Known as the Show-Me State, Missouri is known for its beautiful scenery, abundance of outdoor activities, and tough-minded locals that embody the “Show-Me” philosophy. While Missouri doesn’t always get all the love it deserves, the fact is that it’s one of the best places to visit in the Midwest!
The Ozarks is one of the most popular Missouri attractions, offering everything from hiking and horseback riding to water sports and adventure theme parks. But a visit to any of the state’s major cities like St. Louis, Kansas City, or Springfield is a great way to get indoors and visit museums before dining on local cuisine at a restaurant. And if it’s outdoor adventure you’re after, Missouri’s got you covered with everything from ancient underground cave systems to epic ski resorts!
With so many things to see and do in the Show-Me State, you might not know where to begin. So we’ve compiled our list of the absolute best things to do in Missouri for you. Stick to these fun and unique Missouri bucket list recommendations, and there’s no doubt you’ll have an amazing time exploring this gorgeous Midwestern state!
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25 Fun and Unique Things to do in Missouri
1. Boat Your Way Around the Lake of the Ozarks
One of the top Missouri attractions, the Lake of the Ozarks was formed in 1931 with the completion of Bagnell Dam. This expansive reservoir has more than 1,100 miles of shoreline that you are sure to fall in love with. Explore the area at your own leisurely pace by canoe or kayak, and then go bar hopping along the colorful Bagnell Dam Strip, famous for its party atmosphere.
Rent a boat to experience panoramic views of the lake, make your way to Lake of the Ozarks State Park, then dock at one of the numerous lakeside restaurants. Nearby you’ll find hiking trails abundant with breathtaking views of fresh springs and flowing rivers.
Don’t miss the mesmerizing Bridal Caves, famous for being the most scenic caverns in America and having more formations per square foot than any other known cave in the United States. If you want a quirky yet historically authentic tour, then you have to take the evening Lantern Tour through these fascinating caverns to experience the Bridal Caves the same way they were first seen by explorers!
2. Go Back in Time in the Meramec Caverns
The Meramec Caverns have existed deep within the earth for a whopping 400 million years thanks to underground water that slowly trickled its way through the bedrock of the Ozark hills. Almost 5 miles of passages and chambers awaited exploration until they were first discovered in 1720 – meaning they have been a popular tourist destination for over 300 years!
The Meramec Caverns offer so much more than just the cave tour. Put on your prospector hat and discover 24k treasures in their panning for gold stations, or dive into their exhilarating adventure course with outdoor rock climbing and ziplining.
If you’d prefer to kick your feet up, then embrace the gentle swaying and scenic views from the Cavern Queen Riverboat Ride. They even have a campsite making it the perfect place to rest your head while on your unique Route 66 adventure.
The grand finale of this amazing attraction is the colorful light show inside the caverns, where a kaleidoscope of colors illuminates the jagged stalagmites and prehistoric rock formations.
3. Get Tipsy on the Hermann Wine Trail
If you’re looking for fun things to do in Missouri with friends, the Hermann Wine Trail is a group of seven family-owned wineries located in the stunning town of Hermann, Missouri. Enjoy the rustic vibes of these quaint country farms and explore their historic wine cellars while tasting your way through a delicious variety of the finest wines Missouri has to offer.
Have you ever thought of pairing wine with bacon? If not, then you have been missing out! Head to Hermann in May to experience the Wild Bacon Wine Trail to try delicacies like garlic parm bacon knots or bacon ragu, all paired with their amazing local wine. The Hermann Wine Trail offers the perfect day out for any foodie or wine aficionado.
For the ultimate luxury, head there in February for their famous Chocolate Wine Trail to try mouthwatering raspberry fudge brownies paired with raspberry weisser flieder at the beautiful Bias Winery and Gabrielle’s Blush complimented by triple chocolate chili in Röbller Vineyard.
