“Explore. Dream. Discover.” — Mark Twain
Ready to explore Missouri’s best-kept secrets and iconic spots? I’ve crisscrossed Missouri on a few road trips, and these places to visit in Missouri never disappoint. From lively cities to peaceful parks, there’s something here for every kind of traveler, whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a full-blown road adventure.
Highlights of my visit...
- Exploring the historic streets in Branson – I’ve spent evenings here listening to country music and walking through charming old-time districts. It’s got a fun, family-friendly vibe with a dose of nostalgia.
- Exploring the underground beauty of Meramec Caverns – I took a guided tour and was amazed by the massive rock formations and hidden chambers. It’s a cool (literally and figuratively) escape, especially in the summer.
- Strolling through art, food, and culture in St. Louis – You can’t miss the Gateway Arch, but I also love the city’s neighborhoods, museums, and the local food scene. There’s always something going on.
- Relaxing by the water at Lake of the Ozarks State Park – I’ve spent lazy afternoons here kayaking, swimming, or just enjoying the views. It’s one of my go-to spots for a summer reset.
- Visiting the museums and jazz clubs in Kansas City – This city always surprises me. From barbecue joints to live jazz and world-class museums, it’s got so much personality packed into every block.
Best Places to Visit in Missouri with Kids:
I don't think it would be fair to talk about Missouri destinations without St Louis
I love how big and full of life St Louis feels. You can find it right on the Mississippi River and you’ll see the Gateway Arch towering overhead right away. In case you need a history reminder...the famous arch marks where the Lewis and Clark Expedition began in 1804.
If you want to see the river, I suggest hopping on a paddlewheeler. I’ve done that myself, and the views of the city and the arch are amazing. When you're hungry, I recommend heading to the Soulard district. I go there when I crave real St. Louis barbecue or want to hear good blues music.
If you’ve got kids, I’d take them to the Magic House. I brought mine, and they had a blast. Lastly, you’ll love walking through Forest Park. I go there to relax between museums.
My highlight? The classic St. Louis-style breakfast at Rooster downtown. I had the savory crepe with goat cheese, spinach, and roasted red peppers, plus a hot cup of coffee. Cozy, cheerful, and full of local flavor. It was the perfect way to fuel up before exploring the Gateway Arch and museums.
If I'm feeling adventurous, I drive 4 hours to Branson on a mini road trip
I think you’ll love Branson if you enjoy a fun, laid-back getaway. I’ve been to this small Missouri town in the Ozark Mountains a few times. You’ll find it’s a top vacation spot, known for its lively entertainment and family-friendly charm.
When you walk along 76 Country Boulevard, you’ll see theaters that used to feature only country stars. Now, I’ve seen all kinds of music there...rock, gospel, even comedy shows. You should visit Silver Dollar City. I felt like I stepped into the 1880s. You’ll find Marvel Cave tours, rides, and live shows that keep you entertained all day.
My highlight? The lakeside dinner at Dobyns Dining Room at the Keeter Center. I ordered the blackberry-glazed pork chop with mashed sweet potatoes and a glass of iced tea. The food was elevated comfort, served with genuine Ozark hospitality. Between the candlelight and the views of the surrounding hills, it felt peaceful and special.
I make time to see the Waterfalls at Lost Canyon Cave Nature Trail just south of Branson, Missouri
If you’re an animal lover, you should stop by the National Tiger Sanctuary just north of Branson in Saddlebrooke, MO. I found it both moving and educational. I also enjoyed the Butterfly Palace and Rainforest Adventure, perfect for a peaceful break. Don’t forget Ripley's Odditorium if you like strange facts, and you can unwind at one of the local wineries afterward.
My highlight? The laid-back lunch at Reeds Spring Pizza Company, just a short drive from the sanctuary. I had the pesto chicken pizza and a cold root beer. Crisp, herby, and totally satisfying after a morning of marveling at big cats. The funky decor and friendly vibe made it a local gem worth stopping for.
