Looking to break up your routine with a quick getaway? Missouri’s packed with natural wonders, historic towns, and family-friendly adventures that make the perfect day trip.
If you are in a hurry, I recommend:
Unique Day Trips in Missouri:
1. Kansas City - 3 hours and 45 minutes by car from St. Louis
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Location:
Kansas City, MOHighlights:
If you love food, music, and American history, Kansas City is a must. It’s a vibrant crossroads where mouthwatering barbecue meets legendary jazz and world-class museums.Recommended For:
Foodies, music lovers, history buffs, art enthusiasts, and families looking for a dynamic and enriching city getaway.What I Love: ♥
Iconic barbecue joints, rich jazz heritage, and a museum scene that surprises and delights at every turn.- Explore the Historic Jazz District, where the sounds of Count Basie and Charlie Parker still echo through the streets.
- Visit the American Jazz Museum and the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum—two cultural treasures located side-by-side in the 18th and Vine area.
- Sample legendary barbecue from spots that helped Kansas City earn its “Barbecue Capital of the World” nickname.
- Discover the Arabia Steamboat Museum, Toy and Miniature Museum, National World War I Museum, and the acclaimed Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art.
Distance from St. Louis:
About 3 hours and 45 minutes by car.How to Get to Kansas City:
Drive west via I-70, fly into Kansas City International Airport, or take Amtrak’s Missouri River Runner train.2. Springfield - 3 hours and 15 minutes from St. Louis
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Location:
Springfield, MOHighlights:
If you’re curious about Americana and love family-friendly adventures, Springfield is a hidden gem. This welcoming city blends Route 66 nostalgia with modern attractions in the heart of the Ozarks.Recommended For:
Families, history lovers, road-trippers, nature fans, and anyone chasing a classic slice of Americana.What I Love: ♥
Route 66 charm, an award-winning aquarium, Civil War history, and plenty of outdoor fun.- Experience the iconic "Birthplace of Route 66" with photo ops and a nostalgic downtown vibe.
- Visit the world-class Wonders of Wildlife Museum and Aquarium, a favorite with families and nature lovers alike.
- Meet exotic animals at Dickerson Park Zoo, including elephants, cheetahs, and Malayan tigers.
- Explore local culture at the Springfield Art Museum and walk through Civil War history at Wilson's Creek Battlefield.
- Cheer on the Springfield Cardinals at Hammons Field during baseball season.
Distance from St. Louis:
Around 3 hours and 15 minutes by car.How to Get to Springfield:
Take I-44 west from St. Louis, fly into Springfield-Branson National Airport, or enjoy a scenic drive through the Ozarks via Route 66.3. St. Louis
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Location:
St. Louis, MOHighlights:
If you're planning a trip with the family or just want to explore one of the Midwest's coolest cities, St. Louis absolutely delivers. From soaring monuments to hands-on museums, it’s packed with iconic sights and nonstop fun.Recommended For:
Families, history fans, thrill-seekers, sports lovers, and anyone craving a mix of culture and adventure.What I Love: ♥
The Gateway Arch, free top-tier museums, unforgettable zoo experiences, and classic Cardinals baseball games.- Visit the legendary Gateway Arch, the tallest monument in the U.S., celebrating the Lewis and Clark Expedition.
- Bring the kids to the St. Louis Zoo, City Museum, Magic House, and World Aquarium for a day full of discovery and play.
- Ride thrilling coasters like Batman: The Ride and Screamin’ Eagle at Six Flags St. Louis in nearby Eureka.
- Watch the beloved St. Louis Cardinals play at Busch Stadium, a must for baseball fans.
- Wander through historic Forest Park, home to remnants of the 1904 World’s Fair and multiple free museums.
Distance from Kansas City:
About 3 hours and 45 minutes by car.How to Get to St. Louis:
Travel via I-70, fly into St. Louis Lambert International Airport, or ride Amtrak’s Missouri River Runner for a scenic train trip.4. Ste. Genevieve - 1 hour and 15 minutes from St. Louis
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Location:
Sainte Genevieve, MOHighlights:
If you’ve ever dreamed of stepping into a living postcard, Sainte Genevieve is your spot. This charming riverside town feels like a slice of 18th-century France nestled right in Missouri.Recommended For:
History buffs, architecture lovers, couples seeking a romantic escape, and anyone who appreciates small-town charm with deep roots.What I Love: ♥
The largest collection of French Colonial buildings in the U.S., cozy historic inns, and immersive cultural festivals.- Discover why Sainte Genevieve earned a spot as a “Dozen Distinctive Destination” by the National Trust for Historic Preservation.
- Explore over 150 pre-19th-century buildings, including living history museums showcasing rare French Creole vertical timber architecture.
- Stay in charming bed and breakfasts set in National Historic Landmark buildings.
