Missouri is often known as the Show-Me State, and it’s bursting with treasures to explore. Which honestly surprised me. When people asked why I was going to Missouri, I didn’t have a good answer other than “trying to visit all 50 states,” – but I was surprised at how much the state has to offer. From vibrant cities to breathtaking landscapes, there is something for everyone to experience. First-time visitors are in for a treat as they discover the various attractions that showcase this Midwest gem’s heart and spirit.
Missouri’s unique blend of history, culture, and adventure captivates newcomers, including myself. Iconic landmarks like the Gateway Arch stand alongside beautiful parks, exciting theme parks, and rich historical sites. With its diverse offerings, Missouri promises unforgettable memories and a deeper appreciation of its heritage.
These 25 best things to do in Missouri ensure that your visit is packed with fun and discovery!
This post contains affiliate links. This means if you purchase something from a link, I may make a small commission, at no cost to you. This helps me keep the site running and free.
If you like this post, be sure to sign up for my e-mail list for travel inspiration (and get your FREE budget printable), or connect with me on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or Pinterest.
Arrow Rock State Historic Site
Arrow Rock State Historic Site is a treasured destination in Missouri recognized for its vital role during the 19th century. This iconic spot was a key endpoint for settlers traveling along the Missouri River as they moved westward. History buffs and curious visitors alike can immerse themselves in a rich narrative of American expansion.
The site showcases well-preserved structures and remnants from the era, offering a genuine glimpse into the lifestyle and culture of early settlers. Through various interpretive programs and guided tours, visitors can learn about the pioneers’ daily lives, challenges, and achievements.
Arrow Rock State Historic Site is part of the Missouri State Parks system, which is dedicated to preserving and celebrating the state’s natural and cultural heritage. This makes it a popular destination for anyone interested in understanding Missouri’s intriguing history and the broader context of American development.
Augusta, Missouri
Located an hour outside St. Louis, Augusta is a beautiful region along the Missouri River. Its climate, soil structure, and history are so significant that in 1980, it was named the first American Viticultural Area (AVA) in the United States.
If you’re coming from St. Louis, it’s a quick drive down Highway 94 to Exit 10, and then Augusta is just past Defiance.
I had a wine tasting at two of the area’s wineries, Montelle Winery and Noboleis Vineyards. Each has its specialties and standout features that make its venue unique.
Montelle Winery was voted the number-one winery in Missouri, and after climbing to the top, it offers the best views of Augusta. From the sun-soaked terrace perched on a hill, the lush landscape extends as far as the eye can see. Montelle Winery is a great place to see the Midwest’s stunning fall foliage while enjoying a wine tasting on its deck.
Montelle is well known for its dry and semi-dry table wines. Its white French hybrid wines include Seyval Blanc and Vignoles, red wines like Chambourcin and Norton, and dessert wines.
We had lunch overlooking the 84-acre Noboleis Vineyards, where each course was paired with one of its wines. The environment here is quite different than these fun places to eat in St. Louis, but the wine is refreshing! They grow four varieties of Missouri grapes at Noboleis Vineyards—Chambourcin, Traminette, Norton, and Vignoles – which define the 30 wines in its portfolio.
Bonne Terre Mine
Experience the wonder of Missouri’s Bonne Terre Mines, where history meets adventure deep beneath the earth’s surface. These unique underground tours allow you to explore former lead mines, offering an immersive look into mining operations that once thrived in the region.
Discover the intriguing history of miners’ lives and techniques, while learning about the geological features that make Bonne Terre Mines so captivating. The tours highlight the tools and machinery used during mining, providing an educational and thrilling journey through time.
Stunning rock formations and crystal-clear waters create a visually enchanting environment. Bonne Terre Mines’ combination of historical insight and breathtaking natural beauty makes it a must-visit attraction for anyone exploring Missouri.
Branson
One of the top places to visit in Missouri year-round is Branson. Located in the Missouri Ozarks, it offers something memorable for all ages.
Located in southwestern Missouri, an hour from Springfield, Branson is famous for its live entertainment, outdoor adventures, and delicious barbecue! The holiday season and fall in Branson are two special times of the year to visit due to the vibrant decorations and festivities.
