12 Magnificent Hidden Gems To Discover In Missouri This Year
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Beth Price-Williams
Author
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 have never known to exist. And even if we do know about these gems, we’re sure to discover something new on our next visit.
Eureka, MO, USA
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. Get a closer look at this hidden gem small town in Missouri.
Take a look at the snow in Eureka:
Take a look at the snow in Eureka:
Clarksville, MO 63336, 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 Eagle Days celebration each winter, usually at the end of January. Discover a hidden gem at this winter wonderland in Missouri.
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Mastodon State Historic Site, 1050 Charles J Becker Dr, Imperial, MO 63052, 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. Discover more about one of the best hidden places in Missouri.
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Roark Waterfall Hiking Trail Parking lot, Overlook Dr, Branson, MO 65616, 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 one of the best hidden gems in Branson, Missouri.
Come along on a virtual hike to these lovely falls:
Come along on a virtual hike to these lovely falls:
Branson Zipline at Wolfe Mountain, 2339 US-65, Walnut Shade, MO 65771, 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.
26549 S Stracks Church Rd, Wright City, MO 63390, 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.
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Summit Waves, 120 SW Blue Pkwy, Lee's Summit, MO 64063, 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. Discover more about this waterpark in Missouri.
Castor River Shut-Ins, Fredericktown, MO 63645, 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. Find out more about this swimming hole in Missouri.
Get an aerial view of this gorgeous area:
Get an aerial view of this gorgeous area:
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River of Life Farm, 1746 River Of Life Drive, Dora, MO 65637, 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.
Carthage, MO 64836, 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. Get more details about this hidden gem town in Missouri.
Hannibal, MO 63401, 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.
Stone Park, Box 420, 8614 Berry Rd, Bonne Terre, MO 63628, 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. Take a closer look at this hidden gem in Missouri.
What are your favorite hidden gems in Missouri? Let us know in the comments what you think the best hidden gems in Missouri are! If you’ve got a sweet tooth, how about hitting the road on this delightful dessert trail in Missouri?
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More to Explore
Places To Visit In Missouri
What are the most incredible natural wonders in Missouri?
The most incredible natural wonders in Missouri include:
- Current River. This river is one of the first rivers to be designated a National Park in America. The water is clean and clear and perfect for kayaking.
- Johnson’s Shut-Ins. This recreation area spans 8,647 acres and contains a geological history going back 1.4 billion years.
- Elephant Rocks State Park. This geologic reserve has massive granite boulders, some of which actually look like elephants.
- Onondaga Caves. These caverns contain some of the most beautiful mineral formations in the country.
Find out more about the most incredible natural wonders in Missouri.
What are the most hidden natural attractions in Missouri?
The most hidden natural attractions in Missouri include:
- Prairie State Park. This is a place where you can hike along several trails surrounded by wildflowers and bison.
- Bluff Dwellers Cave. These caves are spread over 3,000 feet and are full of history and beauty and there‘s a nearby museum.
- Lover’s Leap. Climb to this overlook and see stunning views of the small town of Hannibal and the valley and river that surround it.
- Engelmann Woods Natural Area. There is an old-growth forest here as well as a cave and vibrant wildflowers.
Learn more about the most hidden natural attractions in Missouri.
What are the most beautiful places in Missouri?
The most beautiful places in Missouri include:
- Blue Spring in Eminence. This is the deepest freshwater spring in Missouri and has bright turquoise waters.
- Taum Sauk Mountain near Ironton. This is the highest point in Missouri and has amazing panoramic views of the lush forests.
- Hercules Glades Wilderness area near Bradleyville. These limestone glades have several beautiful waterfalls carved over the years by Long Creek.
- Powder Valley Nature Center in Kirkwood. This is a wonderful place to go for natural beauty and to spot all kinds of wildlife.
Discover more about the most beautiful places in Missouri.