mo city trip right now

• Itineraries
• Places to Stay
• Art & History
• Food & Drink
• Lectures & Presentations
• Music & Performance
• Seasonal & Holiday
• Sports & Recreation
• Agritourism
• Attractions & Tours
• Entertainment & Nightlife

Things to Do

Things to see. Food to eat. Places to discover. Whatever you want to do, it's here.

The Gateway Arch

Silver dollar city, saint louis zoo, sight & sound theatres, dolly parton’s stampede dinner attraction, city museum, national wwi museum and memorial, the haygoods, jb hook’s, st. louis cardinals busch stadium tours, breakout kc, mel’s hard luck diner.

41 Fun Things To Do & Places To Visit In Missouri

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Published: December 6, 2020  - Last updated: October 15, 2023

With busy streets framed by mountains, forests, lakes and waterfalls, Missouri is a state that has it all.

You can enjoy resorts and restaurants in the big cities; you can go camping under the stars in the wilderness.

You can also enjoy the cultural depth of Missouri.

From the iconic landmarks to the little-known shops, diners and roadside attractions, there’s a reason why this uniquely Midwestern destination is nicknamed the “Show Me State.”

Maybe you’re planning an imminent vacation.

Maybe you’re making a bucket list for the distant future.

Either way, here are 41 awesome things to do in Missouri!

Table of Contents

1. Gateway Arch

f11photo / Shutterstock

The Gateway Arch is one of the most famous places in Missouri.

Located in the heart of St. Louis , its gleaming curve peaks at more than 600 feet above the city skyline, and it can be seen for miles around.

You don’t have to admire it from afar, however.

One of the coolest things about the arch is its observation deck!

You can take a ride to the very top and gaze out at the marvelous scenery below, including parks, bridges, buildings and the Mississippi River.

There’s also a visitor center if you want to learn more about the construction of the arch and the role that it played in the city’s development.

Additionally, there’s a gift shop if you want to do the tourist thing and grab a “I (Heart) St. Louis” key chain.

The Gateway Arch is one of the premiere tourist attractions of Missouri.

It’s the kind of place that you won’t want to miss.

Every time you tell someone that you visited St. Louis, they’ll ask if you visited the arch, so make it a true story and go!

Address: St. Louis, MO 63102, United States

2. Bogart’s Smokehouse

Bogart’s Smokehouse

Ask a dozen different people about the best restaurants in Missouri, and you’ll get a dozen different answers depending on what that person likes the most.

However, one common thread is simple: barbecue.

Missouri loves its barbecue!

Bogart’s Smokehouse isn’t the only place specializing in things like pulled pork sandwiches and sauce-slathered ribs served on piping hot platters, but it’s one of the most renowned.

All of its meat is smoked for more than 24 house before being rubbed down with herbs and spices and slow-cooked on cherry wood.

Its head chef actually trained in Memphis , another barbecue haven, before bringing his talents north, and you can taste his experience in every juicy bite.

You can’t leave Missouri without tasting some of its barbecue.

When you work up an appetite during your vacation, stop by Bogart’s Smokehouse for some life-changing pork.

Address: 1627 S 9th St, St. Louis, MO 63104, United States

3. City Museum

Chris857 , CC BY-SA 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

At first glance, City Museum might seem like any other plain, square-bricked building in St. Louis.

When you look a little higher, however, you’ll see the strange shapes jutting off the roof, and you’ll realize that it’s actually one of the craziest vacation spots in Missouri!

Planes and school buses jut over the edge of the building.

A Ferris wheel slowly turns over a pond filled with stepping stones and gigantic statues of bugs.

A glass dome, salvaged from the renovations of a local science center, sits in the middle of twisted metal sculptures that are both viewable and climbable.

The fun continues inside of the building as well.

Exhibits include everything from taxidermy animals to mineral collections.

Interactive rooms will let you paint, build, ride a train, skateboard in an indoor park or attend lessons at circus school.

Oddities include things like “The World’s Largest Underwear.”

Long story short, City Museum isn’t your typical museum.

It’s a crazy cross between a playground, fun house and kooky art installation, and it’s definitely one of the top things to do in Missouri.

Address: 750 N 16th St, St. Louis, MO 63103, United States

4. Lake of the Ozarks

TommyBrison / Shutterstock

With its slow, lazy waves surrounded by beautiful foliage, the Lake of the Ozarks is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Missouri.

Visitors can enjoy swimming, boating, rafting, hiking, biking, camping and more.

The surface of the lake covers 54,000 acres, so there’s plenty of space to spread out.

There’s also a lot of room on the sandy coasts; the shoreline stretches for 1,150 miles.

That’s more shoreline than the entire state of California , and it’s located in the landlocked state of Missouri!

Events are common on the lake.

There are fireworks in the summer and holiday lights in the winter; there are garden shows in the spring and food festivals in the fall.

You can also have fun year-round at destinations like the “Party Cove,” a gathering hole for swimmers.

If you’re looking for a good time in Missouri, visit the Lake of the Ozarks.

You can hop in for a quick swim; you can rent a lakeside cabin for the entire summer.

It’s a place with endless possibilities.

5. Silver Dollar City

Shane Adams / flickr

As one of the biggest amusement parks in Missouri, Silver Dollar City definitely lives up to its name.

It’s so big that it’s actually divided into “districts” as a play on its theme.

Rivertown has rides and restaurants along the water.

Wilson’s Farm has fun, family-friendly activities with an agricultural motif.

Midtown has more carnival games that you can shake a stick at, and Homestead Ridge offers vintage-style shops for all of your souvenir needs.

Main Street is a boulevard that connects them all.

You can choose your own adventure at this amusement park.

Whether you want to watch a demonstration at a pottery store or make your stomach drop with death-defying roller coasters, there’s a little something for everyone here.

Silver Dollar City is another one of those Missouri attractions that everyone knows.

If you don’t want to be left out of the fun, book your tickets this weekend and get ready for a wild ride!

Address: 399 Silver Dollar City Pkwy, Branson, MO 65616, United States

Visiting other areas of Missouri? Why not check out some of the fun things to do in Springfield, MO ?

6. Adrenaline Zone

Adrenaline Zone

If you’re wondering where to go in Missouri on a rainy day, look no further than the Adrenaline Zone .

It offers all kinds of heart-pumping activities to get your blood racing, and since they’re all indoors, you can enjoy them rain or shine!

Traditional games include pool, foosball, skeeball and laser tag.

More involved activities range from timed laser mazes to “demolition ball,” a unique basketball-and-hockey hybrid that’s played in bumper cars.

You can eat and drink when you’re done, or you can play arcade games to earn tickets and win prizes.

If you’re traveling to Missouri with a group, you can rent out the entire facility for parties, work retreats or “lock-in” events.

Long story short, the fun never stops at the Adrenaline Zone.

Rain or shine, its doors are always open for folks who want to unleash their inner child by running around and shooting at each other with laser guns.

Address: 1875 S Old Hwy 94, St Charles, MO 63303, United States

7. Hermann Wine Trail

Hermann Wine Trail

What’s the first place that comes to mind when you think about wine?

It probably isn’t Missouri, but the Hermann Wine Trail has every bit of splendor as Napa Valley .

Founded by German immigrants in 1836, the Hermann Wine Trail started as a single vineyard that grew over the years to encompass everything from wine halls to artisan wine shops.

Today, it stretches for more than 25 miles, and there’s a trolley that connects all of the stores and villas in the area.

Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities on the trail.

There’s wine tasting, of course, but there’s also shopping and sightseeing, and you can sleep at cozy little bed-and-breakfasts if you want to stay overnight.

Have you always wanted to wake up to a home-cooked breakfast in a soft bed with rolling green hills outside of your window?

The Hermann Wine Trail can turn your dreams into reality.

There’s a reason why it’s a top 10 spot in Missouri, so pack your goblets and get ready to drink!

Address: 150A Market St, Hermann, MO 65041, United States

8. National World War I Museum

EQRoy / Shutterstock

World War I isn’t always studied as much as World War II, but this museum is a great way to educate yourself on a major point in U.S. history.

Located in Kansas City , Missouri, it’s been designated by the government as the country’s official WWI museum .

You’ll start by following the 265-foot tower to the main building.

From there, you’ll walk across a glass bridge that covers 9,000 red poppies symbolizing the 9,000,000 lives lost during the war.

Features of the museum include photos, videos, maps, flags, letters and artifacts ranging from rusted guns to old propaganda posters.

There’s a sound booth for audio recordings; there are two theaters that run educational films and reels.

There’s also a preserved Renault FT tank and a 1918 Ford Model T ambulance.

You don’t have to be a history buff to appreciate the National World War I Museum.

It’s one of the most interesting places in Missouri, so do yourself a favor and check it out if you’ll be near Kansas City during your trip.

Address: 2 Memorial Dr, Kansas City, MO 64108, United States

9. Waterfall Park

Lemuwah / Shutterstock

Waterfall Park is one of the most fun things to do in Missouri.

Its namesake is a beautiful, ten-foot waterfall that crashes over rocks and into the pool below, and it’s surrounded by boulders and mossy lichens that make it look like something out of a fairy tale.

You don’t have to hike into the wilderness to see it, however.

The best thing about Waterfall Park is that it’s a man-made feature located in the middle of a metropolis!

The city is called Independence, Missouri, and it’s a tourist attraction in its own right.

You’ll find plenty of entertainment options in the form of bars, shops, restaurants and movie theaters.

That said, the main draw of the city is definitely Waterfall Park.

How many times in your life can you see a waterfall in the middle of a busy street?

If you’re looking for cool and unique vacation ideas in Missouri, put this one on your shortlist.

Address: 4501 S Bass Pro Dr, Independence, MO 64055, United States

10. Chocolate Chocolate Chocolate Company

Chocolate Chocolate Chocolate Company

There’s chocolate, and then there’s chocolate chocolate chocolate.

The latter can be found at the Chocolate Chocolate Chocolate Company located in St. Louis, Missouri.

Treats include bars, bites, truffles, drops, crunches and caramels.

There are handcrafted, artisan-made gourmet chocolates tucked carefully into gift boxes; there are sloppy, sticky and messy chocolates offered on factory tours and during tasting events.

That’s right: You don’t have to stay behind the counter.

You can wander deep inside Willy Wonka’s playground and see how your favorite fudges and peanut butter cups are made.

It won’t even cost you anything since tours are free!

You just have to make arrangements in advance.

The Chocolate Chocolate Chocolate Company is one of the best places to see in Missouri.

Even if you aren’t a sweets person going in, the cascading waterfalls of chocolate are sure to change your mind.

Address: 5025 Pattison Ave, St. Louis, MO 63110, United States

11. St. Joseph

APN Photography / Shutterstock

Saddle up, boys, because this one is a doozy!

St. Joseph was one of the last frontier towns of the Wild West.

Not only is it rich with history, but it’s also home to a number of world-famous tourist attractions, including the starting point of the Pony Express and the death site of outlaw Jesse James.

While some parts of the city have been modernized, others are still dedicated to days gone by.

You can see this historical preservation in everything from the architecture to the large number of museums, mansions and courthouses dotting the downtown area.

Modern features at St. Joseph include shopping malls and high-class restaurants.

You don’t have to eat 17th century jerky just because you’re in a place with 17th century buildings!

If you enjoy learning about the Wild West, you won’t want to miss St. Joseph.

It’s one of the coolest vacation spots in Missouri, especially for those with an interest in old-school American.

Grab your spurs, don your cowboy hat and get to riding!

12. Meramec State Park

Rklawton , CC BY-SA 2.5 , via Wikimedia Commons

Most Missouri attractions are located above ground.

Every so often, however, you’ll come across a subterranean area with a story to tell, and that’s exactly the case with Meramec State Park .

Located in Sullivan, Missouri, Meramec State Park is home to a diverse range of landscapes.

These include forests and glades as well as canyons and caves.

One of the most famous places to visit is Fisher Cave.

Filled with stalagmites and stalactites, it offers a dark, dimly-lit adventure into passageways filled with hard rock.

If you’re science-minded, you might recognize them as limestone and dolomite.

If you’re a layman, you can still appreciate the cool-looking rock formations!

Grab your flashlight and head down into the caves of Meramec State Park… if you dare.

Address: 115 Meramec Park Drive, Sullivan, MO 63080, United States

13. Busch Stadium

Joe Hendrickson / Shutterstock

Attracting thousands of visitors each year, Busch Stadium is one of the best sites in Missouri.

It hosts everything from concerts to championship baseball games, and it’s also adjacent to a “ballpark village” that offers bars, shops, breweries and hall-of-fame exhibits, so it’s always bustling with energy!

The stadium itself has seen all kinds of events.

Baseball is the most common sport played on the green, but there’s also been football, soccer and hockey.

Concerts have welcomed everyone from Ed Sheeran to Metallica.

As for the village, it’s also a lively place.

There’s an outdoor marketplace under a retractable canopy; there are bars with mechanical bulls and restaurants with karaoke machines.

If you’re wondering what to do on a Missouri vacation, you might enjoy a trip to Busch Stadium.

There’s always something on the schedule, so whether you’re visiting during the blazing hot days of summer or the cold, windy days of winter, you can find something fun to do here.

Address: 700 Clark Ave, St. Louis, MO 63102, United States

14. National Museum of Transportation

artistmac / flickr

If you like planes, trains and automobiles, you’ll love the life-sized models at the National Museum of Transportation .

Like its name suggests, it transcends the boundaries of Missouri to serve as the biggest transportation museum in the whole of the United States.

It’s a national treasure in every respect.

Visitors can enjoy all kinds of exhibits about the various transportation methods of the past.

While the emphasis is on railroads and locomotives, just about everything is covered, including planes, ships, trucks, cars and more.

Models are displayed in both real and miniature sizes.

Engines are dissected and labeled.

A tiny railroad chugs around the tracks of the museum, and a real, rideable trolley echoes it, giving you the chance to get off your feet for a while as you explore the grounds.

If you’re the type of person who never grew out of their train phase, the National Museum of Transportation is the destination for you.

It’ll awaken all of your old passions while also introducing you to exciting new facts about the hobby!

Address: 2933 Barrett Station Rd, St. Louis, MO 63122, United States

15. Missouri Botanical Garden

Rob Neville Photos / Shutterstock

Missouri is renowned for its scenery, but you don’t have to trek into remote mountains to enjoy it.

You can find a slice of paradise in the heart of downtown St. Louis when you visit the Missouri Botanical Garden .

Covering almost 80 acres, this “garden” is actually a collection of landscapes that showcases everything from flowers and trees to sculptures and cultural artifacts.

Many of the gardens are themed, so you can travel the world with the Seiwa-en Japanese Garden and the Strassenfest German Garden, or you can learn more about specific species with rose gardens, woodland gardens and even “Biblical gardens.”

Other features of the garden include fountains, bridges, reflection pools, hedge mazes and historic houses.

There’s also a geodesic dome greenhouse that was the first of its kind!

The Missouri Botanical Garden is one of the best things to do in Missouri.

It’s a resplendent place, and you won’t believe that so much greenery can be located right in the middle of a bustling city.

Address: 4344 Shaw Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63110, United States

16. Hollywood Wax Museum

Branson Convention and Visitors Bureau / flickr

Snap a selfie with a celebrity when you visit the Hollywood Wax Museum .

While the celebrity won’t be able to sign any autographs, they also won’t be able to deny your requests for silly or ridiculous poses.

That’s because they’re all made of wax!

The star-studded lineup includes everyone from Bruce Lee to Michael Jackson, so you’ll have your pick of photo ops.

Some of the statues are so lifelike that you’ll do a double take; others are so funky-looking that you’ll split your sides at the thought of the artist who created them.

There are other attractions at the museum as well.

From mirror mazes to interactive adventures, you’ll find plenty of kitschy, touristy ways to pass the time.

The Hollywood Wax Museum isn’t a particularly dignified place.

However, that’s exactly why it’s so much fun.

If you just want to cut loose for awhile, this is a great place for having a blast!

Address: 3030 W 76 Country Blvd A, Branson, MO 65616, United States

17. Hidden Valley Ski Resort

Hidden Valley Ski Resort

Missouri might not be the first state that comes to mind when you think about snow, but at the Hidden Valley Ski Resort , you can perform alley-oops like you’re at the Alps!

The powder is artificial, but it’s so cold and crisp that you won’t be able to tell the difference from the real thing.

It blankets the hills of the landscape like a winter wonderland that’s ready for all sorts of outdoor activities.

Skiing is popular, of course, but there’s also sledding, snowboarding and snow tubing.

There’s even a zipline that will send you hurtling over the snow in midair!

When you’re too cold to carry on, visit the ski lodge; there’s an open fireplace for warming up, and you can order food and drink while enjoying the ambiance of a cozy wintertime setting.

Who needs the Alps when you have the Hidden Valley Ski Resort?

Address: 17409 Hidden Valley Dr, Eureka, MO 63025, United States

18. Katy Trail

Wspin / Shutterstock

Nature lovers, you won’t want to miss the Katy Trail.

It runs for 240 miles along the Missouri River, and it crosses other famous trails like the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail, so it offers all kinds of opportunities for outdoor adventures.

Located within Katy Trail State Park , the Katy Trail gets its name from the “KT” abbreviation that originally defined the Missouri–Kansas–Texas Railroad.

The railroad was abandoned over the years, but the path became a popular site seeing destination.

Today, Katy Trail is used by hikers, joggers, cyclists, dog walkers and more.

It’s open every day of the year from sunrise to sunset, and its landmarks include everything from steel bridges to rugged limestone deposits framing canyon-like paths.