Don’t worry about being the designated driver. The Hermann trolley will conveniently drop you off at each winery, allowing you to totally relax and soak up the beautiful scenery.
If you have extra time and want to experience a full peaceful retreat, Hermann also offers world-class spas, golfing, and biking trails, making it the perfect weekend getaway in Missouri.
4. Enjoy Everything St. Louis Has to Offer
St. Louis is jam-packed with many of the best things to do in Missouri. Don’t miss the Missouri Botanical Garden. This place first opened in 1859 and is now the oldest botanical garden that’s still in operation in the country. This place is abundant with waterfalls, delicate orchids, and perfectly manicured gardens.
The City Museum in downtown St. Louis is a great place for people of all ages to explore caves and mazes, fall down slides, and enjoy the surrealistic pavilion.
St. Louis offers so much for art lovers, including the quirky outdoor sculptures in Citygarden and the intricate mosaic-covered walls inside the Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis, the largest such collection in the Western world! There are also countless amazing art galleries, from the City Museum to the Saint Louis Art Museum.
Forest Park is in the heart of St. Louis and is adored by locals. Walk here, and take in the historic buildings, monuments, and landscapes. You’ll find the Missouri History Museum and Science Center here.
Spend an evening soaking up the sights and smells of the historic Soulard Farmers Market. Dating back to 1779, this is one of the oldest markets in the Midwest, where you can still pick up an edible souvenir at any one of over 100 beautiful stalls. Follow it with a tour of the historic Budweiser Brewery, where you can even take a class to learn how to brew beer at home!
Kids will love the Saint Louis Zoo, which is home to puffins, polar bears, and everything in between. It is also free entry for everyone!
If the little ones are feeling brave, they can feed sharks and stingrays their lunch at the St. Louis Aquarium. Bird lovers will be delighted to visit the World Bird Sanctuary, where their dedicated bird hospital nurses over 600 birds of prey back to health annually.
5. Visit the Live Music Capital of Missouri
Nestled in the Ozark Mountains, Branson has plenty of family-friendly Missouri attractions that will keep everyone in vacation mode. This charming city is most known for its good old-fashion live entertainment, featuring over 100 shows in just about every genre you can think of.
Beyond the music strip known as Country Music Boulevard, a stop at Silver Dollar City is a must. What sets it apart from other theme parks in the area is that it is pioneer themed, so it’s like you are stepping back into the 1800s.
Plus, if you are an outdoor enthusiast, Branson is surrounded by a few lakes. If you want to camp out or just rent a boat for the day, visit Table Rock Lake, which is located just a short drive from the city.
Another must-visit is Moonshine Beach, a sandy beach where you can swim, sunbathe, picnic, hike, or play volleyball. For a unique way to get on the water, hop aboard the Branson Belle, a replica of an 1800s steamboat that features a 3-course dinner and live entertainment.
6. Climb the Giant Boulders in Elephant Rocks State Park
Witness the 1.5-billion-year-old boulders of the Arcadia Valley at Elephant Rocks State Park.
The easiest way to see these enormous rocks is through the Braille Trail, which will lead you to the park’s most impressive boulders, including Dumbo, their largest rock that stands at 27 feet tall and weighs a terrifying 680 tons – that’s the weight of over 100 actual elephants!
The Braille Trail penetrates the surrounding woods, leading to a small, tranquil lake that once functioned as a rock quarry. Bring your rod and spend the day fishing, or simply pack a picnic to enjoy at one of their many picnic areas.
This now peaceful park was once filled with the sounds of clanks from heavy machinery and the busy hammers and chisels of local quarrymen cutting giant chunks of red granite. These days you can walk the Engine House Ruins Trail to take a glimpse at Missouri’s bustling industrial past. While there, you can check out the impressive stone schoolhouse, several small homes, and, of course, the old railroad engine house, all of which were in use in the late 1800s.
