• Updated with new information since originally published.
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  • Our editors recommend these diverse local experiences.

1. Meramec Caverns ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Category: Affordable Local Attractions
© forcdan/stock.adobe.com

2. Katy Trail State Park ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Category: Weekend Activities & Fun Outdoors
© MarekPhotoDesign.com/stock.adobe.com

3. Kirkwood

© Syda Productions/stock.adobe.com

4. The Great River Road

Category: Weekend Activities & Fun Outdoors
© Patchara/stock.adobe.com

5. Springfield

© pabrady63/stock.adobe.com

6. Chesterfield

© Johan Larson/stock.adobe.com

7. Clayton

© Sachs500/stock.adobe.com

8. Finger Lakes State Park

Category: Weekend Activities & Fun Outdoors
© Rock and Wasp/stock.adobe.com

9. Ha Ha Tonka State Park

Category: Weekend Activities & Fun Outdoors
© Sharon Day/stock.adobe.com

10. Johnson’s Shut-Ins

© Sharon Day/stock.adobe.com

11. Hermann

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12. Bonne Terre Mine

© Sved Oliver/stock.adobe.com

13. St. Charles

© Melanie/stock.adobe.com

14. Florissant

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15. The Ozark National Scenic Riverways

Category: Weekend Activities & Fun Outdoors
© sschremp/stock.adobe.com

16. Columbia

© Henryk Sadura/stock.adobe.com

17. Hannibal

© R. P. Jennings/stock.adobe.com

18. Jefferson City

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19. Ste. Genevieve

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20. Washington, MO

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Summary and Frequenly Asked Questions:

  • St. Louis is one of the Midwest's most vibrant cities, known for its iconic St. Louis Arch, which commemorates the westward journey of the 1804-1806 Lewis and Clark Expedition.
  • Visitors and area residents can day trip to some of Missouri's best attractions from the city, including the acclaimed rides and attractions of St. Louis Six Flags, located in nearby suburb Eureka.
  • Katy Trail State Park serves as the launch point for the 240-mile Katy Trail, which spans the length of the Missouri River along a former railroad route.
  • Unique natural attractions include Ha Ha Tonka State Park, which preserves a 20th-century castle's ruins, and Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park, which offers natural rock slides during the summer months.
  • Historic attractions abound in cities such as Columbia, Hermann, and Jefferson City, including attractions connected to American author Mark Twain.

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