Pedal through the Katy Trail if you’re looking to experience beautiful places in Missouri.

Whether you’re traveling in spring, summer, autumn or winter, the scenery will always be waiting for you.

Address: 101 Lewis St Machens to Clinton, Boonville, MO 65039, United States

19. Laumeier Sculpture Park

Cheryl Zion / Shutterstock

If you’ve never seen a seven-foot eyeball sitting in the middle of a grassy green field, have you really lived at all?

This is a question posed by Laumeier Sculpture Park , one of the most eclectic places to visit in Missouri.

Its sculptures range from mythical creatures in flight to oil tanks tossed on top of each other as an expression of modernist art.

A walking trail will take you on a tour of the park’s outdoor pieces, or you can explore an indoor gallery or the preserved remains of a Tudor mansion built in 1816.

If you time your trip right, you can catch special shows, events and educational programs centered around art.

Laumeier Sculpture Park is definitely one of the weirder things to see in Missouri, but if you want to make unforgettable memories, it’s also one of the best.

Drop by with your camera to start a one-of-a-kind vacation scrapbook.

Address: 12580 Rott Rd, St. Louis, MO 63127, United States

20. Highway 76 Strip

Blayne Downs / Shutterstock

Located in Branson , Missouri, the Highway 76 Strip is one of the best places to visit to get your groove on.

It’s home to dozens of clubs, studios, theaters and dance halls, including famous tourist attractions like Dick Clark’s American Bandstand Theater.

There’s other entertainment to be enjoyed, too.

You can dine on everything from trendy salads to thick, gourmet cuts of steak, and there are also shops, museums, hotels and more.

The main draw of the Strip is definitely its music scene, however.

Whether you’re interested in a top-tapping concert at the Grand Country Music Hall or a wild and wacky adventure at Dolly Parton’s Dixie Stampede Dinner Attraction, the Grand Country Music Hall is a must see destination when you’re in Missouri.

21. Elephant Rocks State Park

Brian Doty / Shutterstock

The gigantic boulders of Elephant Rocks State Park are some of the most impressive sights in Missouri.

In addition to their size, they’re also a rosy pink color, which is where they get their nickname.

They can look a lot like circus elephants when you squint!

Natural trails will let you explore all of the rocks at length.

In an impressive first, the trails are accessible to all travelers, including those with disabilities.

One is actually named the “Braille Trail” for its use of braille on signposts.

Other places to visit include “The Maze,” a series of scattershot rocks that will require a strong sense of direction to navigate, and “Fat Man’s Squeeze,” a gap between two boulders that’s narrow enough to be quite the crunch.

All things considered, Elephant Rocks State Park is one of the most fun things to do in Missouri.

The landscapes are unique; the attractions are accessible for everyone.

Why wouldn’t you want to visit?

Address: 7390, 7406 MO-21, Belleview, MO 63623, United States

22. Activity and Recreation Center

ARC (Activity & Recreation Center)

You’re in Missouri.

You’re eating your weight in barbecue and cole slaw.

Are you wondering what to do to burn off some calories?

Consider a trip to the Activity and Recreation Center (ARC) of Columbia .

Covering more than 73,000 square feet, it’s a massive space with everything from pools to gyms to indoor tracks, so it’ll be more than suitable for anyone who wants to work up a sweat.

Do you like sports?

Join a friendly game at the basketball, volleyball or pickleball courts.

Are you serious about your weekly workout?

Hit the cardio or weight training rooms.

Do you like to swim?

Enjoy the pools, slides, vortexes, lazy rivers and lap lanes of the aquatic floor.

The Activity and Recreation Center of Columbia, Missouri is a must do for folks who want to stay active while on vacation.

There’s never an excuse for skipping leg day, right?

Address: 1701 W Ash St, Columbia, MO 65203, United States

23. Ha Ha Tonka State Park

Ben Stults / Shutterstock

Located near the small town of Camdenton, Missouri, Ha Ha Tonka State Park is named for the natural springs located on the grounds of its ruined castle.

“Ha ha tonka” translates to “smiling waters.”

You might not expect Missouri to have ruined castles, but that’s exactly why the park is so popular.

It’s one of the most unique places to visit in the state!

The landscape is filled with fun and unusual features, including caves, sinkholes, bluffs and overgrown woods.

Another nice thing about the park is that it’s located near the Lakes of the Ozark, so if you’re interested in normal summertime activities like swimming and camping, those are an option as well.

Ha Ha Tonka State Park is a must see destination when you’re in Missouri.

Between its caves and its castles, it has so many cool things to do that you won’t want to miss it.

Address: 1491 Missouri D, Camdenton, MO 65020, United States

24. Missouri State Capitol Building

Grindstone Media Group / Shutterstock

With its gigantic white dome flanked by towers, columns and archways, you can be forgiven for thinking that the Missouri State Capitol Building is a piece of Roman architecture rather than a government building.

It’s a real workplace, however, and it’s one of the major places of interest in the state.

Tours are available for anyone who wants to wander the plushly-carpeted halls and admire the winding staircases and heavy bronze doors.

You can also view a sizable collection of artwork on loan from the Missouri State Museum.

Statuary is everywhere, including on top of the dome; a statue of Ceres, the Roman goddess of agriculture, towers more than 235 feet above the skyline.

She’s often one of the first things that people see when they enter the city.

Whether you’re interested in art, culture, history or government, the Missouri State Capitol Building can be a fun day trip for some unusual site seeing.

You don’t even need a reservation, so feel free to drop by at any time!

Address: 201 W Capitol Ave, Jefferson City, MO 65101, United States

25. Lake Taneycomo

steve palmer 1962 / Shutterstock

Lake Taneycomo is one of the nicest places to vacation in Missouri.

With its deep blue waters surrounded by misty forests, it’s very picturesque, and it’ll make an ideal destination for couples, families and travelers of all types.

Outdoor enthusiasts can go swimming, boating or water skiing.

Nature lovers can wander the trails and picnic in the parks.

Lovers can hold hands under shaded tree groves; kids can run around like crazy in open fields.

You can also rent cabins along the coastline if you want to wake up to the sounds of the waves.

Another possibility is camping or renting an RV to take into the woods.

Maybe you’re a honeymooner looking for romantic spots in Missouri.

Maybe you’re an overworked career professional who just wants to “get away from it all” for awhile.

Either way, a visit to Lake Taneycomo can relax your body and soothe your spirits, so it’s a must do for anyone who desires tranquility on their trip.

26. Boulevard Brewing Company

Boulevard Brewing Company

Do you like beer?

Are you looking for free things to do in Missouri?

Enjoy the best of both worlds with a tour of the Boulevard Brewing Company .

Located in Kansas City, Missouri, the Boulevard Brewing Company is a place where alcohol is turned into an art form.

Its brewers have been toiling for decades to perfect their craft, and rather than locking away their secrets, they’ve opened their doors to anyone who’s curious about their process.

Take a tour of the factory.

Sample different brews.

Visit the “Beer Hall” and marvel at more than 100,000 square feet of taps.

Some activities do require a paid ticket, but most are free.

You just have to reserve your spot in advance.

If you’re thinking about what to see in Missouri that won’t cost you an arm and a leg, schedule a tour at the Boulevard Brewing Company.

It’ll be so much fun that you won’t believe it’s free!

Address: 2501 Southwest Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64108, United States

27. Hannibal

Photos BrianScantlebury / Shutterstock

Hannibal isn’t just a character played by Sir Anthony Hopkins.

It’s also a town in Missouri, and though it lacks the grand, flashy tourist attractions of the big cities, it’s a great place to spend the weekend.

Part of its appeal comes from its down-home Midwestern charm.

The city is nicknamed “America’s hometown,” and it takes the moniker seriously.

The locals are friendly; the servers in the old-fashioned diners will remember your name.

Many of the shops are mom-and-pop establishments with deep roots in the community.

As for things to see, you can visit the homes of author Mark Twain or Titanic survivor Molly Brown.

There are also parks, caves, trails, lighthouses and other scenic points of interest.

If you’re looking for nice places to stay this weekend, consider a stop in Hannibal, Missouri.

It’s highly accommodating to visitors, and it’ll give you a taste of the real Missouri while you’re there.

28. J.C. Nichols Memorial Fountain

While not the biggest or wildest of Missouri attractions, the J.C. Nichols Memorial Fountain is worth a visit if you’re in Kansas City.

Not only is it a great place for photo ops, but it’s also centrally located to help you explore the rest of the city.

The fountain itself is a collection of marble sculptures that shoot water jets into a central pool.

There are bucking horses; there are children riding dragons; there are scowling bears with their paws extended for a swipe.

At night, the city illuminates the fountain with bedazzling lights and colors.

When you’re done snapping selfies with the dragons, hit the sidewalks of Kansas City.

There are lots of fun places to see, including malls, museums, bars, pubs and performance halls.

Did we mention that a visit to the J.C. Nichols Memorial Fountain is free?

You won’t have to pay a dime.

If you’re wondering what to do in Kansas City when you’re on a budget, this fountain is a great idea.

Address: 47th Mill Creek Pkwy, Kansas City, MO 64111, United States

29. Sea Life Kansas City Aquarium

CameliaTWU / flickr

If you’re looking for cool places in Missouri, it’s hard to beat the glass tunnels of Sea Life Kansas City .

You won’t just peer into fish tanks; you’ll actually walk underwater through ghostly, blue-colored corridors with all kinds of brilliant sea life swimming overhead.

Live feedings are open to the public if you want to see sharks and stingrays gobble up their lunches.

If you enjoy hands-on interaction with the animals, there’s a touch pool where you can feel the slippery backs of sea jellies and the sticky surfaces of anemones.

There are also countless displays, exhibits and information stands where you can learn more about the animals that you’re seeing.

Sea Life Kansas City is one of the most delightful places to visit in Missouri.

Kids will love it, and adults will feel like kids again as they marvel at all of the wonders of the deep.

Book your tickets today, and you could be petting a sea urchin as soon as this weekend!

Address: 2475 Grand Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64108, United States

30. Missouri State Penitentiary

Nagel Photography / Shutterstock

A prison might not be at the top of your list of tourist attractions, but if you’re looking for unique things to do on your vacation, the Missouri State Penitentiary can provide a rare glimpse into a little-known world.

The prison itself is a maximum security facility that was built in 1836.

It shut down a few years ago, which is why it’s available for tours today, but it still retains a heavy atmosphere that befits its gruesome legacy.

Inmates were executed here.

The gas chambers were used multiple times.

Inmates were also killed during riots, escape attempts and interpersonal conflicts.

In short, there’s a lot of history within the walls of the Missouri State Penitentiary.

You can learn all about it by visiting the museum across the street from the prison, or you can arrange for a tour of the prison itself.

Just make sure that you’re emotionally ready for it!

Address: 115 Lafayette St, Jefferson City, MO 65101, United States

31. Alley Mill and Spring

Steven Schremp / Shutterstock

You won’t find the Alley Mill and Spring in a lot of Missouri travel guides.

It’s a little-known spot located a few miles outside of the nearest city, and it doesn’t offer the flashy trappings of famous tourist attractions.

If you’re looking for authenticity, however, the Alley Mill and Spring has it in spades.

It’s a real gristmill that operated for years to provide Missouri residents with grain, and its springs were a popular place for swimming in colonial times.

At various points in history, it also served as a home, farm, schoolhouse and gathering place for the community.

Today, you can take tours of this iconic, red-colored mill, and you can explore the grounds around it to take some really beautiful pictures.

It’s particularly striking in the fall when the leaves scatter across the water, but it’s open during all seasons.

The Alley Mill and Spring is one of the nicest places to go in Missouri.

If you want to see what life was really like for Midwesterners at the turn of the century, this is a prime destination to get a little taste of history.

Address: Eminence, MO 65466, United States

32. Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park

Lilith Munck / Shutterstock

Missouri is no stranger to state parks, but Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park is special.

The “shut-in” part of its name refers to the fact that its hard rock formations are resistant to erosion, so they form pools, tides and natural springs that are amazingly beautiful.

Some people go to the park just for sightseeing.

Others don their swimming trunks and take a dip when the water levels aren’t too high.

It’s allowed; you just have to be careful.

When you’re done in the water, shake yourself off and go for a hike along one of the many nature trails around the park, or set up a tent and spend a night under the stars.

If you know how to rock climb, you can also scale the cliffs to reach observation decks that overlook miles and miles of scenery.

If you’re wondering what to do in Missouri that’s different from the usual tourist attractions, you’ll love Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park.

Its unique geology will make an unforgettable vacation destination for all.

Address: 148 Taum Sauk Trail, Middle Brook, MO 63656, United States

33. Porter’s Candy World and Ice Cream Parlor

Porter’s Candy World and Ice Cream Parlor

If you’ve always wanted to kick your heels at a high-topped counter while licking at a strawberry ice cream cone, this is your chance to make all of your 1950s visions come true!

Porter’s Candy World and Ice Cream Parlor is a candy shop in Arcadia, Missouri that offers dazzlingly colorful displays of sweet treats.

Some are frozen, including their famous ice creams and malts; others are warm and freshly-baked, including their breads, cookies and cinnamon rolls.

Visitors can pull up a chair in the bright, clean dining areas, or they can wander the walls stuffed with jars, bags and candy boxes to see if there’s anything that they’d like to take home.

The ambiance is just as awesome as the sweets, so it’ll be a fun experience either way.

Porter’s Candy World and Ice Cream Parlor is one of those Missouri attractions that you won’t want to miss.

It’s a small destination in a small town, but that just adds to its charm.

As a bonus, its goodies are genuinely delicious!

Address: 211 south College St, Arcadia, MO 63621, United States

34. Heartland Harvest Garden

Heartland Harvest Garden

If you’re looking for educational opportunities in Missouri, consider a trip to the Heartland Harvest Garden .

It’ll take you and the kids on a fun, informative journey through agricultural practices in Midwestern farmlands.

One of the coolest things to see at the garden is the vineyard.

Its grapes and blueberries are grown on beautiful, storybook vines surrounded by green fields in every direction.

Another great attraction is the “Seed to Plate” greenhouse that follows every step of the planting, growing, harvesting and cooking process; you’ll learn a lot even as your stomach rumbles.

Other features of the garden include barns, gardens, silos and similar agricultural staples.

There are even fun things like an Apple Cider Court!

The Heartland Harvest Garden calls itself an “edible landscape” where every flower, tree, bush and shrub has a story to tell.

If you’re intrigued by the thought, pack up the family and take a tour of the grounds and greenhouses.

It’ll be an educational experience for everyone!

Address: 1609 NW US Hwy 50, Kingsville, MO 64061, United States

35. Shepherd of the Hills Adventure Park

The Shepherd of the Hills Adventure Park is one of the most fun things to do in Missouri.

On top of offering all sorts of fun, family-friendly activities, it’s also host to seasonal events that are famous for their festive spirit!

The year-round attractions at the park are the outdoor activities.

There’s a zipline and a rope course; there’s an area for off-roading in an ATV; there’s an observation deck with incredible views at the top.

You can also take in historical re-enactments at the old-fashioned villages or musical performances and puppet shows at the theater.

When the holidays roll around, the activity roster is even more packed.

The “Trail of Lights” offers a scenic drive through thousands of twinkling lights, and there’s always a Santa Claus on site to hear the requests of good little boys and girls.

If you’re looking for ways to enjoy yourself in Missouri, check out the Shepherd of the Hills Adventure Park.

No matter when you’re traveling to the Show Me State, it’ll have something interesting for you to do.

Address: 5583 W 76 Country Blvd, Branson, MO 65616, United States

36. Dogwood Canyon Nature Park

Jordan Schaefer / Shutterstock

Missouri is one of the most beautiful states in the US, and when you’re walking under a canopy of red-and-yellow leaves in Dogwood Canyon Nature Park , you’ll feel like you’re traveling through a postcard.

There are stone bridges over babbling brooks; there are waterfalls cascading down stone cliffs; there are prairies filled with wildflowers.

It’s definitely one of the most scenic places in the state.

Activities range from leisurely strolls around the ponds to epic horseback rides through the open fields.

You can take the whole family and go camping; you can rent a cabin for a honeymoon or work retreat.

There’s also a tram tour if you don’t want to spend all day on your feet.

Consider a trip to Dogwood Canyon Nature Park if you’re looking for amazing sites to see in Missouri.

Between its landscapes and its activity rosters, it’ll provide plenty of entertainment for your vacation.

Address: 2038 West, State Hwy 86, Lampe, MO 65681, United States

37. Butterfly Palace and Rainforest Adventure

Butterfly Palace & Rainforest Adventure

You’ve heard of butterfly houses.

Have you ever visited a butterfly palace?

The Butterfly Palace and Rainforest Adventure is an incredible destination where you can cover yourself in butterflies from head to toe.

The aviary has colorful species from all around the world, so whether you’re interested in handling exotic insects or learning to recognize common, everyday butterflies, this place has you covered.

There’s other cool stuff to do as well.

You can pet snakes in a science center; you can undertake a “tree adventure” through a labyrinth of hanging vines; you can twist yourself in circles in a mirror maze.

Offering all kinds of fun, family-friendly entertainment, the Butterfly Palace and Rainforest Adventure will provide an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages.

It’s easily one of the best trips to take in Missouri, so you’ll be in the area, buy a ticket and prepare for an amazing time!

Address: 4106 W 76 Country Blvd, Branson, MO 65616, United States

38. Welch Spring Hospital Ruin

Sandra Sapp / Shutterstock

Nestled in the woodlands of Missouri, the Welch Spring Hospital Ruin is one of those hidden places that you won’t find in a lot of travel guides.

