State Of Missouri Map With Counties
Missouri is a Midwestern state known for its beautiful natural landscapes, vibrant cities, and rich history. From the rolling hills of the Ozarks to the bustling streets of St. Louis, Missouri has something for everyone. Whether you’re a history buff, foodie, or outdoor enthusiast, you’ll find plenty of things to see and do.
Top Attractions
Missouri is home to some of the country’s top attractions, including the Gateway Arch in St. Louis and the Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum in Hannibal. The Silver Dollar City amusement park in Branson is also a must-visit for families with children. For a unique experience, head to the City Museum in St. Louis, which is a giant playground made from recycled materials.
Hidden Gems
While Missouri’s top attractions are impressive, there are also plenty of hidden gems to discover. The Katy Trail State Park is a 240-mile hiking and biking trail that stretches across the state, offering stunning views of the countryside. The Ha Ha Tonka State Park in Camdenton features a castle-like mansion and natural bridge that are worth exploring. The Ozark National Scenic Riverways is a lesser-known gem that offers opportunities for hiking, fishing, and kayaking.
Food Scene
Missouri has a diverse food scene that reflects its history and cultural influences. St. Louis-style pizza, which features a thin crust and provel cheese, is a local favorite. Kansas City-style barbecue is also a must-try, with its slow-cooked meats and tangy sauces. For something sweet, try a slice of gooey butter cake, a St. Louis specialty.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Traveling in Missouri doesn’t have to break the bank. Many of the state’s top attractions, including the Gateway Arch and the Mark Twain Boyhood Home, offer free admission. The Kansas City Art Institute and the St. Louis Art Museum also offer free admission to their permanent collections. For budget-friendly eats, head to local diners and barbecue joints, which offer generous portions at reasonable prices.
Outdoor Adventures
Missouri’s natural landscapes offer plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures. The Ozarks are a popular destination for hiking, camping, and fishing. The Lake of the Ozarks is a boater’s paradise, with miles of shoreline and plenty of marinas. The Missouri River offers opportunities for kayaking and canoeing, while the Katy Trail State Park is a great option for bikers and hikers.
Historical Landmarks
Missouri played an important role in the Civil War and has a rich history that is reflected in its many landmarks. Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield in Republic is a must-visit for history buffs, as is the Harry S. Truman Presidential Library and Museum in Independence. The Missouri State Capitol in Jefferson City is also worth a visit, as is the Missouri State Penitentiary in Jefferson City, which offers tours of the historic prison.
Family-Friendly Activities
Missouri has plenty of family-friendly activities that kids of all ages will enjoy. The St. Louis Zoo is one of the country’s top zoos and offers free admission. The World Aquarium in St. Louis is also a must-visit, with its collection of sea creatures and interactive exhibits. The Science City at Union Station in Kansas City is a fun and educational destination for kids.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for something a little different, Missouri has plenty of off-the-beaten-path experiences to discover. The City Museum in St. Louis is a one-of-a-kind attraction that is worth a visit. The Missouri Botanical Garden in St. Louis is a beautiful oasis in the heart of the city, with 79 acres of gardens and exhibits. The Precious Moments Chapel in Carthage is also a unique destination, with its collection of angelic figurines and religious art.
Natural Wonders
Missouri is home to many natural wonders, from the Ozark Mountains to the Missouri River. The Meramec Caverns in Sullivan offer guided tours of underground caves and rock formations. The Elephant Rocks State Park in Belleview features giant boulders that look like elephants. The Garden of the Gods in Shawnee National Forest is a stunning destination with its unique rock formations and scenic overlooks.
Vibrant Nightlife
Missouri’s cities offer plenty of options for a night out on the town. The Power & Light District in Kansas City is a popular destination for nightlife, with its bars, restaurants, and live music venues. The Delmar Loop in St. Louis is also a great option, with its eclectic mix of bars, restaurants, and shops. The Central West End in St. Louis is another popular destination, with its upscale restaurants and trendy bars.
Local Markets
Missouri’s local markets offer a taste of the state’s agricultural heritage. The City Market in Kansas City is a must-visit, with its selection of fresh produce, meats, and baked goods. The Soulard Farmers Market in St. Louis is also worth a visit, with its historic market building and wide variety of vendors. The Fulton Farmers Market in Fulton is a smaller market that offers a more intimate shopping experience.
Beaches and Mountains
Missouri may not have an ocean, but it still has plenty of options for beach lovers. The Lake of the Ozarks is a popular destination for boating and swimming, with its sandy beaches and clear water. The Ozark National Scenic Riverways also offer opportunities for swimming and tubing. For mountain lovers, the Ozark Mountains offer stunning views and opportunities for hiking and camping.
Cultural Immersion
Missouri’s cultural heritage is reflected in its many museums and cultural institutions. The Negro Leagues Baseball Museum in Kansas City is a must-visit for sports fans, with its collection of artifacts and exhibits that celebrate the history of African American baseball. The Missouri History Museum in St. Louis is also worth a visit, with its collection of artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of the state’s past. The National World War I Museum in Kansas City is another must-visit, with its collection of artifacts and exhibits that explore the history of the “Great War.”
Art and Music Scene
Missouri has a vibrant art and music scene that is reflected in its many galleries and venues. The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art in Kansas City is one of the country’s top museums, with its collection of world-class art and exhibits. The Sheldon Concert Hall in St. Louis is a popular destination for music lovers, with its acoustically perfect concert hall and lineup of world-class performers. The Ozark Folk Center in Mountain View is also worth a visit, with its collection of traditional Ozark music and crafts.
Walking Tours
Missouri’s cities offer plenty of opportunities for walking tours that explore the state’s history and culture. The Gateway Arch in St. Louis offers guided tours that explore the history of the arch and the city. The Kansas City Renaissance Festival offers guided tours that explore the history of the festival and the city. The Hannibal Historic District offers self-guided walking tours that explore the city’s rich literary history.
Architectural Marvels
Missouri is home to many architectural marvels, from the Gateway Arch in St. Louis to the Missouri State Capitol in Jefferson City. The Eads Bridge in St. Louis is also worth a visit, with its innovative design and historic significance. The Bagnell Dam in Lake Ozark is another architectural marvel, with its massive hydroelectric power plant and scenic views of the lake.
Historical Sites
Missouri’s history is reflected in its many historic sites and landmarks. The Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield in Republic is a must-visit for Civil War buffs, as is the Battle of Lexington State Historic Site in Lexington. The George Washington Carver National Monument in Diamond is also worth a visit, with its tribute to the famous scientist and inventor. The Scott Joplin House State Historic Site in St. Louis is another must-visit, with its collection of artifacts and exhibits that celebrate the life and music of the famous ragtime composer.
Biking Routes
Missouri’s scenic beauty makes it a popular destination for bikers. The Katy Trail State Park is a 240-mile hiking and biking trail that stretches across the state, offering stunning views of the countryside. The Rock Island Trail is another popular option, with its scenic views of the Missouri River. The Ozark Trail is a great option for mountain bikers, with its challenging terrain and stunning views.
Wellness Retreats
Missouri’s natural beauty makes it a popular destination for wellness retreats. The Trout Lodge Retreat and Conference Center in Potosi offers yoga classes, hiking trails, and a variety of wellness programs. The Spa at Chateau on the Lake in Branson offers a variety of spa treatments and wellness programs. The Big Cedar Lodge in Ridgedale offers a variety of wellness programs, including yoga classes and guided hikes.
Adventure Sports
Missouri’s natural landscapes offer plenty of opportunities for adventure sports. The Ozarks are a popular destination for rock climbing, with its towering bl