Map Of United States Missouri Travel Guide

Introduction

Missouri is a beautiful state located in the Midwestern United States. It is known for its rolling hills, great rivers, and charming towns. The state offers a wide range of attractions for visitors to explore, from natural wonders to historical sites. This comprehensive travel guide will help you make the most of your trip to Missouri, whether you are a history buff, a nature lover, or simply looking for a fun family vacation.

Top Attractions

Gateway Arch

The Gateway Arch is a 630-foot monument in St. Louis, Missouri. It was built to commemorate Thomas Jefferson and the westward expansion of the United States. Visitors can take an elevator to the top of the arch for a stunning view of the city.

Silver Dollar City

Silver Dollar City is a theme park in Branson, Missouri, that offers a variety of rides and attractions for all ages. The park is particularly known for its roller coasters and live entertainment shows.

Hidden Gems

Ha Ha Tonka State Park

Ha Ha Tonka State Park is a hidden gem in central Missouri. It features a castle-like ruins of a mansion built in the early 1900s, as well as hiking trails, caves, and a natural bridge. The park is a great place for a picnic or a hike.

Mingo National Wildlife Refuge

Mingo National Wildlife Refuge is a hidden gem for nature lovers. It is home to a variety of wildlife, including bald eagles, river otters, and white-tailed deer. Visitors can explore the refuge on foot, by car, or by boat.

Food Scene

Missouri is known for its barbecue, and there are many great barbecue restaurants throughout the state. Some of the best include Pappy’s Smokehouse in St. Louis, Arthur Bryant’s in Kansas City, and Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que in Leawood.

Budget-Friendly Tips

If you are looking to save money on your trip to Missouri, consider visiting in the shoulder season, which is typically from March to May and September to November. During this time, prices for accommodations and attractions are often lower, and crowds are smaller.

Outdoor Adventures

Katy Trail State Park

Katy Trail State Park is a 240-mile trail that runs through the heart of Missouri. It is a great place for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, and offers stunning views of the state’s natural beauty.

Missouri River

The Missouri River is the longest river in the United States and offers a variety of outdoor activities, including fishing, kayaking, and riverboat cruises.

Historical Landmarks

Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield

Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield is a historic site near Springfield, Missouri, where one of the first major battles of the Civil War took place. Visitors can explore the battlefield and learn about the history of the area.

Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum

The Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum is located in Hannibal, Missouri, and offers a glimpse into the early life of one of America’s most beloved authors. Visitors can tour the home where Twain grew up and learn about his life and work.

Family-Friendly Activities

Six Flags St. Louis

Six Flags St. Louis is a popular amusement park that offers a variety of rides and attractions for all ages. The park is particularly known for its roller coasters and water rides.

City Museum

The City Museum in St. Louis is a unique attraction that offers a variety of interactive exhibits and play spaces for children and adults. Visitors can climb through a giant treehouse, explore a cave system, and ride a Ferris wheel on the roof of the building.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

Bonnie and Clyde’s Joplin Garage Apartment

Bonnie and Clyde’s Joplin Garage Apartment is a historic site in Joplin, Missouri, where the infamous gangsters lived for several months in 1933. Visitors can tour the apartment and learn about the lives and crimes of Bonnie and Clyde.

Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park

Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park is a unique natural area in southeastern Missouri that features a series of rock formations and pools that are perfect for swimming and exploring. The park is a great place to cool off on a hot summer day.

Natural Wonders

Elephant Rocks State Park

Elephant Rocks State Park is a unique natural area in eastern Missouri that features giant granite boulders that resemble elephants. Visitors can explore the rocks on foot and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

Onondaga Cave State Park

Onondaga Cave State Park is a beautiful natural area in central Missouri that features a variety of caves and underground lakes. Visitors can take a guided tour of the caves and learn about the geology of the area.

Vibrant Nightlife

Missouri is home to many vibrant cities, including St. Louis, Kansas City, and Columbia, that offer a variety of nightlife options, including bars, clubs, and live music venues.

Local Markets

Soulard Farmers Market

The Soulard Farmers Market in St. Louis is one of the oldest farmers markets in the United States. It offers a variety of fresh produce, meats, and baked goods, as well as crafts and other goods from local vendors.

City Market

The City Market in Kansas City is a vibrant outdoor market that offers a variety of fresh produce, meats, and other goods from local vendors. It is a great place to explore and sample the local cuisine.

Beaches and Mountains

Lake of the Ozarks

Lake of the Ozarks is a popular vacation destination in central Missouri that offers a variety of outdoor activities, including boating, fishing, and swimming. The area also features a number of resorts and restaurants.

Taum Sauk Mountain State Park

Taum Sauk Mountain State Park is a beautiful natural area in southeastern Missouri that features the highest peak in the state. Visitors can hike to the top of the mountain and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding area.

Cultural Immersion

Missouri is home to a variety of cultural attractions, including museums, art galleries, and music venues. Some of the best include the St. Louis Art Museum, the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art in Kansas City, and the Missouri History Museum in St. Louis.

Art and Music Scene

Missouri has a rich tradition of art and music, with many talented artists and musicians calling the state home. Some of the best places to experience the art and music scene in Missouri include the Crossroads Arts District in Kansas City and the Grand Center Arts District in St. Louis.

Walking Tours

Missouri State Capitol

The Missouri State Capitol in Jefferson City is a beautiful building that offers guided tours to visitors. The tours provide a fascinating look at the history and architecture of the state capitol.

Route 66

Route 66 is a historic road that runs through Missouri and offers a variety of interesting sights and attractions. Visitors can take a self-guided walking tour of some of the highlights of the route, including the World’s Largest Rocking Chair in Fanning and the Jesse James Museum in Stanton.

Architectural Marvels

Union Station

Union Station in St. Louis is a beautiful historic building that has been transformed into a shopping and entertainment complex. Visitors can explore the stunning architecture of the building and enjoy a variety of shops and restaurants.

Mark Twain Boyhood Home

The Mark Twain Boyhood Home in Hannibal, Missouri, is a beautiful historic building that offers a glimpse into the early life of one of America’s most beloved authors. Visitors can tour the home where Twain grew up and learn about his life and work.

Historical Sites

Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield

Harry S. Truman Presidential Library and Museum

The Harry S. Truman Presidential Library and Museum in Independence, Missouri, offers a fascinating look at the life and presidency of one of America’s most important leaders. Visitors can explore the museum’s exhibits and learn about Truman’s legacy.