It’s quiet and remote, and it doesn’t even have an exact address; you just have to set out from a nearby trail and head in the right direction.

The ruins themselves are the remains of a building purchased by a doctor in 1913.

He called it a hospital, but it was really more like a health spa; he believed that the natural springs would have healing properties for his patients.

Unfortunately, those patients never materialized, and the doctor died without passing on the property to anyone.

It was left to deteriorate in the wilderness.

Today, the Welch Spring Hospital Ruin is a crumbling, vine-covered building that makes for a nice sightseeing spot.

You can hike, bike or even canoe to it.

It might not heal you, but it’ll be fun to explore.

Address: Jadwin, MO 65501, United States

39. Saint Louis Zoo

RozenskiP / Shutterstock

With more than 13,000 critters, the Saint Louis Zoo is one of the best places to go for animal lovers.

It’s also a favorite of budgeters and penny pinchers since admission is free!

That’s right: You can enjoy everything that the Saint Louis Zoo has to offer without paying a dime.

It’s funded through a cultural subsidy granted by the state of Missouri, so you can laugh at the lemurs, gawk at the geckos and marvel at the monarchs without ever reaching for your wallet.

Other attractions at the Saint Louis Zoo include aquariums, butterfly gardens, reptile houses, bird aviaries and “touch pools” for marine life.

You can ride a trolley throughout the park; you can hop aboard an old-fashioned, hand-painted wooden carousel.

There’s a lot of fun to be had at the Saint Louis Zoo.

As a bonus, the experience won’t cost you anything but time.

If you’re looking for free things to do in Missouri, this should be one of your top picks!

Address: 1 Government Dr, St. Louis, MO 63110, United States

40. Noir Arts and Oddities

Noir Arts and Oddities

You’ve never seen an antique shop quite like this one.

Rather than selling grandma’s jewelry and embroidery, it sells things like skulls, coffins, porcelain dolls, weird medical devices and eerie scientific specimens in jars.

That’s the way of Noir Arts and Oddities , a location that specializes in the macabre.

Its shelves are filled with everything from snake oil tonics to iron-wrought mirrors that are said to be cursed.

Nothing is too strange for this little shop.

You don’t have to buy anything to explore it.

The owner welcomes anyone who’s interested in the strange and the unusual, and she’ll often chat with visitors and share stories about the more grisly items that she’s highlighting at the time.

A visit to Noir Arts and Oddities will be unlike anything else that you do in Missouri.

If you have the stomach for it, however, it’ll also be one of the most memorable.

Address: 1101 Mulberry St, Kansas City, MO 64101, United States

41. National Museum of Toys and Miniatures

The National Museum of Toys and Miniatures is one of the best places to visit for folks who have never grown up.

It boasts more than 72,000 objects in total, and they include dolls, instruments, puzzles, model trains, board games, stuffed animals and more.

Some of the toys can be played with, so if you want to fly a colorful hang glider or walk the dog with an old-fashioned yo-yo, those are distinct possibilities.

Other toys are so old or valuable that they’re hidden behind glass, but you can still admire them, and you can learn their history through helpful museum exhibits.

If you want to rediscover a little of the delight and wonder of childhood, plan a visit to the National Museum of Toys and Miniatures.

If you’re able to walk by a 1800s Victorian dollhouse without fiddling with it, you’ll be a stronger person than most!

Address: 5235 Oak St, Kansas City, MO 64112, United States

Start Planning Your Trip To Missouri

These are just a few of the best things to do in Missouri.

Whether you’re looking for major points of interest or hidden gems that are only known to locals, this list should give you some idea of the fun that can be had in the Show Me State.

Happy travels!

• South Africa
• Philippines
• New South Wales
• Northern Territory
• South Australia
• Western Australia
• Switzerland
• United Kingdom
• Netherlands
• New Zealand
• Solomon Islands
• Itineraries
• About Travel2Next
• Hotel Reviews
• Travel2Next TV
• Travel Shop

• Destinations
• North America

20 Amazing Cities in Missouri

- This post may contain affiliate links. Read our disclosure.

The Midwestern state of Missouri is filled with exciting cities packed with culture, arts, history and excellent atmospheres. Missouri was the birthplace of authors Mark Twain and T.S. Eliot, with many significant sites, including birthplace museums, dedicated to the pair. The state is also famous for being the hub of Route 66, with many cities and towns sharing in the nostalgia and memorabilia of this famous road.

Cities in Missouri are filled with fantastic architecture, plenty of historical sites, live music and dance venues and, of course, plenty of delicious things to eat. Many of the state’s cities are well placed to reconnect with nature as the Ozark Mountains, Mississippi and Missouri Rivers run throughout the state. Mixing the vibrancy of cities with the peaceful outdoors makes many of Missouri’s cities perfectly placed for visitors to enjoy both. Spend time in this Midwestern wonder and get to know its people by visiting some of these 20 Missouri cities.

1- Kansas City

2- st louis, 3- jefferson city, 4- springfield, 5- columbia, 8- st joseph, 9- independence, 11- st charles, 12- carthage, 13- hannibal, 14- hermann, 15- sullivan, 17- chesterfield, 18-  florissant, 19- kimberling city, 20- cape giardeau, cities in missouri.

• Titanic Museum Branson Admission Ticket – must-see iconic museum.
• Kansas City Segway Tour: Art and Glide – discover art.
• Lemp Haunted Neighborhood Walking Tour St Louis – meet the ghosts.
• Night Ghost Tour of Pythian Castle in Springfield – a spooky night.
• Self-Guided Tours 6 days from Clinton to St. Charles – 250 miles Katy Trail in Missouri.

Looking for a rental car? Compare prices of cars here.

20 Missouri Cities To Visit

Kansas City straddles Missouri and Kansas and is the largest city in Missouri.

Start your day at Mildred’s, an excellent family-run breakfast cafe serving a range of speciality coffees and delicious food.

Order the Standard breakfast sandwich, packed with bacon, Swiss cheese, and light and fluffy eggs and topped with a drizzle of pepper-dijon mayonnaise.

The city is the home of Jazz as the music genre became famous in its clubs.

To learn more about Jazz, visit the American Jazz Museum, explore its many interactive exhibits, and see a range of Jazz memorabilia.

Sports fans should make the time to head to Arrowhead Stadium, which is the home base of the Kansas City Chiefs NFL team.

Take a guided tour to get access to locker rooms, press areas and the Hall of Honor before heading out onto the field in the footsteps of Super Bowl LVII Champion players.

Top tour: Kansas City Segway Tour: Art and Glide.

Famous for its gigantic Gateway Arch, St Louis is a must-visit city in Missouri.

Take a cruise down the Mississippi River to get the best photos of the arch, or brave the 630 ft (109.73 m) journey to the top of the arch for breathtaking views over the city.

If you are travelling with children or love rollercoasters, spend a day at Six Flags, a large amusement park with adrenaline-fuelled things to do.

After your fill of rides, check out one of Six Flags’ live performances, or say hello to your favourite Looney Tunes characters.

Round off your day in St Louis by visiting one of the city’s many breweries.

Enjoy a cold pint 4 Hands Brewing Co for a range of lager and ales, or drink and dine at Schlafly, the city’s first craft brewery since the end of prohibition.

Top tour: Lemp Haunted Neighborhood Walking Tour St Louis .

Jefferson City is Missouri’s capital and is packed with history, from its government buildings to its haunted prisons.

First explore the State Capitol building, a beautiful domed structure finished with greek columns.

Tours of the building’s public areas are available and offer visitors a chance to see some of the state’s most famous art pieces.

Continue your foray into the state’s history by spending some time at Jefferson Landing State Historic Site.

This site encompasses a range of historical buildings, including the Christopher Maus House and the Union Hotel, where you will learn about the importance of this vital river landing and transportation hub.

Springfield is a must-visit Missouri state for history fans as it is the site of the infamous Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield.

Take a tour of the battlefield to learn more about the second major battle of the Civil War and uncover military strategies, significant sites, and artefacts found.

Springfield’s Wonders of Wildlife aquarium is a must-visit, located next to the first and largest Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World store.

The aquarium is a great place to spend an afternoon marvelling at various watery environments packed with fish and other sea creatures.

Be sure to spend some time underground at Fantastic Caverns, a short drive from the city.

Venture into the caves on their unique tram system to see this staggering example of natural voids, its unique and ancient stones and immerse yourself in its legends.

Top tour: Night Ghost Tour of Pythian Castle in Springfield Missouri .

Columbia is a university city in Missouri and is home to the University of Missouri.

If you are interested in history, spend a little time exploring the university grounds, particularly the beautiful Francis Quadrangle, which forms the centre of campus.

Continue your time at the university by wandering the Museum of Art and Archaeology corridors.

This free-to-enter museum houses ancient artworks, archeological finds, and paintings depicting important historical, Biblical and ancient tales.

Spend your evening in Columbia at Murry’s, a restaurant serving delicious local and seasonal dishes accompanied by a unique jazz vibe and plenty of live music performances throughout the week.

• 21 Landmarks In Missouri
• 20 Things To Do In Columbia, MO
• 7 National Parks In Missouri
• 20 Things To Do In Kansas City
• 20 Things To Do In Ozark
• 20 Things To Do In Springfield MO
• 20 Beaches In Missouri
• 20 Cities In Missouri
• The Best Shows In Branson
• 20 Things To Do In St Louis
• St Louis At Night
• 20 State Parks In Missouri
• 20 Things To Do In Joplin
• 20 Things To Do In Hannibal
• 15 Things Missouri Is Famous For
• 20 Things To Do In Jefferson City

Branson is one of the best cities in Missouri to immerse yourself in live music, particularly country and western, and exciting shows.

The best music in the city can be found at 76 Country Boulevard, a street that hosts several music venues covering a range of genres.

This street is also considered the main street of Branson and has other exciting attractions like as Ripley’s Believe It or Not! and the Aquarium at the Boardwalk.

Branson is surrounded by the stunning Ozark mountain range and is ideally placed for a day or two away from the city and in nature.

Relax by the shores of Table Rock Lake or hop on the city’s famous scenic railway to explore the foothills on an old train and make sure you visit the Titanic Museum .

Looking for a show? Here are three of the most popular shows in Branson:

• The Haygoods: Branson’s Most Popular Show
• Escape Reality Branson Magic Dinner Show
• Reza Edge of Illusion Show in Branson

Joplin sits along Historic Route 66 and is a great place for a slower-paced city vacation.

Get outdoors and wander in nature at Wildcat Park, where after a short walk, you will come across Grand Falls, a vast waterfall over Shoal Creek.

A seemingly inconspicuous apartment with a garage is a must-visit for true crime fans.

This apartment was infamous robbers Bonnie and Clyde’s hideout while they worked with the Barrow gang.

Uncover more of the state’s cavernous history at the Joplin History and Mineral Museum, where you will learn about the mining boom and see examples of rare minerals, crystals and fossils.

St Joseph is on the bank of the Missouri River and is famous for being the birthplace of American rapper Eminem.

The city has a range of unique and exciting museums, including the Albrecht-Kemper Museum of Art, Patee House Museum and the Glore Psychiatric Museum.

Learn more about American history at the Pony Express Museum to see a celebration of the first mail line across North America.

The museum is housed in the stables that were once used to rest horses after long journeys.

Visit the home of infamous criminal Jesse James and the site where he was shot dead.

The home has been converted into a museum to preserve it as it was at the time of James’ death, with the fatal bullet hole in its walls still there to see today.

Close to Kansas City is Independence, a historical city with plenty of American stories.

Much of the city’s historical attractions centre around Harry S. Truman, the United States’ 33rd President.

Truman spent much of his life in Independence and you’ll see a number of historical sites dedicated to him.

Uncover his private life at the Truman Home National Historic Site and learn more about his presidency at the Harry S. Truman Library and Museum.

Continue exploring the history of Independence at its National Frontier Trails Museum, which focuses on the city’s frontier heritage.

The museum has plenty of historical sites, including a jailhouse dating from 1859 and a restored train depot.

End your day by taking a tour of the entire site on a traditional pioneer-covered wagon.

Ozark is the ideal small-town city to explore in Missouri near the Ozark mountain range and is perfect for returning to nature.

Ozark is a great city to shop for unique souvenirs and trinkets, thanks to its large antique scene.

Explore Camp Flea Antique Mall and Vintage Markey for unique treasures spanning the centuries, or spend time carefully weaving your way around the Yesteryears Antiques and More store.

Get a breath of fresh air and stroll along the banks of the Finley River on the Bluff Springs Trail.

The trail is gentle and offers little challenge making it ideal for families with younger children.

St Charles was the first state capitol of Missouri after its founding in 1769.

The city lies alongside the Missouri River, encompassing small-city vibes with plenty of natural touches.

Grab a snack at Grandma’s Cookies, a bakery filled with the smell of freshly baked cookies that cannot be ignored.

Try the chocolate chip for the perfect traditional cookie experience, or indulge in a warming autumnally spiced oatmeal raisin.

If shopping is on the cards, take the time to stroll along Historic Main Street, a popular shopping destination since the early 1800s.

The street has a range of architecturally beautiful buildings, each filled with artisan and independent stores, cafes and restaurants.

Also known as America’s Maple Leaf City, Carthage is the perfect Missouri city to visit in the fall, thanks to its streets lined with trees covered in rich orange and red leaves.

The city was completely destroyed after a devastating fire in 1865, 23 years after it was originally founded.

It was thankfully rebuilt during the Victorian age and, as a result, is filled with spectacular architecture.

The city is famous for being where the American Civil War officially began at the Battle of Carthage.

Visit the battleground to learn more about the civil war and how it began, and uncover artefacts, works of art and tales from the battle at the Battle of Carthage Civil War Museum.

Literary fans will want to uncover the magic of Hannibal, the site of Mark Twain’s birthplace.

Head to The Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum to see where the famous writer spent his youth.

There are seven museums and properties within the site and a range of interactive exhibits on the author’s life and how he created some of his best-loved characters, including Tom Sawyer and Huckleberry Finn.

Continue exploring the history of Hannibal at Rockfliffe Mansion, an imposing manor house that was used as a B&B.

Tours of the mansion take in a range of spectacularly designed rooms with arts and crafts touches, including delicate stained glass windows, Tiffany lighting and a grand staircase.

Hermann is at the heart of Missouri’s wine country and is surrounded by many vineyards and wineries, with many often open to the public.

Adam Puchta Winery is one of the oldest wineries in Hermann.

It is the ideal place to sample some excellent local wines paired with delicious dishes made from locally sourced ingredients.

If beer is your preferred drink, head over to Tin Mill Brewing Co and enjoy a range of beers using barley previously imported from Germany.

The city’s German heritage and unique barley crop allow an authentic German beer to be brewed.

Despite its size, Sullivan is a small city in Missouri that makes for a welcome and relaxing day out.

Get back into nature and explore Meramec State Park, a short drive from the city itself.

The state park has thick forests to wander through, beautiful glades to stop for a picnic, and more than 40 caves to uncover.

While in the state park, visit Meramec Caverns for a guided tour of the 4.6-mile (7.4 kilometre) cave system and admire its impressive Pre-Columbian Native American artefacts.

Eureka is close to the Greater St. Louis Metro Area however is a city in its own right.

Eureka is the perfect combination of city life and nature, and well worth a visit if you are spending time in St Louis.

Play a game or two of golf at the Legends Country Club, an attractively and architecturally designed golf course, or unwind at the club’s swimming pool.

Grab a bite to eat at the Greek Revival clubhouse with excellent views over the course.

Dig out the perfect souvenir at Great Midwest Antique Mall, a 20,000 square foot (1858 square meters) antique store with collections from over 100 dealers selling everything from antique furniture and works of art to tools and enamel signs.

Another of St Louis County’s cities well worth a visit when in Missouri is Chesterfield.

Chesterfield is the home of the Sophia M. Sachs Butterfly House and forms part of the botanical gardens.

The butterfly house is a great place to visit with children to learn about life cycles, butterflies and plants.

Watch a movie in the Art Deco Marcus Chesterfield Cinema, or venture outside for a concert at the Chesterfield Amphitheatre.

Stock up on picnic food and snacks before picnicking in Central Park Chesterfield at The Smokehouse Market.

The market has been open since 1937 and is filled with many meats, cheeses, wines and tasty food, both hot and cold, to take away.

Spend a relaxing afternoon strolling around Florissant Valley Park and enjoying its vibrant rose garden.

If you are visiting with children, there is a playground and soccer field.

Another excellent outdoor location in Florissant is Saint Ferdinand Park which spans 64 acres and includes a fishing lake.

During the summer, a music festival called ‘Music Under The Stars’ is held at the park.

Dine at Hendel’s Restaurant, a wait-list-only reservation-free restaurant in a historical building.

Indulge in their toasted sausage ravioli smothered in marinara sauce or tuck into a steak with Hendel’s house-made steak butter.

If you crave the open water and miss it when visiting a city, look no further than Kimberling City, which has water borders with Fisher Creek and Schooner Creek.

Head out onto the water and canoe or kayak, which can be rented from boat houses along the shorelines.

After a day on the water, refuel and enjoy a tasty meal at Castaway’s Pub and Grill.

This restaurant serves hearty and traditional American grill-style food with an incredible view out over the water.

Continuing exploring the outdoors by entering Dogwood Canyon either on a horseback or hiking tour.

This section of paradise is dedicated to protecting the plant and animal life of the state.

Cape Giardeau runs alongside the magnificent Mississippi River and is filled with stunning natural sites, plenty of history and quaint local culture.

Unwind and relax in nature by taking a gentle stroll through Cape Woods Conservation Area.

