St. Joseph, in the northwestern side of the Show Me State, is a mid-size river town full of great American history. People say the St. Joe is the "start of the Pony Express and the end of Jesse James." Known as St. Joe by locals, this nearly 200-year-old town has amazing views of the Missouri River, tons of museums, sporting attractions, great parks, and endless opportunities for fun. St.Joseph will also be one of the best places in the state to see the upcoming eclipse. Don't delay, plan your last summer getaway to often underrated St. Joseph, Missouri.
St. Joseph was the starting point into the wild west during the 1800s. This amazing town saw thousands of travelers who started along the California and Oregon Trails.
This mural in downtown St. Joe is dedicated to American westward expansion. Check out all the other beautiful murals located on buildings throughout downtown St. Joseph.
Visit the beautiful mansions on "Millionaire's Row" located in the Hall Street Historic District.
There are a few homes available for tours and others have been renovated into amazing bed and breakfasts.
The Patee House is the only landmark in St. Joseph on the National Historic Landmark. Originally, the building served as a luxury hotel and opened in 1858.
The Patee House then served as the headquarters for the Pony Express from 1860 to 1861. The Patee also housed the Union Army during the Civil War. Now the Patee House is a museum dedicated to life in the 1800's and a few other surprises.
The Missouri Theater opened in 1927 and is a great display of old Hollywood-Oriental style that was popular in the 1920's.
Catch a play, musical, or concert while visiting St. Joe.
The Robidoux Row Museum resides in the home of the city's founder Joseph Robidoux.
This museum is a great tribute to the history of the city. Admission is free for children under 12 and only 50 cents for students.
The Pony Express Stables still stand in St. Joe and are now a museum dedicated to the history of the Pony Express.
This museum is only open from April through November. History buffs will love this attraction that can only be found in St. Joseph.
Every year the National Pony Express Association re-rides the Pony Express trail starting in St. Joseph and ending in Sacramento California.
The famous American outlaw Jesse James met his match in St. Joseph. After many years on the run, James was shot down in this home by outlaw Bob Ford in 1882.
The home is now the Jesse James Home Museum. The bullet hole that delivered James' fatal blow is still visible. The museum houses items from Jesse’s life and death, as well as items from his outlaw brother Frank James and the Ford brothers.
Hyde Park is one of the most beautiful parks in St. Joseph. The beautiful grounds will make sure all your cares are miles away.
The park is full of opportunities for activities like a swimming pool, skate park, six ball fields, three tennis courts, basketball court, horseshoe courts,paved walking trail, and a playground area.
The Glore Psychiatric Museum is a super unique attraction that simply can't be missed. Plus there are three other museums located on the same campus.
The museum displays the 130 year history of the St. Joseph Psychiatric Hospital and methods of mental health treatment over the past few centuries. Be sure to visit the St. Joseph Museum, St. Joseph Black Archives, and the Doll Museum while you're there!
The Chiefs hold their training camp in St. Joe each summer at Missouri Western State University.
Some training sessions are open to the public and you can catch the Chiefs prepare for another great season.
The riverfront park is a great place to ride bikes or go for a brisk walk.
If you are an art lover, you'll enjoy the stunning Albrecht-Kemper Museum of Art.
The museum holds over 3000 pieces of art from the 18th, 19th, and 20th centuries. The museum is super affordable too with admission set at $5 for adults, $2 for children, and $1 for students.
There is still even more to see and do in St. Joseph. You will love all the history, natural beauty, and unique museums. Plus there are great shopping and dining options to please everyone on the trip!
Find the St. Joseph Convention & Visitors Bureau at 109 S. 4th Street, St. Joseph.
Have you visited St. Joseph? What were your favorite attractions? Let us know in the comments below.
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