Take This Hidden Gems Road Trip When You Want To See Some Little-Known Places In Missouri
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Beth Price-Williams
Author
No matter how long we’ve lived in Missouri, we still have so much to discover. After all, Missouri’s bursting with hidden gems, secrets that make it so much fun to live here. Discover some of the most amazing hidden gems in Missouri on this epic road trip. Take a few days for the journey, or stretch it out longer.
Here are the Google Map directions for the road trip. Customize them to meet your needs, your interests, and your timeframe. After all, the most important part of this road trip? You have fun!
Parkville Nature Sanctuary, 100 E 12 St, Parkville, MO 64152, USA
Let's kick off our epic road trip with a stop at Parkville Nature Sanctuary, an ideal destination for a brisk hike and to drink in the fresh air. Snap photos of a beautiful waterfall, for example, along the Old Kate & Waterfall Trail. The nature sanctuary welcomes guests daily from sunrise to sunset. Read more.
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Boathenge, Columbia, MO 65203, USA
England has Stonehenge, and Missouri has Boathenge. The unique roadside attraction is an art installation that appeared in Columbia in the early 1990s. Snap photos of the six boats that sit along the Katy Trail. Keep reading.
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Rock Bridge Memorial State Park, 5901 South Highway 163, Columbia, MO 65203, USA
More outdoor fun awaits at Rock Bridge State Park, home of Devil's Ice Box. Unforunately, tours are currently not permitted through the natural cave, although you can take a peek inside from the entrance. (The cave is the home of bats.) You might also want to set off on one of the more than a half of a dozen hiking trails. (The Devil Ice Box Trail will take you to the cave. Just be prepared to climb a lot of stairs.) Here's the official website of Rock Bridge State Park.
Totem Pole Trading Post, 1413 Martin Springs Dr, Rolla, MO 65401, USA
Our next stop takes us indoors at the Totem Pole Trading Post, a beloved destination for travelers since 1933. Find a slew of unique items, including Route 66-themed souvenirs, and grab a bite to eat, too. (Even if you're not too hungry, you might want to treat yourself to a delicious ice cream.) Read more.
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Route 66 Museum, 915 S Jefferson Ave, Lebanon, MO 65536, USA
Route 66 plays a significant role in the life and the history of Missouri, so a stop at a museum celebrating the famous interstate seems appropriate. Tucked inside of the Lebanon-Laclede County Library, the musuem offers fascinating insight into Route 66 through exhibits and a replica gas station. Here's the official website of Route 66 Museum.
The Precious Moments Chapel, 4321 S Chapel Rd, Carthage, MO 64836, USA
Even if you're not a fan of the cherub-faced figurines, you'll quickly discover Precious Moments Garden is a breathtaking, peaceful hidden gem. Stop by the chapel for a bit of reflection, or simply explore the lush garden. Flanked by trees, the garden paths feature such beautiful decor as Precious Moment angels playing trumpets. Bring your camera to snap photos of the delicate waterfall, the colorful gardens, and the local wildlife. Plan your visit.
Boots Court Motel, 107 S Garrison Ave, Carthage, MO 64836, USA
One glance at Boots Court Motel, and you'll likely feel a rush of nostalgia. The long-time Route 66 motel has seen a lot of history. You can even stay in the same room in which Hollywood legend Clark Gable once slept. Each room looks as though it's stuck in a delightful time warp. It's well worth a stay overnight. Learn more.
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White Grill, 200 N Commercial St, Nevada, MO 64772, USA
Now's a good time to fuel up with a delicious burger and fries at a classic burger joint. White Grill has been a popular Nevada destination since 1938 and for good reason. Its food is praise-worthy. Grab a stool at the counter, or slip into one of the booths for an old-fashioned dining adventure. Keep reading.
Sunset Trails Stables, 2100 SE Ranson Rd, Lee's Summit, MO 64082, USA
We started our epic hidden gems road trip outdoors, so let's end it the same way. This time, however, we'll set off on a scenic horseback riding adventure. Sunset Trails Stables in Lee's Summit offers tours through beautiful woodland areas. Choose from one of several guided tours. Read more.
What are your favorite hidden gems in Missouri? Let us know in the comments! When you’re up for even more adventure, hit the highway to see the seven wonders in Missouri.
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