Missouri is encircled by the states of Iowa to the north, Illinois, Kentucky, and Tennessee to the east, Arkansas to the south, and Oklahoma, Kansas, and Nebraska to the west of the United States. It is renowned for having a varied landscape that includes the Ozark Mountains, verdant hills, and the Mississippi and Missouri Rivers. Jefferson City is the state capital of Missouri, while Kansas City is one of the main cities there. St. Louis is another important urban region.
Missouri is popularly known as the “Gateway to the West.’ It had a significant role in the American westward expansion in history. The famous Gateway Arch in St. Louis is a witness to this crucial role and is in Missouri.
Missouri is also popular among tourists for its rich musical tradition. The genres of jazz, blues, and country music, have their origins in places like Branson and St. Louis. Missouri is renowned for its literary achievements as well; among America’s most renowned writers, Mark Twain belongs to Misoouri.
Missouri is referred to as the “Show Me State” because of its stunning lakes, mountains, caves, and Mississippi rivers. It offers natural beauty, adventure activities, and historic cities along with fascinating museums for tourists.
The city has a rich history but contemporary buildings are also marvelous. You can spend days relaxing in the tranquil vibes while exploring the natural wonders.
Team NRI has compiled a list of the top places to visit in Missouri that you must explore while you are on holiday.
1. Fantastic Caverns
Location: Springfield
Discovered in 1862, Fantastic Caverns is a magnificent cave system. It is the only ride-through cave tour in North America. Tourists in Missouri can experience it the splendor of the cave without going on a hike. The cave is home to beautiful stalactite, and stalagmite formations. The trip which takes around 1 hour is unique as tourists can explore Missouri’s rich geology.
How to Reach: By car, it’s about 8 miles northwest of Springfield via MO-13.
Nearby Attractions: Dickerson Park Zoo, Springfield Conservation Nature Center.
2. Talking Rock Cavern
Location: Branson West
Talking Rock Cavern is popular among tourists in Missouri for its breathtaking “living cave” formations. These cave formations are made up of stalactites and stalagmites. The tourists can take up a guided tour which leads them further into the cave, where they can see beautiful limestone formations. It’s a great place for families as and nature lovers as well.
How to Reach: Located about 10 miles west of Branson, accessible by US-65 and MO-13.
Nearby Attractions: Silver Dollar City, Branson Scenic Railway.
3. Meramec Caverns
Location: Stanton
The Meramec Caverns system is huge and extends along the Meramec River. It is well-known for its wide subterranean formations and historical connections to Jesse James. During the guided tours, tourists in Missouri may witness spectacular mineral formations such as the well-known “Wine Table” and “Stage Curtain.”
How to Reach: A short drive from I-44, about an hour from St. Louis.
Nearby Attractions: Meramec State Park, Riverside Wildlife Center.
4. Saint Louis Zoo
Location: St. Louis
One of the best zoos in the United States is the Saint Louis Zoo. It is renowned for having many species from all over the world. The zoo has several exhibits, such as the Polar Bear Point, River’s Edge and the Insectarium. It provides both pleasure and knowledge, making it a perfect place for a family outing.
How to Reach: Easily accessible via Forest Park Parkway or I-64.
Nearby Attractions: Forest Park, Missouri History Museum.
5. Forest Park
Location: St. Louis
With 1,300 acres of land, Forest Park is a sizable urban park with lakes, woodlands, and many cultural attractions. Situated near the Missouri History Museum, the St. Louis Art Museum, and the Saint Louis Zoo, this area provides a range of leisure opportunities such as cycling, strolling, and boating.
How to Reach: Accessible via I-64 or public transit through Metrolink.
Nearby Attractions: The Muny Theater, Jewel Box Conservatory.
6. The Gateway Arch
Location: St. Louis
Standing 630 feet tall, the Gateway Arch is a famous landmark that represents the United States’ westward development. A tram ride up to the summit offers tourists mesmerizing views of the Mississippi River and St. Louis. Tourists can get on the Lewis and Clark expedition while the westward migration can be obtained at the base museum.
How to Reach: Located in downtown St. Louis, accessible via I-44.
Nearby Attractions: Old Courthouse, Mississippi Riverfront.
7. Masonic Hall
Location: Saint Joseph
A historical landmark and a work of architectural beauty is Saint Joseph’s Masonic Hall. Constructed in the early 1900s, the hall serves as the center of Freemasonry’s operations. Its beautiful design, which includes stained glass and opulent staircases, is indeed a marvel. Tourists can take a guided tour that provides more information on the historical significance of Freemasonry in Missouri.
How to Reach: Located off Frederick Ave in Saint Joseph, accessible via US-36.
Nearby Attractions: Pony Express National Museum, Jesse James Home Museum.
8. Elsah Historic District
Location: Elsah, Illinois (close to Missouri)
Elsah is a quaint Mississippi Riverside community with structures from the 19th century that have been restored. It seems you have moved back in time here. The picturesque setting, with its cobblestone lanes and old cottages, provides a peek into the past. It’s a calm location for strolling leisurely and clicking some best photographs.
How to Reach: A 45-minute drive north of St. Louis via US-67.
Nearby Attractions: Pere Marquette State Park, Grafton Riverfront.
9. Battle of Pacific Historic Site
Location: Pacific
The 1864 American Civil War fight is remembered at the Battle of Pacific Historic Site. Visitors can learn about the battle and its significance in Missouri’s Civil War history from the site’s interactive displays.
How to Reach: Located along I-44 in Pacific, about 30 miles from St. Louis.
Nearby Attractions: Route 66 State Park, Purina Farms.
10. Roaring River State Park
Location: Cassville, Missouri
Nestled in the Ozark Mountains, Roaring River State Park is a breathtaking natural paradise popular among tourists for its spring-fed river of clean water. Because of its well-known trout hatchery, the park is a popular place for tourists and locals who want to go for trout fishing.
It’s ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, with picnic spaces, beautiful hiking routes, and a campground. The terrain is untamed with towering limestone cliffs, and a wide range of fauna, It is no doubt an ideal place for trekking, birdwatching, and fishing.
How to Reach: The park is located about 7 miles south of Cassville via MO-112.
Nearby Attractions: Table Rock Lake, Mark Twain National Forest, Eureka Springs.
Wrapping Up
Missouri is filled with unforgettable sights offering a blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant cultural experiences. There are iconic landmarks like The Gateway Arch and the tranquil Forest Park. Then we have the stunning underground wonders of Fantastic Caverns, Meramec Caverns, and Talking Rock Caverns
Tourists can get to know more about history at the Masonic Hall, the Battle of Pacific Historic Site, and the charming Elsah Historic District. For family-friendly attractions, the Saint Louis Zoo offers an engaging experience with wildlife. If you love the outdoors, the Roaring River State Park and other natural areas are perfect for hiking and fishing.
Missouri truly mesmerizes tourists with its beauty, culture, and warmth.
The best time to visit Missouri is between September and October. Spring is another season when you can visit Missouri. March and April are another good month with sporadic springtime showers.
Missouri is known for its magnificent lakes, mountains and the overflowing Mississippi Rivers.
Gateway Arch serves as the landmark and the most popular tourist attraction. Made up of steel and concrete, the site is known for its elegance. The arch is designed by the renowned architect Eero Saarinen.
St. Louis-style pizza, St Paul’s sandwich, St Louis‘s style ribs, slingers, red hots riblets, ice cream cones, and snoots are the famous dishes of Missouri.
