches over 100 feet tall and was once the entrance to the castle.
• Climb up the 316 wooden steps from the spring head to the top of the bluff.
• Hire a kayak or paddleboard to spend some time 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 one time, I’m sure you’ll understand what all of the fuss is about! 

• Go for a swim in the still pools located downstream of the falls, don’t forget your water shoes.
• Watch a dramatic and vibrant sunset go down over the west side of this location.
• Embark 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, and Civil War markers, as well as 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 taking the time to visit 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.

• Admire the beautiful rose garden filled with nearly 3,000 flowers across 1.5 acres of land.
• Check out an exhibition at the Garden Center which also hosts a library.
• Wander along the trails throughout the park to discover the wonderful greenery.

13. Clifty Creek Natural Bridge

I love this place! This stunning natural bridge is 40 feet long and is lcoated 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 you’re visiting this town that sits almost smack-dab in the middle of the state! Mother Nature provides us with some pretty amazing natural phenomena, and I would highly recommend not missing this one!

• Take the scenic 2.5-mile trail that leads you from the conservation area right to the bridge.
• Keep an eye out for the beautiful natural features along the trail, and have your camera on hand to grab a shot.

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. Here, you’ll also find a great collection of restaurants, boutique shops, and historic landmarks.

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 especially stunning in the Fall.

• Visit the Wall of Fame to check out the murals created by famous Missourians.
• For those who love to shop, spend an afternoon at the West Park Mall.
• Discover 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 months, then also consider bringing your swimming suit! 

Here, you can hike, view waterfalls, picnic, and explore some seriously stunning and unique terrain. If you’re looking for a great family-oriented activity, I highly recommend visiting! 

• Stop by the visitor center to see the geological wonders of the park and learn about its history.
• Hike through the forest to the valley then along the stream bed and up to the ridge on the Scour Trail loop.
• Take a quick refreshing dip in the cold waters after hiking along the trails.

16. Meramec Caverns

Meramec Caverns is located in Sullivan, and it’s both a breathtaking and interesting attraction! You can choose between a half-hour tour or a slightly longer one when you choose a tour here.

When you come up above ground, you can enjoy activities such as ziplining and a great climbing wall so you can make a fun-filled day of it! 

• Explore the caverns to see the spectacular natural mineral formations that have taken thousands of years to create.
• For those seeking an adrenaline adventure, soar through the sky on a zipline tour.
• After all of the fun, stop for some delicious food at the restaurant located just by the caverns.

17. Table Rock Lake

Located in Branson, Table Rock Lake offers gorgeous water and stunning natural views. 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 that you can take your family, spend the entire day there, and never get bored. If you love beautiful sunsets and water-based activities, I suggest visiting here! 

• With lots of water sports available to do, choose your favourite activity and have some fun out on the lake.
• Find out what concerts are being held at Black Oak Amp and watch some live entertainment.
• Soak up the marvellous views of the surrounding lush and vibrant scenery.

18. Meramec River and State Park

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 a lot of water!

There are lots of activities on offer here, including hiking and biking, but I would definitely suggest getting involved in the fun rafting!

• Take a guided tour inside the fascinating and large Fisher Cave.
• One of the most popular activities is to go rafting along the magnificent river.
• Lounge about along the sands of the river shores.

19. Powell Gardens

Powell Gardens is located in Kingsville, Kansas City. It consists of seven themed gardens, tons of beautiful 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!

• Find out what programmes they are currently running and get involved in their interesting classes.
• Wander around to admire the array of beautiful garden displays and incredible contemporary architecture.
• Check out the Visitor Education Center where you can grab a bite to eat.

20. Taum Sauk Mountain

If you love mountains, don’t skip this place! These mountains are at the highest elevations in the entire state and offer views like you’ve never seen before.

From unique rock formations to the majesty of the different nearby forests, I personally think you’ll never tire of hiking to the top of these mountains and looking out at the scenery and the fantastic panoramic views. If you’re near Highway CC in Ironton, I recommend stopping by! 

• Hike to Mina Sauk Falls which is the highest wet-weather waterfall in Missouri.
• Witness spectacular panoramic views overlooking the lush scenic land.

Michael Cowley - writer and photographer Ever since he was knee-high to a grasshopper Michael has always had an affinity for adventure. Growing up he was lucky enough to live in a handful of exotic far flung locations including Hong Kong, Pakistan, Kenya and Tanzania and since then he’s continued seeking out new places and cultures. In his spare time he explores everywhere from the sizzling street markets in Bangkok to random back alleys in Sri Lanka and everything in between! He also has a special fondness for Cohibas, trying all kinds of street food, playing carrom with random strangers, and fine wine - he knows his clarets from his chiantis. He counts Cuba, Amsterdam, Indonesia, Goa, Cambodia and Italy as his favourite destinations. Find Michael on Instagram or Twitter . Hotel Reviewing Experience –Asked by many tourist boards and many high-profile travel brands to formally review hotels including Discover Greece, Barcelo Hotels, and Rickshaw Travel. Also travelled around the world scouting out and reviewing all the most unique hotels in the world, check out our Instagram page for photos . Also mentioned as a top UK travel journalist .

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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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Things to Do

Things to see. Food to eat. Places to discover. Whatever you want to do, it's here.

The Gateway Arch

Silver dollar city, saint louis zoo, sight & sound theatres, dolly parton’s stampede dinner attraction, city museum, national wwi museum and memorial, the haygoods, jb hook’s, st. louis cardinals busch stadium tours, breakout kc, mel’s hard luck diner.

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Best weekend getaways in the midwest.

Twelve states make up America's Midwest, known for its friendly people and rolling fields filled with crops like corn and soybeans. Breaking up the agricultural areas found throughout America's heartland are small river towns, scenic escapes on the Great Lakes and sprawling metropolitan areas, providing countless destinations for weekend warriors. U.S. News considered factors like dining options, opportunities for adventure and value to decide the best weekend getaways in the Midwest. Use this list to plan your next adventure, then weigh in by voting for your favorite location below.

Mackinac Island

Wisconsin dells, black hills national forest, lake of the ozarks, traverse city, madison, wi, kansas city, minneapolis - st. paul, hocking hills state park, door county, voyageurs national park.

Located between Michigan's Upper and Lower peninsulas, Mackinac Island beckons to visitors who want to relax and unwind. The island is unique in that there are no cars or chain hotels – instead, horse-drawn carriages, bed-and-breakfast accommodations and family-owned hotels are the norm – so travelers can truly embrace the Lake Huron destination's small-town charm. Mackinac Island State Park occupies most of the island, providing visitors with countless opportunities to enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, biking and horseback riding. What's more, Mackinac Island offers a variety of eateries serving everything from American comfort classics to its famous fudge.

The self-proclaimed "Water Park Capital of the World" draws families keen on enjoying its diverse selection of water-themed attractions. Because many of the top-notch water parks offer indoor pools and slides, they remain open even as temperatures begin to drop. But water parks are only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to Wisconsin Dells' offerings. This southern Wisconsin town features multiple resorts , golf courses and casinos, plus it sits about 20 miles northwest of Cascade Mountain and its impressive ski slopes.

As the Midwest's largest metropolitan area, the Windy City is a popular option for a weekend getaway. Chicago houses numerous parks, including ones with lakefront beaches or iconic sculptures like "The Bean." Plus, the city boasts incredible architecture, which is best viewed from the water during a river cruise or while boating on Lake Michigan, and is a haven for foodies thanks to its smorgasbord of ethnic cuisine, ranging from Greek to Mexican to Polish. No weekend trip would be complete without visiting Chicago's world-class museums, such as the Museum of Science and Industry and the Art Institute of Chicago.

Make your way to the western edge of South Dakota to visit the beautiful Black Hills National Forest. The small mountain range is surrounded by 1.2 million acres of protected wilderness and is a haven for outdoorsy types. In the Black Hills, you can hike, bike, ride horses and go rock climbing, among other activities. The Black Hills is also famous for housing Mount Rushmore National Memorial, which features giant mountainside busts of four American presidents. If you don't want to camp during your visit, plan on staying in Rapid City, the closest major city to the Black Hills.

By impounding the Osage River, the state of Missouri created the Lake of the Ozarks, an expansive reservoir with more than 1,100 miles of shoreline. Plan on spending most of your time at this central Missouri lake destination on or around the water. Rent a boat to explore and access waterfront spots like Lake of the Ozarks State Park, Bridal Cave and various restaurants and resorts. When you need a break from the water, hit the links at one of several golf courses or enjoy a day of wine tasting on the Lake of the Ozarks Wine Trail.

This Minnesota city on the shores of Lake Superior is ideal for a weekend getaway. In the Canal Park area, visitors can bike or walk along the Lakewalk, a nearly 8-mile path that follows the shoreline, snap pictures of the Aerial Lift Bridge and peruse local art galleries. Travelers can also experience the city's finer features by touring all 39 rooms at Glensheen, a historic estate built in the early 1900s, or booking a first-class ticket in a domed train car on the North Shore Scenic Railroad. What's more, refreshments are easy to come by with Duluth's selection of lakeside eateries and breweries.

With attractions like the Omaha Children's Museum and the Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium, Omaha is a solid choice for a family trip. But this Nebraska hub appeals to all travelers with its history (best showcased at The Durham Museum), nature attractions (like the Lauritzen Gardens botanical center) and a thriving arts community (including interactive performing arts venues). Omaha also features a noteworthy food scene, with neighborhoods like the Blackstone District, home of the Reuben sandwich, and venues ranging from old-school steakhouses to award-winning sushi establishments.

Located in the northern section of Michigan's Lower Peninsula, Traverse City's offerings are mostly dictated by its proximity to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. This impressive protected area stretches 64 miles along Lake Michigan's coast and sits about 30 miles northwest of Traverse City, providing visitors countless opportunities to camp, hike, sunbathe and more. Closer to town, travelers can explore Grand Traverse Bay or one of the region's lakes via kayak or canoe. Adults also appreciate Traverse City's selection of wineries and microbreweries, while families enjoy visiting museums like The Music House Museum, which showcases rare organs and pianos.

Wisconsin's capital city is where you'll find the flagship campus of the University of Wisconsin. The university plays a significant part in the city's cultural offerings by way of on-campus sights like Memorial Union, the University of Wisconsin-Madison Arboretum and the Chazen Museum of Art. Still, the city offers its own share of noteworthy attractions, including the Olbrich Botanical Gardens, the Henry Vilas Zoo and the Madison Museum of Contemporary Art. Plus, Madison provides easy access to multiple hiking trails and features a fun downtown area where you can grab dinner, listen to live music and people watch.

As one of the fastest-growing cities in the Midwest, Iowa's capital has a lot going for it. Situated in the center of a state known for its farming, Des Moines offers true farm-to-table cuisine, as well as the much-lauded Downtown Farmers' Market with 300-plus vendors. Meanwhile, boutiques abound in the quaint East Village district, and bikers can pedal their way along more than 800 miles of trails, including the High Trestle Trail, which crosses a 13-story bridge. Visit in the summer to make the most of your time outdoors and to take advantage of events like the 80/35 music festival.

Milwaukee's hearty comfort food and eclectic collection of museums and historical sites are sure to appeal to all kinds of weekend visitors. The city's foremost museums are the Harley-Davidson Museum, which spans 20 acres along the riverfront, and the Milwaukee Art Museum, which boasts three futuristic-looking buildings and a collection with more than 30,000 pieces. Beer and history enthusiasts will enjoy a tour of the 19th-century Pabst Mansion or the Lakefront Brewery, while foodies will want to swing by the Milwaukee Public Market to purchase or learn how to cook a memorable meal (just don't skip the cheese curds).

Cincinnati's location on the Ohio River makes it easy to reach from other parts of Ohio, plus nearby states like Indiana and Kentucky. Many of Cincinnati's top parks, including 186-acre Eden Park, overlook the river, providing countless opportunities for scenic strolls. What's more, Cincinnati is packed with can't-miss museums, such as the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center and the Cincinnati Art Museum. Not to mention, fans of spectacle can catch a Cincinnati Reds game at the Great American Ball Park or a show at Music Hall.

The Gateway Arch towers 630 feet over St. Louis and marks the city's status as the "Gateway to the West." St. Louis' diverse selection of affordable things to do makes it an excellent weekend destination for Midwesterners on a budget. Head to Forest Park to visit the Saint Louis Art Museum and the renowned Saint Louis Zoo , neither of which charges an entry fee. Then, take a tour of some of St. Louis' noteworthy historical sights, including the beautiful Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis and Busch Stadium, home of the St. Louis Cardinals.

Kansas City straddles the border of Missouri and Kansas, putting the surprisingly trendy city within driving distance of a number of Midwestern destinations. Jazz and barbecue set the city apart, so be sure to decide which restaurants and venues you plan to visit in advance. Kansas City's Country Club Plaza – which offers an assortment of eateries and stores, and sits within walking distance of a number of hotels – is also worth checking out. Remember to set aside time for perusing some of the city's top museums, too, including The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art and the Arabia Steamboat Museum.

The side-by-side cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul provide no shortage of attractions for visitors to marvel over. Travelers can spend the weekend perusing the exhibits at the Minneapolis Institute of Art, attending productions at the Guthrie Theater or getting a dose of local history at sights like the Minnesota State Capitol and the Minnesota History Center. On warm, sunny days, visitors will also want to take advantage of Minnesota's natural beauty by going for a stroll through the Chain of Lakes byway district or Minnehaha Regional Park, which sits a few miles south of the Twin Cities' downtown areas.

Thrill-seekers flock to this Ohio destination on Lake Erie for its world-class amusement park – Cedar Point. The park's 70 rides, including a whopping 18 roller coasters, are its main draw, but the sprawling water park and entertainment options also impress travelers of all ages. Beyond the mega-park, this coastal town also boasts family-owned dining venues and the Ohio Cheers Trail, which highlights local breweries, distilleries and wineries. Plus, cruises to the neighboring islands of Put-in-Bay and Kelleys Island are an ideal way to slow things down after an action-packed day.

Less than an hour's drive from Columbus, Ohio, Hocking Hills State Park is the perfect nature-filled weekend escape. Hocking Hills State Park's deep gorges, sandstone cliffs and leafy forests are beautiful in any season – whether dotted with wildflowers in the spring or covered with ice formations in winter. Travelers can hike to popular spots like the Ash Cave and Cedar Falls, climb the park's natural rock walls or kayak and canoe on lakes and rivers. Plus, with modern A-frames and trendy cabins to rent in the surrounding area, you'll have all the comforts of home on your getaway.   

Whether you're seeking natural splendor, villages full of character or a weekend of sampling some of the Midwest's finest cuisine, Door County, Wisconsin, will deliver. Located on a peninsula in Lake Michigan about 70 miles northeast of Green Bay, Door County boasts 300 miles of shoreline and countless parks that add up to 23,000 acres. When you're not enjoying the great outdoors, explore the art galleries, lighthouses and museums in communities like Egg Harbor, Fish Creek and Sturgeon Bay. Don’t miss out on the region's must-try food experiences: cherry picking, cheese tasting and dining at a traditional Wisconsin supper club.

