12 Magnificent Hidden Gems to Discover in Missouri This Year

Any time of the year is good for reflection, although we typically revisit our goals and dreams at the dawn of a new year. Whether it's the cold days of January or the balmy months of summer, there's never a bad time to start going on adventures. These 12 magnificent hidden gems in Missouri, one for each month of the year, allow us to discover a new side of the state we may have never known otherwise. Even if we know about these gems, we will likely discover something new at these fun places to visit in Missouri.

1. January – Eureka

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 in Missouri that features a ski resort with skiing, snow tubing, and snowboarding; a farm with ice skating, and beautiful scenic hikes.

2. February – Clarksville

Make your way to the adorable small town of Clarksville this winter for a one-of-a-kind winter adventure in Missouri. The town is perhaps best known for being one of the premier spots to view bald eagles during the winter. However, the best viewing times run from December through the beginning of February, so try to plan a visit then. Clarksville also hosts an Eagle Days celebration each winter, usually at the end of January, that features a full menu of family-friendly fun, including shows with bald eagles, activities for the kiddos, and exhibits.

3. March – Wildflower Trail at Mastodon State Historic Site

As we march toward spring, we’ll start spending more time outdoors. If you time it just right, you can catch the wildflowers blooming along the beautiful Wildflower Trail at Mastodon State Historic Site, one of the most unique places in Missouri. The scenic trail tallies just over a half-mile and, while beautiful in each season, bursts with color during the spring. Don't forget your camera.

4. April – Roark Waterfall

Waterfalls tend to be at their most powerful after the snowmelt during the spring. That makes April the perfect time to hit the two-mile Roark Creek Waterfall Trail in Branson, one of the best hikes in Missouri for kids. The trail earns a moderately challenging rating, mostly due to several stream crossings, rocky terrain, and mud after it rains and snows. Wear sturdy hiking boots that you don't mind getting wet and muddy. Despite its obstacles, the Roark Creek Waterfall Trail is considered kid-friendly, allows leashed dogs, and boasts such breathtaking scenery as wildflowers and streams.

5. May – Snowflex Tubing Hill

Snow tubing’s not just for winter, at least at this unique park in Missouri. The Snowflex Tubing Hill at Wolfe Mountain, the only Snowflex park in the Midwest, 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. If you're up for even more fun, buckle in for ziplining. Wolfe Mountain offers several ziplining adventures, including a canopy tour.

6. June – Long Row Lavender Farm

Meander past rows and rows of lavender at Long Row Lavender Farm, a 15-acre farm that’s a popular summertime destination and one of the most unique places in Missouri. Snap photos and selfies as you explore the lavender farm, bring a picnic, and soak up the fresh summer air. Or, if you prefer, stop by the café, where you'll find such classics as soup and sandwiches, for a delicious bite to eat. Save some time to explore the gift shop that sells a variety of lavender-centric products.

7. Summit Waves - Lee's Summit

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 Lee's Summit, for one of the most fun day trips in Missouri. The community waterpark features a pool, a wave pool, and a water play area for the kids. My favorite way to relax on a hot summer day is with my feet dangling in the cool water as I float on a tube on a lazy river. When you're not floating on the lazy river or riding the waves, soak up the sun while enjoying a tasty bite from the concession stand, where you'll find such favorites as cheeseburgers, pizza, and nachos, or cool off with an ice cream sandwich.

8. August – Castor River Shut-Ins

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.

9. September – River of Life Farm

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 Farm, one of the most unique places in Missouri. Check into one of the cozy treehouses or cabins for a one-of-a-kind autumn adventure. When you're not relaxing in your enchanting home away from home, explore the grounds of the farm on a leisurely hike, go kayaking, or spend the evening stargazing. The sky above the River of Life Farm is free of light pollution, making it easy to see the constellations.

10. October – Carthage

Chances are you’ve heard of Carthage, one of the most magnificent hidden gems in Missouri, and have probably traveled through it. However, did you know it's America’s Maple Leaf City and 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.

11. November – Hannibal

Hannibal is beloved and perhaps best known to literature fans as Mark Twain’s boyhood home. However, every Christmas, this darling Missouri town 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.

12. December – Stone Park Resort

End the year with a beautiful drive through a hidden gem lights display at Stone Park Resort. The magical lights display boasts more than one million lights and around 100 individual scenes that will put even the Grinch in the Christmas spirit.

What are your favorite hidden gems in Missouri? Let us know by nominating them, and we might feature one, or more, in a future article. If you’ve got a sweet tooth, how about hitting the road on this delightful dessert trail in Missouri? Before leaving, though, consult the OnlyInYour State road trip essentials packing list.