Missouri Map Of Highways
If you’re planning a trip to Missouri, you’re in for a treat. The state is home to a diverse range of attractions, from historic landmarks and natural wonders to vibrant cities and outdoor adventures. Whether you’re a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, a foodie, or an art lover, Missouri has something for everyone. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll cover all the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, and much more.
Top Attractions
Missouri is home to some of the most iconic attractions in the United States. One of the most famous is the Gateway Arch in St. Louis, a 630-foot monument that symbolizes the westward expansion of the United States. Another must-see attraction is the Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum in Hannibal, the birthplace of the legendary author. If you’re a fan of history, don’t miss the Missouri State Capitol in Jefferson City, which offers guided tours of the beautiful building and its impressive artwork. Other top attractions include the Ozark National Scenic Riverways, the Silver Dollar City amusement park, and the Harry S. Truman Presidential Library and Museum in Independence.
Hidden Gems
While the top attractions are definitely worth visiting, Missouri is also home to a wealth of hidden gems that many tourists overlook. One of these is the Katy Trail State Park, a 240-mile trail that runs through the heart of Missouri and offers stunning views of the state’s natural beauty. Another hidden gem is the Missouri Botanical Garden in St. Louis, a 79-acre oasis that features a variety of gardens, including a Japanese garden and a Victorian garden. If you’re looking for a unique experience, head to the City Museum in St. Louis, an eclectic museum that features a giant indoor playground and a rooftop Ferris wheel.
Food Scene
Missouri is known for its barbecue, and for good reason. The state is home to some of the best barbecue joints in the country, including Arthur Bryant’s in Kansas City and Pappy’s Smokehouse in St. Louis. If you’re looking for something a little different, check out the St. Louis-style pizza, which features a thin, crispy crust and a unique blend of cheeses. Other must-try foods include toasted ravioli, gooey butter cake, and fried chicken.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Traveling to Missouri doesn’t have to break the bank. There are plenty of budget-friendly options, from free attractions like the St. Louis Zoo and the Missouri State Museum to affordable accommodations like Airbnb rentals and budget hotels. If you’re looking for cheap eats, check out the food trucks in Kansas City or the farmer’s markets in St. Louis.
Outdoor Adventures
Missouri is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re into hiking, fishing, kayaking, or camping, there’s something for everyone. Some of the best spots for outdoor adventures include the Ozark National Scenic Riverways, the Mark Twain National Forest, and the Katy Trail State Park. If you’re looking for a unique experience, head to Ha Ha Tonka State Park, which features a castle-like ruins and stunning views of the Lake of the Ozarks.
Historical Landmarks
Missouri is steeped in history, and there are plenty of landmarks that offer a glimpse into the state’s past. Some of the most notable include the Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield, the site of one of the first major battles of the Civil War, and the Missouri History Museum in St. Louis, which features exhibits on the state’s history and culture. Other must-see historical landmarks include the Missouri State Penitentiary in Jefferson City, the Mansion Museum in Independence, and the Jesse James Home in St. Joseph.
Family-Friendly Activities
Missouri is a great destination for families, with plenty of activities that both kids and adults will enjoy. One of the top family-friendly attractions is the City Museum in St. Louis, which features a giant indoor playground and a rooftop Ferris wheel. Other must-see family-friendly attractions include the Science City at Union Station in Kansas City, the World Aquarium in St. Louis, and the Elephant Rocks State Park in Belleview.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for something a little different, Missouri has plenty of off-the-beaten-path experiences to offer. One of these is the Missouri Mines State Historic Site in Park Hills, which features a tour of a former lead mine and a chance to pan for minerals. Another unique experience is the Mark Twain Riverboat Cruise in Hannibal, which offers a leisurely trip down the Mississippi River.
Natural Wonders
Missouri is home to some of the most beautiful natural wonders in the country. One of the most famous is the Ozark National Scenic Riverways, a 134-mile stretch of the Current and Jacks Fork Rivers that offers stunning views of the Ozark Mountains. Other natural wonders include the Meramec Caverns, the Onondaga Cave State Park, and the Elephant Rocks State Park.
Vibrant Nightlife
If you’re looking for a good time after dark, Missouri has plenty of options. Some of the best nightlife spots include the Power and Light District in Kansas City, which features a variety of bars and clubs, and the Delmar Loop in St. Louis, which is home to a number of music venues and bars. Other must-visit nightlife spots include the Central West End in St. Louis, the Westport area in Kansas City, and the downtown area in Columbia.
Local Markets
One of the best ways to experience Missouri’s local culture is by visiting its markets. Whether you’re looking for fresh produce, handmade crafts, or unique souvenirs, Missouri’s markets have something for everyone. Some of the top markets include the Soulard Farmers Market in St. Louis, the City Market in Kansas City, and the Columbia Farmers Market.
Beaches and Mountains
While Missouri may not be known for its beaches and mountains, it has plenty to offer in both areas. One of the best beaches is the Lake of the Ozarks, which features over 1,100 miles of shoreline and plenty of water activities. If you’re looking for mountains, head to the Ozark Mountains, which offer stunning views and plenty of hiking trails.
Cultural Immersion
Missouri is a melting pot of cultures, and there are plenty of ways to immerse yourself in the local culture. One of the best ways is by attending one of the many festivals and events that take place throughout the year. Some of the top festivals include the Kansas City Renaissance Festival, the St. Louis Art Fair, and the Missouri State Fair in Sedalia.
Art and Music Scene
Missouri has a thriving art and music scene, with plenty of venues and galleries to explore. One of the top art museums is the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art in Kansas City, which features a collection of over 35,000 works of art. If you’re a music lover, don’t miss the Blue Note in Columbia, a legendary music venue that has hosted some of the biggest names in music.
Walking Tours
One of the best ways to explore Missouri’s cities is by taking a walking tour. There are plenty of options available, from historic tours of St. Louis and Kansas City to food tours of Springfield and Columbia. Some of the top walking tours include the St. Louis Walking Tours, the Kansas City Walking Tours, and the Columbia Food Tours.
Architectural Marvels
Missouri is home to some impressive architectural marvels, from historic buildings to modern skyscrapers. One of the most famous is the Gateway Arch in St. Louis, a 630-foot monument that symbolizes the westward expansion of the United States. Other must-see architectural marvels include the Eads Bridge in St. Louis, the Country Club Plaza in Kansas City, and the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts in Kansas City.
Historical Sites
Missouri is full of historical sites that offer a glimpse into the state’s past. One of the most notable is the Missouri State Capitol in Jefferson City, which offers guided tours of the beautiful building and its impressive artwork. Other must-see historical sites include the Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield, the Jesse James Home in St. Joseph, and the Mansion Museum in Independence.
Biking Routes
Missouri is a great destination for biking enthusiasts, with plenty of scenic routes to explore. One of the top routes is the Katy Trail State Park, a 240-mile trail that runs through the heart of Missouri and offers stunning views of the state’s natural beauty. Other must-see biking routes include the Creve Coeur Lake Memorial Park Trail in St. Louis, the Rock Island Trail State Park, and the Frisco Highline Trail in Springfield.
Wellness Retreats
If you’re looking for a relaxing getaway, Missouri has plenty of wellness retreats to choose from. One of the top retreats is the Spa Shiki at the Lodge of Four Seasons in Lake Ozark, which offers a variety of spa treatments and wellness programs. Other must-visit wellness retreats