Within comfortable driving distance of Chicago, Milwaukee and Cedar Rapids, this northwest Illinois town is a top option for an old-fashioned Midwestern weekend getaway. Galena is full of small-town charm, with bespoke experiences like antique tractor driving and carving workshops, historical sites like the home of Ulysses S. Grant and a Hallmark-worthy Main Street. Plus, the surrounding region offers bucolic rolling hills, antique shops, wineries, farms and 19th-century bed-and-breakfasts. With events throughout the year (including the popular Great Galena Balloon Race in June), as well as seasonal skiing, Galena is a great getaway any time of year.

To make the most of your weekend, you'll want to hit the road early to get to this harder-to-reach Minnesota destination (about 300 miles north of Minneapolis on the Canadian border). Most of Voyageurs National Park, which is characterized by calm lakes, aromatic evergreens and granite cliffs, is only accessible by boat, meaning you'll be fully immersed in its natural beauty. If you're visiting in the summer, rent a houseboat for a unique lodging option. But colder seasons have their charms, too. Since the park is a phenomenal place to see the northern lights , the sky may just put on a show for you as the nights get longer. 

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You may be interested in.

Best Places to Visit in Michigan

Best Places to Visit in Ohio

Best Small Towns to Visit in the USA

Best Weekend Getaways

Best Weekend Getaways in the South

Best Weekend Getaways in New England

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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

Brian Doty / Shutterstock

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

Grindstone Media Group / Shutterstock

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

steve palmer 1962 / Shutterstock

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

RozenskiP / Shutterstock

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!

16 Best Midwest Road Trips – Scenic Routes You Can’t Miss

Posted on Published: May 25, 2020  - Last updated: February 9, 2024

Ahhh, the Midwest. Vast landscapes with beautiful scenery, the ability to connect with nature and fun attractions. One of the best ways to explore the middle of the USA is with a Midwest road trip!

This post may contain affiliate links. For more info, see my  disclosures .

For those of us who live here, we know there’s so much to offer. Our waving grasses with rolling hills make for beautiful, peaceful sunsets. Gorgeous lakes simply begged to be explored.

Our cities each have something unique to offer, and mix that with Midwest charm, it makes for a great place for a road trip!

Midwest road trip ideas

I’ve explored many places across the Midwest, but I haven’t covered it all. So I turned to other experts to help me out to create this list of best Midwest road trips!

Here’s a bunch of Midwest road trip ideas, ranging from 2 days to 10. From outdoorsy to artsy, there’s truly something for everyone in the Midwest!

List of Midwestern States

But before we dive in, let’s clarify the states that cover the Midwest to help you plan your trip:

• Indiana (IN)
• Illinois (IL)
• Missouri (MO)
• Kansas (KS)
• Nebraska (NE)
• South Dakota (SD)
• North Dakota (ND)
• Minnesota (MN)
• Wisconsin (WI)
• Michigan (MI)

Looking for more Midwest adventures? Check out these 16 trails – the best hiking in the Midwest !

Ready to hit the road? Here’s the best Midwest road trips

Black hills, south dakota (a classic).

Recommended trip: 7-10 days

The Black Hills in South Dakota is one of the best places for a road trip in the Midwest.  There is so much to see and do, you could easily spend months here, but for a shorter trip, 7-10 days would be great.

Rapid City is probably the best place to fly in and out of for a Black Hills trip. I would start with a couple of days in Badlands National Park .  Spend the night in Wall, visit Wall Drug and the Badlands from here, then head over to Wind Cave National Park.

Spend a night or 2 in Hot Springs to easily access the park where you can do some hiking, look for bison, and do a cave tour. Make a stop at the Mammoth site while you’re here, too.

Finally, head to Keystone for a few days. This is the perfect base for exploring the Mount Rushmore and Custer State Park area. 

Some of the must-do activities here are visiting Mount Rushmore (of course), driving Iron Mountain Road , driving the Needles Highway, driving the Custer Wildlife Loop Road, hiking Cathedral Spires Trail, and relaxing at Sylvan Lake. If you want a little side trip, you can easily visit Devils Tower in Wyoming, too.  

Recommended by Megan of Red Around the World

Chicago to St. Louis road trip

Recommended trip: 4-6 days

Driving from Chicago, Illinois to St. Louis, Missouri should be on any midwest road trip. This journey is part of Route 66, one of the original highways in the United States. Route 66 was the primary route for people wishing to move west. Opt to spend one day driving this four and a half-hour drive, or break it up and spend the night in Springfield, Illinois.  

For this journey, start in Chicago. Make sure to spend at least 3 days in Chicago. Stay in the centrally located Downtown/River North area. Do not miss the Art Institute of Chicago and the Field Museum.

Grab some pictures at “The Bean” in Millenium Park. Daredevils can opt for “The Edge” experience at the Skydeck or the Tilt Experience at the John Hancock Building. 

In the morning depart Chicago to drive south towards Springfield, the capital of Illinois . Stop by the capitol building and take a free tour of the building.

Visit Abraham Lincoln’s grave at Oak Ridge Cemetery and then visit the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum. Grab a custard at Krekel’s before heading onward to St. Louis, Missouri. 

Plan to spend at least 2 days in St. Louis to explore the main sites. Plan to stay in the Downtown area. Ride to the top of the St. Louis Arch at Gateway Arch National Park.

Take a peek into history at the Old Courthouse, where the Dread Scott decision was made. Make sure to eat some delicious BBQ before departing St. Louis.

Recommended by Francesca of Home Room Travel

You might also like: 101 Road Trip Food Ideas: Best Fun and Healthy Snacks You’ll Love

Indianapolis, IN to Boyne City, MI

Recommended trip: 2-3 days

Ready for a fantastic Midwest road trip? Regardless of the time of year, driving from Indianapolis, Indiana to Boyne City, MI is a perfect way to enjoy a long weekend.

Day one, you’ll want to get up early and head to Lansing, MI. It’s about 3.5 hours from Indy, so if you time it right, be sure to stop for lunch at Soup Spoon Cafe – a flight of soup is a fun way to start your mini-vacation. Next, if you have younger kids, head over to the Impression 5 Science Center – they’ll love the full sensory experiences. 

After the museum, finish your drive north and check-in at Boyne Mountain for the night. Enjoy a full day of exploring Boyne Mountain and nearby Boyne City the next day. If it’s winter, hit the slopes for a little skiing or even tubing.

If it’s summertime, enjoy hiking, ziplining, or swimming. Downtown Boyne City is situated right on Lake Charlevoix and the town is full of delicious restaurants such as Cafe Sante and Red Mesa as well as unique local boutiques.

Leave Boyne Mountain, and head over to Petoskey for your final day. Start it off right with amazing bagels and donuts at Johann’s Bakery and then hurry over to the main Kilwins location for a factory tour. Kilwin’s offers free tours Monday – Friday every half-hour from 10 – 4:30, and each one ends with a decadent chocolate treat.

After the tour, spend a little time poking around downtown Petoskey for lunch and to pick up a few Michigan souvenirs before heading back to Indianapolis.

Recommended by Pam of Our Adventure is Everywhere

You might also like: Road Trip with Kids: 15 Essentials to Pack

Central Iowa road trip

We highly recommend taking a road trip through Central Iowa. You’ll pass through  Des Moines , Iowa’s capital and other smaller towns that have some fun and interesting attractions.

Heading east along I-80, your first stop should be the town of Winterset. It’s famous for having the  actual  bridges of Madison County. Six of the original 19 covered bridges in Madison County have been preserved just outside of town. Winterset is also the birthplace of John Wayne. There is a museum dedicated to him, with lots of personal and movie memorabilia.

Continuing east, you reach Des Moines. We love this artsy city! It’s easy to find street art there and downtown has a 4.4-acre sculpture park that is free to the public. There’s also a really lovely botanical garden in Des Moines.

Of course, visiting the Capitol Building is a must. You can do a free self-guided tour and marvel at the building’s incredible architecture.

The next stop on your road trip should be the town of Grinnell. Home to Grinnell College, they have a small but impressive art museum on campus.

Grinnell is also the home of one of eight “jewel-box” banks built by legendary architect Louis Sullivan. He is considered the father of modern American architecture and mentored Frank Lloyd Wright. The bank is beautiful, with large stained-glass windows and pink Tennessee marble floors.

Recommended by Vicky of Buddy The Traveling Monkey

More road trip destinations in the Midwest

St. louis to kansas city.

Recommended trip: 3-5 days

While many people think of Missouri as a fly-over state, it’s full of not-to-be-missed gems, from St. Louis to Kansas City. So why not see some of them in one fell swoop with a 5-day road trip?

Start in St. Louis, a city bursting with historic architecture and a thriving food and cocktail scene. Spend 2 days here, exploring the City Museum, an adult playground/art installation of interactive salvaged architectural objects. Visit Forest Park, one of the country’s largest urban parks and its world-class museums, all boasting free admission. And, of course, the Missouri Botanical Gardens, consistently ranked one of the best in the nation.

At night, eat your way through the exploding culinary landscape, with one of the many restaurants helmed by James Beard nominated chefs, like Vicia or Lona’s Lil’ Eats.

Once you’ve gotten your fill, drive west to Hermann, a tiny town that has several wineries, breweries, and distilleries nestled in its idyllic grassy hills. For just $20, the Hermann Trolley will shuttle you between these establishments all day, so you can responsibly imbibe in as many craft beverages as you please.

After a day here, finish your trip with 2 days in Kansas City, famous for its jazz scene. To get a taste of it yourself, head to the American Jazz Museum during the day and the Green Lady Lounge at night to see some of the world’s best musicians in action. By the end of the trip, you’ll be ecstatic to have discovered some of the Show Me State’s abundant treasures! 

Recommended by Jessica of Uprooted Traveler

Oh, and if you’re planning to rent a car for one of these Midwest road trip routes, be sure to check out the cheap rates on Discover Cars . I usually save 10-30%, which can really add up! Discover Cars searches the top carriers to find the best deal, at no extra cost to you. It’s a win-win! Search cheap rental cars now .

Milwaukee to Wisconsin Dells

One of the best Midwest road trips you can take is exploring the highlights of Wisconsin. The ideal road trip itinerary takes you from Milwaukee to Green Bay and ends in Wisconsin Dells.

Start your road trip in Milwaukee , but you can’t leave without spending at least 2 days in this vibrant city. As a matter of fact, people flood from all over the United States to visit Milwaukee for its food, attractions and history.

Must do’s are the Harley Davidson Museum and the historic Third Ward.  Stay in the iconic Pfister Hotel in downtown.

From here you finally head out to the beautiful North of Wisconsin. Along the Michigan river you’ll cross scenic towns such as Port Washington. When you arrive in Green Bay, get ready to explore this vibrant town located in Door County. 

Some of the best things to do here are visiting the Heritage Hill State Park and watch a game by the legendary Green Bay Packers. Plan at least 1 day to visit the city and all the best things to do in Door County .

From Green Bay you’ll drive to Wisconsin Dells which is famous for its waterparks. However, there is so much more to do here. From shopping to hiking in the Dells or staying overnight in one of the  most romantic cabins in Wisconsin , there will be plenty of options to spend at least 2 days in Wisconsin Dells.

Recommended by Paulina of Paulina on the Road

Southern Minnesota road trip

Eat, relax and have fun in Southern Minnesota! Enjoy a food lovers paradise in Austin, Minnesota. Known for having some of the best Mexican food in the state of Minnesota, Austin is also known for award-winning BBQ sauces, french onion soup and stuffed raspberry french toast.

Want to have a food challenge, then be sure to stop by the Tendermaid. Also, don’t forget to visit the one and only SPAM Museum ! Yes – it’s real and there are nearly 20 restaurants with SPAM on the menu.

Then sit back, relax and enjoy the view in Fairmont, Minnesota . Home to a chain of 5 lakes and 29 parks in city limits, Fairmont provides you that opportunity to become one with nature. Explore lakeside dining, outdoor recreation and an arts and culture scene that is sure to impress .

Next discover how  Germans Have More Fun  in New Ulm! Enjoy a road trip through the MN River Valley National Scenic Byway to the most German city in America.

In New Ulm you can climb 102’ to the top of the ‘Herman the German’ monument. Enjoy a tour/tasting at Schell’s Brewery, MN’s oldest brewery. Shop the unique boutiques in the historic downtown. Hear bells chime at our Glockenspiel. See the 1873 murals in the rathskeller at Turner Hall. 

With so much to do in Southern Minnesota, there’s something for everyone!

Read next: How to Save Money for Travel: Your Vacation Savings Plan

Richmond, IN to Butler County, OH

If you’re looking for a cool trip, head to Indiana and Ohio! Starting off in Richmond, Indiana, visit the Wayne County Historical Museum and the Levi Coffin House. Be sure to hear their amazing story of the Underground Railroad!

Stay at the Starr Loft in Richmond before heading to Ohio. On your way to Ohio’s Lake Erie Islands, take a diversion into Bremen at the Bicycle Museum of America. Then onto the Marblehead Lighthouse in Marblehead, Ohio where this historic lighthouse guided sailors safely since 1822.

That night stay at Port Clinton’s Fairfield Inn & Suites. The next morning, head over to Ohio’s Lake Erie Islands. Take Miller Boat Line’s Ferry to Put-in-Bay where you can ferry your car over to the island.

Visit Perry’s Peace Memorial which honors the War of 1812. Check out the view up the 352-foot tower! The memorial honors those who fought in the Battle of Lake Erie. The next day, on Kellys Island, take a tour in a golf cart to check out natural phenomenons like the Glacial Grooves.

Be sure to hang out for an afternoon in Downtown Sandusky, Ohio . Take a Segway tour, visit Cedar Point Amusement Park, visit the Merry-Go-Round Museum or go parasailing.

Last stop on this road trip is Butler County, Ohio! Enjoy the Donut Trail and tour outdoor art at the Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park.

Recommended by Cindy of Traveling Adventures of a Farm Girl

Related read: Best Midwest Camping Spots

Loess Hills Scenic Byway (Missouri to Iowa)

The Loess Hills Scenic Byway takes its travelers through the most extensive loess (essentially, ancient wind-blown silt deposits) outside a remote region of China! While the byway officially starts at the Iowa state border, the hills themselves run north-south a bit east of the Missouri River, from St. Joseph, Missouri to the Sioux City, Iowa area, passing near Omaha, Nebraska in the middle of the journey.

Each of these cities are destinations in their own right, and combined, they make a road trip full of scenic views and ample entertaining places to stop along the way.  

In St. Joe, Missouri, local museums provide fascinating looks at the history of the Pony Express, the art of Thomas Hart Benton (often depicting loess hills!) and the life of the nefarious Jesse James. Near Mound City, Missouri, visit the Loess Bluffs National Wildlife Refuge to see waterfowl and bald eagles.

The Hitchcock Nature Center near Omaha and the Dorothy Pecaut Nature Center in Sioux City provide more information about the unique geology, flora, and fauna of the Loess Hills along with opportunities for hiking, boating, and more!

For ideal cruising food, try Billy Boy Drive-through just a few miles from the Dorothy Pecaut Nature Center in Soiux City for a burger and a shake! 

Recommended by Lindsay of Siouxland Families

More ideas: Midwest road trips

Minneapolis to omaha.

Recommended trip: 4-5 days

Get a nice mix of cities and wide open spaces on a Midwest road trip from Minneapolis to Omaha. Starting in Minneapolis, you’ll want to spend 1-2 days visiting the lakes, restaurants and of course, checking out the Mall of America .

