Best Places to Visit in Missouri

Searching for the best places to visit in Missouri? Well, you are in the right place! This state might not always make the top of people’s travel lists, but we found Missouri to be a quiet gem on our recent four week road trip. With rolling Ozark hills, serene rivers, historic towns, unique hotels and resorts, and those famously wide-open skies, Missouri is a great vacation destination. Here are my favorite spots and I hope you enjoy them too.

Best Places to Visit in Eastern Missouri

I think this is one of the most rewarding regions of the state to explore if you love history and natural beauty like we do.

1. St. Louis - 4 Hours from Kansas City, MO

For me, this city is one of the best places to visit in Missouri, with its stately 19th-century townhouses, and unique architecture anchored by the shimmering Gateway Arch.

After a flight into Lambert Airport and a short ride downtown, we checked into 4-star HoteLumière at the Arch for four fun days.

We started at the Gateway Arch, and I was completely taken by its soaring height and elegant design.

Next, my favorite part of the morning was wandering along the Mississippi Riverfront, where we walked hand in hand with the water stretching endlessly beside us and the Arch rising behind the skyline.

After, we made our way into Downtown West and Midtown, neighborhoods full of character, with cozy cafés, and museums.

After lunch, one of my absolute highlights was visiting the World Chess Hall of Fame in the Central West End — an inspiring, beautifully designed space filled with artful chess sets, exhibits celebrating grandmasters, and even a record-breaking 20-foot king outside.

Next day, one hidden highlight was the Soulard Farmers Market, where we shared local bites, sampled fresh treats, and turned lunch into a fun little adventure.

In addition, I loved exploring the Missouri History Museum, which gave us thoughtful insight into the city’s past and sparked great conversations as we moved through the exhibits together.

Dinner in the Central West End at a candlelit restaurant was the perfect ending to the day, with incredible food and a warm, romantic atmosphere that made us want to stay awhile.

As night fell, the city lights reflecting off the Mississippi created a calm, almost magical feeling—we weren’t ready for the day to end.

What I loved best:

Exploring the Missouri Botanical Garden was a highlight for me, alive with summer blooms and shaded pathways.

2. Ste. Genevieve - 1 hour from St. Louis

This was one of the best places to visit in Missouri when I was road tripping for four weeks in this state. After a short drive south from St. Louis, I based myself for seven days at Audubon's.

We started by wandering through the historic district, where centuries-old French colonial homes lined the streets, their stone walls and wooden beams giving everything a timeless, romantic feel.

My favorite part was walking slowly past the old houses and gardens, imagining the lives lived there long ago, the quiet broken only by birds and our footsteps.

Downtown Ste. Genevieve had a gentle, welcoming rhythm, with antique shops, galleries, and cafés that encouraged us to linger rather than rush.

We shared a leisurely lunch at a local spot, savoring hearty Midwestern comfort food that felt especially satisfying after a morning of exploring.

I loved browsing the antique stores and artisan shops, filled with vintage treasures, local crafts, and unexpected little finds that felt like pieces of the town’s soul.

A hidden highlight was stopping at a nearby winery, where we sampled Missouri wine and looked out over rolling vineyards, enjoying the calm and the company more than anything else.

We also learned about the town’s French heritage and its role as one of the oldest European settlements west of the Mississippi, which gave every street and building deeper meaning.

What I loved best:

Touring the Bolduc House Museum, a perfectly preserved 18th-century French colonial home was my favorite highlight.

Best Places to Visit in Western Missouri

Western Missouri is where big-city energy meets deep-rooted history and Midwestern hospitality.

3. Kansas City

Chris and I both absolutely love Kansas City, and have been many times. I think that the "City of Fountains" is one of the best places to visit in Missouri.

We flew into Kansas City International Airport (MCI) and spent five comfortable days at The Ambassador Kansas City exploring the city. The Ambassador Kansas City won the 4-Diamond (AAA Diamond) award so you can trust that it's a quality place.