- Dine at local gems like Sirro's Restaurant, Stella and Me, and The Old Brick House for a cozy, regional experience.
- Join in the annual Jour de Fête, a beloved French Colonial festival full of music, crafts, and community spirit.
Distance from St. Louis:
About 1 hour and 15 minutes by car.How to Get to Sainte Genevieve:
Take I-55 south from St. Louis to Exit 150. Follow signs to MO-32 east for about 5 miles into the heart of town.5. Arrow Rock - 1 hour by car from Columbia
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Location:
Arrow Rock, MOHighlights:
If you’re looking for a quiet, romantic day trip steeped in history, Arrow Rock is a true Missouri gem. This riverside village feels frozen in time, with charming streets and a legacy that stretches back to the days of westward expansion.Recommended For:
History lovers, couples, weekend wanderers, and fans of art, theater, or old-world charm.What I Love: ♥
Entire town is a National Historic Landmark, home to Missouri’s oldest regional theater and the oldest restaurant west of the Mississippi.- Stroll through Arrow Rock, a preserved 19th-century village along the Missouri River with deep ties to U.S. westward expansion.
- Explore the historic downtown and learn about artist George Caleb Bingham’s connection to the village.
- Visit sites along the Lewis and Clark and Santa Fe National Historic Trails, which pass through the village.
- Dine at the J. Huston Tavern—the oldest continuously operating restaurant west of the Mississippi.
- Catch a live show at the Arrow Rock Lyceum Theatre, Missouri’s oldest professional regional theater.
- Shop local boutiques and galleries along “The Boardwalk,” the village’s historic Main Street.
Distance from Columbia:
About 1 hour by car.How to Get to Arrow Rock:
From Columbia, head west on I-70 to Exit 89. Take Highway 41 north to Arrow Rock. Follow signs to the historic village center.6. Bonne Terre Mine
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Location:
Bonne Terre, MOHighlights:
If you’re into hidden wonders and underground adventures, Bonne Terre Mine is unlike anything else in Missouri. This massive, historic lead mine turned subterranean lake is a jaw-dropping journey into the past—and one of the coolest guided tours you’ll ever take.Recommended For:
Adventure seekers, history lovers, scuba divers, and anyone craving a one-of-a-kind underground experience.What I Love: ♥
National Geographic-ranked adventure tours, glowing boat rides on a crystal-clear lake, and the thrill of exploring five enormous mine levels.- Tour the legendary Bonne Terre Mine, opened in 1860 and key to Missouri’s 19th-century lead boom.
- Explore five massive mine levels on foot with expert guides who bring Civil War-era history to life.
- Glide across the surreal, billion-gallon underground lake by boat, viewing the mine’s stunning architecture beneath the surface.
- Dive into adventure—certified divers can scuba dive in the world's largest freshwater diving venue, with 17 miles of submerged tunnels and rooms.
Distance from St. Louis:
Just over 1 hour by car.How to Get to Bonne Terre Mine:
Take I-55 south to U.S. 67 S. Exit at Bonne Terre, follow signs to Park Avenue. The mine is located at 185 Park Ave, Bonne Terre, MO 63628. For info or bookings, call 888-843-3483.7. Boonville - just 35 minutes from Columbia
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Location:
Boonville, MOHighlights:
Looking for a scenic town packed with history, charm, and easy outdoor fun? Boonville is a perfect halfway stop between St. Louis and Kansas City with trails, festivals, and riverfront charm waiting to be explored.Recommended For:
History fans, cyclists, small-town lovers, and travelers seeking a scenic and relaxing Missouri getaway.What I Love: ♥
Over 400 historic buildings, prime Katy Trail access, local festivals, and cozy river views.- Visit Boonville, named for the sons of pioneer Daniel Boone, who started a salt business here in the early 1800s.
- Bike or hike the Katy Trail, which runs right through town and offers incredible Missouri River views.
- Explore a wealth of history with more than 400 National Register-listed buildings, perfect for leisurely strolls.
- Play at the Isle of Capri Casino, offering gaming and dining in a scenic setting.
- Watch regional baseball at Harley Park’s Twillman Field during summer tournaments.
- Celebrate with locals during annual events like Boonville Heritage Days, the Festival of the Leaves, and the Christmas Festival of the Lights.
Distance from Columbia:
About 35 minutes by car.How to Get to Boonville:
From Columbia, head west on I-70 to Exit 103. Follow signs to downtown Boonville and the Katy Trail trailhead.8. Caledonia - 1 hour and 45 minutes from St. Louis
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Location:
Caledonia, MOHighlights:
If you’re craving a peaceful step back in time, Caledonia offers that rare kind of quiet charm. This little village feels like it’s been lovingly frozen in the 1800s—perfect for a relaxed, history-filled day trip.Recommended For:
Families, architecture buffs, history lovers, and anyone looking for a quaint, slower-paced destination rich in heritage.What I Love: ♥
Beautiful Greek Revival architecture, the oldest Protestant church west of the Mississippi, and vibrant hand-painted barn quilts on historic buildings.- Explore Caledonia, founded in 1819 and named after the Roman name for Scotland.