Visit the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden in downtown and grab an ice cream cone at Izzy’s Ice Cream . The largest mall in North America (Mall of America) is a whole lot more than shopping, too. With an indoor amusement park, it’s the perfect activity for any weather.

Then hit the road! Next stop: Northwestern Iowa. Stop in Estherville, Iowa for a rustic winery , experience an 80-year old swinging bridge or to visit the site of the largest known meteorite seen crashing into North America.

You could stay in Esterville for the night, or head about half an hour west to Lake Okoboji. In Okoboji, Iowa you’ll find shopping, dining and a bunch of water activities , of course! Try the Arnold’s Park Amusement Park or live music after a day on the water.

Next on this Midwest road trip is Sioux City, Iowa. Grab lunch or dinner at the Fourth Street Historic District in downtown Sioux City , catch a show at the Orpheum Theatre or visit Palmer’s Old Tyme Candy Shoppe for a sweet treat before leaving town.

Omaha, Nebraska is the final destination on this Midwest road trip itinerary. You’ll want to spend 1-2 days visiting this fun city. Omaha is known as the silicone prarie, a tech hub that’s family-friendly, yet trendy enough to support a vibrant art scene and plenty of outdoor space.

One of the best things to do in Omaha is to visit the Omaha Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium , It’s the largest tourist attraction in the state, and regularly competes with the San Diego Zoo as the #1 zoo in the country! It really is that fantastic!

Check out North America’s largest indoor rain forest, feed the giraffes, walk under sharks in the aquarium and watch the animals in the world’s largest indoor desert dome. Tip: be sure to buy your tickets in advance online and arrive early to avoid the crowds as best as you can.

Get a good tour of the city while taking fun photos at the most Instagrammable places in Omaha . Spend some time wandering the Lauritzen Gardens or check out the Fun-Plex Waterpark.

For some mystery check out the Joslyn Castle , and for some history visit the Lewis and Clark Landing. The Old Market in downtown is the perfect spot to grab a bite to eat after a long day touring the city.

Recommended by me! Nikki of She Saves She Travels

Duluth to Grand Marais, Minnesota

Recommended trip: 1-2 days

A Minnesota road trip on Highway 61 between Duluth and Grand Marais will offer you amazing views of Lake Superior, numerous options for a delicious bite to eat, and some can’t miss attractions .

As you leave Duluth, choose the 24-mile scenic route to Two Harbors, and take in the view of Lake Superior along the way. In Two Harbors you can walk along the breakwater to the lighthouse, and watch the ore ships coming and going. Enjoy a local brew at Castle Danger Brewery after doing some shopping in Agate Bay.

Just north of Two Harbors is Betty’s Pies and you don’t want to miss stopping here ! This is a full service restaurant, but they also have a walk up counter where you can order their famous pie. The pie flavors change every day, but you definitely want to try the Great Lakes Fruit Pie . This pie is filled with blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, apples, and rhubarb and it is one of a kind.

It is 11 miles to the next stop, in Castle Danger, but get your camera ready because you’ll be driving through 2 large tunnels, and the exits of both perfectly frame Lake Superior. 

Castle Danger is home to Gooseberry Falls and Split Rock Lighthouse State Parks. You can learn a little history of the area while touring the lighthouse and take a hike down the hillside to dip your toes in the cool Lake Superior water.

Gooseberry Falls State Park has 5 waterfalls that you can hike to, and a very nice visitor center to buy some souvenirs at.

Along the remaining 72 miles to Grand Marais, take the time to stop at a beach or two to hunt for agates. The beaches along the North Shore are loaded with agates and it’s fun to find a few to bring home.  

The city of Grand Marais has a main street full of local shops that ends on the shore of Lake Superior.  The beach is a popular spot to watch the water, and to eat a delicious donut from World’s Best Donuts or maybe you’ll want a slice of thin crust pizza from Sven and Ole’s.  

Grand Marais is also the start of the Gunflint Trail. This is a 57-mile paved roadway that ends in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area near the border of Ontario.

This 110 mile road trip between Duluth and Grand Marais can be made in one day, but why not take your time and really discover the beauty of Lake Superior and the North Shore.

Recommended by Vicki of That Was a First

I-70 Kansas road trip: Abilene to Kansas City

Recommended trip: 2-4 days

Enjoy a wealth of historic, cultural, and recreational activities along Interstate 70 in northern Kansas. Start in Abilene, Kansas with visiting the Eisenhower Presidential Library, Museum, and Boyhood Home. Head over to pet Ginger, the greeter at the Greyhound Hall of Fame. Enjoy award-winning fried chicken at the Brookville Hotel.

Next stop along I-70 in Kansas is Junction City, home to Milford Lake and the Fishing Capital of Kansas. Tour Fort Riley’s museums, but prepare for security. Eat Munson-raised, dry-aged beef at Munson’s Prime restaurant, a local favorite. A perfect spot to call it a night is by the lake at Acorns Resort.

Then you’ll hit Manhattan, Kansas. For high adventure, fly zip lines at Wildwood Adventure Park. Afterwards, relax and eat and drink at Liquid Art Winery & Estate!

Slide into Topeka, Kansas where you can dive into history and visit the state capitol and the national historic site where the Supreme Court reversed segregation in Brown v. Board of Education of Topeka . A great way to end the day is with elegance at the Cyrus Hotel.

As you head east on I-70, you’ll get to Lecompton, Kansas. Learn more about where slavery began to die at Constitution Hall State Historic Site and the Territorial Capitol. Then lighten things back up by grabbing a slice of gourmet pie at Aunt Netter’s Cafe. Delicious!

Next up is Lawrence, Kansas and downtown is the place to be! Experience downtown Lawrence during the day or night. See basketball’s original rules at The Cradle of Basketball. And if you’re looking for a brewery, Free State Brewing Co. is Kansas’ first post-prohibition brewery. Stay at in the heart of Lawrence at The Oread.

The final stop on this Northern Kansas road trip before arriving at Kansas City is Leavenworth, Kansas. Visit Fort Leavenworth, or ride antique carousels at C.W. Parker Carousel Museum. A must-try in Leavenworth is the steak house tenderloin at Metropolitan Steakhouse.

Wrapping up the I-70 Kansas road trip is of course, Kansas City! Enjoy the major leagues: sporting Kansas City at Children’s Mercy Park and NASCAR at Kansas Speedway. Eat top-notch barbecue at SLAP’s BBQ. After a great road trip in Kansas, stay in the Chateau Avalon.    

Recommended by Roxie of Roxie on the Road

Midwest road trip: Missouri Route 66

While most people think of a  Route 66  Road Trip as starting in Chicago and ending in Santa Monica, you don’t need to take two weeks and traverse half the country to get in a taste of the Mother Road. Instead, you can pick a portion and explore it in-depth.

Missouri has a great stretch of Route 66 right here in the Midwest. It starts in the northeast crossing over from Illinois into St. Louis and ends at the Oklahoma border after passing through Joplin.

Obviously the most iconic site on Missouri’s portion of Route 66 is the Gateway Arch, which practically welcomes you onto the road. Make sure to tour Meramec Caverns , see the one-room jail in Cuba, and explore the interesting history of Carthage. 

Take advantage of the fun roadside kitsch of the route and get out at as many stops as you can. A real Route 66 road trip means you need to spend a few nights in the state’s retro motels and enjoy some diners and dive bars.

Recommended by Stephanie of Oklahoma Wonders

Driftless Area Scenic Byway (Iowa)

Recommended trip: 1-3 days

Allamakee County is the home to the most scenic byway in the state of Iowa, Driftless Area Scenic Byway. This beautiful scenic byway zigzags its way on hard-surfaced and gravel roads through the high relief, pre-glacial landscape in extreme northeastern Iowa in Allamakee County. 

This byway has been voted most scenic byway in the state of Iowa . It’s 100 miles of amazing! Along the Driftless Area Scenic Byway you will find…

Effigy Mounds National Monument , the 2,526-acre park by the Yellow River has walking trails with modest to extended routes, allowing you to select your route and view a variety of mounds. An accessible boardwalk trail into the wetlands near the visitor center is available for persons of all walking abilities.

Yellow River State Forest was first acquired as a state forest in 1935, the Yellow River State Forest has grown to encompass nearly 9,000 acres of natural beauty.

Great River Road , where you can enjoy 36.2 miles of the Great River Road in Allamakee County. You will discover the best of the Great River Road right here!

Driftless Area Education & Visitor Center , where you’ll see live animals, interpretative displays, 2 viewing decks of the Mississippi River, and a great group educational experience.  Located just south of Lansing.

This Midwest road trip takes your scenic adventure to another level with:

• Wine Tasting – Madigan Winery, Lansing & Empty Nest Winery, Waukon
• Bird Watching
• Beer Tasting – Safe House Saloon in Lansing
• Trout Fishing
• Cheese Curd Tour – WW Homestead Dairy in Waukon
• Shopping – Horsfall’s in Lansing, Paint Creek Gifts in Waterville and City Meat Market inNew Albin

Recommended by Val of Allamakee County

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Triple Nickel Byway (Ohio)

Winding through the southern part of Ohio is the  Triple Nickel  which encompasses parts of State Route 555. If you’ve never been on this scenic, twisting by-way through the hills of Ohio, you need to put it on your bucket list! This is a perfect day trip that takes you from the picturesque town of Zanesville to the history-rich city of Marrietta.  

The Triple Nickel is one of the more challenging roads in Ohio, but you can take in some of the amazing historical sites when you’re in the area. While touring through Morgan County you can see the Big Muskie bucket part of the world’s largest earth-moving machine in Miner’s Memorial Park and Barkhurst Mill Covered Bridge.  

No trip on the Triple Nickel is complete without stopping to eat at the Triple Nickel Diner in Chesterhill. Pro-tip: Make sure to check their website for the hours of operation because they vary with the seasons.  

If you’re looking for a great place to stay while on the route, take a small detour to the  Stockport Mill Inn located in Stockport, Ohio . You’ll be treated to stunning views of the Muskingum River and the operating locks. Dotty, the owner, will treat you like family and feed you amazing comfort foods only found at the Inn.

The Triple Nickel doesn’t disappoint the road tripper looking for a challenge in the Midwest.

Recommended by Brandy of Gleason Family Adventure

Madison to Spring Green, Wisconsin

One of the most exciting small cities in the Midwest is  Madison, Wisconsin . It has a wonderful dining scene and miles of shoreline and bike trails.

A culmination of a college-town and a bustling city, Madison is also home one of America’s most beloved architects: Frank Lloyd Wright. Wright used Madison and its neighborhoods as a canvas, where visitors can see his many designs come to life. Although several of Madison’s Wright-designed houses are private residences, designs like the First Unitarian Meeting Houses and Monona Terrace are must-see spots for any architectural buffs! Both buildings are just a short 10-minute drive away.

If you want to see more of the city’s art scene , visit either the Madison Museum of Contemporary Art or the Chazen Museum of Art! Both museums boast both Wisconsin-based artists, as well as international artists too. Furthermore, admission is free for adults, making this the perfect stop for anyone that loves to travel on a budget. 

While you’re in Madison we also highly recommend grabbing tacos from Matthew Danky and his exciting outpost El Grito Tacqueria.  

From Madison, drive about 40 minutes to the quaint town of New Glarus , Wisconsin. The main attraction here is New Glarus Brewing, one of the most highly regarded breweries by beer snobs across the country so make sure to spend a few hours there. 

New Glarus also has rich Swiss heritage. Explore and find an authentic Swiss bakery or locally made raclette and cheese fondue.

Our last stop is very enjoyable Spring Green, an hour away down winding country roads.  Frank Lloyd Wright spent the better part of his life living and working in Spring Green and maintained a school at Taliesin. Wright’s students designed many unique buildings in and around Spring Green.

Recommended by Nick of Road Goat

16 best Midwest road trips

Well there you have it! I hope you’ve found some inspiration on which route you’ll take on your upcoming Midwest road trip! Midwest states have a lot to offer for any type of road trip you’re looking for!

Comment below on which you’re considering – or which route surprised you most!

You might also like: Best Hiking in the Midwest – 16 Cool Hikes You’ll Love Denver to Moab Road Trip: 16 Scenic Stops You Gotta See to Believe 27 Awesome Things to Do in Sandusky, Ohio You Can’t Miss Perfect Colorado Itinerary: 22 Road Trip Stops You Need to See Miami to Key West Road Trip: 22 Stops Along the Way 26 Best Places to Visit in October in the US

Planning to rent a car for one of these scenic routes? Check out the cheap rental car rates on my favorite site. I save up to 30%, which is awesome!

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Saturday 25th of September 2021

Awesome. I'm wanting to take a scenic drive from Kansas to Ohio, off the beaten path. What are your recommendations?

Sunday 26th of September 2021

Where in Kansas and Ohio? I've spent time in Kansas City and St. Louis which may be along the way, but aren't necessarily off the beaten path. Perhaps a bit more southern, I've heard the Mark Twain National Forest and Shawnee National Forest are both gorgeous! Otherwise I've recently spent time in Sandusky Ohio, Put-in-Bay Ohio and the Lake Erie area. I'm sorry, I'm not sure I have a whole lot of suggestions for that specific route since I haven't personally done it. Best of luck on your road trip!

Alice Peace

Wednesday 27th of January 2021

Thank you for this! A road-trip in the States is definitely on the cards in the future.

Yay! How fun, Alice. I'm crossing my fingers it's soon!

Pamela Foester

Tuesday 12th of January 2021

I love exploring the Midwest, thanks for sharing.

You're so welcome, Pamela!

Tuesday 25th of August 2020

You missed a Gem of the Midwest. Part of the Driftless region on NE Iowa you need to check out the town of Decorah and the area around it. River bluffs, water falls, bike trails, 3 award winning breweries, big Scandinavian culture and museum.

Wednesday 26th of August 2020

Great suggestion! I've heard of Decorah but have never been!

Christa Ellis

Tuesday 9th of June 2020

I love that you included the Levi Coffin House. I have a post about it on my blog. Levi Coffin was a distant cousin to me through his grandmother Prudence Beals/Bales.

Friday 12th of June 2020

Oh very cool! What a small world, Christa! My pleasure to feature it. :)

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

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14 Midwest Towns Perfect For History Lovers

• Activities and Interests
• Destinations
• History and Culture
• Independence
• United States

America’s heart, the Midwest, is crammed full of natural wonders, charm, and loads of history. From its indigenous people to explorers, pioneers, and immigrants, Midwestern residents from the past left impactful legacies, and discovering these stories is one of the most rewarding parts of any trip, visit, or vacation.

Here are 14 Midwestern towns that have stood the test of time, and where rich, ingrained history can still be felt, experienced, and appreciated.

1. Independence, Missouri

Home to a U.S. President and stunning church headquarters, and once the center of westward expansion on the Santa Fe, California, and Oregon Trails, Independence teems with history, and you can see it around nearly every corner!

This was where President Harry S. Truman first became involved in politics. Today, you can tour the downtown courthouse where he served as a judge as well as his home — part of a National Historic Site — and his presidential library . The Community of Christ Temple , a modern glass and steel creation, rises above the town in dramatic fashion. Visitors are welcome here to learn more about the church’s beginnings in Independence and why it’s still so spiritually significant. 

