Editors' Picks: 20 of the Best Things to Do in Missouri!
In the language of the Sioux, the name "Missouri" roughly translates to "wooden canoe people" -- but most of us know it as "The Show Me State."
At the 1904 World's Fair in St. Louis, the world got their first taste of the ice cream cone, cotton candy and Dr. Pepper (quite a culinary trifecta). St. Louis is also home to the Gateway Arch, the largest manmade national monument in the country.
Among the famous folks born in Missouri are President Harry Truman, singer Sheryl Crow, actor John Goodman and of course, iconic American humorist Mark Twain.
There's lots to see and do in this fascinating state, from diving in an underground cavern to exploring Civil War history. Here are 20 of the coolest things to get you started.
The World's Biggest Titanic Exhibit
Everyone is fascinated with the Titanic tragedy, and this display offers one of the largest collections of artifacts from the doomed liner. Upon entry, you're given the name of an actual passenger; at the end of your tour, check to see if "you" survived the sinking. (Branson)
National Tiger Sanctuary
Tigers from various distressing situations have found a safe home here, and visitors can get up close and learn more about these magnificent animals. You can even feed some of them. It's way better than seeing them at the zoo. (Chestnutridge)
The Butterfly House
Butterflies and springtime are synonymous. Enjoy these lovely creatures at the Missouri Botanical Garden. More than a thousand of them fly free inside the conservatory. (Chesterfield)
Laumeier Sculpture Park
This free, open-air museum encompasses over 100 acres. At every turn, you'll see something fascinating - and the park-like settting is also pretty gorgeous. (Sunset Hills)
Roaring River State Park
There are plenty of hiking trails….but fishermen will love the chance to hook a bounty of rainbow and brown trout in its waters. Visit the hatchery, too. (Cassville)
Tour The Budweiser Plant
Anheuser-Busch has been a fixture of American brewing since it's founding in 1852. Take a tour of the iconic brewery, and learn why its such a beloved brand. (St. Louis)
The Gateway Arch
The 630-foot arch is one of the most recognizable features of the state, and represents the nation's audacious push westward. (St. Louis)
Lake Of The Ozarks
The largest lake in Missouri draws folks who love to boat, hike and (especially) fish; some of the best fishing in the state can be found within its waters. The shoreline also features plenty of fun places to shop and chow down on local grub.
Missouri Civil War Museum
No less than Robert E. Lee was once stationed here at the site of what's now a museum. There are many original weapons, uniforms and related gear on display, as well as costumes from the quintessential Civil War movie, "Gone With the Wind." (St. Louis)
Bonne Terre Mine
This former lead mine is now known as one of the largest freshwater dive locations (the nickname is "Billion Gallon Lake"). If you're not the aquatic sort, you can explore it via walking or boating tours. (Bonne Terre)
The Mark Twain Boyhood Museum & Home
Samuel Clemens and Missouri are entwined, and this wonderful museum showcases his early years in Hannibal - and more. Amongst the cool artifacts is his famous white coat, believed to be the only one still in existence. (Hannibal)
Missouri Wineries
There are something like 80 vineyards in the state, in a tradition dating back about 175 years. The state "wine trail" lets you experience things you won't find anywhere else --- like visiting wine cellars that were dug by hand long before the Civil War.
Truman Presidential Museum And Library
He was "the man from Independence," and you can experience his life before and after the Presidency through many fascinating exhibits. (Independence)
The National World War I Museum And Memorial
It was "the Great War," the one that was supposed to end all future conflicts (sadly, it didn't). Over 75,000 objects and documents (one of the most comprehensive in the world) create a narrative of one of the most horrific periods of the 20th century. (Kansas City)
Pythian Castle
Originally built in 1913 as a home for widows and orphans, and later used as a place to entertain servicemen during the war, this quirky building has since become a popular destination for "ghost tours" and more. (Springfield)
Arabia Steamboat Museum
This 1856 steamboat was discovered buried in a field, and has since been restored to showcase the 200 tons of intact, pre-Civil War cargo that was found still aboard. You can see dishes, sewing objects, and the skeleton of a mule that was the ship's only casualty. (Kansas City)
Pony Express Stables
Long before e-mail and Federal Express, men saddled up and rode like hell to deliver important communications. This museum lets you trace the routes they took and even sit on some of the original saddles. (St. Joseph)
Vaile Mansion
Back in the 1880s, the wealthy Vaile family lived large in this home, which features 9 fireplaces, elegantly-painted ceilings and some of the earliest indoor plumbing in the country. It's a great snapshot in time - even if they didn't have wi-fi. (Independence)
Museum Of Transportation
There was a time when the only way we got around was by our own two feet. This wonderful museum showcases the variety of options we've since developed, from trains to aircraft to cars, fire trucks, trolley cars and much more. (St. Louis)
Sledding In Art Hill
There are photos dating to the 1904 World's Fair showing happy people sliding down this snow-covered hill in Forest Park - and whenever the white stuff flies, you'll find folks grabbing sleds, snowboards - even trash can lids and folding chairs -- to indulge in a good ride. Go for it. (St. Louis)
