Drive To 6 Incredible Summer Spots Throughout Missouri On This Scenic Weekend Road Trip
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Beth Price-Williams
Author
Summertime and road trips just go together like peanut butter and jelly. Even if we don’t have a ton of time to travel, we might be able to carve out a couple of nights away from home. When you’re ready to hit the highway, follow this road trip to six incredible summer spots in Missouri that are sure to summon your inner adventurer.
Here are the Google Map directions, which are easy to customize to your needs, interests, and timeframe. Remember to always check destinations to ensure they are open before you set off.
We begin our epic summer road trip with a leisurely stroll at the enchanting Hosta Garden, part of the Springfield Botanical Gardens. Meander through the garden that's dotted with lush greenery and features a small but gorgeous waterfall. If you get tired or just want to drink in the natural beauty, snag a seat on one of the benches. Can you think of a more relaxing - or a prettier - way to start a summer road trip? Find more information on Hosta Garden.
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Now that we're thoroughly relaxed, let's add some adrenaline-inducing thrills to our itinerary. Our next stop takes us to Branson Landing and Parakeet Pete's for a bit of ziplining and some of the most gorgeous aerial views in the area. Parakeet Pete's offers both ziplining and its Steampunk Balloon. The balloon will take you 188 feet above the ground for more stellar views. You might also want to grab a bite to eat or do a bit of shopping while you're at Branson Landing. Plan your visit on the official website of Parakeet Pete's.
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A summer road trip wouldn't be complete without a few hours at the beach. Our next stop takes us to the soft sand of Moonshine Beach. The beach leads straight into the refreshing water of Table Rock Lake. Bring along your beach chair, towel, and umbrella, so you can find a quiet stretch of sand on which to relax. The beach also features a volleyball net. Stop by the official website of Moonshine Beach for more information.
We'll now make our way to Big Cedar Lodge for a good night's sleep. You have quite a few choices when it comes to acommodation, including lodge rooms, cottages, and private log cabins. Once you're checked in, check out the various dining options, or order a meal through room service. The lodge also features a full menu of amenities, including swimming pools, paddleboats, mini golf, and shuttle service. Check out the official website of Big Cedar Lodge.
When you're ready to hit the road, make your way to Grand Gulf State Park, known as Missouri's Little Grand Canyon, a natural wonder that's worth the stop. The sprawling park also features a natural bridge, hiking trails (that lead to beautiful views of the Little Grand Canyon), and picnic tables, if you want to bring a picnic along. Learn more about Grand Gulf State Park.
Let's end this road trip on an epic note - with an overnight at River of Life Farm. The farm offers unique accommodations, including treehouses. However, before you tuck yourself in for the night, check out some of the farm's activities. Spend time hiking, floating on the North Fork River, or canoeing. When the sun goes down, you'll quickly discover that River of Life Farm boasts some of the clearest skies in Missouri for stargazing. Find more information on the official website of River of Life Farm.
What are some other incredible summer spots in Missouri that are your favorites? Let us know in the comments! Then take a peek at all that Dogwood Nature Park in Lampe has to offer.
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Featured Addresses
Hosta Garden, S Creek Greenway Trail, Springfield, MO 65807, USA
Parakeet Pete's Waterfront Zipline, 1113 Branson Landing Blvd, Branson, MO 65616, USA
Moonshine Beach, Sunset Cove Township, MO 65616, USA
Big Cedar Lodge, Ridgedale, MO 65739, USA
Grand Gulf State Park, State Hwy W, Koshkonong, MO 65692, USA
River of Life Farm, 1746 River Of Life Drive, Dora, MO 65637, USA