While some people may think of Missouri as a “fly-over” state, it actually has a great deal to offer in terms of tourism. Whether you’re into history, nature, or live entertainment, you’ll have no trouble finding things to do in the “Show-Me State.”
1. The Gateway Arch
Visit St. Louis and see the iconic Gateway Arch! Located in the scenic Gateway Arch National Park, this is an incredibly popular tourist destination for good reason. The arch was built to celebrate the spirit of westward expansion and is also known as the “Gateway to the West.” Take a tram ride to the top and enjoy a view that stretches up to 30 miles, and learn more about the region’s role in the history of our nation with interactive exhibits.
2. Missouri Botanical Garden
St. Louis, Missouri is also home to the oldest botanical garden in continuous operation in the country. Take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city by exploring the 79 acres of formal and international gardens, as well as indoor conservatories. With free daily tours offered, as well as interactive programs for kids and families, there is certainly something for everyone to enjoy.
3. Branson’s Entertainment District
Branson, Missouri’s Entertainment District brings visitors from all over. Highway 76 offers a wealth of attractions, including heart-pounding rides, live performance venues, a wide variety of options for shopping, and a host of other attractions including the interactive Titanic Museum. Whatever you’re looking for, you’ll be sure to find it here!
4. Mark Twain Boyhood Home & Museum
On the west bank of Missouri lies Hannibal, the birthplace of writer Mark Twain. At the Mark Twain Boyhood Home & Museum, you can tour a beautiful historic home, learn about how young Samuel Clemens became Mark Twain as he is known today, as well as enjoy special storytelling performances in the summer. Featured as the setting for classic novels The Adventures of Tom Sawyer and The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, Hannibal also offers a wide variety of activities that make it the perfect choice for a weekend adventure.
5. National World War I Museum and Memorial
If you’re interested in history, you can’t miss the National WWI Museum and Memorial in Kansas City, MO. The museum’s collection of World War I related objects is second to none in the world, and offers a range of exhibits and programs which will be sure to enlighten visitors of all ages.
6. Arabia Steamboat Museum
Also in Kansas City, you’ll find the Arabia Steamboat Museum. Step onboard a 171-foot long steamboat built in 1853 and relive the past! Once a cargo vessel, the steamboat was “snagged” by a huge tree trunk and sank to the bottom of the Missouri River until it was rediscovered in 1987, with an excavation that revealed the world’s largest collection of artifacts from before the Civil War.
7. Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art
Art lovers owe it to themselves to visit Kansas City’s Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. Travelers on a budget will be pleased to discover that the museum is free of charge, except for special exhibitions which come with a fee. Offering some truly amazing works of art, you’ll find collections of African, American, Chinese, Japanese, and Modern Art. Don’t forget to take a walk outside and see the impressive sculptures on view.