- Stroll through downtown and admire 33 historic buildings, many featuring stunning Greek Revival doors and design.
- Visit the Bellevue Presbyterian Church and Cemetery, the oldest Protestant church and cemetery west of the Mississippi River.
- Discover charming hand-painted barn quilts by local artist John Smith adorning many historic properties.
Distance from St. Louis:
About 1 hour and 45 minutes by car.How to Get to Caledonia:
From St. Louis, take I-55 south to U.S. 67. Follow signs to MO-21 south, then continue on Highway 32 west into Caledonia’s historic village center.9. Carthage - 1 hour from Springfield
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Location:
Carthage, MOHighlights:
If you’re a fan of Route 66, rich history, or charming courthouse squares, Carthage should be on your radar. This beautifully restored town blends Civil War heritage with classic Americana in the heart of southwest Missouri.Recommended For:
History lovers, Route 66 road-trippers, architecture fans, and families looking for a nostalgic small-town adventure.What I Love: ♥
Over 600 historic buildings, a stunning courthouse, retro drive-in movie nights, and the one-of-a-kind Precious Moments Chapel.- Visit Carthage, established in 1842 and lovingly rebuilt after Civil War destruction.
- Admire architectural gems like the Jasper County Courthouse and stroll through the Historic Carthage Square.
- Explore over 600 National Register-listed buildings and uncover the town’s deep Civil War roots at the Carthage Civil War Museum.
- Experience Route 66 nostalgia at the 66 Drive-In Theater and Kiddieland Amusement Park—perfect for families.
- Marvel at the whimsical Precious Moments Chapel, filled with intricate murals and angelic sculptures inspired by the famous figurines.
Distance from Springfield:
About 1 hour by car.How to Get to Carthage:
Take I-44 west from Springfield to Exit 18B. Follow Historic Route 66 signs into the heart of Carthage.10. Columbia - 2 hours by car from St. Louis
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Location:
Columbia, MOHighlights:
If you're into artsy college towns with great food, live music, and loads of history, Columbia is calling. It’s one of Missouri’s most progressive and vibrant cities, thanks to three universities fueling its culture, energy, and charm.Recommended For:
College town explorers, arts and music lovers, history buffs, and anyone looking for a cultured getaway with a creative edge.What I Love: ♥
Stunning campus architecture, buzzing art districts, jazz and roots festivals, and historic neighborhoods full of character.- Visit Columbia—home to the University of Missouri, Stephens College, and Columbia College—all with gorgeous historic architecture.
- See Mizzou’s iconic Memorial Union and Jesse Hall, two of the city’s most photographed landmarks.
- Stroll through National Register-listed neighborhoods or visit the Museum of Art and Archaeology for a dose of ancient and modern inspiration.
- Catch a performance at the elegant Missouri Theatre Center for the Arts.
- Wander the North Village Arts District, filled with galleries, murals, and indie shops.
- Listen to great music at city-wide events like the Roots ‘N Blues ‘N BBQ Festival and the We Always Swing Jazz Series.
Distance from St. Louis:
Around 2 hours by car.How to Get to Columbia:
Take I-70 west from St. Louis, or fly into Columbia Regional Airport. The city is also Amtrak-accessible via nearby Jefferson City.📔 I get asked this a lot so I decided to include it:
- Question: What makes Missouri one of the Midwest's loveliest states?
- Answer: Missouri is one of the Midwest's loveliest states, butting up against the majestic Mississippi River's western banks.
- Question: What historical significance does Missouri have?
- Answer: The state is known for its connection to early American pioneer history, including the famed 1804-1806 Lewis and Clark Expedition to the Pacific Northwest.
- Question: What historic sites can visitors explore in Missouri?
- Answer: Visitors can day trip to a number of historic sites throughout the state, including the Mark Twain-related attractions of charming city Hannibal and the preserved historic buildings of Carthage, many of which are connected to the historic American Route 66.
Best Time for Day Trips in Missouri
- April to June – Ideal for mild weather, blooming flowers, and outdoor adventures.
- September to October – Perfect for fall foliage, scenic drives, and festivals.
- July & August – Warm summer days great for lake trips, hiking, and state parks.
- November – Enjoy cooler weather and fewer crowds at historical and cultural sites.
- December to March – Cold but perfect for indoor museums, cozy getaways, and winter activities.
Plan Your Trip