Even though Branson is one of the leading destinations to visit on a USA road trip, the top way to get there is to fly into Springfield-Branson National Airport and rent a car from there. A fun boutique hotel to stay at is The Ozarker Lodge!
Since Branson is famous for its barbecue, savoring a delicious meal from Danna’s BBQ and Burger Shop is a must. You must also savor the best cream of chicken and wild rice soup from Sugar Leaf Bakery Café!
A trip to Branson is incomplete without strolling through the downtown area and shopping at the local stores. While in town, stop into Fresh Water Designz and savor the best cinnamon bun from Branson Café.
Other fun things to do in this fantastic Ozark city include seeing a performance by The Haygoods, enjoying fun adventures, like ziplining, at Shepherd of the Hills, making memories on the rides at Silver Dollar City, catching the Dolly Parton Stampede, and shopping your way through The Grand Village.
Since Branson is in the Missouri Ozarks, you must enjoy a hike during your vacation. Conquer Dogwood Canyon for an easy trail, Coy Bald Trail for a moderate hike, and Big Piney Trail for a challenging adventure.
Dogwood Canyon Nature Park
A visit to Dogwood Canyon Nature Park in southern Missouri is a serene escape into the breathtaking beauty of the Ozarks. Located just a short drive from Branson, this 10,000-acre paradise offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure, wildlife encounters, and peaceful surroundings.
One of Dogwood Canyon’s highlights is its stunning natural features. As you explore the park, you’ll encounter cascading waterfalls, crystal-clear streams, and towering limestone bluffs that make every turn feel like a postcard. The park’s paved walking and biking trails wind through these scenic landscapes, offering easy access to some of the best views in the Ozarks.
For a more immersive experience, hop on a wildlife tram tour. These guided rides take you through the park’s bison and elk pastures, where you can see these majestic animals up close while learning about their role in the ecosystem. If you enjoy fishing, the park’s trout streams are perfect for casting a line, with catch-and-release and catch-and-keep options available.
Horseback riding and Segway tours provide even more ways to explore the park, catering to visitors of all ages and activity levels. Be sure to visit the Treehouse, built by the crew from Treehouse Masters, which adds a whimsical touch to your adventure.
Dogwood Canyon is not just about recreation; it’s also about conservation and education. The park’s efforts to preserve the natural beauty of the Ozarks make it a meaningful destination for nature lovers.
Gateway Arch, St. Louis
The Gateway Arch is a unique and visually stunning landmark in St. Louis. It symbolizes the city with its iconic presence. As part of Gateway Arch National Park, visitors can enjoy a quirky elevator ride to the top, where expansive views of the surrounding area await.
To avoid larger crowds, it is best to visit the Arch on weekdays, outside of summer and holiday periods. The park grounds offer a picturesque setting, adding to the overall experience with its well-maintained greenery and various attractions. This peaceful environment allows visitors to fully appreciate the iconic symbol.
Be sure to spend at least an hour (maybe two) at the Gateway Arch Museum. It provides important insight into the history and development of the arch and its meaning. I did not know the church’s history or importance in the area and the country.
You can even ride up the elevator for a unique experience (I’ve never been on a rotating elevator before). But be warned, the windows at the top are quite small to look through.
Ha Ha Tonka State Park
For travelers looking for a gorgeous and unique outdoor experience in Missouri, look no further than Ha Ha Tonka State Park! Located in central Missouri, about three hours southwest of St. Louis, this absolute gem is, in our opinion, one of the best things to do in the state.
You’ll find the typical things you’d expect to see in a state park, like hiking trails and wildlife education. But what you wouldn’t expect is the castle ruins on the property. We were in love with how unique it was to see a castle in the middle of Missouri at a state park. And we’ve seen our fair share of castles around the world, but this still blew us away.
The castle was built in 1905 on a hill surrounded by beautiful, lush rolling hills. Sadly, a fire in the 1940s destroyed the castle, leaving only the ruins. However, you can now walk around the ruins and property on your hike!