Can’t get enough of the great outdoors? Check out the other two nearby parks. The popular Johnson’s Shut-ins State Park is absolutely gorgeous and is the perfect place to go for a swim. Or, pack your hiking boots and climb the highest summit in Missouri at Sauk Mountain Park!
7. See History Come Alive at St. Charles
The former capital of the state, St. Charles is a charming town that is overflowing with history. Located on the Missouri River, take in the views from the Lewis and Clark Boat House and Nature Center, which houses full-size replicas of the boat that the explorers used.
Rent a bicycle from the nearby Bike Stop Cafe for a quick bite to eat before you access the Katy Trail. This 240-mile riverside trail system is popular with cyclists, joggers, and hikers and is a great way to discover the city.
Stroll down the cobblestone streets of its Main Street in the Historic District and take a self-guided walking tour. Here, you’ll find the restored buildings, some of which are 250 years old. Now, these same buildings have been transformed into boutique shops, galleries, and over 25 restaurants with a pick of your favorite cuisines.
To check out art, head to the Foundry Art Centre or Missouri Artists on Main, both housed in historic buildings like an old stagecoach station and a renovated train car factory. At night, the streets are lit up with gas lamps, giving it an authentic and romantic ambiance of the city’s rich past meeting the present day.
8. Take a Scenic Hike in Ha Ha Tonka State Park
Pack your hiking boots because you’re going to want to spend the whole day exploring this beautiful park. For one of the coolest things to do in Missouri, go in the fall when the trees turn rich shades of red, ochre, and amber between the glistening sapphire water of Trout Glen Pool and the crumbling castle backdrop. Hiking here is easily one of the top Missouri activities, and you’ll feel like you are lost in a fairytale forest in Germany.
Follow the Spring Trail boardwalk to experience incredible views of the lake shoreline and the gushing springs. This is where the park got its name from – Ha Ha Tonka is from the Osage tribe phrase meaning “big laugh” or “laughing spirit” in reference to the sounds and spirit of the springs.
Take the Colosseum Trail to walk directly under the unusual natural stone bridge, which leads through to the massive sinkhole. For those feeling adventurous, you can climb the 316-step staircase up to the castle ruins or explore the Island Trail for more stunning views.
Whichever trail you choose, you’ll enjoy stunning views of natural streams, castle ruins, unique rock formations, natural rock bridges, and sinkholes.
9. Visit the Inspirational Boyhood Home of Mark Twain in Hannibal
If you stayed up well past your bedtime reading about the adventures of Tom Sawyer and Huck Finn, then a visit to Hannibal town is an absolute must on your Missouri bucket list. This is where Mark Twain spent his childhood and served as an inspiration for his books.
You can explore the town’s rich history at the Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum, which is now a National Historic Landmark. The museum houses his original manuscripts, photographs, incredibly valuable rare first editions of his books, as well as original furniture from his childhood home, such as the desk where he wrote his books. The museum contains plenty of information, interactive exhibits, displays of treasured artifacts, and Twain memorabilia.
While in Hannibal, be sure to take the Mark Twain Riverboat, where you can cruise the mighty Mississippi River on an old-fashioned paddle-wheeler. Explore the underground passages of the Mark Twain Cave Complex, where he played as a boy and later featured in his books. There is also a Mark Twain Memorial Lighthouse and a statue of Tom and Huck.
10. Wander Around Kansas City’s Museums
Kansas City is worth a spot on your Missouri bucket list. It’s not widely known for being an artsy or cultured city, but you’d be surprised at the city’s many impressive museums. The Missouri side of KC is home to vibrant art museums and the only museum in the country dedicated to World War I.
Check out the extensive collection at the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, featuring over 40,000 works of art, including the outdoor sculpture area. The smaller but equally awesome Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art has free admission for everyone year-round!
If you want to learn about musicians like KC’s Charlie Parker, Louis Armstrong, Ella Fitzgerald, and other jazz artists, head to the American Jazz Museum located in the historic 18th and Vine District.