Kansas City is one of the largest cities in the country. I go for food, museums and the views
Kansas City forms a triangle with Branson and St. Louis, so you will have to drive about 3 hours and 30 minutes from Branson (or 4 hours directly from St. Louis). Kansas City might surprise you. Firstly, you may think it’s in Kansas, but it’s actually in Missouri, right along the border (although there is also a Kansas City, Kansas!).
My highlights in Kansas City...
- I could feel its rich history, starting as a river port in the 1830s at the Kansas and Missouri rivers.
- If you’re a foodie like me, you’ll love Kansas City’s barbecue. I think it’s some of the best anywhere.
- I also love how the city pulses with jazz music and has a booming craft brewery scene.
- I suggest visiting the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. I spent hours there surrounded by world-class pieces, and I think you’ll find it inspiring.
Lastly, as a garden lover, I recommend unwinding at Loose Park’s Rose Garden, particularly in the spring and early summer. I walked through it at sunset, and the fragrance stayed with me all day. I think you’ll find it just as beautiful.
My highlight? The slow-cooked brisket at Q39 in Midtown. I ordered the burnt ends with apple slaw and a side of mac and cheese—tender, smoky, and packed with flavor. The casual-chic setting added a modern twist to the barbecue experience. It was everything Kansas City BBQ is famous for, and then some.
Romantic Places to Visit in Missouri:
You'll find Springfield in the Ozark Mountains lively thanks to its three universities.
Springfield may or may not be where Homer Simpson lives. Regardless, I feel a special energy in Springfield. You’ll notice it right away. When I visited, I could sense the vibrant college atmosphere everywhere I went.
If you’re into history, you’ll find it fascinating that Springfield was the site of fierce Civil War battles. I stood on Park Central Square where the legendary shootout between Wild Bill Hickok and Davis Tutt happened. You can spot a brass plaque marking the exact place. I did, and it gave me chills.
My highlights in Springfield...
- To soak in the local charm, I recommend walking through the historic C-Street District. I’ve taken both history and ghost tours there, and I still think about the spooky yet beautiful Pythian Castle.
- I like to unwind with a peaceful walk through the Springfield Conservation Nature Center. You’ll feel close to nature, just like I did.
My highlight? The cozy lunch at Tea Bar & Bites Café. I had the Mediterranean hummus wrap and a lavender lemonade, seated in their sweet little courtyard garden. With twinkling lights and mismatched chairs, it felt like a secret lunch spot hidden in plain sight—relaxing, flavorful, and delightfully local.
I like Carthage for its character and stories about Wild West outlaws and Civil War battles
Just an hour west of Springfield is Carthage. You might be surprised that this small Missouri town shares a name, and a turbulent history, with its ancient Greek counterpart. I learned that it faced Civil War battles, Wild West outlaws, ragtime musicians, and pioneering women, all shaping its unique identity.
When I first visited, I couldn’t believe the entire town was burned during the Civil War. You’ll see how it rose again, rebuilt in stunning Victorian style. I walked through four distinct historic districts, each with charm and over 600 beautifully preserved buildings. I think the Jasper County Courthouse (shown in the above photo) is the most impressive. I stood in front of it and just stared in awe.
My highlights in Carthage...
- If you're curious about history like I am, you should stop by the Battle of Carthage State Historic Site. I spent an afternoon there learning about the town’s role in the war.
- I also wandered through Red Oaks II. I think you’d enjoy how artist Lowell Davis recreated a full 19th-century town. I felt like I had stepped back in time.
My highlight? The homestyle breakfast at Mother Road Coffee, right on the historic Route 66 strip. I had a caramel latte and a sausage-egg biscuit sandwich that hit the spot. The exposed brick and vintage decor made it feel like a slice of small-town Americana. It was the kind of place you linger without realizing it.
Family-friendly Places to Visit in Missouri:
My family and I had SO much fun at Elephant Rocks State Park.
On our way back from Carthage to St Louis we took a detour south to visit Elephant Rocks State Park.
