Missouri Destinations You Have to See
02-20-2018
Author: in The Road Less Traveled
Several of the road trip options—like Route 66 and both coastlines—have become so popular that many consider the experiences cliché. Fortunately, however, the U.S. is immense and there are many other opportunities for fabulous destinations when one hits the open road.
Whether you go with friends and family, as a couple, with your favorite furry companion, or by yourself, there are some parts of the state that are considered “best-kept secrets” for those who prefer the road less traveled. Here are a few favorites from the 24th state.
Carthage, MO
In May of 2011, much of Joplin, MO was razed by an EF-5, multi-vortex tornado. Nearby Carthage was spared. Not far from the legendary ragtime composer and pianist Scott Joplin's birthplace, Carthage, MO sits along road trip byway extraordinaire "Route 66."
In fact, the town is home of the 66 Drive-in, one of the oldest drive-in theaters in the country.
Although the Battle of Carthage State Historical Site and the Civil War Museum commemorate the two most famous battles in the area, one of the primary draws to Carthage is the Precious Moments Chapel. Based on the popular, big-eyed figurines—as well as the Sistine Chapel—the Chapel has been hosting events and weddings, as well as numerous visitors since 1989.
There are several campgrounds nearby with Coachlight Campground being one of the highest rated options.
Hannibal, MO
Author Samuel Clemmons—better known as Mark Twain—called Hannibal his home, and for a small town it offers much in the way of education and entertainment. Along with the tours of the Mark Twain Home and Museum and Mark Twain Memorial Lighthouse, there're also several cave and riverboat tours. As with many old cities, parts of Hannibal are reputed to be haunted. Therefore, there are a variety of ghost and vampire tours for your enjoyment.
There are plenty of places for RVs. If you want an all-inclusive stay, Mark Twain's Landing provides all of the normal amenities, but has a water park, as well. For a more laid back experience, Mark Twain Cave & Campground puts you in a great position to enjoy the scenery.
Jamesport, MO
Jamestown, MO is a must-see location due in part to its large Amish community, which is in fact one of the largest in the country. Its antiquated ambience makes it a historian's delight.
It's also a primary destination for those who enjoy the more traditional crafts. With stores featuring homemade furniture, jams, quilts, and toys, as well as the supplies for each, there's plenty to keep visitors busy. Additionally, Jamesport has Amish Country Shoppes, antique stores, specialty and craft shops, horse and buggy businesses, and several bed and breakfasts.
Countryside RV Park with 16 spaces for tents or motorhomes is the only campground in Jamesport, however, there are several in the nearby towns of Gallatin and Trenton.
Lexington, MO
Two of the largest battles during the Civil War’s western campaign occurred in the historical location of Lexington, MO. Founded in 1822, the city was a starting point for both the Oregon and Santa Fe Trails. It was also a port for steamboats.
The beautifully preserved town boasts several historical sites, such as the Battle of Lexington Historic Site, Civil War Hospital, Lafayette County Courthouse, and the statue commemorating pioneer women titled "Madonna of the Trail." One of the most impressive sites may be the cannon ball hole in one of the corner columns of the Lafayette County Courthouse received during the Battle of Lexington.
Parkville, MO
The picturesque city of Parkville, MO has been located on the Missouri River since 1838. With a variety of art galleries, B&Bs, vineyards, and holiday events, it's more than just a daytrip destination.
Check out the various charming activities, such as the Parkville River Jam, Gallery of Trees, Parkville Cruise Nights, Parkville Nature Sanctuary, and the holiday events like the Turkey Trot, Christmas on the River, Breakfast with Santa, and Santa’s House.
In Conclusion
Whether you're just passing through or plan to stay for a while, Missouri is definitely worth visiting. Along with the varied scenery, there are over 600 documented caves, numerous museums, and the famous Kansas City jazz and bar-b-cue. As the Gateway to the West, St. Louis has more than its share of museums, art galleries, and vineyards, as well as the Budweiser Clydesdales. Plus, if you want to keep going, Carthage, MO is a great place to jump on Route 66. Happy Trails!