If you work up an appetite during your exploring and are a meat eater, Kansas City has tons of barbeque joints that have made a name for themselves on the barbeque circuit with their award-winning pitmasters.
The city is known for its fall-off-the-bone ribs, smoked brisket, tender pulled pork, and sweet, tangy sauce. So head to any of their BBQ restaurants, like Gate’s or Jack Steak Barbeque!
11. Discover the Incredibly Rare Fantastic Caverns
One of the most unique things to do in Missouri, the Fantastic Caverns is America’s only ride-through cave! To protect these rare caves and ensure their preservation for generations to come, the only way to experience these stunning caverns is by a Jeep-drawn tram tour, giving you an absolutely effortless experience! No stairs or steep climbs required.
Your tour follows the remains of an underground river, uncovering the mysteries of a world hidden beneath your feet. Think soda straws, giant columns, and formations from a land before time. The best thing is that the tours are fully guided, so you won’t miss a detail about this wonderful place!
This place was discovered in 1862 by a local farmer, or more specifically, his pet dog, who crawled through one of the smaller entrances in the hillside. Unbeknownst to this furry fella, the cave he found was so rare, there are only three more of its kind in the world.
The cave was first explored by humans several years later when a group of women answered an ad in the local paper “seeking explorers.” These brave explorers’ names are still written on the cave walls to this day.
12. Go Back in Time at Silver Dollar City
Every state has its share of theme parks, but what sets Silver Dollar City apart is its focus on traditional crafts and artisanal skills. Themed to look like the 1880s, the entertainment complex is a mix of the old-fashion Ozark charm and modern roller coasters and amusement park rides. Here you’ll see blacksmiths, candle makers, glassblowers, and other skilled craftsmen at work in traditional clothing from that era.
Located in Branson, you can spend a few days here. Just take your pick among its 40 thrilling rides and attractions. If you want to give your feet some rest, catch one of their live shows – they have over 40 live shows daily. They have something to suit your tastes, from classic country music to comedy to magicians.
Cool off from the heat in the summer at the water rides found at the adjoining White Water theme park. This must-visit attraction even has a cave to explore that will take you 500 feet below the surface.
To see what pioneer life was like, check out authentic 1880s buildings at McHaffies Homestead & Barnyard and the Oak Trail School, which were moved to the park from their original Ozark location.
13. Go Scuba Diving in an Abandoned Mine at Bonne Terre Mines
If you’re looking for unique things to do in Missouri, squeeze yourself into a wetsuit and explore the transparent waters of this underground mine. With visibility in the water at well over 100 feet, this place is a diver’s dream. Plus, the ambient overhead lights provide soft illumination of the lake for divers.
Led by a guide, you’ll see mining artifacts under the water that sit frozen in time. You are encouraged to touch things in the cavernous rooms, providing a full sensory experience. The abandoned mine cart filled with ore and tools stands as a reminder of this cave’s industrial past.
Bonne Terre Mine was founded in the 1860s and operated until the 1960s. At one stage, they were the largest producer of lead ore in the world. It is constantly raining inside the mine, which leads to over a billion gallons of water forming the underground lake.
When the area was used for mining, there were pumps running 24/7 to remove the water and allow extraction of the lead ore. These days most of the pumps are long gone, and the natural lake has returned.
While the cave is famous for its diving, there are other ways you can happily explore it! You can take the guided walking tour of the upper levels along the old mule trails, showing where the miners dug with shovels and picks, or take the boat tour to explore the lake with spectacular views of the abandoned shafts and equipment lying beneath the depths.
14. Sample the Locally-Made Brews
Home to one of the largest breweries in the country, Anheuser-Busch, Missouri is also home to over 150 independent craft breweries and microbreweries, which are scattered around the state. So basically, at every town you visit, you can sample their locally crafted lagers, ales, and craft beers, and most of the time, the tour and taste are complimentary.
