Missouri, a state known for its rich history, stunning natural beauty, and vibrant cities, is often overshadowed by its neighboring states when it comes to travel and exploration. However, there are numerous hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path destinations in Missouri that are worth discovering. If you're looking to skip the usual tourist traps and experience the authentic side of Missouri, here are seven ways to do so.
Explore the Ozark Mountains
Located in southern Missouri, the Ozark Mountains offer a serene and picturesque getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life. With its rolling hills, crystal-clear lakes, and dense forests, the Ozarks are perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Hike the scenic trails, go fishing, or take a leisurely boat ride on the lakes. The Ozarks are also home to a number of quaint towns and villages, each with its own unique charm and character.
Discover the Best Kept Secrets of the Ozarks
- Explore the Mark Twain National Forest, which offers stunning views and exciting outdoor activities.
- Visit the historic town of Hermann, known for its German heritage and charming architecture.
- Take a boat tour of the Lake of the Ozarks, which offers breathtaking views and exciting water sports.
Visit the Gateway City's Hidden Gems
St. Louis, Missouri's largest city, is often overshadowed by its iconic Gateway Arch. However, there are numerous hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path destinations in the city that are worth exploring. Visit the City Museum, a one-of-a-kind attraction made from reclaimed materials and featuring interactive art installations. Explore the Soulard neighborhood, which is home to a number of historic buildings, charming shops, and delicious restaurants.
Discover the Best Kept Secrets of St. Louis
- Visit the Missouri Botanical Garden, which is one of the oldest and largest botanical gardens in the country.
- Explore the Anheuser-Busch Brewery, which offers tours and tastings of its famous beers.
- Take a stroll through the beautiful Forest Park, which is home to a number of museums, gardens, and walking trails.
Experience the Vibrant Music Scene in Kansas City
Kansas City, Missouri's largest city on the western side of the state, is known for its vibrant music scene, particularly when it comes to jazz. Visit the American Jazz Museum, which celebrates the city's rich jazz heritage and features interactive exhibits and live performances. Explore the Crossroads Arts District, which is home to a number of art galleries, studios, and music venues.
Discover the Best Kept Secrets of Kansas City
- Visit the National World War I Museum and Memorial, which offers a poignant and powerful look at the Great War.
- Explore the Country Club Plaza, which is a beautiful outdoor shopping and dining district modeled after the city of Seville, Spain.
- Take a tour of the Boulevard Brewing Company, which is one of the city's largest and most popular craft breweries.
Go Hiking in Ha Ha Tonka State Park
Located on the Lake of the Ozarks, Ha Ha Tonka State Park is a stunning natural destination that offers breathtaking views and exciting outdoor activities. Hike the park's many trails, which take you through rolling hills, dense forests, and stunning rock formations. Visit the park's historic castle, which was built in the early 20th century and features stunning views of the lake.
Discover the Best Kept Secrets of Ha Ha Tonka State Park
- Explore the park's many caves, which feature stunning rock formations and underground pools.
- Take a boat tour of the lake, which offers breathtaking views and exciting water sports.
- Visit the park's natural bridge, which is a stunning rock formation that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
Visit the Historic Town of Hannibal
Located in northeastern Missouri, the historic town of Hannibal is a charming destination that is steeped in history and culture. Visit the Mark Twain Boyhood Home & Museum, which celebrates the life and works of the famous author. Explore the town's many historic buildings, which feature stunning architecture and charming shops and restaurants.
Discover the Best Kept Secrets of Hannibal
- Take a tour of the Mark Twain Cave Complex, which features stunning rock formations and underground pools.
- Visit the Huckleberry Finn Freedom Center, which celebrates the life and works of the famous author.
- Explore the town's many parks and gardens, which feature stunning views and beautiful flowers.
Explore the Missouri River
The Missouri River, which runs through the heart of the state, is a stunning natural destination that offers breathtaking views and exciting outdoor activities. Take a boat tour of the river, which offers stunning views and exciting water sports. Visit the many parks and gardens that line the river, which feature stunning views and beautiful flowers.
Discover the Best Kept Secrets of the Missouri River
- Explore the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail, which follows the route of the famous explorers.
- Visit the Katy Trail State Park, which is a stunning park that features hiking and biking trails, as well as beautiful views of the river.
- Take a tour of the river's many historic towns and villages, which feature stunning architecture and charming shops and restaurants.
Discover the Best Kept Secrets of Missouri's Wine Country
Missouri's wine country, which is located in the southeastern part of the state, is a stunning destination that offers breathtaking views and exciting activities. Visit the many wineries and vineyards that line the countryside, which feature stunning views and delicious wines. Take a tour of the region's many historic towns and villages, which feature stunning architecture and charming shops and restaurants.
Discover the Best Kept Secrets of Missouri's Wine Country
- Explore the Augusta AVA, which is a stunning region that features rolling hills, dense forests, and beautiful vineyards.
- Visit the Hermann AVA, which is a charming region that features historic buildings, charming shops, and delicious wines.
- Take a tour of the region's many wine trails, which offer stunning views and exciting wine tastings.
We hope you've enjoyed this article and have discovered some of the best kept secrets of Missouri. Whether you're interested in outdoor activities, history and culture, or food and drink, Missouri has something for everyone. So why not start planning your trip today and discover the authentic side of Missouri?
What are some of the best outdoor activities to do in Missouri?
+Missouri offers a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, fishing, and boating. Some of the best places to visit include the Ozark Mountains, Ha Ha Tonka State Park, and the Lake of the Ozarks.
What are some of the best cultural attractions to visit in Missouri?
+Missouri is home to a wide range of cultural attractions, including the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, the Kansas City Symphony, and the Missouri History Museum.
What are some of the best wine trails to visit in Missouri?
+Missouri is home to a number of wine trails, including the Augusta AVA, the Hermann AVA, and the Missouri River Wine Trail.