This bustling natural slice of Cape Giardeau has a range of trails running throughout and plenty of forested landscapes to explore.

For history buffs, a visit to Fort D Historic Site is a must as it holds a range of Union artefacts from the civil war.

Despite being an important fort during the war, Fort D was never involved in any combat and as a result, is incredibly well preserved.

Explore the structure before entering the museum to learn more about the Civil War and the role Missouri played.

For more incredible cities around the world, read:

• 20 Best Cities at Night
• 20 Best Cities in Mexico
• 20 Best Cities in Greece
• 20 Best Cities in Poland
• 20 Best Cities in Spain
• 20 Best Cities in Portugal
• 20 Best Cities in Ohio
• 20 Best Cities in Missouri
• 20 Best Cities in Indiana
• 20 Best Cities in Texas
• 20 Best Cities in Florida
• 20 Best Cities in Iowa
• 20 Best Cities in Illinois
• 20 Best Cities in Wyoming
• 20 Best Cities in Tennessee
• 20 Best Cities in Nevada
• 20 Best Cities in Alabama
• 20 Best Cities in Oklahoma
• 20 Best Cities in Idaho
• 20 Best Cities in New Mexico
• 20 Best Cities in Georgia
• 20 Best Cities in North Carolina
• 20 Best Cities in Vietnam
• 20 Best Danube River Cities
• 10 Best Party Cities in Canada
• 10 Best Cities in Canada For Kids
• 20 Best Cities in Hawaii
• 20 Best Cities in Romania
• 20 Best Cities in Finland
• 20 Best Cities in France
• 20 Best Cities in Taiwan
• 20 Best Cities in Turkey
• 20 Best Cities in Scotland
• 20 Best Cities in New York
• 20 Best Cities in England
• 20 Best Cities in Switzerland
• 20 Best Cities in New Zealand
• 20 Best Cities in Iceland
• 20 Best Cities in Netherlands
• 20 Best Cities in Belgium
• 20 Best Cities in Jordan
• 20 Best Cities in Italy
• 20 Best Cities in Ireland
• 20 Best Cities in Germany
• 20 Best Cities in Brazil
• 20 Best Cities in Armenia

Plan Your Trip

Rent A Car – Find the best car rental rates at Discover Cars . They compare car hire companies to provide you with the best deal right now.

Find A Hotel – If you’re curious about this article and are looking for somewhere to stay, take a look at these amazing hotels .

Editor's Picks

44 landmarks in europe, 25 australian landmarks, 101 sunset captions and quotes, more about usa, 20 famous florida landmarks, 20 famous texas landmarks, 25 famous indiana landmarks, 21 landmarks in new york, 21 boston landmarks and monuments.

Space Center Houston Admission Ticket

NASA's Space Center Admission Plus Houston City Tour

Polaris Slingshot Guided Tour in Houston

Houston City Sightseeing Tour

Houston CityPASS®

Astroville Tunnel Tour of Downtown Houston (Air-Conditioned)

Trill On Wheels (2-Hour Hip-Hop Party Bike Tour in Houston)

Houston City Tour and Downtown Aquarium All Rides Pass

Houston Sightseeing Tour and Galveston Day Trip

Houston Museum of Natural Science General Admission

Top attractions in missouri city.

Other Top Attractions around Missouri City

What travellers are saying

• Fort Bend County Library - Sienna Branch
• Holy family Catholic church
• Fort Bend Brewing Company
• Texas Leaguer Brewing
• DeWalt Heritage Center
• Buffalo Run Park
• Park 8ninety
• Mosley Park
• Ridgeview Park
• Freedom Tree Park

Things to Do in Missouri City, MO - Missouri City Attractions

Things to do in missouri city.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for Kids
• Adventurous
• Budget-friendly
• Hidden Gems
• Good for Couples
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Downtown St. Louis

2. missouri welcome center.

3. Comedy City

4. Jed's Limousine Service

5. Vino & Vinyl

6. Elements Therapeutic Massage

What travelers are saying.

• Missouri Welcome Center
• Downtown St. Louis
• Comedy City
• Jed's Limousine Service
• Vino & Vinyl

Weekend in Kansas City: The Perfect Itinerary (According to a Local!)

Planning a trip to Kansas City, Missouri? Read on for a complete weekend in Kansas City itinerary including the best things to do, where to eat and drink, where to stay and other essential tips written by a local if you have 36 to 48 hours in Kansas City .

– Written by Kaitlyn from Adventures of Kaitlyn and Nick  –

Kansas City is a great place to visit in the Midwest with a lot of things to do, see, and eat even National Geographic has identified Kansas City as a top destination (#10!) for 2019.

We have lived in Kansas City, Missouri for more than three years now and have explored the city as both tourists and locals. This weekend in Kansas City itinerary captures some of our favorite things and some of Kansas City’s most popular attractions.

Kansas City Travel Tips

Kansas City is almost in the center of the United States. It is easily reached by driving from the rest of the Midwest or by flying into Kansas City International Airport (MCI) . The airport is about a 30 minute drive from downtown, so make sure to take that into account if you have a specific timeline after arriving.

Kansas City is a large and spread out metropolis. In order to explore the city a car is the best option. Uber and Lyft are available if needed, but to explore during the day your own vehicle would be nice.

Downtown Kansas City is broken up into multiple districts. They are all pretty close to each other, but not walking distance. The areas include the West Bottoms, the Plaza, and Power and Light.

Kansas City is located in the Midwest so it experiences some warm weather in the summer and cold weather in the winter. I am a warm weather girl, so I recommend visiting in the spring, summer, or fall. Kansas City can be struck by snow or ice, so travel in the winter can be a little iffy if you aren’t used to travelling in winter conditions.

One final thing, the Kansas City that most people picture is actually located in Missouri, not Kansas. There is a Kansas City, Kansas and it connects across the border to Kansas City, Missouri. We’ve only lived here for three years, but there is a clear rivalry of Kansas vs Missouri in those that have grown up here. This doesn’t just pertain to Kansas City, but includes the suburbs as well. This is just something good to keep in mind as you talk to different locals during your stay.

Where to Stay in Kansas City

If you are looking to stay close to nightlife there are hotels in the Plaza and near the Power and Light District.

Hilton President is a neat hotel in a very old building within walking distance of the Power and Light District. It is a great place to stay if you are planning to explore the bars in this area. I have stayed here for work trips before moving to Kansas City and can say it is very nice. It also stands out as a staple of the Kansas City skyline.

There are multiple hotels in the Plaza. I have stayed at the Sheraton Suites Country Club Plaza before while travelling for work and know it is within walking distance to Jack Stack BBQ on the Plaza.

If you are looking for a cheaper option the liberty or worlds of fun area have a lot of hotels too. (We actually live close to Worlds of Fun) these areas are about a 20 minute drive to downtown or the airport and have some of their own attractions too.

Another option is Airbnb. I haven’t used Airbnb in Kansas City before, but have used it in multiple other cities and loved it! It is a great way to get a more local feel for a destination without the higher cost of a hotel in these areas. If you haven’t used Airbnb before, use my link to sign up and get something off your first stay (and we will get something off our next trip too!)

Day 1 in Kansas City Itinerary: Q39, The Plaza, Char Bar

Arrive in Kansas City!

I would plan on some good Kansas City barbecue for dinner. My favorite place (for now) is Q39 which is located in a hip area of town called 39th Street with shops, bars, and restaurants. It is not your typical hole in the wall barbecue joint but is still delicious, trust me. My favorite is the burnt end burger with an appetizer of their onion rings. Get there early or be prepared for a wait. You can also make a reservation online if you do it early enough.

If you get to town a little earlier and have time before dinner I recommend walking around the Plaza. You can also sign up for a segway tour here . The Plaza boasts fancy stores, unique architecture, and beautiful lights during the holiday season.

If you can still walk after you are stuffed with bbq, check out one of the bars on 39th Street like Char Bar . They also have good barbecue, but my favorite part is the outdoor area. There is a covered patio, a huge outdoor bar, and a large grassy games area with room for cornhole and hanging out by fire pits.

Day 2 in Kansas City Itinerary: City Market, National WWI Museum and Memorial, Joe’s KC, Power & Light District

City market.

When you get up Saturday morning head on down to City Market . Here you can walk around and admire local crafts, vegetables, and other goodies. City Market is also lined with restaurants. Stop by City Market Coffee or get a lemonade from a vendor and a snack to tide you over til lunch. On Saturdays and Sundays local farmers and vendors set up multiple rows of their goods. We love to buy produce, honey, flowers, and even specialty products here.

If you can hold out for lunch in City Market you won’t be disappointed. There are a lot of choices here, but I recommend Habashi House . It has delicious Middle Eastern fare and the best hummus I’ve ever had. They have great gyros and platters as well as baklava for desert.

Also in City Market is the Arabia Steamboat Museum . We haven’t visited this museum, but I’ve heard from co-workers it is pretty cool, but a little on the pricey side.

National WWI Museum and Memorial

Once you’ve had your fun at City Market, head on over to the National WWI Museum and Memorial . This is the only museum dedicated to WWI in the country. The museum is beautiful and you can also take a ride to the top of the memorial for a unique city skyline view.

Joe’s KC

For an early dinner head to Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que (Joe’s KC) . Yes another BBQ place, but you won’t be sorry! This restaurant is located in Kansas City, Kansas and in a functioning gas station. They have won more awards than I can count and are very popular for locals and tourists alike. On Wednesdays and Saturdays they have a Burnt Ends plate I highly recommend. Other days i would choose their Z-Man which is a brisket sandwich. I love their onion rings and Nick loves their fries. Both come with a great seasoning on them that can’t be beat!

Again be prepared for a long wait if you come during normal eating times. For lunch I would recommend getting there at 11:00 a.m. (when they open), and for dinner no later than 5:00 p.m. if you don’t want to wait in line for an hour.

Power & Light District

Tonight head to the Power & Light District for nightlife. This is a great area that is basically an enclosed city block. There are bars and restaurants around the perimeter and an open space inside where you can walk with your drinks! If you are there in the summer there are free country concerts in on Thursday nights.

The outdoor area is covered so no need to worry about weather. There is a piano bar and a bar with a mechanical bull!

Day 3 in Kansas City Itinerary: First Watch, Kansas City Zoo

First watch.

For your last day in the city I recommend heading to First Watch for breakfast/brunch. There is a location just north of downtown and a few more have opened in the last year too. It is a place specifically for breakfast and brunch and has some great options. I love their breakfast tacos!

Kansas City Zoo

If the weather is nice I recommend visiting the Kansas City Zoo . It is a large zoo, so bring your walking shoes! My favorite part is the kangaroos that are not enclosed at all! They lay on the grass looking so much like people, I could watch them for way too long. It is easy to spend a half of a day walking and looking at all the animals! Bring your own water bottle and snacks to save some money for when you get inevitably hungry and thirsty.

I know you will leave Kansas City today feeling like you just have to come back! When you do, check out my post on fun things to do in Kansas City for inspiration!

More Things to Do in Kansas City

There are so many fun things to do in Kansas City it is hard to pick just a few for a weekend. If you find yourself completing this itinerary quickly or just want some different options here are some more good choices.

Royals, Chiefs, Sporting KC, and Basketball

Kansas City also has multiple major sports teams. Depending on the time of year you visit you could watch soccer, baseball, or football. The Chiefs and Royals are located right beside each other (they actually share a parking lot!) on the east side of town. Sporting KC is the male professional soccer team that has a very loyal following and the games are a blast to attend even if you aren’t a big soccer fan. Kansas City also often hosts big 12 basketball tournament games if the season is right.

Union Station

Another favorite of ours is to visit Union Station . This is the train station in town that is still operational. It is a beautiful old building that hosts many festivals and unique exhibits throughout the year.

We have seen bodies, legos, dinosaurs, giant insects, and mummies at the rotating exhibits here. There is also a science museum in Union Station that is great for kids, or adults who are still young at heart.

Their exhibits are typically on the expensive side, but they are also exhibits that travel around the country and might be a once in a lifetime chance to see.

The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art

The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art is a haven for art lovers. We have been three times and haven’t seen everything yet. The best part is the museum is free. You will have to pay for parking but can’t beat the experience for the price if you love art and culture.

There are also sculptures on a large lawn in front of the museum. It is a perfect place for a picnic or just enjoying the weather and people watching.

The West Bottoms

One final adventure we love during the warmer months is First Fridays . This occurs in Westport where there are lots of art galleries, antique, and boutique shops to walk through. Streets are closed down and food trucks line the streets during the first weekend of the month. The shops are open most weekends but without as much of the hoopla.

As you can see, there are a lot of reasons Kansas City isn’t just another fly over city in the Midwest. With this itinerary you can have a great weekend in Kansas City whether you’re from near or far.

Kaitlyn is a chemical engineer by day and adventurer by weekend. With Adventures of Kaitlyn and Nick she seeks to share their adventures and inspire everyone to explore and see this great world.  Follow her on  facebook , instagram ,  pinterest , and twitter .

Related Posts

savvyglobetrotter

I have some family in Kansas City, although I have not done much there yet. Joe’s KC looks so busy, but I love a good BBQ joint! I will save this for later so I know what to do next time I am in the area.

I haven’t been to Kansas City, but I know it’s in Missouri and just heard about one in Kansas. lol. I can’t wait to try the BBQ, visit the Union Station, the Nelson-Atkins Museum and other places that I’ve heard before. I know one day we will stop here on our way home from Illinois, looking for a new itinerary. Good read and pinned this article for future reference.

Honestly I’ve never thought too much about Kansas City before but it looks like an awesome city! I’d love to go someday though I don’t think I’m welcome as a Patriots fan right now haha

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Currently you have JavaScript disabled. In order to post comments, please make sure JavaScript and Cookies are enabled, and reload the page. Click here for instructions on how to enable JavaScript in your browser.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Things To Do

With a thriving creative arts scene, robust craft brewing culture and die-hard sports—plus so much more—it’s no wonder why the center of the country is quickly becoming the center of attention.

Entertainment

From live music at T-Mobile Center and dive bars on 39th Street West to shopping at the Country Club Plaza, there’s never a dull moment in the Paris of the Plains.

Attractions

Uncover Kansas City’s charm by exploring its treasured attractions and institutions. Examine the Great War at the National WWI Museum and Memorial, let curiosity guide you at Union Station and walk in the steps of America’s 33rd president in Independence.

Arts and Culture

Creativity thrives in Kansas City. Internationally known museums, dynamic gallery districts and unforgettable performances combine into a colorful artistic palette unlike anywhere else in the world.

Source craft goods and luxury fashion statements alongside antique picking and one-of-a-kind souvenirs to truly taste the retail experience in Kansas City, the Midwest’s marquee shopping destination.

Sports & Recreation

Take it from the loudest fans in the country: KC is a sports town. Get loud throughout the year with Royals baseball, Chiefs football, Sporting KC soccer and NASCAR races at Kansas Speedway.

KC BBQ Experience

Track your barbecue escapades with this KC-exclusive app, your ultimate resource for enjoying the city’s signature cuisine.

Free Admissions

For sightseers on a shoestring budget, Kansas City offers an abundance of free adventures that everyone can enjoy.

Film Tourism

Kansas City’s film scene goes far beyond being a burgeoning industry attracting more attention by the day—it’s one of the city’s oldest and most culturally significant pastimes.

Keep your visit to Kansas City fun and affordable by exploring all the region has to offer at a fraction of the cost. It’s just our little way of saying, “Welcome to the New Midwest."

Eat & Drink

Kansas City's best restaurants, bars, cocktails, breweries and other top drinking and dining favorites.

20 Reasons to Visit KC

Looking for your next great travel destination put kansas city at the top of the list..

As one of just two U.S. cities recognized by Lonely Planet in the publication’s 2024 Best in Travel awards, the reasons to make a trip to the Heart of America in the year ahead are virtually endless. Here are more than a dozen new additions and top trends that can’t be missed during your next visit to Kansas City.

33 Free Things to Do in KC

What's New & What's Next in Kansas City's Museums

20 Reasons to Visit Kansas City

Fun Things to Do With Kids in KC

Featured Things To Do

National WWI Museum and Memorial

The Escape Game Kansas City

Expedia Rewards is now One Key™

Missouri city, tx, visit missouri city, where to stay in missouri city.

Sienna Plantation

While visiting Sienna Plantation, you might make a stop by sights like NRG Stadium and Houston Zoo.

Quail Valley

Discover wildlife like alligators and herons in this Texas neighborhood, featuring the Quail Valley Golf Course with two 18-hole courses and the Missouri City Recreation & Tennis Center. Enjoy the City Centre at Quail Valley's Bluebonnet Grille and ballrooms.

Sienna Village

When in Sienna Village, you can plan a visit to Sienna Golf Club and Sienna (Brazos River) Park, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.

Sienna Village Of Waters Lake

While Sienna Village Of Waters Lake might not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Sienna Golf Club and Sienna (Brazos River) Park.

• Missouri City Hotel Deals
• Vacation Rentals in Missouri City

Reviewed on Apr 12, 2024

Reviewed on Apr 10, 2024

Reviewed on Apr 7, 2024

Reviewed on Apr 8, 2024

Check Missouri City hotel availability

Popular places to visit.

• Toyota Center

Catch an event at Toyota Center during your trip to Houston. Experience the entertainment choices and acclaimed art scene in this vibrant area.

• George R. Brown Convention Center

During your trip, find out what's happening at George R. Brown Convention Center, a top convention center in Houston. Experience the great live music and acclaimed art scene in this vibrant area.

