Everyone In Missouri Should Check Out These Attractions, According To Locals

What are your favorite must-visit attractions in Missouri? You know, those attractions that you always take visitors to and the ones that you rave about to just about anyone who will listen. If adventure calls, where do you go? We asked readers about their favorite places to visit in Missouri, and here are just a few that made the list. See if your favorite is among them.

1. Elephant Rocks State Park – Belleview

One of the most mentioned attractions in Missouri, Elephant Rocks State Park is home to one of its greatest natural wonders. Elephant Rocks, 1.5-billion-year-old granite boulders, look strikingly similar to circus elephants in a line. The natural wonder draws visitors from near and far, and some daredevils even climb on the boulders.

2. Historic Downtown St. Charles

Crowned one of the most walkable downtowns in America, historic downtown St. Charles exudes old-fashioned charm with its collection of shops and restaurants. The darling downtown is popular in all four seasons, but it transforms into a Christmas wonderland during the holiday season. Be sure to stop by during Saint Charles Christmas Traditions.

3. The Mine at Bonne Terre – Bonne Terre

Home to the Billion Gallon Lake, The Mine at Bonne Terre promises a one-of-a-kind adventure. Climb aboard a boat for a guided tour of this former lead mine. Certified scuba divers can even go diving in the lake.

4. Quilting Capital of Missouri – Hamilton

For a unique day trip, head to the Quilting Capital of Missouri. Hamilton is home to a variety of quilting-related attractions, including the World’s Largest Spool of Thread, the Missouri Quilt Museum, and the Missouri Star Quilt Company. Spend a day exploring, or turn it into a weekend getaway.

5. Meramec Caverns – Sullivan

Chances are if you live in Missouri, you’ve been to Meramec Caverns. The popular tourist attraction in Missouri is known as Missouri’s largest commercial cave and the largest cave in America. Join a 90-minute guided tour of the seven-story cave, which is open all year. Meramec Caverns is also home to several other attractions, including a zipline and a climbing wall.

6. Branson

Branson certainly got a lot of love from locals, who highly recommend this vibrant town for a visit. You’ll find plenty to do – Silver Dollar City, Table Rock Lake, Moonshine Beach, and Dolly Parton’s Stampede – in all four seasons.

7. Forest Park – St. Louis

Time just melts away at Forest Park in St. Louis, an epic destination in Missouri. The 1,300-acre park is home to a variety of attractions, including The Saint Louis Zoo, the Missouri History Museum, the Saint Louis Art Museum, and the Saint Louis Science Center. Carve out plenty of time for your visit.

8. Dogwood Canyon – Lampe

Spanning more than 10,000 acres, Dogwood Canyon Nature Park promises something for everyone, whether you explore on a scenic walk or go horseback riding. The nature park, also home to a charming restaurant, boasts a full menu of activities, including biking, tram tours, and trout fishing.

9. Negro Leagues Baseball Museum – Kansas City

Get a fascinating glimpse of baseball history at the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum in Kansas City. You’ll need at least an hour for the self-guided tour that will lead you through the museum that’s brimming with photographs, artifacts, and text panels.

What are your favorite must-visit attractions in Missouri? Let us know in the comments! We can all probably agree that one of the best ways to appreciate all of the natural beauty that Missouri has to offer is on a scenic hike. Find all of the best hiking trails in Missouri on AllTrails.