For a more family-friendly attraction, visit Grant’s Farm in St. Louis. This has been the Busch family home since 1903, and today the family still runs the 200-acre attraction. Here you can get your picture taken with one of their famous Clydesdale horses, see a variety of different animals on a tram ride, and tour the actual mansion.
If you meet the age requirements, you can sample one of the beers. You can also visit the actual brewery and biergarten and take one of their tours for a behind-the-scenes look at the beer-making process.
15. See Nature in Dogwood Canyon Nature Park
Loved by the locals in Branson, Dogwood Canyon boasts 10,000 acres of lush forest, clear rivers abundant in rainbow trout, and cascading waterfalls that will put you in a state of meditation.
Hike or bike any one of the many picturesque trails to totally immerse yourself in nature. You can discover hidden areas of the park that can’t be otherwise accessed by horseback riding.
Nature lovers will adore the Wildlife Tram Tour. This 2-hour guided ride through the canyon will show you the native herds of elk, deer, and bison. Maybe you’ll even be lucky enough to spot Takoda, the rare white American bison hiding among the herd.
Finish off your day at The Lodge to try their amazing bison burgers, among other delicious dishes. Ask to sit at the table that is right in front of the waterfall – it takes dinner with a view to a whole new level!
16. Explore the Underrated Springfield
Springfield is one of the largest cities in Missouri, and thanks to its small-town hospitality vibes, it is growing in popularity to visit. Located just an hour north of Branson, the city is known as the start of the famous Route 66 and serves as a gateway to the Ozarks.
Plus, if you’re on a budget, the city offers plenty of attractions that are free to visit. Tour the Springfield Art Museum for a look at their permanent collection, which has over 10,000 works of art with an emphasis on Americana art from the 18th century to contemporary works. If you’re more of a science buff, visit Henry the a triceratops skeleton and the other fossils at the Missouri Institute of Natural Science.
The city also provides lots of free outdoor attractions, including the Roston Native Butterfly House, a botanical garden featuring lots of butterflies and flora and fauna. To get familiar with the layout of the city, do a self-guided outdoor sculpture tour of the city that features rotating art pieces throughout the year.
A stop at the Springfield Conservation Nature Center is a must. It’s one of the best free things to do outside within the city limits. The center has 3 miles of walking trails, nature exhibits, and educational activities for all ages.
17. Go Skiing at the Hidden Valley Ski Resort
Enjoy the exhilarating rush of skiing down a mountain in Missouri at the Hidden Valley Ski Resort! It’s the perfect place if you’re planning a winter trip and looking for fun things to do in Missouri. Ski, snowboard, sled, and snow tube your way down over 16 trails spread across two epic mountain peaks. Hidden Valley is guaranteed to satiate the appetite of any adrenaline junkie.
If you’re new to skiing, be sure to book a session at the Snowsports Academy to learn how to glide through the snow like a warm knife through butter. Bond with your friends and family by taking a group lesson. Nothing is guaranteed to crack you up like watching your clumsier relatives flail helplessly at the mercy of their skis.
Kids will have a blast speedily snow tubing down the lanes while mom and dad have time to relax and watch from the nearby outdoor fire pit in the tubing base area. With no skills necessary, this is the perfect introductory activity for little ones who have no ski experience.
When your joints are achy from your long day on the slopes, be sure to visit the ski lodge, where you can sit by the crackling open fire to soak up the cozy winter ambiance. Treat yourself to some hot chocolate for the ultimate hygge vibes.
18. Take a Stroll Through Rock Bridge Memorial State Park
Enjoy a lovely stroll through Rock Bridge Memorial State Park, home to some of Missouri’s best examples of restored grasslands, forests, streams, karst landscapes, and a surprising amount of sinkholes! Follow the boardwalk to see fascinating geologic formations and the unique natural rock bridge. And don’t forget to pack a picnic to really soak it all in.