The park has quite a few short trails, so we enjoyed combining a bunch of them and making a long hike to see as much of the park as possible. The park is also home to sinkholes, caves, and a huge natural bridge that are fun to explore.
You’ll need a car to get here since the closest major airport is 3 hours away in St. Louis. If you don’t live in the area, add this to an epic cross-country road trip, or fly into St. Louis and explore the state from there!
Historic Route 66
Route 66, often called the Mother Road, offers travelers an unforgettable journey from Chicago to the Californian coast, with a memorable stretch through Missouri. This iconic highway is dotted with nostalgic sights that celebrate American culture, making it much more than a road—it’s a true experience.
In Missouri, Route 66 features the 1935 roadhouse in Eureka, which now houses the Route 66 State Park Visitor Center. One of its unique attractions is the Route 66 Rocker, known as the largest rocking chair in the world. Travelers can also indulge in classic diners and vintage burger joints, savoring local culinary traditions along the way.
Kansas City
Kansas City, Missouri, is a vibrant city brimming with history, culture, and heartland charm. Located on the western edge of Missouri, it’s easily accessible from major hubs like St. Louis (approximately a 3.5-hour drive via I-70) or Kansas City International Airport (MCI), which connects to many US cities.
One highlight of my recent visit was exploring the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, a treasure trove of stories and artifacts celebrating the rich history of Black baseball players. Walking through its exhibits was a humbling experience, as it vividly brought to life the struggles and triumphs of these incredible athletes who broke barriers long before integration. Seeing memorabilia from legends like Satchel Paige and Josh Gibson along with Jackie Robinson was deeply inspiring and made me appreciate the profound impact these players had on the game and society.
Beyond the museum, Kansas City is well known for it’s world-famous barbecue and iconic jazz heritage. We also wandered through the Country Club Plaza, a shopping district with beautiful Spanish-style architecture, and enjoyed some of the best brisket I’ve ever tasted at a local barbecue joint.
Kansas City is a must-visit for anyone seeking a blend of history, culture, and great food. Its central location and welcoming vibe make it an ideal stop on any Midwest road trip. Whether you’re a history buff, a sports fan, or simply looking for a unique destination, Kansas City won’t disappoint.
Mark Twain Cave, Hannibal
Mark Twain Cave is the oldest operating show cave in the state, making it one of the best things to do in Missouri. The cave’s literary significance is undeniable – made famous by Mark Twain’s The Adventure of Tom Sawyer. As you navigate its narrow passageways and dimly lit chambers, you can almost picture Tom and Becky lost in the maze, bringing the story to life.
What sets this cave apart is its unique geology. Unlike other caves with dramatic stalactites and stalagmites, Mark Twain Cave features smooth, maze-like limestone walls shaped by ancient rivers. Walking through its winding paths, you’ll learn how this natural wonder formed and why it’s so different from other caves. The guided tours blend fascinating geological facts with stories about Twain’s childhood and how the cave inspired his timeless tales.
Beyond the literary connection, the cave has a rich history. You’ll hear about its days as a hideout for outlaws and its use during the Civil War, adding another layer of intrigue. The tours are family-friendly and typically last about an hour.
After your tour, you can continue to explore caves by visiting Cameron Cave nearby or go exploring the town of Hannibal.
Missouri Botanical Gardens
The Missouri Botanical Garden, founded in 1859, is the oldest continuously operating botanical garden in the United States and a designated National Historic Landmark. Spanning 79 acres, this floral wonderland features stunning attractions, including a breathtaking Japanese strolling garden and one of the largest collections of orchids in the world.
Among the diverse array of flowers, water lilies stand out as a highlight, offering a particularly spectacular display in certain seasons. The garden’s layout is designed with ease of exploration in mind, boasting a wide variety of paths that allow visitors to wander leisurely and discover numerous gardens on the property. We got to visit during the Best of Missouri fair and got to see hundreds of local vendors showing off their goods. We came home with a handmade mug, St. Louis BBQ sauce, and more! It was awesome, so be sure to check out their calendar of events!
