Missouri’s got quite a few jaw-dropping hidden gems, including Bonne Terre Mine. The historic former lead mine has beckoned visitors with perhaps the best boat ride in Missouri. Deep below the ground, the former mine is also home to the world’s largest freshwater scuba diving spot in the world. Whether you’re visiting for a Missouri boat ride or to go scuba diving, you’re in for an unforgettable adventure at Bonne Terre Mine in Missouri. Let’s dive deep into one of the best things to do in Missouri.

Bonne Terre Mine draws curious visitors with its walking and boat tour of the former lead mine, one of the largest in the world that opened in 1860.
Google/Bonne Terre Mine
The man-made mine boasts the massive Billion Gallon Lake, which comes with some pretty impressive stats. Billion Gallon Lake consists of one billion gallons and spans 17 miles.
Trip Advisor/management
Even if you don't go on a diving adventure, you can admire the crystal clear water on your underground boat and walking tour. To start your epic underground adventure, you'll descend down the 65-step staircase.
Google/Jon Lunsford
Once underground the fun really begins as you start your approximately 55-minute boat and walking tour. The tour provides a unique glimpse of such artifacts as...
Trip Advisor/L. Thompson
Ore carts deep below the water's surface, an elevator, and wrapped pillars. Look above you to admire the once bustling, now abandoned, wooden catwalks.
Google/Toffet Vii

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Look over the side of your boat and into the water - as far as 300 feet down - to get a glimpse of the abandoned mine tools from more than five decades ago.
Trip Advisor/SuperMom1656
Your tour will include lively narration, giving you a peek inside the mine's rich history. You'll also learn some fun tidbits about the film and TV spots that have been recorded here.
Google/Gabe Stone
If you're a certified scuba diver, you'll likely want to dive deep into the crystal clear Billion Gallon Lake for an up-close view of the former mine.
Google/Bonne Terre Mine
The water is even billed as offering "100-foot visibility," making for a one-of-a-kind diving experience.
Trip Advisor/management
Find days, hours, and more information on the official website of Bonne Terre Mine.
Trip Advisor/Mom24Men

See what it’s like to dive deep into the waters of the mine :

Do you have any favorite, unique boat rides in Missouri like the water tour of Bonne Terre Mine? Let us know in the comments! On the lookout for more unique adventures? Here’s another wonderful Missouri boat ride you’re sure to enjoy.

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More to Explore

Things To Do In Missouri

William Suphan | February 16, 2023

What are the strangest roadside attractions in Missouri?

The strangest roadside attractions in Missouri include:

  • Boathenge. This is a replica of Stonehenge that is entirely made out of boats. You’ll find it in the town of Easley.
  • Metal Dinosaur. This is a dinosaur made out of scrap metal and there’s also a metal warrior with a horned helmet and a bow and arrow hunting it.
  • The Awakening. This is a metal sculpture of a giant either clawing his way out of or sinking into the earth.
  • Castle Northmoor. Located in Kansas City, this strange castle has a tower with stone bear heads and oil paintings of knights.

Learn more about the strangest roadside attractions in Missouri. 

What are the coolest underrated attractions in Missouri?

The coolest underrated attractions in Missouri include:

  • The National Museum of Toys and Miniatures. This is the biggest collection of antique toys in the nation and is a wonderful place for nostalgia.
  • Seal Life. This aquarium in Kansas city has over 30 exhibits where you can learn about and interact with all manner of marine life.
  • Laura Ingalls Wilder Home and Museum. Come see the place where the “Little House on the Prairie” books were written.
  • Lone Elk Park. If you enjoy wildlife, come here to see elk, deer, wild turkeys, bison, and much more. 

Discover more about the coolest underrated attractions in Missouri.  

What are the coolest hidden attractions in Missouri?

The coolest hidden attractions in Missouri include:

  • Painted Rock Conservation Area. You’ll need to do a bit of a hike to get here, but the views are well worth it.
  • McBaine Burr Oak. This gigantic and magnificent old oak tree is over 300 years old and is the oldest living tree in Missouri.
  • Hickory Canyons Natural Area. Located near Ste. Genevieve, this area has several trails with beautiful waterfalls along the way.
  • Mizumoto Japanese Stroll Garden. Few things are as serene and lovely as a well-manicured Japanese garden and this one is no exception.

Find out more about the coolest hidden attractions in Missouri. 

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Bonne Terre, MO 63628, USA