• Minute Maid Park

Catch an event at Minute Maid Park during your trip to Houston. Experience the lively festivals and great live music in this vibrant area.

NASA Johnson Space Center

After visiting NASA Johnson Space Center, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Houston. Amble around the area's lakeside or attend a sporting event.

• Houston Zoo

Feed a giraffe, catch a 4-D movie or cool off in the water park at this extraordinary zoo.

• Rice University

Enjoy the collegiate vibe around Rice University, a top university in Houston. Experience the area's lively festivals and acclaimed theater scene.

Reviews of Missouri City

I like Mo. City, I just wont be staying at this hotel again.

5/5 - Excellent

Front desk employee was super courteous and helpful

I live around here and only stayed at this hotel due to being blocked out of my neighborhood during flooding. I’d rather sleep in my car next time.

Its a great small town to be in

Lots of traffic, but it is a Houston suburb

When I arrived, there were 2 police cars in the parking lot, arresting a homeless person,

• Cities near Missouri City

• Places of interest
• Quail Valley Golf Course
• Sky Zone Indoor Trampoline Park
• NRG Stadium
• MD Anderson Cancer Center
• Katy Mills Mall
• University of Houston
• Downtown Aquarium
• Westheimer Rd
• Memorial City Mall
• Sugar Land Town Square
• Smart Financial Centre at Sugar Land
• Discovery Green
• Typhoon Texas
• House of Blues Houston
• Children's Museum of Houston
• Pearland Town Center
• Lakewood Church
• Houston Natural Science Museum
• Greenway Plaza

Find cheap flights to Missouri from $46

This is the cheapest one-way flight price found by a kayak user in the last 72 hours by searching for a flight from the united states to missouri departing on 5/7. fares are subject to change and may not be available on all flights or dates of travel. click the price to replicate the search for this deal., search hundreds of travel sites at once for deals on flights to missouri.

Save 22% or more Compare multiple travel sites with one search.

Track prices Not ready to book? Create a price alert for when prices drop.

Filter your deals Choose cabin class, free Wi-Fi and more.

Bundle and save Save money when you bundle your flight + hotel.

Best Missouri Flight Deals

Cheapest round-trip prices found by our users on KAYAK in the last 72 hours

Good to know

Faqs - booking missouri flights, how do i travel from the airport to downtown kansas city.

Kansas City International Airport is about 20 mi from the city center. The most affordable option is to take the RideKC bus number 229. A one-way ticket costs around $1.50, and the trip takes about 1h. It’s not the most convenient option if you’re in a hurry, traveling in a group, or carrying a lot of luggage. A taxi or rideshare is a more convenient and comfortable option for door-to-door service. Expect to pay about $57 for a taxi ride and around $32 for an Uber.

I’m visiting the Lake of the Ozarks. Which airport do I fly into?

The closest airports to Lake of the Ozarks are Springfield-Branson National Airport (1h 30m drive) and Columbia Regional Airport (1h 20m drive). Springfield-Branson has more flights and airlines than Columbia, which is important for passengers who are flying into Missouri from cities other than Chicago, Dallas, or Denver. Alternatively, Branson Airport (BKG) is 1h 20m from the Ozarks, but it’s only served by Frontier Airlines. However, it has more connections to other cities in the US than the other two airports.

What’s the best way to travel from the airport to downtown St. Louis?

St. Louis Lambert airport is about 20m from the city center by car, so the best way to travel is to rent a car or take a taxi or rideshare. If you choose a taxi, expect to pay around $38 for the ride. If you opt for a rideshare app like Uber, expect to pay $30 for the same trip. To rent a car at the airport, look for the car rental company counters in Terminal 1 on the first floor. Budget, Alamo, Avis, Enterprise, National, Thrifty, and Hertz are the companies you’ll find at the airport.

I’m traveling to Branson. Which airport do I fly into?

Two airports serve Branson: Branson Airport (10 mi from Branson) and Springfield-Branson National Airport (50 mi). The first is the closest and the one with the most connections to other American cities, but it’s only served by low-cost Frontier Airlines. On the other hand, if you prefer more airline options, Springfield-Branson is served by more airlines but has fewer connections in the US.

How long is the flight to Missouri?

An average nonstop flight from the United States to Missouri takes 2h 51m, covering a distance of 942 miles. The most popular route is New York - St. Louis with an average flight time of 2h 46m.

What is the cheapest flight to Missouri?

The cheapest ticket to Missouri from the United States found in the last 72 hours was $28 one-way, and $61 round-trip. The most popular route is New York LaGuardia to Lambert-St Louis and the cheapest round-trip airline ticket found on this route in the last 72 hours was $193.

Which airlines fly to Missouri?

Southwest, American Airlines & Delta fly the most frequently from the United States to Missouri.

What are the most popular destinations in Missouri?

The next most popular destinations are St. Louis (42%) and Springfield (11%). Searches for flights to Columbia (1%), to Joplin (0.6%) and to Branson (0.3%) are also popular.

How does KAYAK’s flight Price Forecast tool help me choose the right time to buy?

KAYAK’s flight Price Forecast tool uses historical data to determine whether the price for a given destination and date is likely to change within 7 days, so travelers know whether to wait or book now.

Top tips for finding cheap flights to Missouri

• Enter your preferred departure airport and travel dates into the search form above to unlock the latest Missouri flight deals.
• When searching for flights to Missouri, you should know that the two largest airports in the state are Kansas City International Airport (KCI) and St. Louis Lambert International Airport (STL). The former serves Kansas City and its metropolitan area, and the latter—in addition to serving St. Louis and Greater St. Louis—is a hub for Cape Air and Southwest Airlines.
• Springfield-Branson National Airport (SGF) and Columbia Regional Airport (COU) are the two regional airports with the most flight options. If you’re looking for flights to Missouri from Chicago, Dallas, or Denver, American Eagle and United Express both operate flights to these airports.
• Passengers booking flights to Missouri to visit Joplin, Cape Girardeau, or Kirksville should look for flights to the airports Joplin Regional (JLN), Cape Girardeau Regional (CGI), and Kirksville Regional (IRK), respectively.
• Passengers who want to travel to multiple destinations in Missouri should book their flights to St. Louis Lambert International, the most central airport in the state.
• For passengers traveling with pets, the Kansas City, St. Louis, and Springfield-Branson airports are the three airports that have pet relief areas.

Top 5 airlines flying to Missouri

Terrible. Flight was cancelled due to the weather in the east and sout east(florida). Did not get any compesation of any kind. According to them, it was not under their control so I lost all the money paid for the 2 fairs from Raleigh, NC to Orlando, Fl.

great flight. Pilot was communicative, flight attendants were excellent. Really nice experience except my tv didn’t work.

Overall, the flight was better than the flight I took to go to Florida, which had a bunch of problems. The crew is really nice and the plane was new so it had a small problem when we were on the runway, but the flight itself was great. They even made some time back up, which is always a good thing.

There were multiple delays but JetBlue tried to make the boarding and departure process as quick and efficient as possible. The crew was as detached from reality as could be, meaning: not very friendly and just doing things by the numbers.

I had back trouble prior to my flight and everyone was great about helping me.

40 minute delay before take off after boarding flight. Bright lights throughout night flight due Issues with light panels. In flight Entertainment nonfunctional

Everything was good except for deplaning in NY. Took way too long!!

Jet Blue keeps getting iit wrong. 4 hour mechanical delay followed by terrible boarding experience. This is my third horrific jet blue flight in 2024. I am going to try to avoid this loser in the sky

Delayed by almost an hour - I also noticed that all JetBlue flights departing from PBI were delayed yet the weather was perfect.

My experience with JetBlue was fantastic! The service was top-notch, the flight was smooth, and the staff were friendly and helpful. I would definitely fly with them again.

they made me check my carryon. There was space in the overhead bins.

Nice flight, nice crew but no cookie or napkin with my seltzer.

Trip was smooth bumpy from the wind but no issues at all the crew attendant was very pleasant and had great customer service

This was a Lufthansa flight. Disappointing main meal. Very rough over Canada and arrival at FRA. IFE was almost unusable.

It got me where I needed it to; not much more. It had no competition so that was why I chose it.

I liked everything about the flight. The service was excellent!

The customer service was excellent! Check-in, baggage check-in, boarding, the flight went very smooth.

The flight was delayed instead of leaving at 11 it left at 12.20

United WiFi is consistently unusable (it can take 10 mins to load a single web page). If you need Wifi to do work, be prepared to lose half a day of productivity.

We waited to takeoff for about 1 hour delay for a 20 min flight.

Do not eat the bagel! Otherwise, good albeit late, breakfast in first. Boarding downgrade only because flight was delayed due to plane change due to undisclosed problem with original aircraft. I did not use entertainment.

Because I can’t stand very long in one place, I was allowed to reword.

It was a good flight. Of course it was full, but it went well.

Overall the flights pretty good. The snacks we’re good and they were plenty of them. Both boarding and deplaning went quickly.

The flight was fine. All the delays and poor communication and customer service were the worst! We were supposed to arrive in London at 7:10 am. In stead we arrived at 1:30 pm. And now American Airlines refuses to make things right but only sent a canned apology after I contacted customer relations.

Horrible people at the gate, they force me to check in my carry on, even thought no one behind me has to do it. I had to get out of the airport in NY to get my bag and go thru security again on my way to Honk Kong. The worst part is the employee threatened me with loosing the flights if don’t comply.

The flight was delayed for over four hours due to “maintenance “. Your ground staff made no efforts to avoid my family missing their connecting flight to London. They did not try to reroute them and didn’t even offer meal vouchers without being asked. My daughter, her husband and four children were in the States for our son’s celebration of life service. They experienced rude and unhelpful staff in Asheville. The lack of communication was disgraceful. They missed their connecting flight and the first rebooking. Then the 2nd rebooked flight was delayed by over two hours. They didn’t leave Charlotte until 1:30 AM. Since returning home my granddaughters sleep has been so disrupted that they are overly tired and cry hysterically at bedtime. I have already contacted you regarding compensation but have yet to receive a response. All I’ve received is a canned wrote response. This is not acceptable!!! When my wife and I traveled to England in December on your partner, British Airlines, we were delayed for 4 and one half hours. We missed our connecting train to Leeds and had to pay double. They not only reimbursed our extra train expense, they also refunded half our airfare. And upon our return to the States we were surprised to find that they had upgraded us for free! Now that’s customer service!!! I look forward to a prompt real human response. Sincerely, Jon Cannon

Crew were attentive and friendly. Flight was smooth and early! I enjoyed the less crowded plane. Thank you!

No complaints. The flight was uneventful, which is a good thing.

Was as expected. Good leg room on planes - much appreciated.

No frills, limited comfort, no food, no entertainment, but fine

I had a death in my family and booked my flight on Spirit. My flight was cancelled the morning of my flight, no explanation, no help to rebook, nobody to talk to. The next available flight was 2days later !!!! Terrible airline, will NEVER fly with them again!

Flight was canceled. Knew there was weather, and were notified of 20 min delayed, and then suddenly canceled. Next reschedule was for 2 days. No help other than to refund. Thankfully full refund and appreciate that. I appreciate discounted airline but felt they could've done more for customer inconvenience.

The seat was very uncomfortable from Boston to Nashville. Otherwise the flight was excellent.

Terrible as usual!!!! Very unprofessional and rude flight attendants! You get what you pay for! HORRIBLE

There was a .79 discrepancy between the cost of the flight and what was paid. Spirit didn't let me obtain my boarding pass until the .79 (seventy nine cents) was paid. Contacting their customer service to resolve the issue was a nightmare that involved many wait minutes and two different departments. The price Kayak gave to Affirm, whom I used to pay for the tickets, and the price Spirit charged for the flight were off by the .79. I almost lost the ticket because of the hassle.

My experience was above excellent!!!! First the lady that pushed me in the wheelchair to the gate was outstanding!!! Then the ladies at the gate went over and beyond, by helping me fill out the immigration form! I would not have been able to get to Guatemala without their help!!! God bless them all! They were amazing 🙏❤️🙏

They seemingly have no respect for their customers, on any level. Avoid flying spirit, they will bump you to another flight without thinking twice so they can sell your seat, no joke.

They sure know how to make you feel like you're packed into a sardine can. Most uncomfortable seat you imagine.

Very bad, delayed flight. I was offered 2 vouchers for inconvenience, but those vouchers aren’t usable. Spirit airlines is betraying people.

Flight was cancelled and I had to spend the night in the airport lugging my suitcase around

If you don’t check in 24 hours in advance, they will charge you $110 to check your bag instead of the $30. I did not get an email with this information and did not check in. In addition, my flight home was cancelled at layover and I had to spend the night in the airport, and then have another layover at another airport before making it home. Will not fly frontier again.

Terrible. Seats are bad and the baggage policy is inconsistent

Flight delayed 3 times, resulting in late arrival, rental car place gave car away resulting in increased BS charges because I was late. Frontier blows.

I paid for extra leg room. The flimsy plastic seat underneath the floatation seat did not line up with the arm rests. It seemed as if the plastic part was zip tied on but immovable. This caused severe uncomfortable for the duration of the flight.

Left Denver late, then sat on tarmac 30 min after arrival

Better than I expected but I did pay for a seat and carry on bags ahead of time.

Crew members are very rude and not cooperate with passengers.

30 minute delay due to boarding and settling of a family.

It was impossible to change a carry-on for a checked bag after the initial selection. The flight was delayed 14 hours "to allow for a late arriving aircraft." The seats were shockingly uncomfortable. This was only the second time I've seen seats that didn't recline in an airline. The first was in an East Bloc airline before the fall if the Iron Curtain.

Book Cheap Missouri Plane Tickets

Recent round-trip flight deals, search by stops, search by airline, search by price, recent one-way flight deals, last minute flights to missouri, last minute flight, train and bus deals, flights to missouri, return flight deals:.

Missouri - United States

Cabin classes:

Browse origins:.

• Flights  » 
• United States

Browse destinations:

• Worldwide  » 
• North America  » 
• United States  » 

Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Navigate backward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Missouri Trip Planner

Top destinations in missouri.

Top attractions in Missouri

Other notable attractions

Explore nearby places

• Rocky Mount
• Osage Beach
• Gravois Mills
• Sunrise Beach
• Jefferson City
• Holts Summit
• Loose Creek

All related maps of Missouri

• Map of Missouri
• Map of Eldon
• Map of Eugene
• Map of Tuscumbia
• Map of Barnett
• Map of Rocky Mount
• Map of Lake Ozark
• Map of Kaiser
• Map of Osage Beach
• Map of Gravois Mills
• Map of Brumley
• Map of Versailles
• Map of Sunrise Beach
• Map of Centertown
• Map of California
• Map of Laurie
• Map of Iberia
• Map of Jefferson City
• Map of Linn Creek
• Map of Tipton
• Map of Hartsburg
• Map of Stover
• Map of Montreal
• Map of Camdenton
• Map of Westphalia
• Map of Jamestown
• Map of Holts Summit
• Map of Osage City
• Map of Roach
• Map of Crocker
• Map of Loose Creek

Missouri throughout the year

• Missouri in January
• Missouri in February
• Missouri in March
• Missouri in April
• Missouri in May
• Missouri in June
• Missouri in July
• Missouri in August
• Missouri in September
• Missouri in October
• Missouri in November
• Missouri in December

Q&A about Missouri

Add places from guides with 1 click, collaborate with friends in real time, import flight and hotel reservations, expense tracking and splitting, checklists for anything, get personalized suggestions.

4.9 on App Store, 4.7 on Google Play

Kansas City, MO Traffic and Road Conditions

Kansas city traffic map.

How to use the Kansas City Traffic Map Traffic flow lines : Red lines = Heavy traffic flow, Yellow/Orange lines = Medium flow and Green = normal traffic or no traffic*. Black lines or No traffic flow lines could indicate a closed road, but in most cases it means that either there is not enough vehicle flow to register or traffic isn't monitored. Also, If you do not see traffic flow, you can zoom in closer to reveal localized data. If you are unable to pan the map, press here (to focus off of the map) and try again.

* In known extreme weather events or accidents, the map provider may still show green lines, even if lanes or the entire road is closed.

Traffic Alert

• Click or touch the map to move in different directions.
• If you do not see any markers on the map, try zooming in one or two levels using "+" on the top left side. However, they are not always available.
• Click an incident icon on the map to get more information.

Kansas City Traffic Alerts

More local information, bookmark and share, traffic nearby, kansas city weather and traffic updates by locals.

Write your own Kansas City, Missouri report, forecast, or traffic update:

E-mail: will not be posted, shared or used for marketing!

Kansas City, MO Report, Forecast or Traffic Update:

Traffic Map

Member access.

  Sign In

Password Retrieval

Kansas City, MO Weekend Trip: A 3-day Kansas City Itinerary from a Local!

Kansas City, Missouri is an underappreciated gem in the heart of the U.S. and its unique local flare, walkable city districts, and remarkable affordability make for a perfect long weekend trip! 

Side note:: This post was written by Ashlea who has called KC home for over 8 years. This way, you can ensure you are reading the best Kansas City Weekend Trip itinerary out there. Locals know best!

This post contains affiliate links to products. I may receive a commission for purchases made through these links at no extra cost to you.   I only recommend products I truly love 🙂

Table of Contents

How do I get to Kansas City?

The best way to get to Kansas City is to fly into MCI Airport. You are lucky because the newly opened terminal at the Kansas City airport is spectacular and helped MCI be named the best airport in the world.

We are very proud of our airport and feel that it represents KC in the best way with all things KC. You will see beautiful art installations with KC themes such as jazz instruments as we are known for our jazz district, among other sweet details.

