Explore The Best Of Missouri With The Show Me State Map Travel Guide
Missouri, also known as the Show Me State, is located in the Midwestern region of the United States. With its diverse landscape, rich history, and vibrant culture, Missouri offers plenty of attractions and experiences for every type of traveler. Whether you are a nature lover, history buff, foodie, or adventure seeker, Missouri has something for everyone. To help you plan your trip, we have created a comprehensive travel guide for the Show Me State Map, covering the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports.
Top Attractions
Missouri is home to several world-famous attractions, including the Gateway Arch in St. Louis, which is the tallest man-made monument in the Western Hemisphere. Other must-see attractions include the Silver Dollar City theme park in Branson, the Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum in Hannibal, and the Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield in Republic, which is a significant Civil War site.
Hidden Gems
If you want to explore the lesser-known attractions of Missouri, head to the Ha Ha Tonka State Park in Camdenton. This park features stunning natural wonders, including caves, sinkholes, and a natural bridge. Another hidden gem is the Elephant Rocks State Park in Ironton, which is a unique geological formation of giant granite boulders.
Food Scene
Missouri is known for its delicious barbecue, and you can find some of the best BBQ joints in Kansas City and St. Louis. Other must-try dishes include toasted ravioli, gooey butter cake, and pork steaks. Don’t forget to visit the Missouri Wine Country, which is home to several award-winning wineries and vineyards.
Outdoor Adventures
Missouri offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures, including hiking, camping, fishing, and kayaking. The Ozark National Scenic Riverways in Van Buren is a popular destination for floating and tubing, while the Katy Trail State Park, which is the longest rail-trail in the United States, is perfect for biking and hiking.
Historical Landmarks
Missouri played a significant role in the Civil War, and you can explore several historical landmarks related to this period, including the Civil War Museum in Springfield and the Battle of Lexington State Historic Site. Other important historical landmarks include the Harry S. Truman Presidential Library and Museum in Independence and the Missouri State Capitol in Jefferson City.
Family-Friendly Activities
Missouri offers plenty of fun activities for families, including the Saint Louis Zoo, the Science Center of Missouri, and the Worlds of Fun amusement park in Kansas City. You can also explore the City Museum in St. Louis, which is a unique attraction that combines art, architecture, and play.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you want to explore the quirky side of Missouri, head to the City of Fountains, Kansas City, and visit the world’s only museum dedicated to the hair of humans and animals, the Hair Museum. Another off-the-beaten-path experience is the Jesse James Home Museum in St. Joseph, which showcases the life and legend of the notorious outlaw.
Natural Wonders
Missouri is home to several stunning natural wonders, including the Ozark Mountains, the Missouri River, and the Meramec Caverns. You can also explore the Big Spring, which is one of the largest springs in the world, and the Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park, which features natural water slides and pools.
Vibrant Nightlife
Missouri offers a vibrant nightlife scene, especially in the cities of St. Louis and Kansas City. You can enjoy live music, craft beer, and delicious food in the numerous bars and restaurants. Don’t forget to visit the Power and Light District in Kansas City and the Delmar Loop in St. Louis, which are popular entertainment districts.
Local Markets
Missouri is home to several farmers’ markets where you can buy fresh produce, handmade crafts, and artisanal products. The Soulard Farmers Market in St. Louis is the oldest farmers’ market in the city, while the City Market in Kansas City is a popular destination for foodies.
Beaches and Mountains
Missouri may not be known for its beaches, but it is home to several lakes and rivers where you can enjoy swimming, boating, and fishing. The Lake of the Ozarks is a popular destination for water sports, while the Table Rock Lake is perfect for a relaxing beach vacation. If you are looking for mountains, head to the Ozark Mountains, which offer stunning views and hiking trails.
Cultural Immersion
Missouri has a rich cultural heritage, and you can immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting the Missouri Botanical Garden in St. Louis, which features several international gardens and exhibitions. You can also explore the Scott Joplin House State Historic Site in St. Louis, which is the former home of the famous ragtime composer.
Art and Music Scene
Missouri has a vibrant art and music scene, especially in the cities of St. Louis and Kansas City. You can visit the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art in Kansas City, which is one of the best art museums in the country. For music lovers, the Blues Museum in St. Louis and the American Jazz Museum in Kansas City are must-visit attractions.
Walking Tours
Missouri offers several walking tours that allow you to explore the cities’ history and architecture. The Gateway Arch Riverfront Tour in St. Louis takes you on a journey through the city’s riverfront and highlights the Gateway Arch. In Kansas City, you can take the Downtown Walking Tour, which showcases the city’s unique architecture and landmarks.
Architectural Marvels
Missouri is home to several architectural marvels, including the Gateway Arch in St. Louis, which is a masterpiece of modern architecture. Other notable structures include the Union Station in Kansas City, which is a historic train station that has been converted into a shopping and entertainment complex, and the Missouri State Capitol in Jefferson City, which features stunning neoclassical architecture.
Historical Sites
Missouri is home to several important historical sites, including the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail, which follows the route of the famous explorers. Other notable sites include the George Washington Carver National Monument in Diamond, which honors the life and achievements of the famous scientist, and the Scott Joplin House State Historic Site in St. Louis, which celebrates the life and music of the ragtime composer.
Biking Routes
Missouri offers several scenic biking routes, including the Katy Trail State Park, which is perfect for a leisurely ride through the Missouri countryside. You can also explore the Ozark Mountains by bike on the Ozark Trail, which features challenging terrain and stunning views.
Wellness Retreats
Missouri offers several wellness retreats that allow you to rejuvenate and relax. The Spa at the Chateau on the Lake in Branson is a luxurious retreat that offers a range of spa treatments and services. You can also visit the Ozark Mountain Yoga Studio, which offers yoga classes and workshops in a serene mountain setting.
Adventure Sports
Missouri offers plenty of opportunities for adventure sports, including zip-lining, rock climbing, and skydiving. The Go Ape Treetop Adventure Course in Maryland Heights is a popular destination for zip-lining and ropes courses, while the Ozark Outdoors Riverfront Resort in Leasburg offers kayaking, tubing, and rafting.
With its diverse attractions and experiences, Missouri is a perfect destination for every type of traveler. Whether you want to explore the natural wonders, immerse yourself in the local culture, or indulge in delicious food, Missouri has something for everyone. Use this travel guide to plan your trip and discover the best of the Show Me State.