Located just 5 miles from Columbia, you can visit the park to view its diverse karst topography that has led to its unique cave ecosystem. Here, you can walk both above and under a rock that naturally forms a bridge.
It also has some of the most popular hiking trails in the state, offering eight trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. There are plenty of stopping points to rest with informative displays to tell you about the area and the hike.
At the Devil’s Icebox, you can see a large cave with sinkholes, a stream that comes from underground, and a picturesque rock bridge. During the day, be sure to check out Connor’s Cave to explore underground.
19. Camp Out at Table Rock Lake
Crystal-clear water lined with shady trees and secret beaches, Table Rock Lake offers the ultimate weekend getaway for when you’re visiting Branson. Located just 5 miles from the city, there are plenty of places to camp or park your RV. Or, have a more unusual stay by sleeping in a yurt or rustic cabin, or go all out and treat yourself to a luxurious resort.
Adrenaline junkies will love scuba diving, as well as trying out thrilling water sports and tackling the impressive mountain biking trail. If you’re seeking something a little more peaceful, you can enjoy hiking, picnicking, or simply relaxing in the marina with a good book.
Table Rock Lake is most famous for fishing, with a plethora of large bluegill, giant catfish, and Kentucky spotted bass. From swimming, sunbathing, and viewing wildlife to boating and sailing along the 800 miles of coast, you’ll find some of the best outdoor Missouri activities here!
20. Step Aboard the World’s Most Famous Boat at the Titanic Museum
As you enter the Titanic Museum, you’ll be given your own boarding pass detailing the persona of a real person who undertook the voyage, and at the end of the exhibit you’ll find out whether that person survived.
In this Branson museum, you’ll go back over 100 years in time as you walk the beautifully replicated hallways and the famous grand staircase perfectly illuminated with soft lighting, showcasing its stunningly ornate woodwork. Learn all about the Titanic through over 400 artifacts sourced directly from the ship and her passengers.
You’ll be gripped with emotion as a pianist plays “Nearer, My God, to Thee,” the song that the orchestra played as the Titanic sank. On a lighter note, you’ll be quite surprised to see the vast differences between the 1st class cabins compared to the 2nd and 3rd class as you walk into the phenomenally re-created bedrooms.
The bridge and outside deck were built to look and feel exactly the same way they did that fateful night when the Titanic hit an iceberg. When you walk near the bridge, all is dark except for the fiber optic stars.
This museum is so committed to giving guests an authentic, immersive, and surreal experience that they even have a tank of water cooled to a chilling 28 degrees, the exact temperature the Titanic sank in.
21. Take the Tram to the Top of the Gateway Arch
A trip to the top of the Gateway Arch is one of the best things to do in Missouri. Standing proudly at 630 feet, it is architectural ingenuity at its finest. Finnish-American architect Eero Saarinen designed the arch, which is the tallest monument in the Western Hemisphere that is manmade. This historical feat of engineering took over two years to build and was completed on October 28, 1965.
Enter through the arch’s dedicated museum to take the quirky tram, which is made up of eight small pods/capsules, all the way to the top to enjoy the breathtaking views of downtown St. Louis to the west, and see all the way as far as Illinois to the east. On a clear day, you can see up to 30 miles in either direction.
Gateway Arch National Park consists of an entire park, meaning there is so much more to explore around the arch. Take a stroll around the carefully landscaped grounds, through their gently curved walkways, to see peaceful ponds and manicured trees. Follow it up with some shopping at the arch store or sit down and enjoy a cup of joe at the cafe.
22. Read the Works of Laura Ingalls Wilder at Her Family’s Historic Home and Museum
To visit the home of one of America’s most beloved writers, visit the Laura Ingalls Wilder Historic Home and Museum, which is located in Mansfield, about 45 miles east of Springfield, Missouri. Laura Ingalls Wilder wrote a series of novels called Little House on the Prairie that is based on her real-life adventures on the American frontier in the late 19th century.