Our airport also has a TON of local businesses that have locations in the airport such as Boulevard Brewery, Stockyards Brewery, Messenger Coffee, and even a mini River Market which is our farmer’s market. I know, I know it’s an airport but I’m telling you it is so cool. 

How to get around KC?

During your weekend trip to Kansas City, I highly recommend renting a car to give yourself more freedom and flexibility. 

However, if you do not have a car that is okay too! We have a wonderful streetcar that is free, clean, and very reliable.

The trolley will take you to downtown, River Market, Crossroads Arts District and by 2024 it will also take you to the Plaza, Westport, and Midtown. Anywhere awesome the trolley does not take you can easily be accessed by a short Uber or Lyft ride. 

KC is also very walkable. You can easily walk between downtown and the Crossroads Arts District. You can also walk between River Market and Crossroads Arts District but it is a longer walk. 

Renting a car of course gives you more flexibility and the ease of not having to wait on the trolley or an Uber. All in all, much of the things to do in Kansas City are relatively close by, so whichever mode of transport you choose, you’ll be experiencing the best KC weekend trip activities in pretty short order.

What is the best time to visit Kansas City?

The best time to visit Kansas City, MO is in the summer or fall . The weather is nice during this time, and you’ll find there are so many fun festivals and pop-ups going on then.

If you can swing it, the first full weekend in Kansas City is the best time to visit. Every First Friday of every month, we have First Fridays in the Crossroads and First Fridays in the West Bottoms .

In the summer, we have Boulevardia, a massive beer festival on Father’s Day Weekend hosted by Boulevard Brewery. Boulevardia has live concerts from some pretty marque artists, local shopping by vendors, food trucks, outdoor bar stands, silent karaoke, carnival rides, and so much more!

September is also great for festivals. There is the Westport Art Fair and the Plaza Art Fair. I prefer the Westport Art Fair because it is more laid back, but the Plaza Art Fair is the biggest one for sure. They both have streets blocked off, selling art, local goods, food trucks, and outdoor bars. 

KC is a big sports town. We love our Chiefs and Royals, and autumn is prime sports watching . The city will shut down when the Chiefs are playing. If you drive through KC during a Chiefs game, you will think no one lives here because the whole town will be watching the game! Even for a non-sports fan, it is a good time seeing all the hometown spirit. 

One more key thing to note, unless you’re truly brave when it comes to frigid weather, KC is best avoided in January and February , where temperatures often reach the single digits.

However, while chilly, December is a lovely time to visit because Kansas City is a magical place to be for the holidays as there are festive events and lights everywhere!

Where should I stay in Kansas City, MO?

The best area of town to stay is the Crossroads Arts District. It is the “it” area of town right now with so many hip and trendy coffee shops, bars, breweries, restaurants, and shopping. It is also a very walkable area of town and easy to explore. It is great for people of all ages! 

Downtown is another great option to stay because it is close to so many of the hot spots and popular neighborhoods like Crossroads and the River Market . 

The Plaza is another popular place to stay in KC. It is a popular shopping district with Spanish architecture. 

You will find more budget friendly options in Midtown as well and this is still a great area to stay but is not walking distance from the Crossroads and you will not be able to use the trolley if you stay in Westport, Midtown, or the Plaza. 

My Kansas City Hotel Recommendations:  

• Budget-friendly Option: A great option for free accommodations in KC is to use Trusted Housesitters to watch KC locals’ houses and pets and get free accommodations. We have used Trusted Housesitters before and LOVE it! You do have to pay a yearly membership fee of 129.00 which you will more than makeup when you do your first sit. 
• Mid-range Option: Home2Suites and Indigo Hotel are both great mid range options. They are both located in the Crossroads Arts. They are walking distance to most restaurants, bars, shops, breweries, distilleries, coffee shops, and all the fun in the Crossroads Arts District. They are also located right next to a trolley stop.
• Luxury Option: Crossroads Hotel and Hotel Kansas City are great options for a higher budget. The Crossroads Hotel is located in the Crossroads Arts District and it also has a restaurant, bar, and rooftop bar. The Crossroads has been on national lists for best hotels. It is very artsy and modern luxury hotel. Hotel Kansas City is an historic building that used to be a social club founded in the 1800’s. The building is just gorgeous with such classy vibes. It also has an excellent coffee shop, speakeasy, and restaurant within the hotel. Hotel Kansas City is located in the heart of downtown. 
• Dog-friendly Stay: Home2Suites and Hotel Indigo mentioned above are both pet friendly options if you are wanting to stay in the Crossroads.
• Unique Option: No Vacancy is a trendy artsy guesthouse that offers a selection of well designed rooms and even has a hip colorful rooftop space. This is a popular place for people to go for photoshoots or use for their wedding hotel or getting ready location. It is just so cute! Better yet it is located in the Crossroads Arts District on an adorable street with other local shops. 

Sample 3-Day Kansas City Weekend Itinerary

Day 1 in kansas city: west bottoms .

First, things first- coffee. Head to Cafe Corazon for some great coffee drinks and maybe a breakfast empanada.

Now walk one block to the Streetcar on Main Street (right by Extra Virgin) and ride it South (away from downtown) to the last stop which will drop you off directly in front of my favorite building in KC, Union Station. Plan to spend anywhere from 30 minutes to two hours here. 

Union Station is Kansas City’s classic train station and is just stunning! This is my absolute favorite building in the city. It is over 100 years old and is restored to its original beauty. 

If you have the time, it is the perfect place to walk around and admire its chandeliers, delicate details, marble floors, and imagine all the history that has taken place over the past century. Stand under the clock which was the meeting place for soldiers and their loves after WWII, so many love stories picked up right there.

If you want to learn all about Union Station’s rich history you can even download the app (Living History: Union Station Kansas City) and learn all about Union Stations history which is fascinating. The app allows for you to stand at different points and learn about different aspects of Union Station. 

Union Station also has Science City, a movie theater, and amazing rotating exhibits, restaurants, shops, and so much more to explore. 

Now let’s head to historic West Bottoms. This is the famous district where KC got its nickname “Paris of the Plains” and “The Wettest Block in the World” during prohibition when this area was lined with speakeasies and illegal activity. They say in KC, prohibition never existed due to the stronghold the mob had on the town. 

Nowadays the West Bottoms has a ton of warehouses full of vintage and antique shopping, breweries, distilleries, wineries, restaurants, and bars. Most are open every weekend, but First Fridays is the best time to go. The West Bottoms come alive with food trucks, and all shops are open at this time. It’s bustling and such a fun time to explore West Bottoms. 

Imagine huge brick warehouses and gravel streets in some areas with a ton of great local places to try out. Some of my favorite antique shops are Bella Patina , Good Juju . Some of my favorite local trendy shops are Fetch and West Bottoms Plant Co.   (has way more than just plants, local vendors).

If you are loving West Bottoms, stay for some drinks and great food! Fountain City Winery is a new winery that is just the best wine and sangria and has bocce ball, outdoor seating and more. 

Then, head to The Campground for dinner. You will find a trendy camping themed restaurant with an ever-changing menu based on season and local produce. They have exceptional food, and a huge outdoor patio and fire pits, but the craft cocktails are the main attraction. If you come when it is nice out, there will be a great outdoor bar where you can order snacks and drinks and enjoy the weather. 

TIP : If you visit The Campground during the holidays , they have an outdoor Christmas Market with local vendors, mulled wine and other holiday cocktails, and warm food to enjoy as you do some holiday shopping. 

Some other recommendations for this side of town for drinks after you eat are The Ship , a divey, nautical themed bar that is a bit rustic and a blast. It’s a funky place, usually with live music or a DJ on the weekends, and one of my all time favs! Stockyards Brewery is another great pick and located across the street from The Campground. 

You may also like : One Weekend in St. Louis, MO

Day 2 in Kansas City, MO: River Market & Crossroads Arts District

Kansas city is home to some amazing coffee shops! Start day 2 by heading to Messenger , a local favorite café for coffee and breakfast.

They are located in a beautiful historic building with a rooftop that is perfect for enjoying your coffee with a view along with great breakfast and lunch options.

Messenger has a wonderful local bakery Ibis housed in the same building. They have exquisite coffee flights, baked goods, great breakfast choices that are truly amazing. Some of my favorites are the baguette sandwiches and the Ibis baked goods. 

Meander over to Main Street and catch the free Streetcar and ride that all the way to River Market to explore Kansas City’s historic farmers market- The City Marke t.

This is a great place to get great local produce but also have a little mini food tour and try some great local cuisine! It is always bustling with people and great local vendors and is the perfect way to spend a weekend day.

Be sure to check out City Market Coffee , Taste of Brazil , Local Pig , and Habashi House and KC Soda Tour on your food tour! 

Head back to the Crossroads Arts District for great cocktails and beer! 

Stop by Mean Mule Distilling’s tasting room for the best agave cocktail of your life. This cozy cocktail lounge is my favorite place to get an adult beverage in the whole city. If you love agave-forward spirits, you will LOVE Mean Mule.

They have a great variety of craft cocktails all set in a southwestern decorated venue.

Another great stop for cocktails is Afterward Tavern and Shelves , a bookstore and bar that makes similarly awesome cocktails and provides a warm but bustling ambiance.

One can’t leave the Crossroads without exploring the many local micro breweries in the district. All the breweries are within a close distance, and they are all superb! Some of my favorites are Double Shift , Red Sash , Nimble , and Casual Animal .

Day 3 in Kansas City, MO: Plaza and Midtown 

Start off the morning with grub at a funky hometown favorite restaurant, Succotash , for breakfast with tons of great fresh options from cold pressed juice, breakfast sandwiches, and so much more. The vibes are retro yet very unique and eclectic. 

Go to the famous Country Club Plaza, where you will see Spanish style buildings inspired by Sevilla and exquisite fountains. Locals never say the “Country Club” part and just call “the Plaza”

KC is known as the “City of Fountains” because we have more fountains than any other city in the world outside of Rome with over 200 fountains, and most of these will be found on the Plaza.

The Plaza is a bustling blocks-long strip of shops, boutiques, chain clothing stores, restaurants, bars and cafes. It’s a great place to do some shopping, eating, and drinking.

Some of my favorite local shops are Made in KC – a collective of a ton of locally-made products/businesses, EB and Co. for accessories and jewelry, and Charlie Hustle – world’s softest shirts & a local favorite. 

The Plaza is such a fun place to stroll around and enjoy the colorful Spanish architecture, fountains, and colorful streets. If you come from American Thanksgiving to January, you will see the most festive holiday lights when the plaza lights up at night.

Head to Westport for dinner and drinks at Westport Cafe . It is just the most charming and cozy Parisian style bistro.

Be sure to make a reservation on the weekend as it is a popular restaurant and a little on the small side. Westport is a highly trafficked place to go out on the town and is bustling on the weekends. This is the oldest area of KC and has lots of shops, restaurants, and bars to explore. 

After you finish dinner, pop around the corner to Ca Va , a delightfully intimate champagne bar for drinks, and if you still have room, some delicious cheese plates. We recommend sitting out on the most romantic patio and enjoying some bubble or champagne cocktails. You will really feel like you’ve ended your weekend in France!

Other things to do in Kansas City:

• Iron District (North KC) – Iron District is a blast! It is about 10 minutes from the downtown area. Iron District is made of shipping containers with restaurants, bars, and shops inside. There is a big patio space to eat and drink in the middle and the containers are on the edge. They have Indian Food, vegan food, bakery, Tiki Bar, tacos, smash burgers, craft beer, plant shops, local boutiques, and so much more. This is the perfect place to go on a nice day! It will be shut down during the winter so check hours and opening dates. 
• Kauffman Memorial Garden (Plaza) – Although the Kauffman Memorial Garden is small it is one of the prettiest gardens to visit. It is well groomed with lots of flowers and a fountain in the middle and tables and benches to enjoy the peaceful serenity of the garden. 
• Rose Garden- Loose Park (Near Plaza) – Loose Park is not too far from the plaza- it is a huge sprawling park. You will find trails, lush grass fields that seem to go for miles, Rose garden , ponds, bridges, and more. It is such a great area to enjoy the outdoors, have a picnic, or just lay in the grass and dream. The Rose Garden is my favorite stop in Loose Park because it has such beautiful roses to smell and admire. This is where we got engaged too, it is a very romantic spot! 
• W. 39th Street – 39th Street is another great area of town to explore. It is a very funky, gritty area of town to wander. They have great eats and shops. There are some vintage shops, dumpling restaurants, book stores, and a ton of cute places to explore. It is close to the Westport area of town.

Where (else) to Eat in the City:

• Jack Stack (Crossroads) – The BEST BBQ in KC! This is my number one pick for BBQ and the main location is located in the Crossroads area but they have many locations.
• Lulus (Crossroads) – local Thai restaurant with colorful and vibrant decor and plants and phenomenal Thai food. 
• Extra Virgin (Crossroads) – Extra Virgin has great tapas, and although it is a bit on the pricey side, it is so worth it. It has a huge covered patio to watch the hustle and bustle of life go by. It is located in the Crossroads and on a streetcar stop. 
• Mannys (Crossroads) – the best Mexican food in town. 
• BLVD Tavern (Crossroads) – Nestled in a brick building on Southwest Boulevard, the BLVD Tavern has great sangria, cocktails, local beer, sandwiches, pastas, the best charcuterie board in town, great pommes frites, and so much more! The inside is so cozy and perfect for a chilly day and the small patio is great for a nice day out. They also have great happy hour deals!
• Town Topic (Crossroads) – No visit to KC without a greasy burger and shake from Town Topic. This tiny diner has been open for over 100 years, and it is legitimately the best burger in the world. They serve smash burgers, and it’s an iconic food landmark in Kansas City. My grandfather came here for late night eats in the 60’s. It is a KC institution. This is the best late night eats after a night on the town. You can wait in line which is an experience in itself, or, if you can’t wait, call ahead and pick up at the window. 
• La Bodega (Southwest Boulevard) – La Bodega is a Spanish tapas place located on SW BLVD, which is near the Crossroads. They have great fire pits and a huge patio to enjoy some amazing tapas. 
• Brown and Loe (River Market) – go here for wonderful brunch, lunch, and dinner options located right next to the farmer’s market in the River Market District with a great patio. 
• Joes (Westwood) – Outstanding BBQ located in an old 1950’s gas station, casual dining 
• Novel (Crossroads)- great pasta and dinner options, upscale dining. 
• Rockhill (Crossroads) –  Rockhill is an upscale dining with the best cheese filled tots you will ever have! 

Other Tips to know before visiting Kansas City, MO:

• KC Locals are so very friendly and are happy to help you whenever! We also love bragging about our city and giving recommendations, don’t hesitate to ask! 
• KC is a bit of a coffee mecca so be sure to check out our coffee shops. Check out our guide to the Best Coffee Shops in KC
• Do not walk home from Westport or Midtown at night. Take ubers. Avoid areas East of Troost and Prospect area. 
• KC is set up around Main and Broadway and taking any of these two streets will take you to almost every neighborhood. Downtown, Crossroads, and Rivermarket are all close to one another. Plaza and Westport are close to one another. You can drive from Downtown to Plaza and hit every one of those areas mentioned. It is super easy to navigate. 

Kansas City Weekend Trip Map

One Weekend in Kansas City isn’t Enough

As you can see, there’s SO much to do in the Kansas City, MO that one weekend would never be enough to see it all. You can customize your 3-day Kansas City itinerary based on what interests you. No matter what you’re looking for, you’ll find plenty of entertaining activities to create your own fun-filled, jam-packed adventure weekend in Kansas City.

What else would you add to this Kansas City weekend trip?

About the Author! 

Hello! I’m Ashlea Bogner, co-founder of Seek Out Travel blog and a KC Local. I have lived in KC for over 8 years, exploring all the areas very extensively and just adore KC. There is so much to do and see and a truly phenomenal food and drink scene. We know how to make great craft cocktails, beer, and great cuisine (we are so much more than BBQ!). I hope you have the best adventure here in KC! 

Follow us on Instagram , Pinterest , and check out our blog for more travel guides, tips, and tricks on budget & ethical travel. 

Recent Posts

A Local's Dog-friendly Guide to Salt Lake City, Utah

Utah is known for the greatest snow on earth and is also a hiker’s paradise. Salt Lake City is the capital city and is located in northern Utah. It is nestled at the bottom of beautiful snow-capped...

One Day in Denver: How to Spend 24 Hours in the Mile High City

With so much to do in a city like Denver, it can feel almost impossible to accomplish everything in less than 24 hours, but we're here to tell you that it is very much possible! In this one day in...

Solar Eclipse 2024: What to Know as the Eclipse Passes Over

T he first total solar eclipse to pass over the U.S. since 2017 took place Monday, as the moon scooted between Earth and the sun, casting a shadow that plunged parts of North America into darkness. In a swath of the continent known as the path of totality—where the sun was totally covered—temperatures were expected to drop, and some animals were expected to go gaga as day turned to night.

“The first time I saw one was life-changing and mind-blowing,” said C. Alex Young, a National Aeronautics and Space Administration solar astrophysicist. “I feel like there’s this window that opens up that allows me to see our star in a way that normally we can’t experience with our own eyes.”

What time is the eclipse?

The eclipse began in the U.S. just before 12:30 p.m. local time in Texas, ending in northeastern Maine around 4:40 p.m. local time.

In Austin, Texas, the total eclipse started at 1:36 p.m. local time. Indianapolis was in total darkness beginning at 3:06 p.m. local time, while Buffalo, N.Y., completely lost sight of the sun at 3:18 p.m. local time.