The first thing we did was drive downtown near the Power and Light District. It felt vibrant and exciting, honestly one of the best city welcomes we had. Walking around, we noticed how affordable and lively everything felt.

Next we headed to Union Station which is near Crown Center and totally spectacular. The architecture there felt like magic, one of my favorite experiences ever.

We spent time inside museums and just wandered, it was cool and interesting.

The highlight of my visit was the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts which was our next stop, an architectural masterpiece with sweeping glass walls and soaring curves that invite you to step inside and catch a performance by the Kansas City Symphony.

Later we explored the Crossroads Arts District which felt creative and unique. It was the most exciting area to walk around with murals everywhere.

For lunch we tried Kansas City BBQ nearby, which was the best experience possible. The food alone makes this city a dream destination for family or romantic trips.

In the afternoon we relaxed at a park near the Country Club Plaza. The Plaza area felt European and vibrant, definitely my favorite neighborhood.

As evening came we went up to a rooftop bar downtown. The skyline views were awesome and felt like a perfect weekend moment.

We ended the night walking by the riverfront, calm and beautiful.

What I Loved Best:

My highlights? Taking time in the Nelson-Atkins Museum’s sculpture garden was my personal highlight, then heading to Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que for dinner. I ordered the Z-Man sandwich: brisket, onion rings, smoked provolone, all stacked on a soft kaiser bun. The meat was smoky and tender, the onion rings crackled when I bit in, and the sauce left a little warmth on my fingers. I ate at a patio table while the scent of hickory hung in the evening air.

4. Independence - 3 hour 40 minutes from St. Louis

This is one of my favorite places to visit because it blends nature with deep American history, all while being incredibly easy to reach from Kansas City.

When I visited this historic city on the edge of Kansas City this month, I loved seeing its leafy avenues, stately 19th-century homes, and a proud heritage as the “Queen City of the Trails.” From its presidential landmarks to its pioneer history, Independence radiated a sense of timeless Americana and warm Midwestern hospitality.

After a short 20-minute drive east from downtown Kansas City, I arrived in a place that felt like a living museum—where the legacy of westward expansion, Civil War echoes, and Harry S. Truman’s life all intertwined in graceful neighborhoods and welcoming town squares.

During two nights at the charming Silver Heart Inn Bed & Breakfast, I toured the Truman Presidential Library and Museum, visited the humble Truman Home preserved with mid-century simplicity, and strolled the historic Independence Square with its courthouse and antique shops.

What I Loved Best:

Learning about wagon-train journeys at the National Frontier Trails Museum. Each stop deepened my sense of connection to the pioneers and presidents who once walked these streets.

Best Places to Visit in East-Central Missouri

This region is known for its scenic river valleys, historic towns, and natural attractions.

5. Defiance

This feels like one of the most unspoiled wine-country stretches I’ve ever visited, and I think it’s one of the absolute best nature-and-winery getaways near St. Louis.

Set in the heart of wine country, Defiance gave us a day that felt peaceful, scenic, and wonderfully unhurried—perfect for reconnecting and enjoying time together.

We started the morning driving along Highway 94, where rolling hills, vineyards, and river views set the tone before we even arrived. Every turn felt like a postcard.

My favorite part of the day was strolling through the local wineries, where we sipped wine on open patios overlooking endless rows of vines. Sitting side by side with a glass in hand, the quiet countryside made everything slow down in the best way.

We explored the Katy Trail nearby, walking hand in hand beneath towering trees with the river occasionally peeking through, the crunch of gravel and birdsong our only soundtrack.

Lunch turned into a shared adventure at a winery bistro, where we sampled local flavors and lingered longer than planned, letting the afternoon drift by.

One of the most relaxing moments was simply sitting outdoors, watching the sun move across the hills while the breeze carried the scent of grapes and fresh air.

