Human beings aren’t machines; people require regular breaks to recover from stress and restore physical and emotional balance. And the best way to do this is to travel to someplace new, someplace you’ve never seen before.
Take a break from your taxing routine and plan a trip to Missouri. Why Missouri? The US state allows you to explore everything from incredible arts, culture, and history to charming nature and outdoor adventures. In simple words, Missouri is the ideal travel destination for every family member. Missouri has a little something for every tourist: history buffs, nature lovers, adventure junkies, music fans, and literary enthusiasts.
So start planning today to spend your summer vacations with friends or family in Missouri. Pack your bags and get ready to have a fantastic time in the Midwestern state. Excited, but don’t know what to do or where to go in Missouri? No worries. Here’s a carefully curated list of twelve fun things you can do in Missouri to truly unwind and relax on your trip:
1. Dine In At Dolly Parton’s Stampede
Your Missouri vacation cannot be complete without trying the culinary specialties of the US state. The deal only gets better when you can enjoy food and entertainment – all in one place. If you’re interested in enjoying dinner shows in Branson MO, visit Dolly Parton’s Stampede – a marvelously entertaining dinner attraction. Devour a mouthwatering four-course family feast while treating your senses to a thrilling performance of trick riders and horses.
2. Indulge In History At The City Museum
Did you know that Missouri has had an incredible architectural museum since October 1997? Visit the City Museum to admire beauty created by exceptional artists using scraps from the city of St. Louis. Some describe this hundred-year-old building as a museum that holds an entire universe. The exploration experience is like losing yourself in different worlds and never wanting to return.
3. Explore The Ha Ha Tonka Castle Ruins
If you’re a history fanatic who adores nature and architecture, you must visit the Ha Ha Tonka Castle ruins, located inside the Ha Ha Tonka State Park. The 16th century-inspired European castle used to be an extravagant 20-century mansion owned by a businessman, but now its basic structure remains for people to see. So wear comfy clothes and explore the incredible sinkholes, bluffs, views, and caves of the place while wandering about the glory days of the Ha Ha Tonka castle.
4. Cool Down At the Welch Spring Hospital Ruins
Dr. C.H. Diehl built the Welch Spring Hospital. He built the hospital close to the spring because he believed that the spring had healing properties that could relieve breathing conditions. While the hospital is not functional anymore, its ruins stand tall, creating a unique landmark for explorers. Grab a hiking backpack and trail for a mole to reach the hospital ruins featuring a soothing spring. You can even pack a little picnic to eat alongside the spring while admiring the beauty of nature.
5. Climb Atop The Pinnacles
If you’re looking for some climbing adventure, you can visit the Pinnacles Youth Park Trail – a 1.4 kilometers long climb that offers terrific views of the Silver Fork Creek Valley. Put on a pair of sturdy climbing shoes to enjoy a tricky climb. Just remember, the view at the end of the trail will make it all worth it.
6. Adore The Kansas City Library’s Giant Bookshelf
The Giant Bookshelf, located in Kansas City, Missouri, is one of the most striking and unusual sights the US state offers tourists. Also known as a visual haven for every bibliophile, the 25-feet tall bookshelf features 22 book spines featuring the works of famous authors like J.R.R. Tolkien, Gabriel Garcia-Marquez, and Ray Bradbury.
7. Visit The Mesmerizing Meramec Caverns
You can also book a guided tour of the 4.6-mile Meramec Caverns in the Ozarks, featuring several fun activities like wall climbing, riverboat riding, ziplining, and gold panning. The caverns were formed from limestone deposits over millions of years. Towards the end of the tour, you will enjoy a fabulous light show.
8. Dive In The Bonne Terre Mines
Did you know that the Bonne Terre Mines house the world’s largest artificial subterranean lake? If you love freshwater scuba diving, you must visit this unique tourist spot featuring 24 diving paths. The best part about diving here is that the water is stunningly clear. Unfortunately, toxic lead particles in the water prevented any life from growing and developing here. Therefore, you can enjoy looking at drowned chambers, rusting mining equipment, and more while swimming through the pretty arches.
9. Get Spooked At The Lemp Mansion
All paranormal lovers delight in visiting the Lemp Mansion, built-in 1890. History states that multiple suicides took place in the Lemp Mansion, making It one of the most haunted buildings in the US. The mansion has now been converted into a restaurant and inn where you can book an overnight stay to go on ghost tours.
10. Shop At The Noir Arts And Oddities
If you want to buy the most quirky and unusual Missouri souvenirs for friends and family back home, you can visit the Noir Arts and Oddities. The shop features funerary antiques, natural science specimens, and embalming tools that can make the most peculiar but exciting gifts.
11. Enjoy Exhilarating Rides At The Silver Dollar City
The Silver Dollar City is an 1880s-themed amusement park featuring over 40 exhilarating rides and attractions. Brave the deadly fall of Outlaw Run and American Plunge, or enjoy the tame tour of the Frisco Silver Dollar Line Steam Train and McHaffie’s Homestead.
12. Enjoy A Musical Night With The Haygoods
When in Missouri, visit Clay Cooper Theatre in Branson to delight your musical senses by listening to the Haygoods. This group of siblings can play over 20 instruments and are known for putting on unforgettable, visually stunning shows. Book tickets beforehand to ensure you don’t miss a musical chance of a lifetime.
Conclusion
Missouri’s Midwest state truly offers it all, from the incredible wilderness and lively towns to spectacular sights and thriving culinary and music scenes. There’s a reason Missouri is widely recognized as the ‘Show-Me State’ among tourists. Visit this fascinating place to tick several things off your bucket list by indulging in the fun activities mentioned above. Whether the goal is to engage in serenity or adventure, this state offers a travel expedition packed with various emotions. Experience the best of life in Missouri – the ideal travel destination for your upcoming summer vacation. Happy vacationing!