Astronomers had suggested checking Timeanddate.com to see when the total eclipse began and ended in a specific area.

Where is the path of totality?

It changes from eclipse to eclipse, but this time, the path was a roughly 115-mile-wide band stretching from central Mexico to Newfoundland, Canada—passing through more than a dozen U.S. states in between.

Austin, Dallas, Indianapolis, Cleveland, Buffalo and Rochester, N.Y., were among the cities in the path of totality. Most of the rest of the continent saw a partial eclipse.

What happens during a total solar eclipse?

In the path of totality, the celestial spectacle starts as a partial eclipse, as the moon slowly obscures more of the sun over a period of time.

Just before totality, points of light appear around the edges of the moon. Scientists call these Baily’s beads, after one of the first eclipse chasers. They are the result of sunlight moving through valleys on the lunar surface and quickly disappear, leaving one final bright spot resembling a diamond on a ring. Once that disappears, the sun takes on the appearance of a black disc.

“It’s not like a sunset where it’s bright in one direction and dark in another direction,” said Jay Anderson, a Canadian meteorologist and eclipse chaser. “For the eclipse, you’re in the middle of a big shadow.”

The moon on Monday completely blocked the sun for as long as 4½ minutes. Then the process reversed, with the sun slowly re-emerging.

How can you watch a solar eclipse safely?

Skywatchers needed to use eclipse glasses, which consist of solar filters that block out light from the sun, during the event. The only time it’s safe to look directly at the sun is during totality, when the moon completely blocks the bright orb. Even 1% of the sun’s surface is 10,000 times brighter than a full moon and dangerous to view without the right equipment.

Gazing at the sun without protection can cause what is known as eclipse blindness, or retinal burns, when nerve tissue at the back of the eye is damaged. The retina has no pain receptors, so viewers are unaware when this damage occurs.

What causes a total solar eclipse?

The sun is 400 times the moon’s diameter, yet about 400 times farther away, resulting in the two appearing nearly the same size in the sky. So when the moon passes in just the right spot between Earth and the sun, the star is blocked from view.

How often do total solar eclipses occur?

These events happen somewhere on the planet every year or two. The geometry of the Earth’s orbit, moon’s orbit and their relative positions in relationship to the sun make it so that, on average, the same spot on Earth only experiences a total solar eclipse once every 375 years.

Some parts of the U.S. are lucky. Small areas in Missouri, Illinois and Kentucky experienced totality in 2017 and got to experience it again in 2024.

How long do total eclipses last?

There is no standard length for a total eclipse, though there is always one place where totality lasts the longest. For Monday’s eclipse, the maximum duration of totality was four minutes, 28 seconds near Torreón, Mexico. The longest total eclipses on record have exceeded seven minutes.

“The average length is about 3½ minutes,” Anderson said. “The shortest I’ve seen is 18 seconds.”

The length depends on how close the moon is to Earth, and how far the sun is from Earth on eclipse day. The farther away the sun, the smaller it appears in the sky, and the more easily it can be covered by the moon. The closer the moon, the bigger it appears, and the longer its disc will cover the sun.

The nearness of the moon also affects the shadow it projects onto the planet. The path of totality for this eclipse was wider than the one from 2017, which was roughly 70 miles wide.

How can cloud cover affect your eclipse experience?

Clouds can conceal a total eclipse but don’t completely thwart the experience. Even if the sight of the moon fully blocking the sun is obscured, the temperature drop, changing winds, impacts on animals and darkening that accompany totality are noticeable.

“There was still a visceral experience about it, there was still a sensory experience that’s different than anything you would experience in your lifetime,” according to Young, who said he has experienced a couple of total eclipses that were clouded out.

Historical data about typical cloud coverage this time of year in North America suggested Mexico and the southern U.S. were the most likely spots along the path of totality to be cloud-free. But the latest forecasts had shown Texas and many other parts of the path blanketed in clouds.

Cloud cover can change over the course of the day and during the eclipse itself, according to Patricia Reiff, a professor of physics and astronomy at Rice University in Houston.

“Some clouds begin to thin, and even those thin clouds become more transparent as totality approaches, because there’s not as much sunlight scattered inside them,” Reiff said, adding that she has experienced eclipses in which the sky opened up just for totality before the clouds closed in again.

What science can be done during a total solar eclipse?

Researchers can use these events to improve their understanding of difficult-to-study parts of the sun’s upper atmosphere, known as the corona. The superhot corona is so faint compared with the sun’s surface that it can’t be seen from Earth unless the light from the sun is totally blocked. While scientists can build instruments that mimic solar eclipses, they don’t measure up to the real thing, experts say.

The National Center for Atmospheric Research planned to use a jet to follow the path of totality and observe infrared light from the corona. The corona is a source of solar wind—a stream of charged particles spewed into the solar system that can affect our navigation and communication systems, satellites and power grids by causing space weather above our planet. By better understanding the corona, scientists hope to improve our ability to predict dangerous space weather, said Paul Bryans, a project scientist at the center.

NASA also planned to launch small rockets to study how an electrically charged part of Earth’s atmosphere known as the ionosphere changes in the sun’s absence during an eclipse. Radio and GPS signals from satellites and ground-based systems travel through the ionosphere, so changes there could affect technology.

What happens to animals during an eclipse?

Anecdotal evidence suggests that, as the moon slowly blocks out the sun, most animals tend to switch to their nighttime routines, but the study of animal behavior during these events has been limited, according to Adam Hartstone-Rose, a professor of biological sciences at North Carolina State University.

During the 2017 eclipse, Hartstone-Rose said he and his colleagues watched more than a dozen species at the Riverbanks Zoo in Columbia, S.C., during totality. The group noticed lorikeets flocked together and flew to their nighttime roost, giraffes started galloping in their enclosure, a sedentary Komodo dragon started running around its cage, and Galapagos tortoises began mating.

“Obviously, we can’t know exactly what animals are thinking,” he said, “but many species had a reaction that we think that we relate to anxiety.”

When is the next total solar eclipse?

Viewers in Spain and Iceland will experience the next totality on Aug. 12, 2026. Less than a year after that, skywatchers in parts of North Africa, Saudi Arabia and Spain will also glimpse a total solar eclipse.

The continental U.S.’s next totality experience won’t occur until 2044, when a total eclipse passes over Montana and North Dakota. A 2045 total eclipse will herald a longer path of totality, cutting from Florida to California.

According to scientists, eventually Earth will stop experiencing total eclipses. More than 50 years ago, Apollo astronauts left laser reflectors on the moon’s surface to help determine how far away it is from Earth. Observations show the moon is moving away at a rate of about 1.5 inches a year. As the moon recedes, how large it appears in the sky shrinks, so in about 600 million years the moon will be far enough away that it will appear too small to fully cover the sun, Bryans said.

How do you photograph a solar eclipse?

Believe it or not, a smartphone mounted to a tripod is sufficient to photograph totality. Don’t forget to turn off the autoflash, and consider doing a panorama shot.

To snap a close-up of the sun’s darkened disc, opt for a powerful telephoto lens.

Eclipse chasers and scientists recommend spending most of a total eclipse looking up or observing the world around you rather than taking photos.

“What I’ve sometimes done during totality is set up my camera, or my cellphone, on a tripod, turned it on video and just hit record and left it alone,” Young said. “My recommendation has always been to just put your camera down and enjoy.”

To photograph a partial eclipse before and after totality, be sure to purchase a solar filter for your lens. (Remove it during totality.) Never use a camera—or binoculars or a telescope—without a filter because these devices concentrate a lot of light into your eyes and cause injury, even if you have eclipse glasses on, according to NASA.

Other tips for seeing a total solar eclipse?

Totality plunges parts of the world into a darkness akin to a full moonlit night. Astronomers say you are able to see planets such as Venus and Jupiter.

To get a better experience, Young said to avoid city lights as you would if you were watching a meteor shower.

“If there’s a place that normally has really good stars, then that’s going to be a good place to see the eclipse,” Reiff said.

This explanatory article may be periodically updated.

Write to Aylin Woodward at [email protected]

Your last-minute guide to Monday's total solar eclipse

A total solar eclipse will cross North America on Monday , offering millions a rare opportunity to see afternoon skies temporarily darken as the moon blocks the face of the sun.

Tune into NBC News NOW as Lester Holt hosts a two-hour special at 2 p.m. ET Monday from Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

The eclipse's path fortuitously cuts across Mexico, 15 U.S. states and a small part of eastern Canada. In all other states in the continental U.S., viewers will be treated to a partial solar eclipse, with the moon appearing to take a bite out of the sun and obscuring part of its light.

Here’s everything you need to know about the rare celestial event.

What is a solar eclipse?

Solar eclipses occur when the sun, moon and Earth align. The moon passes between Earth and sun, temporarily blocking the sun’s light and casting a shadow on Earth.

A total solar eclipse is when the moon fully obscures the sun, whereas a partial solar eclipse means it blocks just a portion of the sun’s face.

Solar eclipses occur only with the new moon. Because the moon’s orbit around Earth is tilted, the three bodies don’t always line up in a way that creates an eclipse.

“Imagine if the moon’s orbit were in the plane of Earth’s orbit around the sun — if that were the case, then every new moon, you’d have a total solar eclipse and every full moon, you’d have a lunar eclipse,” Neil DeGrasse Tyson, director of the Hayden Planetarium at the American Museum of Natural History, told NBC News. “So, because things don’t always align, it lends to the rarity of the event and the specialness of the event.”

Where and when will the eclipse be visible?

This year’s eclipse will follow a slightly wider path over more populated areas of the continental U.S. than other total solar eclipses have in the recent past.

NASA estimates that 31.6 million people live within what’s known as the path of totality, where the total solar eclipse will be visible. An additional 150 million people live within 200 miles of the path, according to the agency.

The path travels through Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine. Tiny parts of Michigan and Tennessee will also be able to witness totality if conditions are clear.

After the eclipse crosses into Canada, it will pass over southern Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island and Cape Breton, at the eastern end of Nova Scotia.

Those outside the path of totality can still take part in the astronomical event by viewing a partial solar eclipse — visible throughout all 48 states of the contiguous U.S. — or a NASA livestream.

The timing, including how long totality lasts, depends on the location, but some spots will see the moon fully cover the sun for up to 4 minutes and 28 seconds.

Below is a list of timings for some cities along the path of totality, as  provided by NASA . A number of other resources, including NationalEclipse.com  and  TimeandDate.com , can also help people plan.

• Dallas: Partial eclipse begins at 12:23 p.m. CT and totality at 1:40 p.m.
• Little Rock, Arkansas: Partial eclipse begins at 12:33 p.m. CT and totality at 1:51 p.m.
• Cleveland: Partial eclipse begins at 1:59 p.m. ET and totality at 3:13 p.m.
• Buffalo, New York: Partial eclipse begins at 2:04 p.m. ET and totality at 3:18 p.m.
• Lancaster, New Hampshire: Partial eclipse begins at 2:16 p.m. ET and totality at 3:27 p.m.

How to safely view a solar eclipse

It is never safe to gaze directly at the sun, even when it is partly or mostly covered by the moon. Special eclipse glasses or  pinhole projectors  are required to safely view solar eclipses and prevent eye damage. Failing to take the proper precautions can result in severe eye injury,  according to NASA .

Eclipse glasses are thousands of times darker than normal sunglasses and specially made to enable wearers to look at the sun during these kinds of celestial events.

Sky-watchers should also never view any part of the sun through binoculars, telescopes or camera lenses unless they have specific solar filters attached. Eclipse glasses should not be used with these devices, as they will not provide adequate protection.

However, during the few minutes of totality, when the moon is fully blocking the sun, it is safe to look with the naked eye.

Beware of fake eclipse glasses. On legitimate pairs, the lenses should have a silver appearance on the front and be black on the inside. The manufacturer’s name and address should be clearly labeled, and they should not be torn or punctured. Check, as well, for the ISO logo and the code “IS 12312-2” printed on the inside.

If you don’t have eclipse glasses, you can make a homemade pinhole projector, which lets sunlight in through a small hole, focuses it and projects it onto a piece of paper, wall or other surface to create an image of the sun that is safe to look at. 

All you need is two pieces of white cardboard or plain white paper, aluminum foil and a pin or thumbtack. Cut a 1- to 2-inch square or rectangle out of the center of a piece of white paper or cardboard. Tape aluminum foil over that cut-out shape, then use a pin or thumbtack to poke a tiny hole in the foil.

During the eclipse, place a second piece of white paper or cardboard on the ground as a screen and hold the projector with the foil facing up and your back to the sun. Adjusting how far you hold the projector from the second piece of paper will alter the size of the image on the makeshift screen.

What to look for while viewing the total solar eclipse

For people along the path of totality, there are some fun milestones to keep track of as the total solar eclipse unfolds.

As the eclipse progresses and the sun gets thinner in the sky, it will start to get eerily dark, according to Tyson.

When the last beams of sunlight are about to become obscured, look out for the “diamond ring effect”: The sun’s atmosphere will appear as an illuminated halo, and the last light still visible will look like the diamond of a giant ring.

As the sunlight decreases even further, an effect known as Baily’s beads will be created by the moon’s rugged terrain. Tiny “beads” of light will be visible for only a few seconds around the dark moon, as the last bits of sunlight peer through the moon’s mountains and valleys.

When the moon is fully blocking the sun, it is safe to remove eclipse glasses and look at the total solar eclipse with the naked eye.

Some lucky sky-watchers may even catch a glimpse of a comet .

Comet 12P/Pons-Brooks — nicknamed the “ devil comet ” because an eruption last year left it with two distinct trails of gas and ice in the shape of devil horns — is currently visible from the Northern Hemisphere as it swings through the inner solar system.

The comet can be seen in the early evenings by gazing toward the west-northwest horizon. During the eclipse, when skies darken during totality, it may be possible to see the comet near Jupiter, but its visibility will depend on whether it’s in the middle of an outburst and thus brighter than normal.

Most likely, all eyes will be on the alignment of the moon and sun.

“Most people won’t even notice,” Tyson said. “But if you know to look, it’s there.”

When is the next solar eclipse?

The next total solar eclipse will be in 2026, but it will mostly pass over the Arctic Ocean, with some visibility in Greenland, Iceland, Portugal and northern Spain. In 2027, a total solar eclipse will be visible in Spain and a swath of northern Africa.

The next total solar eclipse visible from North America will be in 2033, but only over Alaska. Then in 2044, a total solar eclipse will cross Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, parts of Canada and Greenland.

The next total solar eclipse to cross the continental U.S. coast-to-coast in will occur in 2045. The path of totality for that eclipse will cut through California, Nevada, Utah, Colorado, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Kansas, Texas, Arkansas, Missouri, Mississippi, Louisiana, Alabama, Georgia and Florida.

Denise Chow is a reporter for NBC News Science focused on general science and climate change.

Lucas Thompson is a content producer for the NBC News Climate Unit.

15 Awesome Road Trip Stops From Kansas City to Branson

Last updated on September 7th, 2023 at 11:48 am.

Are you planning a road trip from Kansas City to Branson and wondering how to make the journey as memorable as the destination? Look no further! The drive from KCMO to Branson is filled with plenty of quirky roadside attractions and must-visit stops that will make your trip unforgettable.

This scenic drive is filled with plenty of unique points of interest, including wineries, cheese shops, historic sites, hidden gems and other fascinating stops that are sure to make your Missouri journey just as exciting as your destination.

This is one of many Missouri road trips we have on the site. If you are into wild west history you will also love our Jesse James road trip and if you love presidential history we also have a Harry Truman road trip !

Table of Contents

My favorite road trip route from Kansas City to Branson. The 210 mile route for this trip from Kansas City to Branson starts on the I-70 and then to the I-49, MO-7, MO-13 and to US-65.

• Travel time without stops: About 3 hours and 15 minutes
• Driving distance without stops: 210 Miles

Some of the towns you’ll pass through on your way to Branson include Grandview, Peculiar, Clinton, Oseola, Springfield and Ozark.

About 3/4 of the drive is on smaller highways that take you through rural Missouri, farmland, small towns and into the Ozarks.

Best stops From Kansas City to Branson

The below roadside attractions and must-visit stops are in order from Kansas City to Branson.

Don’t forget to check days and times before planning your visit to any of the below locations to ensure that your desired attractions and stops are open and available during your trip.

1. The Truman Family Farm in Grandview

The Truman Farm Home is a Missouri National Historic Site and run by the National Park Service.

The Harry S Truman National Historic Site is a must-visit destination for history buffs and presidential enthusiasts alike. This site encompasses the Truman Farm home, where President Truman spent 11 years of his early life. Originally a sprawling 600-acre farm, today, the Truman Farm home and the surrounding 10 acres have been carefully preserved to honor Truman’s legacy.

Visitors to the site can step back in time and experience what life was like on the farm in the early 20th century. The farmhouse, where Truman lived with his family, had no electricity or indoor plumbing, and the family worked long, grueling days from 5 am until well after dusk. Truman left the farm to serve in the National Guard during World War I, returning only after the war ended to marry his beloved Bess Wallace.

The grounds are open daily from sunrise to sunset. There are free ranger-led tours on Fridays and Saturdays from May 5, 2023-October 21,2023.

Address: 12301 Blue Ridge Blvd, Grandview, MO 64030

2. The Peculiar Winery

If you’re looking for a unique and charming winery experience, look no further than the Peculiar Winery. Tucked away off the highway in Peculiar, Missouri (yes, that’s its real name!), this unassuming building in the rural countryside might surprise you when you step inside.