As evening approached, the golden light over the vineyards felt almost magical, and we stayed just long enough to watch the sky soften into warm pastels.

What I Loved Best:

Of course, no trip to the "Gateway to Missouri Wine Country" would be complete without visiting its vineyards. The highlight of my stay was an afternoon at Defiance Ridge Vineyards, where I sipped locally made wines and listened to live music.

6. Meramec Caverns

Known as Missouri’s most famous cave, this place felt like stepping into a secret, glowing world where nature’s artistry had been at work for millions of years.

Meramec Caverns is an underground wonder that was absolutely mesmerizing, with its cathedral-like chambers, glittering mineral formations, and hidden passageways that seemed to stretch endlessly beneath the rolling hills of the Ozarks.

After an easy hour’s drive southwest of St. Louis along old Route 66, I arrived at the cavern entrance nestled by the Meramec River, where towering limestone bluffs and leafy forests framed the landscape. The cool air drifting from the cave mouth instantly set the tone for an unforgettable journey below ground.

During my guided tour of Meramec Caverns, I wandered through vast chambers like the Wine Table Room, with its rare, delicate formations; the Stage Curtain, rippling like frozen fabric; and the enormous Ballroom, once used for underground concerts and dances.

What I Loved Best:

The guide shared stories of the cave’s use as a hideout for Jesse James and a stop along the Underground Railroad, adding layers of history to the natural spectacle.

Best Day Trips in Southwest Missouri

Southwest Missouri is packed with memorable destinations that are perfect for easy, rewarding day trips.

7. Springfield - 2 Hours 45 minutes from Kansas City, MO

This city, surrounded by gentle rolling hills, is one of my favorite places to visit when I want a mix of nature, local food, and a touch of nostalgia.

After an easy 45-minute drive north from Branson, I arrived in a place that was both unhurried and full of surprises—where Route 66 nostalgia mingled with craft breweries, college-town energy, and a thriving local arts scene.

During two nights at the at the 2-star Bass Pro Shops Angler's Lodge, I explored the Discovery Center’s hands-on exhibits, browsed the boutiques and murals of downtown, strolled through the serene Mizumoto Japanese Stroll Garden, and toured the fascinating Wonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium—an immersive celebration of nature that left me in awe. Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield is another highlight for history buffs that completely won me over.

What I loved best:

Touring Fantastic Caverns, the only ride-through cave in North America was magical and my personal highlight.

8. Joplin - 4 hours 15 minutes from St. Louis

Ready for a laid-back getaway with surprising natural beauty? This resilient city in the southwestern corner of Missouri was absolutely intriguing, with its mix of historic brick facades, Route 66 nostalgia, and a creative spirit that continues to reinvent itself.

After a short drive west from Carthage along the Mother Road, I arrived in a place that felt both storied and forward-looking—where mining history, tornado resilience, and small-city creativity came together in a uniquely American way.

During two nights at the elegant Raines Hotel downtown, I admired the bold public art murals that tell the city’s story, visited the George A. Spiva Center for the Arts for two hours, and explored the fascinating Joplin Museum Complex with its mining exhibits and Bonnie & Clyde connections.

What I Loved Best:

Strolling along Route 66’s historic stretches was my personal highlight, stopping for retro diners and neon signs that evoked the golden age of travel.

9. Branson - 3 Hours 15 minutes from Kansas City, MO

I thought this lively Ozark town was absolutely enchanting, and is one of my favorite spots when I want a blend of nature, nostalgia, and pure fun! Broadway-style theaters, rustic mountain lodges, and tree-shaded streets gave it a warm and inviting feel, while the surrounding natural beauty made every moment outdoors breathtaking.

After a scenic 3.5-hour drive southwest from St. Louis through winding Ozark backroads, I arrived in a place that felt equal parts nostalgic and energetic—where old-fashioned Americana, country music, and lakefront leisure all came together in perfect harmony.