It's one of the most interactive parks I've been to because you can climb on giant boulders. You really feel like a part of the landscape and nature.
You’ll find it tucked away in the Saint Francois Mountains in southeastern Missouri, where massive granite boulders line the trails like a parade of stone elephants. No matter how you fit it into your itinerary, you simply must!
When I learned these rocks were formed from molten magma about 1.5 billion years ago, I was blown away. I was struck by how much they really do look like elephants!!
My highlight? The hearty post-hike lunch at Thee Abbey Kitchen in Arcadia. I had a fried catfish plate with hushpuppies and coleslaw—crisp, golden, and full of flavor. After clambering over giant granite boulders and soaking up the scenery, it was the perfect rustic meal in a peaceful, tucked-away spot.
You should bring a picnic to Elephant Rocks State Park
If you love geology like I do, you’ll enjoy knowing that the land was once a quarry in the 19th century. Today, it’s a favorite for climbers and nature lovers alike. I suggest following the Braille Trail. I took that route, and it winds gently among the boulders until it reaches an old railroad engine house. I thought it added just the right touch of mystery and history.
. I found shaded spots with benches and tables scattered throughout the park. I sat under the trees and just soaked in the peaceful atmosphere.
Ha Ha Tonka State Park
If you are skipping Carthage and you are headed back to St. Louis from Springfield, you HAVE to stop at Ha Ha Tonka State Park.
I truly think Ha Ha Tonka State Park is one of Missouri’s most stunning places...If you thought castle ruins were a "Europe thing," you will find out that's not the case!
You’ll find Ha Ha Tonka State Park just a few miles from Camdenton, right along the Lake of the Ozarks. When I first visited, I was amazed by how breathtakingly beautiful the landscape was with every trail feeling like an adventure.
You should definitely see the natural bridge. I walked under its 70-foot-wide span and couldn’t believe it was over 100 feet high. I also explored the sinkhole called The Colosseum. Standing at its edge, I felt small...it stretches 300 feet across and 500 feet long.
I stood among the ruins and imagined what the view must have looked like back then
If you're like me and love stories from the past, you’ll be fascinated by Whispering Dell at Ha Ha Tonka State Park. I went down to see its 150-foot-deep basin and found two caves there: Robber's Cave and Counterfeiter's Cave. I couldn’t stop thinking about how 19th-century criminals once used them as hideouts.
One of my favorite spots is the 250-foot-high bluff above the spring. You’ll see the castle ruins up there, built by a Kansas City businessman over a century ago. You’ll also love the 15 miles of trails. I hiked through forests, past caves, and ended my day at a clear, blue lake that felt like a reward. I think you’ll want to stay all day, just like I did.
My highlight? The sunset dinner at Baxter’s Lakeside Grille in nearby Lake Ozark. I had the grilled trout with lemon herb butter and a side of seasonal veggies. The view from the patio looked out over the lake, with boats drifting by and golden hour lighting everything just right. It was calm, scenic, and a beautiful end to an adventurous day.
If you are catching a flight out of St Louis, Ha Ha Tonka State Park is about 2 hours and 45 minutes by car.
If you are just getting started and need more ideas, bookmark my day trips page and check out my articles:
Jump to a Spot...
- • I don't think it would be fair to talk about Missouri destinations without St Louis
- • If I'm feeling adventurous, I drive 4 hours to Branson on a mini road trip
- • I make time to see the Waterfalls at Lost Canyon Cave Nature Trail just south of Branson, Missouri
- • Kansas City is one of the largest cities in the country. I go for food, museums and the views
- • You'll find Springfield in the Ozark Mountains lively thanks to its three universities.
- • I like Carthage for its character and stories about Wild West outlaws and Civil War battles
- • My family and I had SO much fun at Elephant Rocks State Park.
- • You should bring a picnic to Elephant Rocks State Park
- • Ha Ha Tonka State Park
- • I stood among the ruins and imagined what the view must have looked like back then