5 Fun Things to Do in Missouri

Published
01/20/2022

If you live in Missouri, you’ve probably discovered some of the best things to do in the state. If you are not from there, though, you may not be sure what to do that’s enjoyable if you’re passing through and looking for some entertaining options.

We’ll talk about some of the best things to do in Missouri in the following article. The state might not attract as many visitors as California or New York, but there are still plenty of worthwhile activities you’re sure to enjoy.

 

Visit Branson

Branson, Missouri, is a resort town with a lot to offer. It’s pure Americana. You can see popular shows like Jesus at the Sight and Sound Theater or Dolly Parton’s Stampede Dinner Show with real horses and buffalos. Yakov Smirnoff has a show there, and there are many others that should appeal.

Branson has many gift shops, fine restaurants, and other attractions. It’s a family-oriented town, so if you plan to travel with your kids, you should keep this Missouri mainstay at the top of your to-do list.

 

Visit the Saint Louis Zoological Park

If you’re planning to pass through Saint Louis, the Zoological Park might be in order. It’s in the city’s heart, and the facility is a recognized leader in animal conservation and research. You should also know that it’s free to enter, except for certain special attractions. If you don’t have a ton of money to spend, that might make this choice a winner.

The Park has been around since 1904. It opened at the same time the Saint Louis World Fair took place. Jungle of the Apes is one of the most spellbinding attractions, though Big Cat Country draws the crowds on nice days. The Fragile Forest and the Butterfly House are also popular with tourists.

You can also visit the May Ann Lee Conservation Carousel. The hand-carved wooden animals you can ride are all endangered species, and you will learn about them as you have fun.

 

Check Out the Gateway Arch

No Missouri trip would be complete without stopping at the famous Gateway Arch, also located in Saint Louis. At 630 feet high, it is by far the world’s tallest arch. Pictures don’t do it justice. You have to go there and stand at the base to truly enjoy this awe-inspiring modern marvel.

It’s on the Mississippi River’s West Bank, and the makers used all stainless steel. Even now, many years after its construction, it gleams in the sunlight. If you’re feeling brave, you can even take the tram to the top and look out over the city. Be aware, though: it’s liable to make you feel giddy if you’re not so good with heights.

You can see up to 30 miles from the top on a clear day, but if you want to stay at the base, that’s fine too. There are various ground-level attractions and a very nice gift shop where you can get some souvenirs to commemorate your trip.

 

Visit the Hermann Wine Trail

Missouri is where you can find Hermann, a German community that traces its roots back to 1837. The settlers there were expert winemakers, and their descendants still make spirituous beverages there today.

The community holds what they call a “Weinfest” each year. This inclusive event allows you to sample many of the local offerings, and you can even buy some to take home with you. The locals love talking about wine, drinking it, and swapping tips with fellow connoisseurs.

The Stone Hill Winery is probably the best-known producer in the area, so make sure you stop there and sample their many vintages. You can take a walk through the vineyards and see the different grape varieties that make the bestselling beverages that this town ships worldwide.

 

Visit Ha Ha Tonka State Park

Near the Lake of the Ozarks, you will find the popular Ha Ha Tonka State Park. This absolutely gorgeous park spans more than three thousand acres. It’s breathtaking in the summer and fall months.

You can also see the ruins of Ha Ha Tonka, a mansion that once stood on the grounds. The architect built it to resemble a 16th-century French castle, but it fell into disrepair. The state purchased the ruins back in 1978, and you can go right up the stones and examine them.

You will also find hiking opportunities. If you’re into aquatic adventures, there’s fishing, swimming, and boating as well. There are also caves, natural bridges, and sinkholes.