A stop off at the National Frontier Trails Museum will help you better understand the shared experiences of men, women, and children heading west from Independence during the 1800s — with all of the trials, tribulations, and challenges they faced along the way.

To learn more about all of the fantastic things to see, do, and experience in Independence, Missouri, check out the city’s online visitors guide or visit our Independence content here .

2. Ste. Genevieve, Missouri

The oldest town in the state of Missouri, Ste. Genevieve is situated right along the Mississippi River and was founded in the 1700s by French settlers. Today, the town named for the patron saint of Paris still retains its European charm. It boasts many excellently preserved examples of French colonial architecture, including the Felix Valle House State Historic Site . Adding to the charm, the town still boasts narrow streets and fenced, lovely gardens, so you’ll really get that Old World feel.

For serious Francophiles, Ste. Genevieve’s festivals — which celebrate the town’s French roots and history — can’t be beat. The French Heritage Festival held in June, the Jour de Fete Arts & Crafts Festival in August, and the Le Reveillon Christmas Celebration are favorites of visitors and locals alike. 

3. Hermann, Missouri

While the French founded Ste. Gen, the Germans get the credit for settling another beloved Missouri town — Hermann . This small spot west of St. Louis was built into the bluffs above the Missouri River starting in the 1840s, and today it is well-known for its red brick buildings, cute shops and cafes, and almost a dozen wineries, making it the perfect weekend getaway !

Those wineries are pieces of history unto themselves: Many were founded by families who first settled in this area because it reminded them of the Rhine River Valley back in Germany. While Hermann is charming all year round, it’s bustling during Oktoberfest. Plan well ahead if you want to visit during that time. 

4. Carthage, Missouri

Located near Joplin, the southwestern Missouri town of Carthage is a historic gem that shines all on its own. A state historic site here commemorates the Battle of Carthage, which was the first full-scale skirmish of the Civil War. The town’s gorgeous courthouse is fun to explore and makes for the perfect selfie backdrop, and Carthage Historic Preservation , founded in 1978 by a group of concerned citizens, has done incredible work to preserve the numerous Victorian-era homes in town. In fact, three of the town’s districts are listed on the National Register of Historic Places! Want more? Consider our picks for the best things to see and do in Carthage .

5. Alton, Illinois

Alton , located right on the Mississippi River north of St. Louis, had a load of history, incredible natural beauty, and a record-breaking favorite son! Famous for its limestone bluffs which rise dramatically from the river, Alton has always been a trading town and shipping center. It was here in 1837 that Elijah Lovejoy lost his life in the battle for abolition, and his printing press was tossed in the river.

In 1858, a debate between then-candidate for U.S. Senate Abraham Lincoln and Stephen Douglas took place, and Alton was the hometown of Robert Wadlow, who was certified by the Guinness Book of World Records as the tallest man who ever lived (he was 8 feet, 11.5 inches tall!). Alton’s downtown is a delight, with many shops and cafes. Fast Eddie’s Bon Air is a crowd favorite, known for its burgers and cold beer.

6. Galena, Illinois

Named for the lead ore unearthed here long before colonial settlers arrived, Galena has a lot to offer any visitor. The Native Americans who lived here knew the land was rich in mineral resources; one of their burial mounds — 

Casper Bluff — isn’t far from town and can be visited today. A large swath of Galena is on the National Register of Historic Places. Among them is the place where President Ulysses S. Grant once lived . 

A walk along the town’s riverfront reminds you that this spot was once a major riverboat hub, and Galena’s charming, historic downtown is crammed with adorable boutiques, galleries, and places to grab a delicious bite to eat — or perhaps a glass of locally produced wine. Want to visit? Get planning with our seven reasons to visit Galena .

7. Springfield, Illinois

Another Illinois town with a presidential past, Springfield is a stand-out when it comes to history. Of course, the state capital city was Abraham Lincoln’s home, and it was here the country lawyer first became involved in politics. Today, the library that pays tribute to the nation’s 16th president features hands-on exhibits as well as artifacts and memorabilia from his time in office. You can also visit Lincoln’s Greek Revival-style former home and his final resting place in Springfield’s Oak Ridge Cemetery. The Lincoln Tomb is marked with an obelisk; Mary Todd Lincoln and three of the couple’s four sons are also buried here.

The Old State Capitol , where Lincoln served as a state lawmaker, is also worth a visit, as is the current state capitol building, with its statue of Honest Abe right out front. Read more to find out how to spend the perfect weekend in Springfield !

8. Nauvoo, Illinois

Nauvoo, Illinois , on the Mississippi River just across from southeastern Iowa, is full of spiritual significance and cultural history. In 1839, Joseph Smith, founder of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, brought his followers here to establish their temple. At one point, Nauvoo had thousands of residents: the church members as well as craftsmen, traders, and builders who came to support the booming community. 

But when Smith was killed and what remained of the church eventually left for Utah, the town became home to other settlers, including a French utopian society.

Today, the Joseph Smith Historic Site in Nauvoo includes a group of buildings and homes significant to the church’s early days; tours of them start at the Visitor’s Center. Not far from town, the Carthage jail where Smith’s murder took place is also open to visitors, and the church holds pageants every summer to commemorate the town’s history.

9. New Harmony, Indiana

The village of New Harmony in southern Indiana features loads of rich tradition, gorgeous architecture, and an extra helping of history. 

In 1814, a group of German immigrants seeking religious freedom founded the town. About 10 years later, they decided to head back east and sold New Harmony to a wealthy industrialist who sought to create a utopian society. Word got out and scientists, educators, and philosophers flooded the small spot on the Wabash River, leaving their legacy for generations to come.

At the Atheneum Visitors Center , you’ll learn all about these early settlers and can also sign up for a 2-hour walking tour. New Harmony’s homes, institutes, and galleries are beautifully preserved and are terrific places to explore! For more inspiration, consider our picks for how to spend a perfect day in quaint New Harmony . 

10. Davenport, Iowa

With its rolling bluffs off the Mississippi River, stunning Victorian mansions, and vibrant riverfront downtown, Davenport absolutely deserves a spot on our list. It’s the largest of the Quad Cities — located halfway between Chicago and Des Moines — with a vibrant arts and culture scene that blends seamlessly with its industrial riverboat past. Its riverfront features several parks that are perfect for walking, jogging, and biking, and the downtown Figge Art Museum is one of the best anywhere.

To really get a feel for Davenport’s past, a stop by the German American Heritage Center is essential. Here, you’ll learn all about the immigrants who made Davenport their home and helped build the city. Going to be in the Quad Cities? Don’t miss the best things to see and do in Davenport while you’re there.

11. Pella, Iowa

With its Dutch roots and fabulous tulip festival, the small town of Pella, Iowa , is a historic show-stopper! Its downtown district feels distinctly European with its Old World architecture and green spaces. The town’s heritage museums will introduce you to Pella’s Dutch founders and early residents, its Molengracht Plaza delights visitors with a working drawbridge and waterway, and the Vermeer Windmill is the tallest working grain mill in the U.S. (For a great bird’s eye view, take a tour and climb to the top!) 

Of course, you’ll want to sample Dutch delicacies including pastries, cheese, and sausage. When trip planning, keep in mind that each May, the town comes alive with thousands of brilliant blooming tulips. 

12. Lindsborg, Kansas

For another European experience without the hassle of a transcontinental flight, head to Lindsborg, Kansas . This small town south of Salina was founded by Swedish immigrants who came to the area in the late 1860s to farm. Today, the town boasts boutiques and galleries featuring Swedish art and gifts. You’ll delight in the dala horse sculptures (they are a national symbol of Sweden, after all!) placed throughout the town, and the architecture, with its distinct style and color, definitely resembles what you’d find in Stockholm or Gothenburg. 

Plan to save plenty of room for Swedish meatballs, waffles, pancakes, and other traditional cuisine, and if you plan to visit in October, make it during an odd-numbered year so you can enjoy the biennial Svensk Hyllningsfest, a large festival that celebrates all things Swedish. Interest piqued? Here’s why you should discover Little Sweden in Lindsborg, Kansas .

13. Abilene, Kansas

Lots of visitors to Abilene, Kansas , really like Ike! After all, this is where America’s 34th president, Dwight D. Eisenhower, grew up and where his Presidential Library, Museum, and Boyhood Home are all located. While you can certainly retrace the leader’s steps and pay tribute to him at his final resting place on the library’s grounds, there are other great things to do and see in Abilene, too.

Keep in mind: This is a true Wild West town, complete with cattle drives, saloons, and an interesting array of sheriffs — including wild Bill Hickok! To learn more about Abilene’s rough-and-tumble past, head to the Dickinson County Heritage Center , where you can also try your hand at horseback — on the historic carousel housed here, that is! The town’s grand Seeyle Mansion , fully furnished in period items, is also worth a visit and tour. Learn much more about Abilene beyond Ike here .

14. Mineral Point, Wisconsin

Wisconsin’s third-oldest city, Mineral Point , is something special. Strolling its streets, you’ll feel as if you’ve been transported to Britain. That’s because once lead and zinc were discovered in town, miners from Cornwall emigrated to the area to work the ground. They built the charming stone cottages that can still be found in Mineral Point today; Pendarvis House , a Wisconsin Historic Site, is an excellent example. The story of how it was saved from the ravages of time is one you won’t soon forget.

Mineral Point also has a vibrant arts scene and lots of terrific dining options. Make sure to try a traditional Cornish pasty and, of course, cheese curds. You are in Wisconsin, after all!

Communication done well has always been Erika’s career focus. She’s served as a publicist and PR expert for several non-profit organizations based in St. Louis. Prior to that, she was an Emmy Award–winning television newscast producer.

When she’s not training for her next race or packing for another trip, you’ll find Erika hanging out with her husband, son, and personal zoo, which includes a King Charles Cavalier Spaniel, two cats, and a grumpy pygmy hedgehog.

13 Marvelous Midwest Road Trips (Itinerary Ideas + Tips!)

Of all the regions of the USA, there’s a good chance that (for non-locals) the Midwest is the most surprising–and that alone is an excellent reason to plan a Midwest road trip!

Packed with diverse national and state parks, incredible beaches (yes, beaches!), interesting cities, a seemingly endless array of quaint lighthouses and charming small towns, and so much more, the Midwest is far more than “flyover country”.

Sure, many of the best road trips in the Midwest require a lot of time on the interstate.

And yes, visiting in winter probably isn’t optimal for most first-time visitors.

But, if you’ve never visited the region before, any of these incredible Midwest road trip routes–many of them written by locals–are bound to leave you enchanted.

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

We asked several other travel bloggers to share their favorite Midwest USA road trip ideas with us, and they delivered a remarkably diverse set of routes, perfect for everything from weekend getaways to long vacations.

From the wide-open spaces of Theodore Roosevelt National Park in North Dakota to the stunning architecture of Chicago to the historic charm of Mackinac Island, there are so many incredible places to visit in the Midwest.

We have offered suggestions for the best hotels in each place but if you are doing this as a true road trip it is really cool to do it in an RV. You can rent incredible RVs and camper vans from Outdoorsy, book here for your next road trip!

Here are some of the best Midwest road trip itineraries to consider for your next vacation!

Table of Contents

Quick Tips for Taking Your Midwest Road Trip

Single-state midwest road trip itineraries, multi-state road trips in the midwest.

Don’t underestimate the driving distances.

The Midwest is an expansive region with lots of wide open spaces, and that can lend itself to drives that are longer than some visitors might expect!

Be sure to check estimated driving times carefully when planning your route, and build in plenty of stops to stretch your legs.

… And also to check out the many quirky roadside attractions in the region, like the Corn Palace in South Dakota or the American Gothic House in Iowa!

If you’re renting a car, shop around.

The best company to rent a car from for your Midwest road trip will likely vary dramatically depending on where and when you’re traveling.

Sometimes large international carriers offer the best prices, sometimes local outfits. Sometimes one company has an excellent base price, but terrible rental requirements.

The best way to find your rental car is to search through  Discover Cars , which will sift through dozens of companies to find the best combination of low prices and reasonable rental terms for your road trip route.

Browse rental cars  for your Midwestern USA road trip today!

Read the rental requirements carefully.

Especially make sure you know how many miles you’ve been allotted (or ideally, if they’re unlimited), if you need to return the car empty or full of fuel, what to do if the car breaks down, and what damages you’re liable for in the event of an accident.

Make sure you pack the right gear.

From safety gear to snacks, a road trip in the Midwest requires bringing the right tools along, whether you’re taking a short vacation, trying out van life, or something in between.

We recommend taking a look at the suggestions on  our road trip packing list  before you go!

Don’t overextend yourself.

Exploring all of the incredible places to visit in the Midwest is a project for a lifetime, not one trip!

As tempting as it is to add on additional driving to stop at just one more waterfall, lighthouse, or small town, make sure that you leave enough time to thoroughly explore each destination rather than spending the entirety of your vacation driving from one spot to the next.

Be prepared to be surprised!

If this is your first trip to the Midwest, there’s a good chance that its diversity and beauty will enchant you in all the best ways.

When exploring the Midwest, beautiful beaches, delicious food, gorgeous fall foliage, incredibly warm people, and dynamic cities–among many other treasures–are just around the corner.

South Dakota State + National Parks Road Trip

From Allison of Eternal Arrival

One of the best Midwest road trips is a loop from Rapid City, South Dakota making stops in its two national parks, as well as Custer State Park!

This is an easy road trip that you can do in as little as 4 days, but you can also make it part of a larger  South Dakota road trip itinerary .

Start in Rapid City to begin your trip and then make your way first to Wall, SD.

This fun little town is a great place to stop at Wall Drug Store for scenic photos in an Old West-feeling setting.

From there, head through Badlands National Park from the Northeast Entrance, taking the 30-mile Badlands Loop Road and stopping at as many overlooks as possible!

Depart via the Pinnacles Entrance and then make your way to Wind Cave National Park.

Wind Cave National Park is beautiful but there must be some advance planning as you need advance reservations to visit Wind Cave.

Book your reservation for one of the 3 tours, ranging from moderate to hard difficulty, on the  NPS website here . 

After visiting Wind Cave, swing up north towards Custer State Park for one of the final stops on this South Dakota tour.

Custer State Park in the Black Hills is home to lots of stunning wildlife, including bison, pronghorn antelope, and elk. Bring your binoculars and a zoom lens!

Finally, drive back to Rapid City to end your road trip.

Driving Distance

Recommended road trip length.

At a minimum, you should spend at least 2 days in Badlands National Park, 1 day in Wind Cave National Park, and 1 day in Custer State Park.

This road trip can be done easily in 4 days, but you can stretch it out to a week and visit other sites like Mt. Rushmore, the Black Hills National Forest, Keystone, and Crazy Horse.

Ohio Road Trip Along Lake Erie’s Coast

From Theresa of Fueled By Wanderlust

One of the Midwest’s best road trips is  driving Ohio’s Lake Erie coast   from Cleveland to Marblehead for gorgeous lake views, beautiful sunsets, and lots of local history.

Beginning in downtown Cleveland, spend a day exploring the Rock n Roll Hall of Fame, Old Arcade, and West Side Market. 

Depart Cleveland the next day via Route 2, with several lakefront parks to your right. 

Edgewater Park and Lakewood Park offer Cleveland skyline views, while Edgewater Park and Huntington Reservation have pretty beaches. 