During two nights at the cozy and romantic 4-star Chateau on the Lake Resort Spa, I cruised across Table Rock Lake at sunset, toured the fascinating Titanic Museum, strolled the charming shops of Branson Landing along the waterfront, and took in a rousing show at the historic Dick Clark’s American Bandstand Theater. The town buzzed with music, laughter, and a welcoming spirit that made me feel right at home.

What I loved best:

Watching the sunset over Table Rock Lake in the fall was my personal highlight.

Best Places to Visit in Southeast Missouri

Southeast Missouri stands out for its striking natural landscapes, historic sites, and quiet charm.

10. Elephant Rocks State Park - 1 hour 30 minutes from St. Louis

We thought this park was one of the most unique and playful outdoor spots we’ve explored. The massive granite boulders, some as big as houses, looked like a line of circus elephants parading through the forest.

We walked the Braille Trail, which I thought was a brilliant idea and one of the most interesting and inclusive trails I’ve ever seen.

This place feels like a hidden gem because it’s not as crowded as other parks, yet the scenery is absolutely spectacular.

I kept stopping to take photos because every angle felt unique and worthy of being my favorite shot.

The surrounding area is peaceful and quiet, making the whole visit feel joyful and relaxing instead of rushed.

We packed snacks and just hung out on the rocks, which turned into one of the best simple experiences of the trip.

Elephant Rocks is also really affordable since it’s a state park, which makes it an awesome option for a quick adventure.

What I Loved Best:

Finding new views around every corner made the whole place feel like nature’s playground. For me, it was equal parts awe-inspiring and fun.

Best Places to Visit in Central Missouri

Central Missouri sits at the heart of the state, offering a rich blend of history, culture, and scenic landscapes.

11. Ha Ha Tonka State Park - 2 hour 45 minutes from St. Louis

This park was one of the most breathtaking and surprising places we’ve explored in Missouri.

We started our weekend getaway driving to Camdenton where we based ourselves at the 3-star Old Kinderhook Resort, Golf Club for two nights, near Ha Ha Tonka State Park.

The location already felt like a hidden gem, affordable and exciting, tucked into central Missouri countryside.

First thing we did was walk toward the castle ruins, which was honestly the coolest and most unusual experience.

Seeing those stone walls rising above the trees felt like magic, almost a dream, and totally see in my photos.

Next we wandered along the trails, and the views over the Lake of the Ozarks were absolutely the best.

The boardwalk paths were an awesome idea, making the hike easy, family friendly, and still very scenic.

After that we explored the sinkholes and natural bridges, which was such an interesting and rare experience. The water below was clear, one of the most amazing sights in Missouri.

Walking together felt joyful, a perfect weekend vibe for us.

We then found a quiet spot to relax, which turned into my favorite part of the day.

What surprised me most was how peaceful it felt, like a hidden escape from everything.

The trails were well marked and felt safe, making it a brilliant idea for a family trip.

Later we headed back toward the castle again because it really is the absolute best feature.

Sunlight hitting the ruins made the whole place feel dramatic, magical, and almost unreal.

Ending the day there felt special, a truly exceptional experience and one of our Missouri trips.

What I Loved Best:

For me, Ha Ha Tonka State Park is one of the best places to visit in Missouri.

We loved how the trails led us from the towering stone castle remains to quiet boardwalks by the spring below, my personal highlight.

Hi, I'm Ema. I'm the face behind VacationIdea.com. My husband, son are frequent travelers and spent 5 years on the road discovering some of the best places to visit in the USA. We base ourselves in a new place every 4 weeks weeks which has allowed us to experience each destination as a local. I love to chase unique things to do near me and revisit old favorites for a cool, fresh perspective. I'm also eager to learn from my fellow travelers to see what works for people and what doesn't. Whether you like great sunsets, hidden gems, places of mystery, famous attractions, or underrated experiences, here you'll find all of those recommendations from locals that won me over. Let's explore together! More about us.