Have you visited the Show-Me State yet? From Missouri tourist attractions in Branson to St. Louis, when exploring this magical state, you’re in for a treat. Be sure to explore these Missouri tourist attractions.
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8 Breathtaking Missouri Tourist Attractions
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Are you interested in discovering what Missouri, the Show Me State, has to offer? With canyons, prairies, fun cities, tangy barbecue, and — how could we overlook it — the world’s tallest arch, there is plenty to see and do.
Before you pack your bags, you’ll want to make a list of all the places you need to visit. Keep reading to learn about the 8 best Missouri tourist attractions that should be on your itinerary!
Lake of the Ozarks
Looking to take a dip in one of the country’s most beautiful lakes? Visit Lake of the Ozarks. Located in the center of the state, this recreation area is the ultimate getaway destination. With 2 state parks on its shores and a number of great resorts, you can escape from your work-life stress.
If you really want to let loose, stop at the popular Party Cove for some boating fun. You’ll be surrounded by hundreds of other people enjoying the sunshine while floating on the calm waters. The crowds can get dense, so be ready for a lively vacation scene!
Visit St. Louis, Arches, Cardinals and More.
Yes, you should see the famed Gateway Arch when you visit St. Louis! Built of stainless steel in the early 60s, the arch honors the important place St. Louis holds in America’s westward expansion. It’s the tallest place in Missouri, and you can see it from below at the museum or a cafe, or get up close to it in a helicopter.
But there’s more to St. Louis than its arch. Enjoy the vibrant downtown on foot, or grab your closest friends and take a birthday party bus to celebrate with St. Louis’s thriving nightlife scene out your window.
St. Louis is home to national sports teams, terrific museums, a flourishing food scene, and so much more. Check out the Cardinals at Busch Stadium or the amazing art collection at the Saint Louis Art Museum. Or just lounge at one of the many city parks.
Hear Great Music in Branson
You’ll have your fill of Branson, Missouri, tourist attractions. With three lakes and the Ozark Mountains within reach, there’s plenty of beauty to take in if being outdoors is your thing including championship golf. And if you’re looking for food, fun, and entertainment, Branson checks that box, too.
Dubbed as the Live Music Capital of the World, Branson brings big names to its many stages. You won’t have any trouble finding an act to see if you stop into town any time of the week! And when you’re done, relax in a spa at one of the many resorts that make this town so popular.
Hike At Elephant Rocks State Park
Check out this park to see the massive, smooth, 1.5-billion-year-old granite boulders that come together to form the shape of an elephant. With trails all around them — plus stunning vistas — you’ll have plenty of ways to explore the park. Kids (and adults) will be dazzled by the fun, rounded shapes of these massive rocks.
Take the Braille Trail, see the old engine rail house, or enjoy a picnic by the rocks. This park is the perfect stop in southeast Missouri when you’re craving some unique topography.
See Where Mark Twain Lived As a Kid
The famous author who gave us the characters of Tom Sawyer and Huckleberry Finn spent part of his childhood in the town of Hannibal. You can visit the house he grew up in, as well as the museum complex that has been built around it.
Walk around the grounds that inspired some of Twain’s books and learn more about his early years. The museum is a great educational detour and might make you appreciate his classic novels even more!
Visit Meramec State Park
Did you know that there are caves in Missouri? There are, and you can find them at Meramec State Park, located near Sullivan about 60 miles from St. Louis, and possibly one of the most unique Missouri tourist attractions. Transport yourself to another world by hiking through one of the 40 caves nestled within this park, or kick back in one of the cozy cabins for an overnight stay.
There’s a dense forest to help you feel fully immersed in nature during a hike, but there’s also a beach if swimming or tubing sounds like a more leisurely way to spend your afternoon.
Try Some Barbecue in Kansas City
Still wondering what to do in Missouri? Visit Kansas City.
Kansas City boasts plenty of reasons to visit the northwest corner of the state. Aside from being home to the 2020 Super Bowl Champions (that would be the Chiefs), it’s home to superb cultural venues and great dining.
Known as the Paris of the Plains, Kansas City gained traction as a city by not following the rules during Prohibition in the early-20th century. The city developed quite the nightlife scene, and though the corruption surrounding it has died down, the nightlife is thriving even more today!
Visit the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art or the Kemper Museum of Art just down the road to fulfill your cultural needs. Marvel at some elephants and tigers at Kansas City’s well-known zoo. Or taste some Kansas City-style barbecue at one of the many restaurants ready to serve you.
Get Your Kicks on Route 66 in Missouri
Prefer a taste of everything. Road trip your way on the historic Route 66 in Missouri, passing through a variety of large cities and small towns, connected by roadways over rolling hills and valleys. The Mother Road followed much of the Kickapoo, or Osage, Trail, an Indian trail that later became the Old Wire Road.
Start Packing and Visit These Missouri Tourist Attractions!
Whether you’re into bustling nightlife, cultural attractions, or beautiful scenery, you can find it all in the Show-Me State. Missouri tourist attractions abound for people of all ages and interests, and tack on a few days to your trip just to fit everything in.