Adding to its rich biodiversity, the garden is home to approximately 4,800 trees, creating a serene and tranquil environment for all who visit. Whether you are a nature enthusiast or simply looking for a peaceful escape, the Missouri Botanical Garden provides an unforgettable experience amid its lush and vibrant landscapes.
National World War I Museum
The National WWI Museum and Memorial is America’s premier institution dedicated to the Great War. It’s located in Kansas City and has plenty of offer history buffs. It plays a crucial role in commemorating, interpreting, and understanding the complexities and lasting influence of World War I on global history. Visitors can explore a variety of exhibits designed to illuminate the profound consequences of the war.
The museum’s dedication to historical education emphasizes the ongoing impact of the Great War on today’s society. Engaging programming invites visitors to reflect on the lessons learned, making the experience both educational and thought-provoking. The museum has consistently received high ratings, highlighting its significance and appeal as a notable historical site.
The National WWI Museum provides a deeply enriching experience for visitors from all backgrounds. It ensures that the events and consequences of World War I are not only remembered but also understood in the context of their lasting global influence.
Silver Dollar City
A visit to Silver Dollar City in Branson, Missouri, is like stepping into a vibrant, old-fashioned town full of adventure and charm. This award-winning theme park offers something for everyone, making it one of the best things to do in Missouri. As you walk through the park, you’ll be transported to the 1880s, surrounded by authentic craftspeople, themed rides, and mouthwatering food.
Thrill-seekers will love the park’s roller coasters, like the Time Traveler, the world’s fastest, steepest, and tallest spinning coaster. But Silver Dollar City isn’t just about adrenaline—it’s also a celebration of craftsmanship and culture. You can watch blacksmiths, glassblowers, and woodcarvers at work, showcasing traditional skills that make you feel like you’re visiting a living history museum.
The park is also known for its seasonal festivals. Whether you visit during the Spring Ride Days, Harvest Festival, or the spectacular Old Time Christmas, something special always happens. Don’t miss the nightly holiday light displays—they’re nothing short of magical.
For food lovers, Silver Dollar City is a treat. Indulge in the park’s famous cinnamon bread or enjoy a hearty skillet meal cooked right in front of you. You’ll find plenty of dining options that capture the spirit of the Ozarks.
St. Joseph
St. Joseph, Missouri, is a city enriched with historical treasures and offers a range of museums that captivate visitors with stories from the past. With its intriguing history, this vibrant city provides an excellent opportunity to connect personally with the region’s heritage.
A must-see in St. Joseph is the various interactive museums, where you can engage with the past. The Glore Psychiatric Museum is one of the most unusual museums in the country. Other museums include the Black Archives, Archaeology & Native American Galleries, Doll Museum, and the Wyeth-Tootle Mansion. These museums offer engaging exhibits that portray St. Joseph’s significant role in American history, from the Pony Express to outlaw Jesse James. You can even visit Jesse James’s home in St. Joseph.
Beyond museums, St. Joseph hosts lively fairs and festivals all year round, giving visitors a taste of the city’s cultural richness and community spirit. The city’s unique shopping options add another layer to your visit, with local boutiques reflecting the region’s culture and creativity. After a day of exploring, head to the Jc Wyatt House for outstanding food and a unique ambiance.
Walt Disney Hometown Museum
The Walt Disney Hometown Museum, located in Marceline, Missouri, offers a captivating glimpse into the early life of the entertainment icon Walt Disney. This interactive museum is housed in the restored Santa Fe Railroad station, which played a significant role in Disney’s childhood. Visitors can explore exhibits showcasing personal artifacts, family photos, and even Walt’s own drawings.
With its engaging presentation, the museum provides a personal connection to Disney’s life, revealing how his formative years in this quaint town influenced his creative genius. The museum offers unique insights into his family life, early inspirations, and enduring legacy.
The heartwarming atmosphere and educational exhibits make it perfect for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re a Disney aficionado or simply interested in Missouri’s intriguing history, the Walt Disney Hometown Museum provides an enriching experience set in the storybook town that inspired some of Disney’s beloved works.
Save “Best Things to Do in Missouri” for Later
