When I visited Missouri, I was amazed by how much there was to see and do. From big cities full of music and museums to quiet mountains and small towns with friendly people, Missouri has something for everyone. Whether you’re into history, food, nature, or family fun, this state offers a perfect mix of experiences.
I explored lively cities like St. Louis and Kansas City, relaxed by beautiful lakes in the Ozarks, and even walked through cool caves underground. Along the way, I found delicious food, great music, and plenty of surprises.
If you’re planning a trip and looking for the best things to do in Missouri, this guide will help you find the must-see spots and hidden gems. Let me show you what made my Missouri adventure so special.
Explore St. Louis – The Gateway to the West
One of the first places I visited in Missouri was St. Louis, and it quickly became a highlight of my trip. The city is full of fun things to do, cool neighborhoods to walk through, and tasty food to try.
Of course, I started with the Gateway Arch—you just can’t miss it. Standing under it felt amazing, and I even took a tram ride to the top. The view of the city and the Mississippi River was totally worth it.
After that, I spent some time at Forest Park. It’s one of the biggest urban parks in the country and has so much to offer. I visited the St. Louis Zoo, which is free and full of animals from around the world. I also checked out the St. Louis Art Museum and took a peaceful walk around the lakes and gardens.
For something really unique, I went to the City Museum. It’s like a giant playground for both kids and adults—with tunnels, slides, and climbing areas made from recycled materials. It was one of the most fun places I’ve ever been.
And let’s talk about the food! I tried toasted ravioli (a local favorite), had some St. Louis-style pizza, and grabbed a frozen custard from Ted Drewes. Every bite was delicious.
St. Louis is a city full of surprises, and there’s something to enjoy around every corner. If you’re looking for history, fun, and great food, it should definitely be on your Missouri travel list.
Discover Kansas City – Barbecue and Jazz
After St. Louis, I headed to Kansas City, and wow—this place has a vibe all its own. It’s known for two big things: barbecue and jazz music, and I made sure to enjoy both.
Let’s talk about the food first. Kansas City barbecue is no joke. I visited a few famous spots, like Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que and Gates Bar-B-Q, and every meal was smoky, messy, and absolutely delicious. The slow-cooked ribs, burnt ends, and rich sauces made it some of the best barbecue I’ve ever tasted.
When I wasn’t eating, I explored some of the city’s cool cultural spots. The American Jazz Museum was a must-see. It’s located in the historic 18th & Vine Jazz District, and walking through it felt like stepping back in time. I listened to recordings, saw vintage instruments, and learned about legends like Charlie Parker and Count Basie.
I also visited the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, which had everything from ancient sculptures to modern paintings. Even if you’re not super into art, the building and the sculpture garden outside are worth checking out.
Another fun area to walk around is the Country Club Plaza. It’s a beautiful shopping district with fountains, Spanish-style buildings, and little cafés where I could relax and people-watch.
Kansas City really surprised me. It has a laid-back feel but is full of great music, amazing food, and interesting places to explore. It was one of my favorite stops in Missouri.
Take a Scenic Drive in the Ozark Mountains
One of the best parts of my Missouri trip was driving through the Ozark Mountains. The views were just stunning—rolling hills, winding roads, and peaceful lakes. If you love nature and want to take things slow, a scenic drive in the Ozarks is perfect.
I started near Lake of the Ozarks, a huge and beautiful lake with lots of small towns around it. There were boats on the water, people fishing, and cozy cabins tucked in the trees. I stopped a few times to walk around, take photos, and enjoy the quiet.
As I drove deeper into the Ozarks, the roads curved through forests and over hills. I listened to music, rolled down the windows, and just soaked in the fresh air. There were spots along the way where I pulled over to check out little hiking trails and lookout points.
I also passed through small towns like Camdenton and Osage Beach, which had cute shops, diners, and friendly people. It felt like I was seeing a more peaceful, slower side of Missouri.
If you have time, I really recommend spending a day or two exploring the Ozark Mountains by car. It’s one of the best ways to see Missouri’s natural beauty up close and escape the noise of city life.
Tour Historic Hannibal – Mark Twain’s Hometown
One of the most fascinating stops on my Missouri adventure was Hannibal, the charming town known as Mark Twain’s hometown. Stepping into Hannibal felt like walking into a living history book, where every corner reminds you of the life and stories of one of America’s greatest writers.