The winery boasts high vaulted ceilings and rustic decor that transports you back in time. Antique accents and a cozy stone fireplace make it the perfect spot to relax with a glass of wine or try one of their famous wine slushes. The inside is cozy and inviting, but the winery also offers a patio space outside where you can enjoy your drinks and even bring your own chairs to relax on the lawn.

If it works into your schedule, The Peculiar Winery also offers live music and food trucks on Friday and Saturday evenings.

Hours: Wednesday and Thursday 12pm-7pm, Friday and Saturday 12pm-8:30pm, Sunday 12pm-5pm. Closed Monday & Tuesday.

Address: 20709 Harper Rd, Peculiar, MO 64078

3. Red Fox Winery & Vineyards in Urich

A pit stop at Red Fox Winery is perfect if you are in the mood for lunch and a wine tasting. Nestled in the picturesque hills of Urich, Missouri, this winery offers not only excellent wines from their own vineyards, but also delectable dishes inspired by their expert chefs.

Start your meal off right with their mouthwatering spanakopita appetizer, then move on to their delectable entrees like juicy chicken skewers or savory gyros. And of course, don’t forget to indulge in a glass (or bottle!) of their signature blackberry wine, perfect for those with a sweet tooth.

If you have room for dessert, their baklava is a must-try, with layers of flaky pastry, chopped nuts, and sweet syrup.

Hours: Friday and Saturday 12pm – 9pm, Sunday 12pm – 5pm

Address: 1422 NW 800 Rd, Urich, MO 64788

4. The Katy Trail in Clinton

If you’re looking for a great place to stretch your legs, check out Katy Trail State Park in Clinton. This sprawling 240-mile trail runs all the way to Machens, Missouri, and is the largest rails-to-trails project in the United States.

You can walk a portion of the trail, or simply stop by to admire this historic and popular Missouri attraction.

Address: 799-601 E Sedalia Ave, Clinton, MO 64735

5. Truman Lake in Deepwater/Warsaw

As you drive south on Hwy 52 from Clinton, you’ll come to Truman Lake. The bridge across the lake is quite a beautiful site. The lake spans both sides of highway with a lot of standing timber. Cooper Creek Public Use Area is a good place to exit and get a better view of the lake.

If you packed a picnic lunch, this is a great exit (weather permitting) for a pit stop with some beautiful lake views. This area is a popular spot for birding and home to hundreds of species. You are very likely to see some combination of eagles, kittiwakes, goshawk, kestrel, woodpeckers, swallows, hummingbirds, egrets, cardinals, orioles, robins, owls, martins and yellowthroats.

The rest stop open for public use from 4:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. daily.

Address: Deepwater, MO 64740

6. Osceola Cheese Co

Looking for a tasty and unique pit stop on your road trip from Kansas City to Branson? Look no further than Osceola Cheese Co! Established in 1944, this charming little cheese shop is located right off Highway 13 and is the perfect place to take a break and sample some delicious cheese.

With a selection of 275 types of cheese from the Midwest, you can try as many as you like before purchasing your favorites to take with you. They also offer a variety of summer sausages, jerky, and Missouri wines.

Address: 3700 NE Highway 13, Osceola, MO 64776-6218

7. Amish Trading Post in Osceola

Looking for a unique and authentic shopping experience during your road trip from Kansas City to Branson? Look no further than the Amish Trading Post in Osceola, Missouri. This family-owned store is full of handmade Amish merchandise, from furniture and gardening tools to natural remedies and homemade pies. You’ll also find local honey, Amish rugs and handmade baskets.

But the real standout is the small restaurant counter that serves up delicious burgers and home-cut fries as well as biscuits and gravy, chili and more. And don’t pass up their thick and creamy milkshakes made from real ice cream.

Address: 3649 MO-13, Osceola, MO 64776

8. Boone’s BBQ Barn in Bolivar

Boone’s BBQ Barn is a must-stop destination for anyone craving authentic, slow-smoked barbecue on their way from Kansas City to Branson. The family-owned joint boasts an old country store atmosphere and serves up mouthwatering burnt ends brisket and pulled pork, along with a variety of homemade sides and cold beer.

It’s always a good sign when you see lot’s of locals in a restaurant and this seems to be a local favorite for sure!

Address: 5260 S Scenic Ave, Bolivar, MO 65613

9. Hummingbird Berry Farm in Brighton

If you’re traveling to Branson from Kansas City in June or July, make sure to stop by and grab some freshly picked blackberries or try your hand at picking them yourself.

This family-owned farm has three varieties of thornless blackberry plants trellised on an area of 2.5 acres. In addition to berry picking, visitors can enjoy watching hummingbirds visiting the feeders located throughout the farm. It’s the perfect pitstop for a taste of summer and a chance to connect with nature.

Address: 5581 S 140th Rd, Brighton, MO 65617

10. Fantastic Caverns in Springfield

Missouri is known as the Cave State, and a must-visit attraction on this route is Fantastic Caverns. This unique cave is one of the 13 caves in Missouri that offer tours, but it’s the only one in North America where visitors can ride through the caverns in a Jeep-drawn tram.

The hour-long tour takes visitors through the fascinating history of the caverns, from how they were discovered and originally explored to how the stunning stalactites and stalagmites continue to grow and change over time. You’ll also learn about the different colors and shapes of the formations, which vary depending on the minerals present.

In addition to the geological wonders, you’ll hear about the cave’s history during the Civil War and Prohibition era, and how it was once a popular gambling and dance hall. Fantastic Caverns offers a unique and educational experience that blends history, science, and natural beauty.

Open daily from 8am-8pm.

Address: 4872 N Farm Rd 125, Springfield, MO 65803

11. Route 66 in Springfield

If you’re a fan of Route 66, a stop in Springfield is a must. This town is known as the birthplace of the famous highway, and there are plenty of spots to explore. Make sure to visit the Route 66 Visitors Center to learn about the history of the road and pick up some souvenirs.

The Route 66 Car Museum is also worth a visit, with a collection of classic cars from the heyday of the highway. Don’t miss the colorful Route 66 mural at 701 West College Street or the quirky hubcap sculpture further down the road. And be sure to snap a photo at the original location of the Red’s Giant Hamburg plaque at the Route 66 Roadside Park.

12. Lambert’s Cafe in Ozark

Lambert’s Café is a must-visit for any foodie passing through Ozark, Missouri. This iconic restaurant has been serving up authentic Americana dishes since 1942. Once you step inside, you’ll be greeted with quirky decor and an energetic atmosphere.

And of course, there’s the famous “throwed rolls” – fresh, warm rolls are tossed across the dining room for customers to catch. But it’s not just the rolls that make Lambert’s special. The pass-around dishes, including fried okra, macaroni and tomatoes, and black-eyed peas, are all included in every meal and served family-style. You won’t leave hungry, and you’ll have a unique dining experience you won’t forget.

Address: 1800 W State Hwy J, Ozark, MO 65721

13. Smallin Civil War Cave in Ozark

Smallin Cave is a historically significant cave in the Ozarks, and is actually the first documented cave in the region. With its entrance towering at 55-feet tall and 100-feet wide, Smallin Cave is an impressive sight to behold.

The cave is rich in Ozark history, and offers a range of tours for visitors, including wheelchair-accessible tours that feature great storytelling. During the tour, visitors will learn about the local Osage Tribe and the Civil War regiment associated with the cave. Additionally, Smallin Cave is listed on the national register as a historic district, further highlighting its importance to the area.

One-hour guided tours travel one-half mile. Civil War Lantern Tours are offered in the fall.

Address: 3575 N Smallin Rd, Ozark, MO 65721

14. J and J Cheese Factory in Highlandville

Love cheese? A stop at J and J Cheese Factory (just 17 miles from Branson) is a great place to stop and stock up! They are known for their selection of cheese from Wisconsin. And if you’re a fan of cheese curds, the fresh squeaky curds shipped weekly are a must-try.

They also offer other items like snacks, local honey, jams and jellies, pickled items and candy. And if you are so inclined, you can sample Sugarlands Moonshine during your visit.

Address: 330 Burk Rd, Highlandville, MO 65669

15. National Tiger Sanctuary in Saddlebrooke

The National Tiger Sanctuary is a nonprofit organization, dedicated to providing a safe and healthy sanctuary for tigers, lions, and other animals.

They offer a variety of different types of tours, including the awareness tour, feeding tour, riding safari tour, and behind the scenes tour, which allow visitors to learn more about the animals and their individual stories.

It’s important to note that these animals are rescues, which makes supporting the sanctuary even more meaningful. It’s always valuable to gain knowledge about animals and their environments, and the National Tiger Sanctuary is a great opportunity to do so.

Open Wednesday-Monday 8:45am- 5pm. Closed Tuesday.

Address: 518 State Hwy BB, Saddlebrooke, MO 65630

Where to Stay When you Arrive in Branson

If you’re looking for a comfortable place to stay in the heart of Branson and prefer the amenities of a hotel, the Thousand Hills Resort is a great option. This resort features a hotel with an indoor swimming pool and restaurant.

Check Thousand Hills Resort reviews on TripAdvisor and find the best rates on Hotels.com or Booking.com .

Thousand Hills also has luxury cabins that are just a few blocks away from the main strip in Branson. The 2- or 3-bedroom Cabins at Grand Mountain offer a home-away-from-home experience with a cozy cabin feel, while still providing easy access to all the attractions in town.

Check Cabins at Grand Mountain reviews on TripAdvisor and find the best rates on Hotels.com or Booking.com as well as VRBO .

Book Your Trip

If you’re planning a Missouri trip, there are several tools and services that can help you find the best deals, experiences, and protect yourself from unexpected events. Here are some recommendations to consider: Book Your Accommodation If you’re looking for a comfortable and affordable place to stay during your travels, I love VRBO for vacation rentals. My favorite hotel booking sites are Hotels.com and Booking.com . I love that Hotels.com gives you one free hotel stay for every 10 you book. Rent a Car Missouri is a big place and renting a car is the best way to explore and enjoy off-the-beaten path recommendations. I’ve used  RentalCars.com  for more than a decade to find the best rental car rates—it’s an aggregator that scours the web for the most competitive prices. Find Interesting Things to Do Viator , a TripAdvisor property, offers a wide range of tours and activities in Missouri, from city tours of St. Louis and Kansas City to outdoor adventures in the Ozark Mountains. GetYourGuide is another great option, with a variety of tours and experiences in popular Missouri destinations like Branson and Springfield. Whether you’re interested in exploring historic sites, enjoying the outdoors, or trying local cuisine, these companies can help you find the perfect activities to make your trip to Missouri unforgettable. Protect Yourself With Travel Insurance It’s never fun to think about what could go wrong on a trip. A good plan can ensure that emergencies that may come up – medical trouble, stolen items, damage to your belongings, etc. – are easier to handle, and at little to no extra expense to you. I highly recommend checking out World Nomads before you travel. World Nomads travel insurance has been designed by travelers for travelers, to cover trip essentials and is very reasonable. I recommend Travelex for family travel insurance . Not only does this company offer ‘cancel for any reason’ policies, Travelex also includes coverage for children under 17 when traveling with an adult at no additional cost. (Be sure to read all terms and conditions.)

Sharing is caring!

Related Posts

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Watch CBS News

What time the 2024 solar eclipse started, reached peak totality and ended

By Sarah Maddox

Updated on: April 9, 2024 / 5:04 AM EDT / CBS News

The 2024 solar eclipse will be visible across North America today. As the moon's position between the Earth and sun casts a shadow on North America, that shadow, or umbra, will travel along the surface from west to east at more than 1,500 miles per hour along the path of totality . 

That means the eclipse will start, peak and end at different times — as will the moments of total darkness along the path of totality — and the best time to view the eclipse depends on where you are located. Some places along the path will have more totality time than others.

In Texas, the south-central region had clouds in the forecast , but it was better to the northeast, according to the National Weather Service. The best eclipse viewing weather was expected in New Hampshire, Vermont and Maine, as well as in Canada's New Brunswick and Newfoundland.

What time does the 2024 total solar eclipse start?

The total solar eclipse will emerge over the South Pacific Ocean before the shadow falls across North America, beginning in parts of Mexico. The path of totality , where onlookers can witness the moon fully blocking the sun (through eclipse viewing glasses for safety ), is expected to first make landfall near the city of Mazatlán around 9:51 a.m. MT. 

The total solar eclipse will cross over the U.S.-Mexico border into Texas, where it will emerge over Eagle Pass at 12:10 p.m. CT and then peak at about 1:27 p.m. CT.

In Dallas, NASA data shows the partial eclipse will first become visible at 12:23 p.m. CT and peak at 1:40 p.m. CT. The next states in the path of totality are Oklahoma and Arkansas, where the eclipse begins in Little Rock at 12:33 p.m. CT. 

Cleveland will see the beginning of the eclipse at 1:59 p.m. ET. Darkness will start spreading over the sky in Buffalo, New York, at 2:04 p.m. ET. Then, the eclipse will reach northwestern Vermont, including Burlington, at 2:14 p.m. ET. Parts of New Hampshire and Maine will also follow in the path of totality before the eclipse first reaches the Canadian mainland  at 3:13 p.m. ET.

Although the experience won't be exactly the same, viewers in all the contiguous U.S. states outside the path of totality will still be able to see a partial eclipse. Some places will see most of the sun blocked by the moon, including Washington, D.C., where the partial eclipse will start at 2:04 p.m. ET and peak at about 3:20 p.m. ET.

In Chicago, viewers can start viewing the partial eclipse at 12:51 p.m. CT, with the peak arriving at 2:07 p.m. CT.  In Detroit, viewers will be able to enjoy a near-total eclipse beginning at 1:58 p.m. ET and peaking at 3:14 p.m. ET.

New York City will also see a substantial partial eclipse, beginning at 2:10 p.m. ET and peaking around 3:25 p.m. ET.

In Boston it will begin at 2:16 p.m. ET and peak at about 3:29 p.m. ET.

The below table by NASA shows when the eclipse will start, peak and end in 13 cities along the eclipse's path.

What time will the solar eclipse reach peak totality?

Millions more people will have the chance to witness the total solar eclipse this year than during the last total solar eclipse , which was visible from the U.S. in 2017. 

The eclipse's peak will mean something different for cities within the path of totality and for those outside. Within the path of totality, darkness will fall for a few minutes. The longest will last more than 4 minutes, but most places will see between 3.5 and 4 minutes of totality. In cities experiencing a partial eclipse, a percentage of the sun will be obscured for more than two hours.

Mazatlán is set to experience totality at 11:07 am PT. Dallas will be able to see the moon fully cover the sun at 1:40 p.m. CT. Little Rock will start to see the full eclipse at 1:51 p.m. CT, Cleveland at 3:13 p.m. ET and Buffalo at 3:18 p.m. ET. Totality will reach Burlington at 3:26 p.m. ET before moving into the remaining states and reaching Canada around 4:25 p.m.

Outside the path of totality, 87.4% of the sun will be eclipsed in Washington, D.C. at 3:20 p.m. ET, and Chicago will have maximum coverage of 93.9% at 2:07 p.m. CT. New York City is much closer to the path of totality this year than it was in 2017; it will see 89.6% coverage at 3:25 p.m. EDT. 

Detroit is another city that will encounter a near-total eclipse, with 99.2% maximum coverage at 3:14 p.m. ET. Boston will see 92.4% coverage at 3:29 p.m. ET.

What time will the solar eclipse end?

The eclipse will leave continental North America from Newfoundland, Canada, at 5:16 p.m. NT, according to NASA.

At the beginning of the path of totality in Mazatlán, the eclipse will be over by 12:32 p.m. PT, and it will leave Dallas at 3:02 p.m. CT. The eclipse will end in Little Rock at 3:11 p.m. CT, Cleveland at 4:29 p.m. CDT and Buffalo at 4:32 p.m. ET. Burlington won't be far behind, with the eclipse concluding at 4:37 p.m. ET.

Meanwhile, the viewing will end in Chicago at 3:21 p.m. CT, Washington, D.C. at 4:32 p.m. ET, and New York City at 4:36 p.m. ET. 

In Detroit, the partial eclipse will disappear at 4:27 p.m. ET, and in Boston, it will be over at 4:39 p.m. ET.

How long will the eclipse last in total?

The total solar eclipse will begin in Mexico at 11:07 a.m. PT and leave continental North America at 5:16 p.m. NT. From the time the partial eclipse first appears on Earth to its final glimpses before disappearing thousands of miles away, the celestial show will dazzle viewers for about 5 hours, according to timeanddate.com . 

The length of the total solar eclipse at points along the path depends on the viewing location. The longest will be 4 minutes and 28 seconds, northwest of Torreón, Mexico. Near the center of the path, totality takes place for the longest periods of time, according to NASA.

Spectators will observe totality for much longer today than during the 2017 eclipse , when the longest stretch of totality was 2 minutes and 32 seconds.

The moon's shadow seen on Earth today, called the umbra, travels at more than 1,500 miles per hour, according to NASA. It would move even more quickly if the Earth rotated in the opposite direction.

What is the longest a solar eclipse has ever lasted?

The longest known totality was 7 minutes and 28 seconds in 743 B.C. However, NASA says this record will be broken in 2186 with a 7 minute, 29 second total solar eclipse. The next total solar eclipse visible from parts of the U.S. won't happen until Aug. 23, 2044.

Sarah Maddox has been with CBS News since 2019. She works as an associate producer for CBS News Live.

More from CBS News

Inflation's rising. Here's how debt relief can help.

How big is the Masters purse, and how much of it does the winner get?

TSA found more than 1,500 guns at airport checkpoints in 1st quarter of 2024

Rupert Murdoch is selling his triplex penthouse. See what it looks like.