Through the museum’s exhibits and tours of her family’s Rocky Ridge Farm, you’ll get a glimpse of the challenges of pioneer life. Museum artifacts include her father’s fiddles, needlework made by Laura, photographs, handwritten manuscripts of the books, and other keepsakes of her family.
You’ll see the desk where she wrote and learn about the author’s process of writing the books. Outside, you can follow the trail and walk the very grounds that were the inspiration behind her books. They also hold various events throughout the year, like Wilder Day, Fiddle Off, and other celebrations that commemorate Laura Ingalls Wilder.
23. See Kansas City’s Historic Union Station
Built in 1914 as a train station, today it’s one of Kansas City’s most historical landmarks and one of the top Missouri attractions. What once was one of the Midwest’s most used transportation hubs, this place has been beautifully restored and maintained to its original Beaux-Arts architectural style.
There’s plenty of attractions here, but even a stop to admire its 95-foot-tall ornate ceilings, 6-foot-wide clock, and multiple chandeliers in the Grand Hall that weigh over 3,000 pounds.
After exploring the main terminal, you can visit the award-winning Science City, Arvin Gottlieb Planetarium, movie theater, restaurants, or live entertainment City Stage Theatre. Just like it was a hundred years ago, you can still catch a train here.
Back in the day, hundreds of trains would pass through. But today, the only train stopping here is the Amtrak Train. For train lovers, there is also an impressive 8,000-square-foot train model gallery with running mini-trains.
One of the most popular attractions is the interactive Science City, which features over 300 interactive hands-on STEM activities. Throughout the year, Union Station also hosts rotating touring exhibits from big names like Smithsonian and National Geographic, so it’s always worth a look at its website to see what their current events are.
24. Learn about the Ozarks at Top of the Rock
Top of the Rock, an attraction just 10 minutes south of Branson, is a fantastic place to spend an afternoon outside the city with a variety of recreational activities to do all in one place. Start out by traveling the 2.5-mile Lost Canyon Nature Trail on an electric cart, which passes through the Lost Canyon Cave.
There are observation balconies to view the rock formations and flowing waterfalls in this four-story cave. End your cave exploration at the Bat Bar, where you can relax with your favorite drink and take in spectacular Ozarks views.
The Ancient Ozarks Natural History Museum is also included in the admission ticket, which is a great place to learn about the local history. Around 75,000 historical relics, interactive displays, and historical mementos are on display at the museum. You’ll see dinosaur skeletons, Civil War relics, and dioramas of how the Ozarks looked in ancient times.
Two full-sized golf courses are also available, with world-class driving ranges and putting greens. If golf isn’t your thing, visit the Buffalo Bar or the End of the Trail All-American Wine Cellar before spending your evening at one of the four restaurants. Stay until the sun sets to see a mini Civil War reenactment and hear a cannon blast with a ceremony held nightly.
25. Discover the Impact of the First World War at the National WWI Museum and Memorial
Steeped in history, the National WWI Museum and Memorial boasts the most extensive collection of objects from the First World War, not just in the country but also in the world. In 1926, the Liberty Memorial was built to commemorate the men and women who served in the war.
Today, it’s a National Historic Landmark with some of the best 360-degree views of downtown Kansas City from its observation deck. At night, the 217-foot-tall tower is lit with a flame.
Inside the museum, you’ll find interactive and intriguing displays with lots of eyewitness testimonies from those who survived it. The permanent collection, “The World War, 1914-1919,” holds thought-provoking exhibits like life-sized trenches that you can walk through and gripping films shown at the Kemper Horizon Theater.
From full-sized tanks to cannons, uniforms from several countries, and war posters, the museum shows the war unfold chronologically. Even if you aren’t a history buff, this meditative museum will surely evoke emotion in you and allow you to learn lots about this important period of time in the world’s history.
There you have it! The 25 best things to do in Missouri. What’s your favorite thing to do in the Show-Me State?
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