Continue for thirty minutes towards Lorain, OH, transitioning over to Route 6. 

While being a rust belt city, Lorain also offers a broad beach at Lakeview Park and the charming Lorain Harbor Lighthouse. 

Literature fans may also know it as Toni Morrison’s hometown and the setting of  The Bluest Eye .

Vermilion, the next town over, is a quaint location for an overnight stay. 

Its small downtown has an old-timey feel, with historic storefronts and a soda shop. 

Take a stroll down Main Street for elegant dining at Chez Francois, and to see tiny Vermilion Lighthouse and its adjacent beach.

After leaving Vermilion, continue down Route 6 for a short rural break until you reach Sandusky. 

After consuming Asian fusion food and craft beer at Small City Taphouse, walk 10 minutes to the Maritime Museum of Sandusky. 

This museum features exhibits on the Battle of Lake Erie and Sandusky’s role in the Underground Railroad. 

If you love roller coasters, plan an extra day in Sandusky to catch thrills at Cedar Point.

Finally, drive 30 more minutes to the tip of the Marblehead Peninsula to reach the 200-year-old Marblehead Lighthouse. 

This beauty is the oldest continuously running lighthouse on the Great Lakes.

With no stops,  this drive  takes a little over 2.5 hours. 

However, I recommend slowing down over a long weekend to fully enjoy each stop.

North Dakota Road Trip (Fargo to Theodore Roosevelt National Park)

From Anwar of Beyond My Door

Many people overlook North Dakota, however, the state has a plethora of road trip-worthy sites.

Starting in Fargo, visiting the town that is unfairly characterized by the movie of the same name, visitors can enjoy this hip small city of the north.

Be sure to check out the Plains Arts Museum and the wonderful contemporary, traditional, and folk art of the region.

For those with more time, a quick stop in adjacent Moorhead MN, and the Hjemkomst Center, visitors can connect with the local Scandinavian culture through this incredible boat journey.

From Fargo, head west stopping in Jamestown, to see the old wild west town and the largest buffalo.

Similar to many other big roadside attractions throughout the state.

From here, visitors can detour slightly north and visit interesting Lewis and Clark expedition sites such as Fort Mandan (where Lewis and Clark wintered) and the nearby Knife River Indian Villages known as the birthplace of Sacajawea.

Both can easily be visited on the same day before heading on towards Bismarck.

Bismarck, the capital but smaller and sleepier than Fargo has a cute downtown as well as beautiful nature nearby.

But if you are pressed for time save the nature exploration until you head to  Theodore Roosevelt NP , 2 hours west of the capital.

Named for the 26th president, the park protects North Dakotan Badlands and local flora and fauna such as bison.

The park is divided into two non-connected units and at least 2 days are worth spending in the park.

But if you have very limited time, the South Unit has more diversity of sights.

For those with more time and desire to explore local history, a quick stop at Fort Union Trading Post (90 minutes from the north unit) is worth a look at the fur trade and one of the most important forts in the mid-1800s.

About 550 miles, plus time in the national park. 

This Midwest road trip can be anywhere from 4 to 8+ days.

It’s recommended to spend at least 2 days in Fargo, a day en route to Bismarck, 1-2 days in and around Bismarck, and another 2-3 days in Theodore Roosevelt NP. 

Minnesota’s Iron Range

From Susan of This Big Wild World

Have you heard of Minnesota’s Iron Range ?

Stretching from central Minnesota and north to the border of Canada, the region is home to some of the best mountain biking in the country, excellent hiking, and the pristine wilderness of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area.

This Midwest road trip itinerary starts and ends in Minneapolis, which is a city worth exploring!

Enjoy an afternoon at a Minnesota Twins baseball game or paddling the lakes in the heart of the city. 

Next, head to Crosby which is part of Cuyuna Country. What once were mining pits are now crystal clear lakes surrounded by mountain biking trails for all levels.

Spend a day paddle boarding or kayaking the lakes or cruising the trails. Gear rentals are available in Crosby.

From there, drive to Ely which is a gateway into the Boundary Waters.

This area is among the most beautiful and remote wilderness in the US, best explored by canoe. Find guides and outfitters in Ely for gear and permits.

For hiking, try the Norberg Lake Trail at nearby Bear Head Lake State Park or the Bass Lake Loop Trail. 

Duluth is a harbor town on Lake Superior, offering easy access to popular destinations along Minnesota’s north shore.

Be sure to watch for the big ships entering the harbor near Canal Park, relax on the beach at Park Point, and stop at one of the many breweries in town.

Ursa Minor and Bent Paddle are local favorites!

These destinations are just 2-3 hours apart and have tons to explore.

Spend a minimum of 1 day in each of the 4 destinations for a 4-5 day trip.

Or, take your time and spend up to 3 days in each destination for a 7-10 day road trip.

Badlands National Park Scenic Road Trip

From Theresa of The Local Tourist

At only39 miles, the Badlands Loop State Scenic Byway is a short but mighty road trip in South Dakota. 

Driving through Badlands National Park  is a surreal experience.

You’ll feel like you’re on another planet instead on a road trip in the Midwest USA.

The drive begins in Cactus Flat at Exit 131 off I-90. You’ll know you’re nearing the exit because you’ll begin seeing sand-colored buttes, spires, and cliffs to the south.

After taking the exit, it’s a short distance to enter Badlands National Park.

Before you even get to the Ben Reifel Visitor Center, you’ll see a few overlooks and trailheads.

The visitor center itself is a great place to get your bearings, take a bathroom break, and get something to eat at the restaurant next door.

From there, you’ll continue west through the otherworldly landscape.

In addition to the unique formations, you’re also likely to encounter pronghorn antelope, bighorn sheep, bison, and prairie dogs.

The road ends at Wall, which is a destination in its own right with its famous, or infamous, Wall Drug.

You could drive straight through in about an hour, but what’s the fun in that?

For a more immersive experience, camp at one of the two campgrounds within the park and take some day hikes.

Michigan’s Upper Peninsula

From Linda of Midwest Explored

Easily one of the best road trips in the Midwest USA, a drive through Michigan’s upper peninsula is a must-do.

Start one of the best Michigan road trips of them all by crossing Mackinac Bridge into the Upper Peninsula.

If you want, leave your car behind and enjoy all that Mackinac Island has to offer before continuing on.

After all, this island is completely car-free and features top attractions like Fort Mackinac and Arch Rock. 

Next, continue onto the peninsula and check out the natural beauty of Kitch-iti-kipi, an incredible local spring with crystal-clear waters.

Then, hop back on the road and drive to Porcupine Wilderness State Park.

It’s a wonderful area with stellar views of Lake Superior, gorgeous local waterfalls, and 90+ miles of trails that will take you through vast old-growth forests. 

From here, drive until you hit Marquettethe.

It’s known for being the largest city in this UP (Upper Peninsula for all the non-Michiganders out there) and is a great place to explore Presque Isle Park, Sugarloaf Mountain, and Lakenenland Sculpture Park. 

Finally, conclude your road trip at the Pictured Lakes National Lakeshore with its dynamic natural landscape.

Be sure to explore the multicolored Pictured Rocks cliffs, Miners Castle, Chapel Rock sandstone formations, and Twelvemile Beach.

While this road trip isn’t long, taking around 2 hours to drive, plan on devoting between 3 and 5 days to this trip.

You could definitely spend an entire day on Mackinac Island alone!

Mount Rushmore to the Badlands, South Dakota

From Candice of CS Ginger

Mount Rushmore to the Badlands of South Dakota is a fantastic Midwest road trip route.

While there’s a sad story behind the impressive facade of Mount Rushmore, there’s no doubt that visiting the monument and associated museum is an incredible experience.

After visiting Mount Rushmore and touring all it has to offer, you will travel to the Badlands National Park.

Badlands National Park is a very beautiful and unique area.

There are really fun hiking trails in the Badlands , and it is a great place to visit with your family. 

You will be surprised at all the animals the Badlands offer.

You can see big horn sheep, buffalo, and the famous prairie dog area where you will see lots of prairie dogs. You can get very close to the prairie dogs but don’t touch them or get too close!

If you want to stay in the park, you will need to stay at Cedar Pass Lodge in one of their rental cabins. 

There are some hotels and camping options close by, but the Cedar Pass Lodge is the only option if you are looking at staying inside the park.

This is a classic road trip in the Midwest, and a fantastic way to spend a long weekend (or longer!).

About 80 miles.

We recommend spending at least 3 days enjoying this road trip in South Dakota, though 4-5 days would be better if you have more than a long weekend to work with.

Missouri + Southern Illinois Road Trip

From Tori of Tori Pines Travels

When planning a road trip in the Midwest, you won’t want to miss Missouri and Southern Illinois.

The perfect road trip includes a variety of cities filled with activities, nature to explore, and delicious food to eat, and you’ll find plenty of that here.

Start in Kansas City, Missouri where you’ll visit the American Jazz Museum and Money Museum.

For the famous Kansas City BBQ, check out Gates Bar-B-Q and order burnt ends.

Spend two nights here, before continuing east across the state to St. Louis. 

A weekend in St. Louis is the perfect amount of time.

Start at the country’s smallest national park, The Gateway Arch National Park, ride the tram to the top for incredible views over the city.

The free museum teaches the history of St. Louis and its title as the gateway to the west.

That night, visit Busch Field for a Cardinals game with the arch as your backdrop.

For kids, and kids at heart, spend a few hours at the City Museum, the most unique children’s museum you’ll find.

Fill the rest of your time with visits to the free activities, the St. Louis Zoo, St. Louis Art Museum, and Missouri History Museum!

Eat some of St. Louis’s staples, toasted ravioli, St. Louis Style pizza, St. Louis style ribs, and gooey butter cake.

Finish off the road trip by venturing across the river into Illinois to Shawnee National Forest.

The draw here is the Garden of the Gods which features fun dog-friendly hikes and super unique rock formations.

The whole trip should take about 5 to 6 days, and will only require about 6.5 hours of driving.

Great Cities of the Midwest Road Trip Loop

From Lisa of Waves and Cobblestones

Looking for a fun road trip itinerary in the Midwest?   

Making a round trip from Chicago, Illinois to Milwaukee and Madison in Wisconsin will give you a great sampling of museums, architecture, and natural beauty to enjoy.

Start your road trip in Chicago, Illinois. One of the undisputed best experiences here is the architectural river cruise . 

Your vantage point from the river gives you great views of the skyscrapers, and you’ll learn a lot about Chicago’s architecture and history.

Chicago is also home to several fantastic museums, including the famous Art Institute of Chicago.

The Field Museum is the home of Sue, the largest Tyrannosaurus rex specimen ever discovered.

Your next stop is Madison, Wisconsin. This college town is also the capital of Wisconsin. 

The Capitol building is incredible and is free to tour. Be sure to take in the panoramic city views from the observation deck!

One of the  best things to do in Madison   is to visit the Olbrich Botanical Gardens. 

The outdoor areas of the garden are free to visit. Don’t miss the phenomenal Thai pavilion and garden – this is definitely the garden’s highlight!

Continue on to Milwaukee, Wisconsin. 

Enjoy local favorites like bratwurst and fried cheese curds (and perhaps a local beer) at Old World 3 rd  Street. 

Then take a stroll along the downtown Riverwalk and enjoy the public art including ‘The Bronz Fonz’.

Spend an afternoon at one of Milwaukee’s museums, such as the world’s only Harley-Davidson Museum. 

Be sure to take a look at the amazing architecture of the Milwaukee Art Museum, with its Burke Brise Soleil ‘wings’.

320 miles round-trip.

Recommend Road Trip Length

This Midwest road trip itinerary will take you about a week since you’ll want to spend a minimum of 2 days in each city. 

Route 66 Road Trip Through the Midwest (Chicago to Oklahoma)

From Kylie of Between England and Iowa

The classic US road trip Route 66 starts in Chicago Illinois and passes through the Midwestern states of Missouri and Kansas before crossing into Oklahoma and continuing west all the way to Los Angeles, California. 

Of course, it’s quicker to travel on the Interstate but the heart of the road trip is to follow the original route across the country.

Travelers could easily spend a couple of days exploring Chicago alone, but it’s at least worthwhile checking out the Route 66 BEGIN sign at E Adams St and S Michigan Ave.

The stretch across Illinois between  Chicago to St Louis   can take upwards of 12 hours, especially if stopping at several of the different points of interest. 

When the Interstate was built, it bypassed all the small towns along the route.

To encourage travelers to come back many of the towns created unique roadside attractions.

Today, you can find a mixture of historic buildings that were part of the original Route 66 as well as the unique attractions from the time after the Interstate was built.

Some highlights between Chicago, IL, and Catoosa, OK include The Gemini Giant (Wilmington, IL), Pontiac, IL, the Chain of Rocks Bridge, IL, Gateway Arch National Park (St. Louis, MO), the World’s Largest Rocking Chair (Fanning, MO), Cars On The Route (Galena, KS) and the Blue Whale (Catoosa, OK).

Approximately 700 miles.

This road trip could be done in around 3 days (overnight stops in St Louis, MO, and Carthage, MO).

However, with the addition of spending time exploring the larger cities of Chicago and St. Louis, it is better to take around 5 or 6 days.

Great Lakes Road Trip in Wisconsin + Michigan

From Jenifer of The Evolista

One of the best Midwestern road trip journeys is a National Lakeshore Road Trip to visit 2 of the best kayaking trips in the US , Apostle Islands National Lakeshore and Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore.

Apostle Islands National Lakeshore is a spectacularly beautiful area in the most northern part of Wisconsin that has a 12-mile stretch of mainland rocky cliffs with sea caves and a chain of 21 islands.

It also has the distinction of having the most lighthouses in the USA.

A kayak tour of the mainland sea caves will take you to the prettiest spots around the reddish sandstone shoreline.

You will cruise through incredible caves in turquoise water and can also hike the Lakeshore Trail through old-growth forest for a different vantage point.

On your way to Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, break up the drive with a day at Porcupine Mountains State Park where you’ll find waterfalls, tons of hiking trails, and gorgeous views, especially for fall foliage.

It adds an extra hour of drive time but it’s completely worth it.

When you arrive in Munising, you’ll be treated to Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore’s towering multi-colored cliffs, bright blue waters, and hidden caves.

On a kayak tour, you can paddle to Lovers Leap Arch, Chapel Rock, Battleship Row, and sea caves. Or hike the Chapel Loop Trail to get even more incredible views. 

But this place isn’t all about the rocks. Don’t miss Twelvemile Beach for a traditional beach day or enjoy the sunset at Sandpoint beach.

And you’ll also find beautiful waterfalls at Munising Falls and Miner’s Falls. 

This road trip in the Midwest takes approximately 6 hours of driving.

Plan at least 4 days to be able to do daily activities and a week to enjoy at a more leisurely pace.

Kansas City, Omaha + Des Moines Road Trip Loop

From Sage of Everyday Wanderer

There are many things to love about Kansas City — flowing fountains, tree-lined boulevards, and the world’s best barbeque.

So before you head north on this road trip loop through America’s Heartland, be sure you’ve hit all of the highlights in the Chiefs Kingdom. 

Start with the Liberty Memorial. This 217-foot tall limestone tower surrounded by acres of green space honors those who perished in World War I and is home to the only museum dedicated to the Great War.