I started my tour at the Mark Twain Boyhood Home & Museum, which gave me a glimpse into the early life of Samuel Clemens. Walking through the house and exploring the exhibits, I could almost feel the spirit of his adventures along the Mississippi River. The museum was full of interesting artifacts and stories that brought his world to life.
Strolling through the historic downtown, I admired the old brick buildings and quaint streets that have been lovingly preserved. I visited small shops and cafes, where locals were eager to share stories about the town’s rich heritage. The Mississippi River flowing by added a peaceful, timeless touch to the whole experience.
Hannibal isn’t just about history—there’s also a creative vibe to it. I discovered local art galleries and even saw street performers celebrating Twain’s legacy. It made me appreciate how a small town can have such a big impact on American literature and culture.
If you’re a fan of history or simply enjoy exploring unique towns with a story to tell, touring historic Hannibal is a must on your Missouri journey. It’s a place where the past and present come together in a way that truly inspires.
Experience Missouri’s Caves and State Parks
One of the coolest things I did in Missouri was exploring its amazing caves and beautiful state parks. If you love the outdoors and adventure, Missouri has plenty to offer.
I visited Meramec Caverns, which was an unforgettable experience. Walking through the huge underground caves with sparkling formations felt like entering another world. The guided tour was both fun and educational—I learned a lot about the history and geology of the area.
Besides caves, Missouri’s state parks are perfect spots to relax and enjoy nature. I spent time at Ha Ha Tonka State Park, where I hiked along trails with stunning views of the lake and ruins of an old castle. It was peaceful and a great place to disconnect from the busy world.
Another favorite was Elephant Rocks State Park, famous for its giant, round boulders that look like a row of elephants. It was fun to walk around and climb on these natural rock formations.
Whether you want to explore caves, hike scenic trails, or just enjoy some fresh air, Missouri’s outdoors won’t disappoint. It’s a great way to add some adventure to your trip.
Taste Local Flavors and Wineries
One of my favorite parts of traveling through Missouri was tasting the local flavors. The food scene here is full of surprises, from classic comfort dishes to fresh, creative menus. If you love good food and drink, you’re in for a treat.
I made sure to try some Missouri-style barbecue—different from other places, but just as delicious. The smoky ribs and pulled pork I had were full of flavor and made me want more.
Missouri is also home to many wineries, especially in the Ozark region and near Hermann, a charming town known for its German heritage and vineyards. I visited a few wineries, where I sampled local wines like Norton, a grape native to the area. The tastings were relaxed, and the views of rolling hills made sipping even better.
Besides wine, I enjoyed stopping at local bakeries and farmers markets. I found fresh bread, homemade pies, and seasonal fruits that tasted amazing.
If you’re a foodie or just want to try something new, exploring Missouri’s local flavors and wineries is a great way to connect with the state’s culture and people.
Fun for Families and Kids
Traveling with family? Missouri has so many fun things for kids and parents alike. When I was exploring with my family, we found plenty of places that kept everyone entertained.
One of our favorites was Silver Dollar City in Branson. It’s a theme park with rides, shows, and craft demonstrations that kids loved. There’s something for all ages—from gentle rides for little ones to thrilling roller coasters for teens and adults.
We also visited the St. Louis Zoo, which is free and perfect for a family day out. The animals were amazing to see, and the zoo’s layout made it easy to explore without getting tired.
For something educational and fun, we went to the City Museum in St. Louis. It’s unlike any museum I’ve seen—full of tunnels, slides, and creative spaces that let kids play and explore in a safe environment.
Missouri’s parks and lakes are also great for family picnics, fishing, and outdoor play. It was nice to balance busy city visits with time outdoors, letting the kids run around and enjoy nature.
Conclusion
My trip to Missouri was full of surprises, from lively cities like St. Louis and Kansas City to the peaceful beauty of the Ozark Mountains and charming small towns. Whether you love exploring history, enjoying outdoor adventures, tasting local food, or finding family-friendly fun, Missouri has something for everyone.
I loved how easy it was to mix city excitement with nature’s calm, and how friendly the people were everywhere I went. If you’re planning your next trip, I highly recommend adding Missouri to your list. There’s so much to see and do, and every visit feels like a new adventure.
I hope this guide helps you discover the best things to do in Missouri and makes your trip unforgettable.
