Missouri is known for its magnificent caves, lakes, and rivers, including the stunning Mississippi. This region has to offer visitors beautiful scenery, outdoor adventures, and historic towns with fascinating museums. A rich history ties it to its past, but it’s also got modern wonders. So enjoy the beauty of canyons and rivers, and unwind in soothing surroundings.
There’s a lot to see in this heavenly place, situated in the Midwest of the United States. So, to help you plan before you embark on an adventure in this part of the country, we’re going to share some amazing spots worth exploring in the mesmerizing state of Missouri. So let’s take a look!
Delve into Branson’s Nightlife
Branson’s small Ozark Mountain town is a popular vacation destination for locals and tourists alike. Branson is a wonderful place in the southwestern part of Missouri, often referred to as a family-oriented Las Vegas since it holds more than a hundred movie theaters around its neon-lit strip.
Initially, country music used to be king at the theaters along 76 Country Boulevard, but now there are all kinds of music here.
Silver Dollar City is one of the most popular attractions. It’s a replica of a town from the 1880s featuring all kinds of entertainment, as well as tours of Marvel Cave. Here are some places worth seeing: Dolly Parton’s Dixie Stampede Dinner Attraction, created in the Wild West style, the Wax Museum of Hollywood, Branson.
While some exciting things to do in Branson MO include white water rafting, zip-lining, visiting the National Tiger Sanctuary and Butterfly Palace, and partaking in the Rainforest Adventures. Besides these, Branson is home to many amusement parks, go-karting, mini-golf, etc., all of which are enjoyable activities.
State Park Meramec
Meramec State Park has breathtaking cliffs, lush forests, and mysterious caves. You can enjoy the great outdoors by visiting Meramec State Park. It lies in the eastern part of the state, close to St. Louis, and offers stunning views along the Meramec River.
Although hiking in the park or kayaking and fishing in its crystal-clear waters are fun, the park is most famous for its caves. There are more than 40 caves in total, out of which Fraser Cave stands out due to its stunning stalactites and stalagmites.
Furthermore, visitors can learn about the park’s geology, flora, and fauna at the park’s informative visitor center. Some camp at Meramec State Park or stay in one of its lodges so they can wake up to the breathtaking scenery.
Louis’ Gateway Arch
Missouri’s largest city is St. Louis, which is full of outdoor activities and tourist spots. Among its many attractions are parks, antique gardens, wineries, and the Gateway Arch.
Located in the metropolitan section is a large mall that leads to the courthouse next to the gateway arch. In this historic courthouse, Dred Scott’s case was decided. Additionally, St Louis Zoo, Forest Park, and Anheuser Busch Brewery are excellent tourist attractions.
In the Soulard district, you can find some of the best barbeques in St. Louis. A visit to the Museum of Westward Expansion, St. Louis Cathedral, and Magic House is necessary. Also, St Louis’ Missouri botanical garden is a must-see in spring. Founded in the 19th century by Henry Shaw, this botanical garden is the oldest of its kind in the U.S.
It sprawls over 79 acres and has a diverse collection of trees, shrubs, and plants. Cilmatton is a geodesic dome that has over 14000 plant species, like bananas, coffee, cacao, orchids, etc.
National Battlefield of Wilson’s Creek
On August 10, 1861, approximately 5,000 Union troops and 11,000 Confederate soldiers fought at the Battle of Wilson’s Creek. The Confederates won the battle, but more fighting followed in Missouri afterward.
The Wilson’s Creek Civil War Museum contains Arkansas General Patrick Cleburne’s sword belt and sash. On the 4.9-mile road tour, visitors can see the battlefield and remaining historical structures and park in plenty of spots to explore the seven miles of trails throughout the scenic area.
The State Park of Ha Ha Tonka in Camdenton
The Ha Ha Tonka State Park, near Lake of the Ozarks, is one of Missouri’s best places to visit. Its castle ruins are definitely a reason to visit. Castle ruins that sit high atop a hill just outside Camdenton, Missouri, have been transformed into a 3,700-acre park that includes a 16th century stone castle.
The numerous geographical features of this park make it a stunningly beautiful place. You will find a 60-foot long natural bridge with a height of 100 feet and a width of 70 feet. In addition, there is a sinkhole named Colossus and a sinkhole called Whispering Dell that is 150 feet deep with two caves.
The Ha Ha Tonka spring releases about 50 million gallons of water through a gorge 250 feet high every day. On the bluff are the stone remnants of the castle. Over 15 miles of trails wind through the park, passing sinkholes, caves, and beautiful, crystal-clear lakes.
Before We Part
Regardless of what most people believe, Missouri is indeed an enchanting state worth exploring. So, the next time you plan a family getaway, a birthday trip, or maybe a weekend retreat, you can visit any of these places mentioned above. And trust us, you’re going to have a fantastic time.