12 Magnificent Hidden Gems To Discover In Missouri This Year
Any time of the year is a good time for reflection, although we typically revisit our goals and dreams at the dawn of a new year. Regardless of what time of the year we’re in, it’s perfect to start going on new adventures. These 12 magnificent hidden gems in Missouri – one for each month of the year – give us the opportunity to discover a new side of the state we may never knew existed. And even if we do know about these gems, we’re sure to discover something new on our next visit.
A snowy January promises a ton of fun, especially in the small town of Eureka. Plan a day or a weekend visit to this enchanting small town that features a ski resort with skiing, snow tubing, and snowboarding; a farm with ice skating, and beautiful scenic hikes. Read more about this hidden gem small town in Missouri in our previous article.
Eureka, MO, USA
Make your way to the adorable small town of Clarksville this winter for a one-of-a-kind winter adventure. The town is perhaps best known for being one of the best spots to view bald eagles during the wintertime. However, the best viewing times run from December to January, so make sure you visit then. Clarksville also hosts an Eagles Day celebration each winter, usually at the end of January. Discover a hidden gem at this winter wonderland in Missouri.
Clarksville, MO 63336, USA
As we march toward spring, we’ll start spending more time outdoors. Time it just right to catch the wildflowers blooming along this beautiful wildflower trail at Mastodon State Historic Site. The scenic trail tallies just over a half-mile and is fun to explore each season. Read more about this wildflower trail in Missouri in our previous article.
Mastodon State Historic Site, 1050 Charles J Becker Dr, Imperial, MO 63052, USA
Waterfalls tend to be at their most powerful during the spring, after the snowmelt. That makes April the perfect time to hit the two-mile Roark Creek Waterfall Trail in Branson. It’s an easy trek that’s perfect for the kiddos and features plenty of pretty scenery. Learn more about this kid-friendly waterfall hike in Missouri in our previous article.
Roark Waterfall Hiking Trail Parking lot, Overlook Dr, Branson, MO 65616, USA
Snow tubing’s not just for winter, at least at this unique Missouri park. The Snowflex Tubing Hill at Wolfe Mountain means zipping down a hill on a tube all year round. Grab a tube, and glide down the hill over and over…it’s a fun adventure for kids and adults of all ages. Plan your trip to this one-of-a-kind tubing hill in Missouri.
Branson Zipline at Wolfe Mountain, 2339 US-65, Walnut Shade, MO 65771, USA
Meander through rows and rows of lavender at Long Row Lavender Farm, a 15-acre farm that’s a popular summertime destination. Snap photos and selfies as you explore the lavender farm, and bring a picnic. Or, if you prefer, stop by the café for a delicious bite to eat. Read more about this lavender farm in Missouri in our previous article.
26549 S Stracks Church Rd, Wright City, MO 63390, USA
July usually means some scorchers that have us scrambling to find the best ways to stay cool. When you need a break from the A/C, make your way to Summit Waves in Lees Summit. The community waterpark features a pool, a lazy river, a water play area for the kids…and more. Learn more about this waterpark in Missouri in our previous article.
Summit Waves, 120 SW Blue Pkwy, Lee's Summit, MO 64063, USA
Summer wouldn’t be summer without a trip to an old-fashioned swimming hole in Missouri, and Castor River Shut-Ins is one of the best. Wear water shoes and bring all of your swimming gear to this crystal-clear swimming hole that also features tiny waterfalls. Read more about this swimming hole in Missouri in our previous article.
Castor River Shut-Ins, Fredericktown, MO 63645, USA
As we say goodbye to summer, we look forward to the colorful days of fall. One of the best places to admire the fall foliage is River of Life Farms. Check into one of the cozy treehouses for a one-of-a-kind autumn adventure. Take a peek at the fall beauty that awaits when you stay at this farm in Missouri.
River of Life Farm, 1746 River Of Life Drive, Dora, MO 65637, USA
Chances are you’ve heard of Carthage and probably traveled through it. However, did you know it's America’s Maple Leaf City and it hosts an annual autumn festival every October? That alone makes it the perfect destination in October. It’s also home to Precious Moments Chapel and the Battle of Carthage Civil War Museum. Read more about this hidden gem town in Missouri.
Carthage, MO 64836, USA
Hannibal is beloved as Mark Twain’s boyhood home. However, every Christmas it turns back the pages of time with an old-fashioned Christmas celebration. Even if you can’t visit for the full menu of Christmas events, like the living windows, make it a point to stop by after a fresh snowfall. Discover why this Missouri town is a Christmas gem.
Hannibal, MO 63401, USA
End the year with a beautiful drive through a hidden gem lights display at Stone Park Resort. The magical lights display boasts more than 100 individual scenes and will put even the Grinch in the Christmas spirit. Read more about this hidden gem in Missouri.
Stone Park, Box 420, 8614 Berry Rd, Bonne Terre, MO 63628, USA
8614 Berry Rd, Bonne Terre, MO 63628, USA
What are your favorite hidden gems in Missouri? Let us know in the comments! If you’ve got a sweet tooth, how about hitting the road on this delightful dessert trail in Missouri?
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