Most People Don’t Know These 8 Hidden Gems in Missouri Even Exist

We've all heard of the Arch in St. Louis, but there are so many other great things to see in the great state of Missouri. In fact, there are tons of hidden gems in Missouri. From hidden gem museums to secret accommodations, there's no shortage of hidden gems in Missouri!

1. Springfield Botanical Gardens at Nathanael Greene & Close Memorial Parks, Springfield

Spending all day walking around these gorgeous gardens is sure to make for a wonderful day. They have demonstration gardens, a butterfly house, a farmstead, and a playground, as well as access to the South Creek Greenway Trail. For more information, click here.

2. National Churchill Museum and Berlin Wall, Fulton

The sculpture, "Breakthrough" was created by Edwina Sandys, who happens to be Winston Churchill's granddaughter, to commemorate the fall of the Berlin Wall. It was dedicated by President Ronald Reagan in 1990, and was sculpted from actual pieces from the Berlin Wall. At 11 feet high and 32 feet long, it resides next to the National Churchill Museum, located on the campus of Westminster College...the site of Churchill's famous "Iron Curtain" speech. For more information about the college, the museum, or the sculpture, click here.

3. Stone Water Cove Resort, Shell Knob

Stone Water calls itself an adventure resort, with zip lining, ATV's, horses, and trails, as well as water skiing, kayaking, and wake-boarding. They even have an evening cruise nightly and a restaurant. For more information, click here.

4. Caboose Junction Resort, Lampe

At Table Rock Lake in a natural setting, there is a place where you can stay in cabins that were made from train cabooses. With paddle boating, kayaking, fishing, pontoon boat rentals, rope swinging, and deck diving, there will be plenty to keep you busy during your stay. For more information, click here.

5. Laumeier Sculpture Park, Sunset Hills

Located at 12580 Rott Road in Sunset Hills, this site was donated by Matilda Laumeier in memory of her late husband. The park itself was incorporated in 1977. There are approximately 60+ sculptures scattered throughout the property as well as the 1917 Estate House and its newest addition - Adam Aronson Fine Arts Center. They also have a yearly art fair during Mother's Day weekend, featuring art vendors, food, and live music. For more information, click here.

6. World Chess Hall of Fame, St. Louis

Whether a pro or a beginner chess player, there is something for everyone at this unique attraction. It features artistic pieces and boards, special exhibits, and performances and concerts as well as exhibits featuring chess champions. They have been in St. Louis since 2011 and are located across from the Chess Club and Scholastic Center of St. Louis on 4652 Maryland Avenue. For more information, click here.

7. Mutual Musicians Foundation, Kansas City

Located in the heart of Kansas City's historic jazz district, this foundation celebrating the history of jazz music still hosts fun, music-related events, such as jazz jam sessions and jazz "rush hour." They are housed in a national historic landmark and offer food and a full bar. Find them at 1823 Highland Avenue. For more information, click here.

8. First Fridays, Crossroads Arts District, Kansas City

On the first Friday of every month, more than 10,000 people gather here to celebrate art in all its forms. They feature artists from all over and the event is free of charge. For more information, click here.

So, have you visited all of the places mentioned above? What are some other places not listed here that you would consider hidden gems in Missouri?  Tell us in the comments!

These aren't the only hidden gems in Missouri. Click here to read about 11 waterfalls hidden in the state.