Need a relaxing getaway or a small-town adventure in the Ozarks? Head to Lebanon! Explore scenic parks, fish famous trout streams, and experience nostalgic Route 66 charm. Whether you're craving outdoor adventures, unique shopping, or local eats, Lebanon offers warm hospitality and lots of hidden gems.
Lebanon, MO Highlights
- Bennett Spring State Park: Fish for rainbow trout, hike lush trails, or enjoy a peaceful picnic by the spring.
- Route 66 Museum and Research Center: Dive into the history of the Mother Road with vintage cars, memorabilia, and exhibits.
- Boswell Park: Skate, play, or relax in this community green space with a skate park and playgrounds.
- Downtown Lebanon: Stroll historic streets lined with boutiques, antique shops, and cozy cafés.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Lebanon is from spring through fall (April to October). The weather is ideal for fishing, hiking, and outdoor festivals, with colorful scenery especially vibrant in the fall.
How to Get There
- If you are traveling by car: Located along Interstate 44 and historic Route 66, Lebanon is about 50 miles northeast of Springfield and 160 miles southwest of St. Louis.
- By Air: The nearest major airport is Springfield-Branson National Airport (SGF), about 1 hour away by car.
- By Bus: Greyhound services offer limited routes connecting Lebanon with nearby larger cities.
Where to Stay
- Hampton Inn Lebanon – If you want a modern hotel with free breakfast and an outdoor pool, close to I-44.
- Holiday Inn Express & Suites Lebanon – Comfortable lodging with an indoor pool, ideal for families and business travelers.
- Manor House Inn – Historic bed-and-breakfast offering charming rooms and a cozy, personalized experience downtown.
Best Things to Do
⮕ Bennett Spring State Park
Go trout fishing or hike scenic trails on a relaxing spring weekend trip.
Famous for trout fishing, Bennett Spring State Park is named after and is home to the third largest spring in the state, Bennett Spring. Many outdoor recreation activities can be found throughout the park, including picnicking, hiking, float trips, camping, and trout fishing. The state park also features a general store, a swimming pool, around a dozen miles of trails, a nature center, fly-fishing schools, cabins, campgrounds, and a dining lodge. A fishing license is required for fishing at Bennett Spring State Park and fishing hours vary each month. The trout season typically lasts from March through October.
26250 MO-64A, Lebanon, MO 65536, Phone: 417-532-4338
⮕ Kenneth E. Cowan Civic Center
Attend local events or explore exhibits at this easy-to-reach community attraction.
The Kenneth E. Cowan Civic Center is a sprawling multi-purpose complex in the middle of downtown Lebanon. The facility consists of the Lebanon Family YMCA, a massive Theater, a number of Meeting Rooms, and an expansive Exhibition Hall. The YMCA features a basketball court, a swimming pool, and the Sport Facility, which includes an exercise and weight room and a sports floor for volleyball, tennis, and walking. The Exhibition Hall covers more than 46,000 square feet and regularly hosts events like conventions, concerts, theatrical productions, and trade shows. It has also been used for indoor motocross and rodeos.
500 E Elm St, Lebanon, MO 65536, Phone: 417-532-4642
⮕ I-44 Speedway
Watch thrilling races and enjoy exciting entertainment for motorsport-loving kids and families.
The I-44 Speedway in Lebanon, Missouri is a high-banked, 4/8-mile, oval asphalt track set in the hills of the Ozarks. Known for offering affordable fun for the entire family, the speedway hosts races on most Saturdays between the months of May and October. The races typically start at 7:30pm with Baby Grands, Chargers, Street Stock, Big 10 Late Model Series, Modified, and Pro Late Models. Guests can choose from the grandstand seating or the spacious area for lawn chair and blankets, or the “Wild Site” Tier Parking at which guests can park their vehicles closer to the racing action.
24069 U.S. Rte 66, Lebanon, MO 65536, Phone: 417-532-2060
Where to Eat:
⮕ Mazzio's
Savor delicious pizza and enjoy a cheap, casual meal with the whole family.
The beginning of Mazzio's started in 1961 in Tulsa, Oklahoma, where a school teacher named Ken Selby opened a one-man pizza restaurant called The Pizza Parlor. Mazzio’s Pizza opened in 1979 and over the years, the chain of pizzerias has grown to consist of over 100 locations across ten states. Open seven days a week, the restaurant has continued to offer quality food and innovate its offerings on the menu, which now include “Pepperolies,” Cinnaboli, Family Bakes, the “Calzone Ring,” made-to-order pastas, and more. Along with dine-in, Mazzio’s Pizza also offers delivery and carryout, including a drive-thru window.
211 E 7th St, Lebanon, MO 65536, Phone: 417-588-2227
More Places to Eat
- Dowd’s Catfish and BBQ – If you want hearty Southern comfort food with fried catfish, BBQ platters, and homemade sides.
- Elm Street Eatery – Homestyle diner serving hearty breakfasts, sandwiches, and classic desserts in a cheerful setting.
- Madison Street Grill – Cozy spot downtown offering steaks, seafood, and seasonal specials in an intimate atmosphere.
If you are interested in local events:
- Lebanon Route 66 Festival (June) – Classic car shows, live music, food vendors, and fun celebrating Lebanon’s Route 66 heritage.
- Bennett Spring Fly Fishing Festival (March) – Workshops, demos, and competitions for fishing enthusiasts at Bennett Spring State Park.
- Heritage Festival (September) – Family-friendly celebration of local culture with crafts, music, and food at the Cowan Civic Center.
If you are looking for unique day trips within 30 Minutes of Lebanon, Missouri:
- Bennett Spring State Park (10–15 min) – Fish, hike, or simply relax in one of Missouri’s most beautiful parks.
- Ha Ha Tonka State Park (30 min) – Explore castle ruins, natural bridges, and stunning lake views near Camdenton.
- Lake of the Ozarks (30 min) – Swim, boat, or dine lakeside at Missouri’s premier vacation destination.
- Mark Twain National Forest (20–30 min) – Hike scenic wilderness trails and discover hidden natural beauty spots.
- Conway, Missouri (20–25 min) – Visit a quiet small town with Route 66 nostalgia and country charm.
- Phillipsburg, Missouri (20 min) – Explore antique shops and quirky roadside attractions just off Route 66.
Frequently Asked Questions:
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Where is Lebanon, Missouri located?
- Lebanon is conveniently situated on Interstate 44 in south-central Missouri, within the scenic Ozarks.
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What kinds of activities can visitors enjoy in Lebanon?
- Lebanon and the surrounding area of Laclede County offer a variety of outdoor and indoor activities.
- Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy swimming, hiking, camping, fishing, and river floats.
- For a more urban experience, visitors can explore dining, shopping, and racing.
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What events take place at the Kenneth E. Cowan Civic Center?
- The Kenneth E. Cowan Civic Center hosts a range of events, including concerts, theatrical productions, and rodeos.
At a Glance:
Best Time to Visit
Places to Stay
Tips for Visiting
Spring (March-May) – Mild temperatures and blooming wildflowers.
Hampton Inn Lebanon – A comfortable stay with easy highway access.
Visit Bennett Spring State Park – Enjoy fishing, hiking, and scenic river views.
Summer (June-August) – Warm and great for outdoor activities.
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Lebanon – A modern hotel with great amenities.
Explore Route 66 Museum – Learn about the historic highway and its impact on Missouri.
Fall (September-November) – Crisp air and beautiful autumn colors.
The Manor House Inn – A cozy and charming historic bed & breakfast.
Take a scenic drive through the Ozarks – Experience breathtaking fall foliage and rolling hills.
Plan Your Trip
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