It’s also one of the best places to view the Kansas City skyline. 

Then head to the Country Club Plaza where you can shop, dine, and admire Spanish-inspired architecture and several of the city’s most renowned fountains.

Then stroll through the sculpture garden, explore the glass maze, and snap a selfie with one of four, oversized badminton shuttlecocks at the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art.

And you certainly won’t want to leave town without eating your fill of Kansas City barbeque .

The next stop is Nebraska’s biggest city, Omaha, about three hours to the north.

Walk across the Missouri River – a natural border between Nebraska and Iowa – on the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge.

Then enjoy The RiverFront connecting river to Downtown Omaha with lush green space, pet-friendly areas, a sculpture garden, and more.

Fuel up at a cafe or eatery in the Old Market, and don’t miss the world-renowned Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium.

The capital city of Des Moines is about two hours east of Omaha.

Stretch your legs after the drive by wandering through Pappajohn Sculpture Park or strolling through the botanical garden.

Tour the gold-domed capitol building, and learn more about Iowa’s biggest city with an interactive scavenger hunt.

Outdoor enthusiasts will want to hike or bike the Des Moines River Trail, and foodies will want to compare the barbeque at Flying Mango to what they enjoyed in Kansas City.

On the way back to Kansas City, stop in Pella. With its working grain windmill, Dutch bakeries, and thousands of tulips in the spring, you’ll feel as if you’ve been transported to the Netherlands while exploring the middle of America.

580  miles.

We recommend enjoying this Midwest road trip itinerary over the course of a week, in order to allow about 2 days per city.

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

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Home » Travel Guides » United States » Missouri (MO) » 15 Best Small Towns to Visit in Missouri

15 Best Small Towns to Visit in Missouri

A southern Midwestern state in the US, Missouri is sprawling with grassy plains and the forests of the Ozark Mountains. Deeply steeped in the history of the westward expansion, the state is filled with parks, outdoor activities, historic places and museums awaiting your visit.

Head out to explore Missouri’s small towns to experience some good old fashioned Southern charm as you get to know more about this fascinating state.

Lets explore the best small towns to visit in Missouri :

1. Parkville, Missouri

Parkville is located in Platte County, in the northwest part of the state. The town is named after George Park, the man who purchased the steamboat landing on the Missouri River in 1838 and donated land overlooking the Missouri River that would later become Park University. A town with a history dating back to the westward expansion, it is also well known for its antique shops, art galleries and historic downtown buildings.

Take a stroll down Main Street and check out the restaurants and eateries. Parkville also hosts many festivals through the year that are always a fun experience. Check out Christmas on the River, Parkville Days, or the Farmers Market for some wholesome fun. Enjoy some old fashioned sweets at Old Town Sweets and Antiques, a winning combination for all ages. Don’t leave your wallet at the hotel, you’ll need it when you browse Chaos Boutique, a classy, vintage boutique shop.

2. Boonville, Missouri

A town located in Cooper County, Boonville gets its name from Nathan and Daniel Boone, sons of the famous explorer Daniel Boone who came out west to establish their salt business in the early 1800s in the area near the town. It was first settled in 1810 but not formally laid out until after the War of 1812. Located on the Sante Fe Trail and Missouri River, Booneville has been home called home by many historic people: David Barton and William Ash to name a few. It was even the grounds of a brief battle in the Civil War in which the Union forces prevailed.

Come to Boonville and discover the southern charms enjoyed by those before you. Warm Springs Ranch is located nearby, as is Katy Trail State Park, a prime location for both hiking and biking. Grab your camera and walk across Katy Bridge to get some great shots of the Missouri River, or just appreciate the view. Have a drink at Mainstreet Pub or some ice cream at Carrie Lyn’s Ice Cream Parlor. You can kick back at A Touch of Claas Salon, Spa and B&B for a few days and enjoy some authentic Southern hospitality.

3. Ste. Genevieve, Missouri

Founded by French Canadian colonists, Ste. Genevieve was the first organized European settlement on the west side of the Mississippi River and is the oldest permanent European settlement in Missouri. Named for the patron saint of Paris, Ste. Genevieve was briefly shifted from French to Spanish control following the French and Indian War, even though it never lost its French customs or character.

What could be more charming than Southern hospitality with French flair? You won’t be disappointed here. Visit the old historic sites in the old part of town: Bolduc House Museum or Felix Valle House State Historic Site. In true French form, there are many wineries awaiting your visit: Crown Valley Winery, Watertower Winery or Weingarten Vineyard. Go for a hike at Hickory Canyons and have a delicious meal at Midway Bar & Grill. Put your feet up and relax at Inn St Gemme Beauvais, it feels like you’re in France without having to take the long flight.

4. Rocheport, Missouri

Located in Bonne County, Rocheport is a tiny town that was a former trading post for settlers and Native Americans during frontier days. “Rocky port” in French, Lewis and Clark explored this region on their famous trip west. Ideally located for cyclists, it’s near the middle of the Katy Trail, the 225 mile long bike path stretching across Missouri to replace a former railroad right of way.

Stay at the Amber House, a cute B&B in a restored historic house. Schedule a massage at their in-house massage studio and relax! You can head into town to check out the Art & Antiques and Blacksmith shop, or go wine tasting and Les Bourgeois Winery and Tasting Room. We’re sure you’ll be as thrilled here as Lewis and Clark were when they passed through.

5. Fulton, Missouri

Originally settled in 1808, Fulton is located along the Missouri River in Callaway County. Fondly referred to as “the Kingdom of Callaway” by the locals, this nickname was spawned during the American Civil War, when local troops and settlers defended the county against the invading Union troops. Even though it was all mostly illusion – artillery was simulated by handing logs near campfires – a ceasefire was negotiated and this strong sense of regional pride was cemented.

This local pride and spirit can be felt to this day. If you walk through downtown, quaint buildings and shops awaiting you. Have a pint and chat with the locals about their colorful history at Killabrews Pub, or go wine tasting at Serenity Valley Winery. You’ll find it easy to relax here, and can stay at the quaint B&B, Loganberry Inn, to make the most out of your trip.

6. Hannibal, Missouri

Located next to the Mississippi River, Hannibal is in Marion County at the intersection of Interstate 72 and US Routes 24, 36, 61. Don’t let the name dissuade you, Hannibal is a delightful town that is known as the childhood home of Mark Twain, and the setting for his books, The Adventures of Tom Sawyer and The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn. People from all over the world flock here to visit the Mark Twain Boyhood Home & Museum, which has been open for over 100 years now!

Relive Mark Twain’s life and live like a king for a few days at Garth Woodside Mansion Estate, a local B&B. Visit the Mark Twain Cave and Cameron Cave, or do the fun Ghost and Vampire Tours! Take a boat ride along the Mississippi or re-read your favorite Twain novel at the Hannibal Free Public Library. Enjoy all this literary town has to offer.

7. Weston, Missouri

Located in Platte County, Weston is home to McCormick Distilling Company, founded in 1956 and the oldest whiskey distillery west of the Mississippi. It was also the leading producer of industrial hemp until the law prohibited it in 1937. You’re guaranteed to love the fun-loving spirit of this town – they how to have a good time!

Visit the Weston Bend State Park and enjoy the peace that nature can provide. Once you’ve gotten your exercise in, hit the town and start touring their wineries and breweries, you’ve got plenty of options from which to choose! Vox Vineyards, Weston Wine Company or O’Malley’s Pub to name a few. You can always sleep in and wake up gradually the next day and take it easy while shopping at the Country Peddler.

8. Hermann, Missouri

Near the center of the Missouri Rhineland in Gasconade County, Hermann is the commercial center of the Hermann American Viticultural Area that produces around one-third of the state’s wine. Many of these vineyards were established by German immigrants during the 1800s and were only revived in the 1960s to repair the damage done to them by Prohibition. Don’t worry, it’s all be put to rights now and the town fully embraces its wine heritage again.

An ideal location for wine lovers, come out for Maifest in May or Oktoberfest in October. The town also makes some tasty sausages in keeping true to its German roots. Visit Stone Hill Winery, the largest winery business in the state, you can also drive out to Adam Puchta Winery, the oldest continually family owned winery in the US. While we know you could drive wine all day, you can also take a break and get some exercise in along the Katy Trail before continuing your tastings.

9. Carthage, Missouri

Carthage is located in Jasper County, Missouri. It is named after Ancient Carthage, and is also the site of the Battle of Carthage in 1861, a fight between the North and South during the American Civil War. There was a second Battle of Carthage again 1863 which resulted in the defeat of the Confederates as well as a handful of other skirmishes during the Civil War. On a happier note, it is nicknamed “America’s Maple Leaf City” and holds a festival each October named for the many maple trees that grow in the town.

Come visit Carthage to experience the history here. Apart from the Civil War battlefield, famous US highway 66 used to run through town. People continue to make the trip out to Carthage to see these well-known landmarks. Check them out and don’t forget to stop at the Precious Moments hotel and store, sure to bring a smile to anyone’s face. The Jasper County Courthouse is also worth a visit if you can stop by.

10. Arrow Rock, Missouri

A small town by the Missouri River, Arrow Rock is in Saline County. A key location in westward expansion, Arrow Rock is listed in the National Register of Historic Places. Several locations are sites on the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail and the Santa Fe National Historic Trail and just begging for you to retrace their steps and explore them again.

Come visit this village and feel like you’ve stepped into the 19th century – much of it retains the character from that century. Catch a spectacular performance at the Lyceum Theatre and bring your walking shoes to explore those famous trails. Stay at Bunny’s Bed and Breakfast while you’re there and enjoy a delicious meal at Catalpa.

11. Kimmswick, Missouri

Located in Jefferson County, Kimmswick is just 25 miles south of St Louis and far enough away to feel like a getaway without being so far that you lose half your vacation in travel time. The town was founded in 1859 by a mechant from St. Louis, Theordor Kimm. The Mississippi River provided an efficient means of travel for this town and kept Kimmswick lively and growing. However, the town was almost swept away by the same river in the 1970s during the construction of Interstate 55.

Fortunately, Kimmswick’s history and architecture was saved and it is a now a popular holiday destination. Featuring many antique and craft stores, there is plenty to keep you busy during your stay. Also be sure to try the Blue Owl, a well-known restaurant even mentioned by Oprah in her magazine! For those autumn lovers, the town hosts an Applebutter Festival in late October.

12. Cuba, Missouri

No, we’re not talking about a Caribbean vacation in the heart of Missouri. Cuba, named after the island, is located towards the interior of the state, in Crawford County. A once-popular destination along Route 66, it was even visited by President Truman and Amelia Earhart!

Nowadays, come visit Cuba and stay at the historic Wagon Wheel Motel and Crawford County History Museum. Have some delicious barbeque at Missouri Hick Barbecue, or stop in at Shellies Route 66 Cafe  for a blast from the past. There are also good antiquing options at Two Olde Crow’s Antique Mall for those antiquing enthusiasts.

13. Lexington, Missouri

Retrace the steps of Santa Fe Trail traders or Civil War soldiers and visit Lexington. Located in Lafayette County, the town is 40 miles east of Kansas City. It was also the site of two of the largest battles of the American Civil war, the Battle of Lexington and the Battle of Hemp Bales. The town never recovered from the war and was soon overshadowed by Kansas City as the economic hub in the region, but there are plenty of sites here for the tourists.

Shop  in their specialty stores or antique shops, and visit the old battlefields. Walk through town to see the historic courthouse and antebellum homes, or visit any of their lovely orchards and wineries. Enjoy a cone at Big Muddy Ice cream Parlor and relax at Ca di Giorgio B7B, a delightful Italianate home. Put your feet up for a few days, you deserve it!

14. Washington, Missouri

A town on the Missouri River, Washington is in Franklin County. As the name implies, it was named after George Washington once control of the town shifted from the Spanish to the Americans. Family and friends of Daniel Boone soon started settling in the area, many of them abolitionists, making this town a strong supporter of the Union during the Civil War despite its southern location.

Take a walk around the James W Rennick Riverfront Park or down to John G’s Bier Deck. Fort Charrette Historic Village is also worth the visit before you head over to the Fudge Shoppe for some sweets. Have a drink or two at the Old Dutch Tavern and shop at Addi’s. Finally, unwind over a meal at the Blue Duck and spend the night at the DeBourge Guesthouse.

15. Branson, Missouri

Located in Taney County, Branson is in the Ozark Mountains. It was named after Ruben Branson, a general store owner in the area in the late 1800s. It is a popular destination for visitors from the state and surrounding areas, and is home to many entertainment theatres that keep the tourists coming back.

Visit Branson Landing, on the Lake Taneycomo waterfront in downtown Branson. Bring your fishing gear and or wallet to shop at the outdoor mall there along the pier. Take a trip to the Branson Scenic Railway at the old depot while you’re at the waterfront, it’s across from the landing. Go see a show at the Sight and Sound Theatres and check out the Ralph Foster Museum. Start with a show or concert and make a night out of it before retiring for the night at the Cabins at Green Mountains for a peaceful retreat.

15 Best Small Towns to Visit in Missouri:

• Parkville, Missouri
• Boonville, Missouri
• Ste. Genevieve, Missouri
• Rocheport, Missouri
• Fulton, Missouri
• Hannibal, Missouri
• Weston, Missouri
• Hermann, Missouri
• Carthage, Missouri
• Arrow Rock, Missouri
• Kimmswick, Missouri
• Cuba, Missouri
• Lexington, Missouri
• Washington, Missouri
• Branson, Missouri

• Last Updated On
• November 6, 2023

17 Fun Things to Do in Missouri with Kids — Best Family Friendly Attractions!

If you’re searching for the magic in the heartland, you’ve come to the right place. 

As a local from the Show-Me State, I’ve danced with delight in every nook and cranny of this gem we call Missouri. 

Believe me when I say this place has pizzazz.

Whether you’ve got curious little ones toddling around or teenagers who think they’ve seen it all, I guarantee that Missouri will surprise and dazzle. 

Get ready to craft a tapestry of vibrant memories. 

Need a roadmap? 

Say no more.

I’ve got the inside scoop on the most fun things to do in Missouri with kids. 

Let this be your local guide, and let’s make your family adventure unforgettable. 

Fun Things To Do In Missouri With Kids Compared 

Ready for unforgettable moments? 

Check out our top picks for the best things to do in Missouri with kids. 

Editor’s Choice

Sea Life Missouri is an aquarium in Kansas City, showcasing over 5,000 sea creatures with interactive touch pools and underwater tunnels.

• Age Compatibility: Toddlers (1-3 years old)
• Educational Value: 3/5
• Fun Factor: 4/5
• Accessibility: 5/5
• Affordability: 3/5

#2nd Best Choice

St Louis City Museum

St Louis City Museum is a unique playground and museum that opened in 1997 in Missouri, featuring repurposed architectural objects in its whimsical exhibits and attractions.

• Age Compatibility: Preschoolers (4-5 years old)
• Educational Value: 4/5
• Fun Factor: 5/5
• Accessibility: 4/5
• Affordability: 4/5

#3rd Best Choice

Osage Zipline Canopy Tour

Osage Zipline Canopy Tour in Missouri guides participants through Ozark forests via ziplines and a swinging bridge, suitable for all ages.

• Age Compatibility: Teenagers (13-17 years)
• Educational Value: 2/5
• Accessibility: 3/5

Here are 17 fun activities in Missouri with kids.

