Best 10 Places To Visit In Missouri

1. Hannibal

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Hannibal is located along the Mississippi River, and about 100 miles (160 km) from St. Louis. Its inclusion among the top places to visit in this state comes from the fact that it is the childhood home of Mark Twain - one of the most beloved authors in America. Most of the adventures in the works written by Mark Twain were set in Hannibal. Some of the popular attractions here include The Mark Twain Boyhood Home & Museum, Rockcliffe Mansion, Mark Twain Cave and Cameron Cave, Mark Twain Memorial Lighthouse, and Big River Train Museum, among others.

2. Columbia

Columbia is a Midwestern college town known for its magnificent public art, powerful journalism, and progressive politics. The city is an alluring attraction not only to individuals interested in the history of higher education, but also anyone interested in art, history, and archeology. Apart from the museums and the historical attractions, Columbia is blessed with a tranquil state park, conservation areas, and an animal sanctuary. All of these bring exciting outdoor opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

3. Jefferson City

Jefferson City is the capital of Missouri and it is located along the gorgeous Missouri River. A trip to this city offers a great chance to learn about its rich history at Cole County Museum. Once you’ve gotten enough history, you can head over to Carnahan Memorial Garden to enjoy a relaxing stroll among the pools, flowers, and walkways. Take an exciting tour of Missouri State Penitentiary - this spot used to be home to some of the most notorious criminals in the state. If you want something more active, go kayaking on the lake or enjoy a bike ride at Binder Park.

4. Joplin

Joplin is a small city within Joplin Creek Valley. It is a place whose growth has been attributed to the discovery of lead and zinc in the valley. It is rather quaint, ideal for travelers keen on rustic destinations that bring opportunities for outdoor adventures. Some of the notable attractions in Joplin include Grand Falls - the largest waterfall in the state of Missouri, Wildcat Glades Conservation, and George Washington Carver National Monument.

5. St. Louis

St. Louis is a major river port in the state of Missouri, located along the banks of the Mississippi River. This is where we find the iconic 30-foot (9-meter) Gateway Arch that was erected to commemorate the beginning of the Lewis and Clark Expedition. The Museum of the Westward Expansion is where you can find out more about the duo’s expedition, with other notable attractions being Magic House, St. Louis Cathedral, and St. Louis Cardinals Hall of Fame & Museum. Unfortunately, St. Louis may not be the best destination if you are looking for thrilling outdoor activities in Missouri, but it’s perfect for those who want a relaxed holiday.

6. Hermann

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Hermann is a small, beautiful city nestled in the Missouri River Valley. It features plenty of 19th-century brick buildings that line the sidewalks, leftover from when the Germans settled in this region. To learn more about the city’s fascinating history, be sure to pass by Deutschheim State Historic Site. The other additional points of interest worth checking out here include Showboat Theatre and Stone Hill Winery, where you can taste some of the best German wines produced in Missouri.

7. Springfield

Springfield is a thriving city set against the backdrop of the Ozarks Mountains. Home to a total of three universities, it is one of the liveliest cities in the state. During the Civil War, this place was a deadly battleground, and the town square is remembered as the scene where a fierce shootout between Davis Tutt and Bill Hickok occurred. Some of the major attractions here include Pythian Castle, Springfield Cardinals, Fantastic Caverns, and Springfield Conservation Nature Center, among others.

8. Branson

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Branson is situated close to the Ozarks, and it is a popular vacation destination in Missouri thanks to its proximity to the mountains, as well as its range of lively and diverse entertainment options. Apart from the mountains, the other notable attractions include its music theatres, the famous Marvel Cave, National Tiger Sanctuary, Hollywood Wax Museum Branson, and a plethora of wineries that offer a great wine tasting experience.

9. Carthage

Carthage may be a small Missouri town, but its history, especially about the Civil War and the Wild West Outlaws makes its size unimportant. The city was razed to the ground during the Civil War but it was rapidly rebuilt and now it boasts vibrancy and modernity, with plenty of enviable attractions that have no connection to its turbulent past. These include Precious Moments Chapel, Red Oaks II, and Battle of Carthage State Historic Site.

Enjoy the gems and treasures of Missouri

The cities in Missouri have something for everyone. All you need to do is simply identify the kind of holiday you want, then head straight to the place guaranteed to give you that experience. Read our recommendations for the best places to visit in Missouri and learn more about what you can expect from each one. Also, don’t forget to book a stay at a charming cabin rental with a hot tub while you are here.