Related Read: Route 66 Attractions
For some, the state of Missouri brings to mind the Ozark Mountains and the hillbilly version of Las Vegas that is Branson. Although those locations are enjoyable and the Ozarks can be beautiful, the rampant commercialism there leaves something to be desired. For others, it's the two river-front cities on the eastern and western border, St. Louis and Kansas City.Whether you go with friends and family, as a couple, with your favorite furry companion, or by yourself, there are some parts of the state that are considered “best-kept secrets” for those who prefer the road less traveled. Here are a few favorites from the 24th state.
Carthage, MO
In May of 2011, much of Joplin, MO was razed by an EF-5, multi-vortex tornado. Nearby Carthage was spared. Not far from the legendary ragtime composer and pianist Scott Joplin's birthplace, Carthage, MO sits along road trip byway extraordinaire "Route 66."
In fact, the town is home of the 66 Drive-in, one of the oldest drive-in theaters in the country.
Although the Battle of Carthage State Historical Site and the Civil War Museum commemorate the two most famous battles in the area, one of the primary draws to Carthage is the Precious Moments Chapel. Based on the popular, big-eyed figurines—as well as the Sistine Chapel—the Chapel has been hosting events and weddings, as well as numerous visitors since 1989.
There are several campgrounds nearby with Coachlight Campground being one of the highest rated options.
Hannibal, MO
Author Samuel Clemmons—better known as Mark Twain—called Hannibal his home, and for a small town it offers much in the way of education and entertainment. Along with the tours of the Mark Twain Home and Museum and Mark Twain Memorial Lighthouse, there're also several cave and riverboat tours. As with many old cities, parts of Hannibal are reputed to be haunted. Therefore, there are a variety of ghost and vampire tours for your enjoyment.
There are plenty of places for RVs. If you want an all-inclusive stay, Mark Twain's Landing provides all of the normal amenities, but has a water park, as well. For a more laid back experience, Mark Twain Cave & Campground puts you in a great position to enjoy the scenery.
Jamesport, MO
Jamestown, MO is a must-see location due in part to its large Amish community, which is in fact one of the largest in the country. Its antiquated ambience makes it a historian's delight.
It's also a primary destination for those who enjoy the more traditional crafts. With stores featuring homemade furniture, jams, quilts, and toys, as well as the supplies for each, there's plenty to keep visitors busy. Additionally, Jamesport has Amish Country Shoppes, antique stores, specialty and craft shops, horse and buggy businesses, and several bed and breakfasts.
Countryside RV Park with 16 spaces for tents or motorhomes is the only campground in Jamesport, however, there are several in the nearby towns of Gallatin and Trenton.
Lexington, MO
Two of the largest battles during the Civil War’s western campaign occurred in the historical location of Lexington, MO. Founded in 1822, the city was a starting point for both the Oregon and Santa Fe Trails. It was also a port for steamboats.
The beautifully preserved town boasts several historical sites, such as the Battle of Lexington Historic Site, Civil War Hospital, Lafayette County Courthouse, and the statue commemorating pioneer women titled "Madonna of the Trail." One of the most impressive sites may be the cannon ball hole in one of the corner columns of the Lafayette County Courthouse received during the Battle of Lexington.
Parkville, MO
The picturesque city of Parkville, MO has been located on the Missouri River since 1838. With a variety of art galleries, B&Bs, vineyards, and holiday events, it's more than just a daytrip destination.
Check out the various charming activities, such as the Parkville River Jam, Gallery of Trees, Parkville Cruise Nights, Parkville Nature Sanctuary, and the holiday events like the Turkey Trot, Christmas on the River, Breakfast with Santa, and Santa’s House.
In Conclusion
Whether you're just passing through or plan to stay for a while, Missouri is definitely worth visiting. Along with the varied scenery, there are over 600 documented caves, numerous museums, and the famous Kansas City jazz and bar-b-cue. As the Gateway to the West, St. Louis has more than its share of museums, art galleries, and vineyards, as well as the Budweiser Clydesdales. Plus, if you want to keep going, Carthage, MO is a great place to jump on Route 66. Happy Trails!
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Author: Carrie Todd