1. Sea Life (Editor’s Choice)

2475 Grand Blvd Kansas City, MO 64108 (816) 471-4386 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Ratings Criteria

• Educational value: It offers interactive exhibits and informative displays about marine life, conservation efforts, and ecosystems, making it a great learning opportunity for children.
• Hands-on activities: The attraction often features touch pools and interactive exhibits, allowing visitors to get up close and personal with some marine creatures. 
• Crowds and lines: Long lines and wait times might diminish the overall experience, particularly for families with young children who may become restless.
• Short duration: While there’s plenty to see and do, some families might find that the attraction doesn’t fill an entire day.

What You’ll Experience

Ready to plunge into a world of wonder? 

Dive deep into Sea Life in Missouri, and immerse yourself in a universe brimming with aquatic magic. 

I mean, where else can you get up close with over 5,000 sea creatures in the heart of Kansas City? 

While other attractions might dazzle the senses, Sea Life transports you to a different realm. 

Those interactive touch pools? 

Pure magic. 

It’s more than an aquarium.

It’s an invitation to connect, to marvel, to respect our blue planet. 

Every ripple, every shimmer calls you closer. 

Recommended Ages

Sea Life is a family-friendly attraction with various exhibits and touch experiences suitable for younger children, making it highly compatible with toddlers and preschoolers. 

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Palace View Resort by Spinnaker

2.  St Louis City Museum

750 N 16th St St. Louis, MO 63103 (314) 231-2489 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

• Unique and creative experience: It’s not your typical museum, featuring repurposed architectural elements, tunnels, slides, and interactive installations for children’s play.
• Indoor and outdoor attractions: St. Louis City Museum offers both indoor and outdoor attractions, providing flexibility in all weather conditions.
• Limited resting areas: The museum’s focus on exploration and play means limited designated resting spots for visitors.
• Extra fees: Some attractions and special exhibits within the City Museum may require additional fees on top of the general admission cost.

Let’s talk about the St Louis City Museum in Missouri, shall we? 

More than your average museum, it’s an explosive celebration of creativity. 

Imagine a playground reimagined through the eyes of innovative artists, using repurposed architectural objects to create a world where your imagination is the only limit. 

Compared to other attractions, this place feels like a beautifully chaotic dream. 

While the Gateway Arch might offer a vista, the City Museum gives you a journey. 

From the moment you step inside, every nook and cranny invites exploration. 

It’s a tangible reminder to stay playful, curious, and forever young at heart.

The St. Louis City Museum offers a wide range of interactive exhibits and attractions suitable for all age groups, from toddlers to teenagers.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Chase Park Plaza Royal Sonesta St. Louis

Related: Restaurants in St Louis, Missouri

Related: Best Things to Do in Missouri

3. Osage Zipline Canopy Tour

1996 S Business Route 5 Camdenton, MO 65020 (573) 525-7001 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

• Thrilling adventure: The Osage Zipline Canopy Tour offers an adrenaline-pumping experience for thrill-seekers. 
• Group activity: Ziplining is a fantastic group activity, encouraging teamwork and bonding among friends, families, or colleagues.
• Age and health restrictions: Ziplining may have age, weight, and health restrictions due to safety concerns. 
• Fear of heights: Those with a fear of heights may find the experience uncomfortable or challenging to enjoy fully.

Ever felt that itch to swap the hustle and bustle for nature’s embrace? 

Well, the Osage Zipline Canopy Tour in Missouri is your call. 

Here, you’ll dance above the Ozarks, gracefully zipping through the forest canopy. 

The sensation? 

Nothing short of spiritual. 

It’s this magical blend of thrill and serenity. 

While the area boasts incredible restaurants and attractions, nothing compares to the heartbeat of the Ozark hills felt on that swinging bridge. 

And the best part?

Whether you’re 4 or 104, this experience is for you.

The Osage Zipline Canopy Tour is most suitable for older children and teenagers due to the nature of the activity. 

Recommended Hotel Nearby: SureStay Plus Hotel by Best Western Farmington

4. LEGOLAND Discovery Center — Kansas City

A visit to LEGOLAND should be at the top of your list of things to do with kids when it’s raining in Missouri.

Once you’re inside the discovery center, spend time admiring the wondrous and colorful LEGO creations.

Afterward, allow the little ones to explore the area, and build their own LEGo creations.

Likewise, kids can watch one of the numerous 4D movies or zap some trolls on the Kingdom Quest Laser Ride.

LEGOLAND Discovery Center is ideal for young ones ages 3 to 12.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Crossroads Hotel

Related: Places to Eat in Kansas City, MO

5. Long Branch Beach State Park — Macon

28615 Visitor Center Rd Macon, MO 63552 (660) 773-5229 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Missouri isn’t usually the first place that comes to mind, when people think of beach escapes.

But, this land-locked state has a great selection of beaches ideal for swimming and recreation.

And, one of the best family beaches in Missouri is Long Branch Beach

With a lovely sandy beach, the park is a haven of fun for sun seekers.

Besides swimming and sunbathing, the state park offers a slew of other entertaining family-friendly activities.

Families, for instance, may kayak or explore the numerous hiking trails through the park’s prairies.

Kids of all ages often deem Long Branch Beach as one of the family-friendly places to visit in Missouri.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Quality Inn & Suites Hannibal

Related: Weekend Getaways in Missouri

6. Six Flags St. Louis — Eureka

4900 Six Flags Rd Eureka, MO 63025 (636) 938-5300 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Six Flags St. Louis overflows with enthralling attractions and fun places for kids and adults alike.

In fact, it’s home to some of the country’s coolest, wildest, tallest and exciting rides.

And, don’t worry if your kids aren’t ready for the big-time thrills, as it features tons of kiddie rides.

You can experience the classic Ferris Wheel, Foghorn Leghorn National Park Railway, or the kid-approved carousel.

And, as a bonus, the park is situated near a bunch of family resorts.

They don’t call Six Flags one of the most exhilarating kid-friendly places to go near you in Missouri for nothing.

After all, it’s a convivial theme park with mind-blowing activities for visitors of all ages.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Wildwood Hotel

7. Science Center at Union Station — Kansas City

Union Station, 30 W Pershing Rd Kansas City, MO 64108 (816) 460-2020 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Looking for educational and fun things to do in Missouri with toddlers and kids?

I suggest that you visit the Science Center on your family vacation in Missouri.

Through a range of interactive exhibits, this indoor attraction will definitely kick-start your kid’s lifelong love for discovery, learning and science.

The center also has a myriad of engaging programs for everyone throughout the year.

The Science Center is suitable for visitors of all ages.

We, however, recommend this attraction for youngsters ages 3 to 12.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: 21c Museum Hotel Kansas City

8. Grant’s Farm — Saint Louis

10501 Gravois Rd St. Louis, MO 63123 (314) 577-2626 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Since 1954, Grant’s Farm has been captivating families with a bevy of age-friendly attractions.

A must-see here is the Grant’s Cabin and Deer Park, known for housing tons of animal species.

You’ll also love the Tier Garten where you may take a camel or carousel ride, feed goats or parakeets and watch animal shows.

Other free-roaming creatures that kids will like include zebras, antelopes, camels, lemurs and bison.

Grant’s Farm is truly a wondrous stop in Missouri for children of all ages.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Angad Arts Hotel

9. Mark Twain Cave — Hannibal

300 Cave Hollow Rd Hannibal, MO 63401 (573) 221-1656 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

For a one-of-a-kind experience, venture into Mark Twain Cave with your gang.

While caves seem ideal for experienced adventurers, this cavern is pretty safe and family-friendly.

With smooth walkways, the cave is perfect for your little ones.

As you explore the cave with a guide, you’ll see inspiring formations and sparkly gems.

Additionally, the savvy guide will share some fun tidbits about Mark Twain Cave and the area.

Mark Twain Cave offers a unique and memorable underground escape for youngsters ages 6 and up.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Best Western On the River

Related: Best Things to Do in Hannibal

Related: Places to Eat in Hannibal

10. Big Surf Waterpark — Linn Creek

954 State Highway Y Linn Creek, MO 65052 (573) 346-6111 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Want to have some splashy fun in Missouri?

Why not pay a visit to Big Surf Waterpark?

Trust me, Big Surf Waterpark guarantees big-time family fun with its lazy rivers, kiddie water features and high-speed waterslides.

Whether you’re traveling with toddlers or intrepid teens, this waterpark has enough attractions to keep your tribe entertained and satisfied.

Big Surf Waterpark brings joy and offers a world of fun to kiddos of all ages.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Sleep Inn & Suites Lake of the Ozarks

11. Ha Ha Tonka State Park

1491 Missouri D Camdenton, MO 65020 (573) 346-2986 Visit Website Open in Google Maps

Ha Ha Tonka State Park is, no doubt, one of the most popular Missouri attractions for families.

Nestled on the Lake of the Ozarks, this state park is best known for its stone castle ruins.

Furthermore,the park offers a myriad of natural wonders, including sinkholes, caves, hilltops and a natural rock bridge.

Ha Ha Tonka State Park is suitable for youngsters ages 6 and above.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Camden on the Lake Resort

12. Silver Dollar City — Branson

399 Silver Dollar City Pkwy Branson, MO 65616 (800) 888-7277 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Aching for some insanely fun things to do in Missouri with kids?

Just do yourself a favor and visit Silver Dollar City with children.

With its thrill rides and classic amusement park entertainment, Silver Dollar is sure to satisfy everyone in your gang.

And, amazingly, this extraordinary theme park has a 19th-century atmosphere.

Even when you’re screaming your head off on a thrill ride, you’ll still feel like you’ve been transported to the late 1800s.

The park also has an array of stalls and shops offering homemade sweet treets.

Silver Dollar City offers non-stop amusement and excitement for visitors of all ages.

13. Worlds of Fun

4545 Worlds of Fun Ave Kansas City, MO 64161 (816) 454-4545 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Searching for “things to do with kids near me” while vacationing in the Show-Me State?

Worlds of Fun should top your list.

This place has got it all for families.

Your kiddos can hop on a sweet carousel and then amp it up with a thrilling roller coaster.

Furthermore, the park’s got Oceans of Fun, an attached water park ideal for those scorching summer days.

Parents, you’re in luck, too.

You’re always just steps away from some yummy grub, with food stalls peppered throughout the grounds.

And when autumn rolls around, the park goes full-on Halloween mode.

So, if you’re on the hunt for awesome things to do with kids, Missouri has a buffet of fun for the fam.

Worlds of Fun has something for everyone.

Toddlers will love Planet Snoopy, a Peanuts-themed area, while older kids and teens can tackle the more thrilling rides.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hampton Inn Kansas City Northeast

14. Saint Louis Zoo

1 Government Dr St. Louis, MO 63110 (314) 781-0900 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

If you’re searching for indoor kids activities, Missouri has plenty of options for your family.

For instance, the Saint Louis Zoo is a treasure trove of animal diversity.

It houses over 16,000 animals from nearly 500 species.

While the zoo itself is mostly an outdoor adventure, it’s worth noting that it also offers some cool indoor options.

With a whopping 16,000 animals from nearly 500 different species, this isn’t just any zoo. 

Plus, it’s one of the few zoos in the US that won’t cost you a dime to enter. 

That’s right, free admission.

This zoo has a broad appeal, but it’s particularly great for kids aged 3 to 12.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Clayton Plaza Hotel & Extended Stay

15. Lucas Oil Speedway (Also Known As Diamond of Dirt Tracks)

18842 Speedway Dr Wheatland, MO 65779 (417) 282-5984 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Lucas Oil Speedway in Wheatland is a top-tier racing facility.

For families that love the roar of engines, this is the place to be.

Kids can get a kick out of the Go-Kart Slick Track.

Parents can enjoy the races in style from a VIP suite.

The venue also hosts various regional events, including off-road races.

The food here is said to be the best track food in the country.

Ideal for kids aged 6 and up who have a need for speed, this is one of the most fun things to do in Missouri for kids.

The Go-Kart track is a hit among younger visitors.

The main events are more suited for older kids and adults.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Lakeside Home

16. Grafton SkyTour at Aerie’s Resort

3 W Clinton Grafton, IL 62037 (618) 786-8439 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The Grafton Sky Tour offers panoramic river views.

From its charming gondolas, it’s a gentle thrill for younger kids.

Kids will love the sensation of floating above the river.

It’s a great way for them to experience a thrill in a safe environment.

The winery at the top offers a relaxing setting where you can unwind while soaking in the views.

This is best for kids aged 4 and up.

As one of the most kid friendly things to do in Missouri, it’s a mild thrill that even younger kids can enjoy.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Best Western Premier Alton-St Louis

17. Purina Farms

500 William Danforth Way Gray Summit, MO 63039 (888) 688-7387 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Located just 30 minutes west of St. Louis, Purina Farms is a haven for pet lovers.

Slide this onto your list of must-try Missouri kids activities for your family escapade.

The attraction offers a range of fun activities, from farm animal encounters to dog shows.

Kids can get up close and personal with farm animals and even meet adoptable pets.

The wagon ride property tour offers a broader view of the farm.

Purina Farms is great for kids of all ages.

Younger kids will love the animal encounters, while older ones might enjoy the more educational aspects as the dog shows.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Holiday Inn At Six Flags Saint Louis, an IHG Hotel

Activity Guide 

Comparing attractions: which one is right for you.

As a local Missourian, I’ve had the joy of exploring the enchanting diversity of our state, and boy, do we have some gems to share.

Starting with the aquatic wonderland of Sea Life, I’ve been lucky enough to gaze into the mysterious abyss and marvel at the vibrant dance of 5,000 sea creatures. 

It’s like a splash of the Pacific in our backyard. 

My personal favorite? 

The touch pools, where my fingers met the tickling touch of starfish, bridging a connection with our marine buddies.

Then there’s the St Louis City Museum, a treasure trove of human creativity. 

Here, we’ve climbed, crawled, and laughed our way through a labyrinth of repurposed architectural artifacts. 

It’s the ultimate manifestation of Missouri’s spirit—resilient, playful, and ever-innovative.

But if you’re in the mood for a dash of adrenaline, the Osage Zipline Canopy Tour is your ticket. 

Picture this: a small-town girl (me!) zipping through the Ozark hills, heart thumping, the wind whispering stories of the ancient forest. 

Unforgettable? 

Each of these experiences brings a unique flavor to the Missouri palette. 

Sea Life immerses you in the wonders of the deep, the City Museum ignites your imagination, and the Osage Zipline gets your pulse racing. 

It’s not about choosing the “right” one. 

It’s about picking the adventure that sings to your heart right now. 

Ready to dive, climb, or fly? 

Missouri’s got you covered.

How I Picked The Activities

Living in this state and being a curious bee, I’ve not only experienced these incredible activities but also dug deep.

I did my research and chatted endlessly with fellow locals and spirited travelers. 

Their insights, combined with my joy-filled adventures, helped shape this list. 

Our Rating Method 

I rate these activities based on the following criteria: 

• Age Compatibility: I use this criterion to assess the ideal age range for each indoor attraction. Is this activity suitable for toddlers, preschoolers, or young children? Will teenagers and tweens enjoy this attraction? I ask myself these questions whenever I assess age compatibility. 
• Educational Value: This is used to evaluate the educational benefits that the activity offers. Does the activity provide learning opportunities to children? Does it teach them lessons in science and history? I ask myself these important questions when rating the activity’s educational value. 
• Fun Factor: This measures the level of excitement, engagement, and enjoyment that the activity offers. Is it engaging and enjoyable for kids? Will it create memorable and positive experiences for families? These questions are important whenever I rate the activity’s fun factor. 
• Accessibility: This measures how accessible the activity is for families. Is it wheelchair accessible? Is it easily accessible by public transportation? Does it have ample parking space? I consider these factors when evaluating the accessibility of every activity. 
• Affordability: This assesses the value of money provided by the activity. Are the admission fees reasonable? Does it offer deals or discounts for families? I use these questions to evaluate the affordability of every attraction. 

Frequently Asked Questions

How can i have fun with my kids on a budget.

Having fun with your kids on a budget is easy with creative activities like picnics in the park, crafting with recycled materials, or having movie nights at home with homemade popcorn. These simple and inexpensive options can provide memorable experiences and quality time together without breaking the bank.

What Is There To Do In Joplin, Missouri, With Kids?

Joplin, Missouri, offers a range of family-friendly activities for kids, such as exploring the Wildcat Glades Conservation & Audubon Center, visiting the Joplin History and Mineral Museum, and enjoying the outdoors at Cunningham Park or Schifferdecker Park with playgrounds, walking trails, and recreational facilities. These attractions provide engaging experiences and opportunities for education and entertainment while visiting Joplin with children.

What Are Some Fun Outdoor Activities For Kids In Missouri?

Missouri offers various outdoor activities for kids. Some popular options include visiting amusement parks like Worlds of Fun or Silver Dollar City, exploring the St. Louis Zoo, enjoying water parks like Big Surf Waterpark, and going on nature hikes in state parks like Elephant Rocks or Johnson’s Shut-Ins.

What Are Some Educational Attractions Suitable For Kids In Missouri?

Some educational attractions in Missouri include the Science City at Union Station in Kansas City, the City Museum in St. Louis, the Discovery Center of Springfield, and the National World War I Museum and Memorial. They offer interactive exhibits and engaging learning experiences for children.

Are There Any Family-Friendly Museums In Missouri?

Yes, Missouri has several family-friendly museums. Some notable museums include the St. Louis Children’s Museum, the Kaleidoscope Craft Center in Kansas City, the Discovery Playhouse in Cape Girardeau, and the Harry S. Truman Library and Museum in Independence, providing educational and entertaining experiences for kids.

Fun Things to Do in Missouri with Kids: Reddit User Recommendations

Things to do with kids in STL by u/missourimedreview in StLouis

Conclusion 

Having danced through every attraction Missouri has to offer, I guarantee that genuine magic will envelop you with each experience. 

Yet, if there’s one place that’s truly captured my heart, it has to be Sea Life. 

There’s something awe-inspiring about watching your kiddos connect with the wonders of the deep. 

Living in this beautiful state, I can vouch that these are some of the most fun things to do in Missouri with kids. 

So, if you’re yearning for moments filled with giggles, gasps, and wide-eyed wonder, take my hand. 

Let’s dive into the beauty and thrill Missouri has in store for you.

• 6 Towns Perfect for Retirement in Mid-South

When thoughts turn towards retirement, these six towns in the mid-south of the United States are worth considering, like Jonesborough, Tennessee , with its serene lifestyle and vibrant community events, or Branson, Missouri , with its world-class entertainment opportunities. The Bourbon Capital of the World, Bardstown , Kentucky, toasts history and culture, while Mountain Home, Arkansas , appeals to outdoor enthusiasts with its recreational activities. Finally, Berea, Kentucky , welcomes lifelong learners with its arts community, and the birthplace of the King, Tupelo, Mississippi , invites retires to enjoy a second chapter rich in music, art, and culture.

Jonesborough, Tennessee

Retiring in Jonesborough, Tennessee, offers retirees a serene lifestyle with plenty of activities. The town is home to three museums: the Chester Inn Museum, which chronicles the history of Jonesborough from 1779 to the present; the Chuckey Depot Museum; and the Jonesborough/Washing County History Museum, which collects artifacts, documents, and photographs related to the region’s history. There is always something happening on Main Street in downtown Jonesborough, too, like “Music on the Square” every Friday night, a Farmers' Market every Saturday from May through October, and live theater at the Jonesborough Repertory Theater.

Not only is Jonesborough the oldest town in Tennessee, but it is also known as the “Storytelling Capital of the World,” making it the perfect place to retire for older adults with lots of stories to tell. Since 1973, thousands of visitors have flocked to the small town of about 6 200 residents to hear stories and to tell them. This year, the “National Storytelling Festival” takes place October 4 - 6, 2024.

The town's affordable housing options, retirement-friendly atmosphere, and proximity to the nearby big city (Johnson City is 7 miles from Jonesborough) make it an attractive destination for retirees. Retirees can find a new home in Jonesborough at a median sale price of $439,500 (according to realtor.com), slightly higher than both the US average price of $400,000 and the state average price of $368,000. Johnson City Medical Center provides healthcare for the residents of Jonesborough. It is a “Top 10% Hospital in the Nation in Medical Excellence and Top 10% in Patient Safety for Hip Fracture Care” from CareChex (2023).

Branson, Missouri

Branson , Missouri, is a popular retirement destination due to its low cost of living, scenic beauty, exciting attractions, and world-class live entertainment shows. With dozens of theaters, restaurants, and shops, Branson offers retirees plenty of activities to keep them busy. Retired history buffs or lifelong fans of the movie will love the Titanic Museum Attraction, where they can walk the Grand Staircase and see over 300 artifacts or visit the Ancient Ozarks Natural History Museum and come face-to-face with prehistoric creatures.

Active seniors can stay fit by participating in water sports on the stunning Table Rock Lake. While boating is one of the most popular activities on the lake, plenty of shallow coves are perfect for anchoring a kayak and taking a dip. The lake is also known for its year-round, world-class fishing for largemouth and smallmouth bass in the winding creeks and deep channels.

The median listing price for a new home in Branson is $270,000, and the city's tourism industry revenues help keep taxes low. Seniors enjoying Branson's healthy living can rest assured that accessible health care is available at Cox Medical Center.

Bardstown, Kentucky

The state of Kentucky is a growing retirement destination for many older people seeking a serene environment with access to outdoor activities, cultural events, and a low cost of living. According to America's Health Rankings, over 17% of the population is over 65, making it one of the top states with a large retirement population.

Known as the "Bourbon Capital of the World," Bardstown is Kentucky's second oldest city and an “Official Gateway to the Kentucky Bourbon Trail,” a tour of the state's bourbon distilleries. There are no fewer than eleven distilleries within sixteen miles of downtown Bardstown, including well-recognized Heaven Hill and Jim Beam, so this town is passionate about its bourbon. It's also recognized for its retirement-friendly atmosphere, affordable housing with a median sale price of $300,000 for a new house, and easy access to healthcare at Flaget Memorial Hospital.

Downtown Bardstown is rich in local history with red and blond brick buildings, including the Old Talbott Tavern, which has been inviting visitors to dine, stay, and drink since 1799; the old jailhouse-turned-pleasant-bed-and-breakfast, Jailer’s Inn; and the historic Mansion at Wickland, Home of Three Governors (which is widely rumored to be haunted). New residents to Bardstown can enjoy live music at The Amp at Log Still every weekend between May and October, a Farmers’ Market, events like the popular Kentucky Bourbon Festival, and this year, the town will host the first annual “National Bourbon Week” on June 11 - 16, 2024—cheers to retirement living in Bardstown.

Mountain Home, Arkansas

Combining affordable housing options, a lower cost of living, and a high quality of life, retirees will discover a new home for a median sale price of $260,000 in Mountain Home , Arkansas. Baxter Regional Medical Center provides top-notch healthcare to residents and ancillary services for older people through the Baxter Health Fairlamb Senior Clinic. The Mruk Family Center on Aging is a unique resource for area seniors, offering free support and programs to older adults and their families to help them address aging issues.

A haven for outdoors enthusiasts with more time on their hands and no desire to slow down, Mountain Home offers no end of outdoor recreation, including trout fishing in the Bull Shoals-White River State Park and several hiking trails ranging from the easy Gaston Wildflower Garden Trail to more strenuous Big Bluff Trail. For avid cyclists, tune up the mountain bike and choose from one of two well-marked trails ranked from easy to difficult.

Mountain Home’s historic downtown hosts several local boutiques, outdoor outfitters, and restaurants, including Rapp’s Barren Brewing Co., housed in the city's oldest building, which dates back to 1892. Part of the Baker District Entertainment District, the area also includes Cove Coffee, Rio Burrito, Treat Yo Shelf Books and Sharp Edges Axe Throwing.

Berea, Kentucky

Home to the highly-rated liberal arts college Berea College, founded in 1855, the quaint town of Berea, Kentucky, offers a welcoming environment for lifelong learners. The college is truly at the heart of this community in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, where an emphasis on arts, crafts, and music plays a vital role in everyday life. Berea hosts its 12th Annual Festival of Learnshops this year from July 22 - 30, 2024—proof that it’s never too late to learn something new.

Berea is the headquarters of the Kentucky Guild of Artists and Craftsmen, and the 25,000-square-foot Kentucky Artisan Center promotes the work of local artists. New residents can shop for Kentucky crafts and fine art there, attend events, explore the exhibits, and even taste Kentucky cuisine at the Artisan Café & Grill. The center is free and open daily. It’s no wonder Berea has been named the “Folk Arts and Crafts Capital of Kentucky.”

It’s easy for newcomers to navigate around town, with areas called the Old Town Artisan Village, where retirees can shop for amenities, dine out at the Historic Boone Tavern, or meet new friends at Just Love Coffee Café and College Square across the street from the college campus, where there are several cute shops and eateries. New homes in this artistic small town sell for a median listing price of an affordable $263,000, and CHI Saint Joseph Health addresses residents’ healthcare needs.

Tupelo, Mississippi

Tupelo is in the northeast corner of Mississippi and is renowned as the birthplace of the Tupelo Kid, Elvis Presley. Visitors from all over the world travel to Tupelo to see the Elvis Presley Birthplace, which includes the home where he was born, a museum chronicling his life, and the Assembly of God Chapel, where a young Elvis first heard the southern gospel songs that inspired his music and learned to play guitar (the hip shaking came later).

There’s more to this small town than the King, though. An excellent way to get to know Tupelo is to take a self-guided tour around the downtown core, starting with the Tupelo Mural Walk, created in 2018 as part of the “Off the Wall: Changing the ARTmosphere in Tupelo Brick by Brick” project. The coffee culture is strong in Tupelo, so be sure to stop at one of the local shops like Strange Brew, Tupelo River Coffee, and Fuel Coffee. The Heritage Trail Enrichment Program identifies important events and places in Tupelo and Lee Count and includes trails like the Civil War Trail, the Civil Rights and African American Heritage Trail, and the Chickasaw Trail.

Based on cost of living, housing prices, and livability scores, Insider Monkey recently named Tupelo the third most affordable place to retire in 2024. In early 2024, the median listing price for a new home was $270,000. Moreover, there is an established community of retirees, with over 15% of its population aged 65 and over. Should the need arise, excellent healthcare services are available for town residents at North Mississippi Health Services.

Retirement in these six towns in the mid-south of the U.S. offers a range of benefits, from serene lifestyles and cultural events to affordable housing and healthcare access. Residents can enjoy vibrant community activities like storytelling and bourbon festivals while exploring rich historical attractions like museums and historic taverns. Outdoor enthusiasts can take advantage of recreational opportunities like trout fishing and hiking trails, all while residing in welcoming communities with thriving arts scenes. With low costs of living and a variety of amenities, these towns provide ideal settings for retirees seeking a fulfilling and enriching lifestyle.

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Judge Approves $418 Million Settlement That Will Change Real Estate Commissions

Home sellers will no longer be required to offer commission to a buyer’s agent when they sell their property, under an agreement with the National Association of Realtors.

By Debra Kamin

A settlement that will rewrite the way many real estate agents are paid in the United States has received preliminary approval from a federal judge.

On Tuesday morning, Judge Stephen R. Bough, a United States district judge, signed off on an agreement between the National Association of Realtors and home sellers who sued the real estate trade group over its longstanding rules on commissions to agents that they say forced them to pay excessive fees.

The agreement is still subject to a hearing for final court approval, which is expected to be held on Nov. 22. But that hearing is largely a formality, and Judge Bough’s action in U.S. District Court for the Western District of Missouri now paves the way for N.A.R. to begin implementing the sweeping rule changes required by the deal. The changes will likely go into full effect among brokerages across the country by Sept. 16.

N.A.R., in a statement from spokesman Mantill Williams, welcomed the settlement’s preliminary approval.

“It has always been N.A.R.’s goal to resolve this litigation in a way that preserves consumer choice and protects our members to the greatest extent possible,” he said in an email. “There are strong grounds for the court to approve this settlement because it is in the best interests of all parties and class members.”

N.A.R. reached the agreement in March to settle the lawsuit, and a series of similar claims, by making the changes and paying $418 million in damages. Months earlier, in October, a jury had reached a verdict that would have required the organization to pay at least $1.8 billion in damages, agreeing with homeowners who argued that N.A.R.’s rules on agent commissions forced them to pay excessive fees when they sold their property.

The group, which is based in Chicago and has 1.5 million members, has wielded immense influence over the real estate industry for more than a century. But home sellers in Missouri, whose lawsuit against N.A.R. and several brokerages was followed by multiple copycat claims, successfully argued that the group’s rule that a seller’s agent must make an offer of commission to a buyer’s agent led to inflated fees, and that another rule requiring agents to list homes on databases controlled by N.A.R. affiliates stifled competition.

By mandating that commission be split between agents for the seller and buyer, N.A.R., and brokerages who required their agents to be members of N.A.R., violated antitrust laws, according to the lawsuits. Such rules led to an industrywide standard commission that hovers near 6 percent, the lawsuits said. Now, agents will be essentially blocked from making those commission offers, a shift that will, some industry analysts say, lower commissions across the board and eventually force down home prices as a result.

Real estate agents are bracing for pain.

“We are concerned for buyers and potentially how we will get paid for working with buyers moving forward,” said Karen Pagel Guerndt, a Realtor in Duluth, Minn. “There’s a lot of ambiguity.”

The preliminary approval of the settlement comes as the Justice Department reopens its own investigation into the trade group. Earlier this month, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia overturned a lower-court ruling from 2023 that had quashed the Justice Department’s request for information from N.A.R. about broker commissions and how real estate listings are marketed. They now have the green light to scrutinize those fees and other N.A.R. rules that have long confounded consumers.

“This is the first step in bringing about the long awaited change,” said Michael Ketchmark, the lawyer who represented the home sellers in the main lawsuit. “Later this summer, N.A.R. will begin changing the way that homes are bought and sold in our country and this will eventually lead to billions of dollars and savings for homeowners.”

Under the settlement, homeowners who sold homes in the last seven years could be eligible for a small piece of a consolidated class-action payout. Depending on how many homeowners file claims by the deadline of May 9, 2025, that could mean tens of millions of Americans.

Debra Kamin reports on real estate, covering what it means to buy, sell and own a home in America today. More about Debra Kamin