Arrow Rock MissouriATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Arrow Rock, Missouri.
1. Arrow Rock Lyceum Theatre
HISTORIC PROFESSIONAL THEATER
The Arrow Rock Lyceum Theatre is Missouri's oldest professional regional theatre, producing popular shows from June through November. Visitors can enjoy high-quality performances in a charming historic setting. The theatre contributes significantly to Arrow Rock's cultural landscape and attracts theatre enthusiasts from across the region.
2. Arrow Rock State Historic Site
HISTORIC BOONE'S LICK COUNTRY
Arrow Rock State Historic Site allows visitors to stroll through the history of a once-bustling river town that's now a serene village. Guests can walk streets lined with the architecture of the historic 'Boone's Lick Country' and explore various historic buildings. The visitor center offers exhibits and audio-visual presentations about the history of Arrow Rock and the surrounding area.
3. J. Huston Tavern
OLDEST OPERATING RESTAURANT WEST
The J. Huston Tavern dates back to 1834 and provides a dining experience in the oldest continuously operating restaurant west of the Mississippi River. Visitors can view displays of historic furnishings in the old kitchen and upstairs bedrooms while enjoying a meal. The tavern offers a unique blend of historical ambiance and traditional dining.
4. Boone's Lick State Historic Site
HISTORIC SALT PRODUCTION
After a short hike, visitors to Boone's Lick State Historic Site can see the remnants of one of Missouri's first and most important industries: salt. The site showcases how timber and rolling green hills drew settlers to this area for salt production. Visitors can learn about this crucial early Missouri industry that helped shape the region's development.
5. Missouri Folk Art Shop and Gallery
HISTORIC HOME ART GALLERY
The Missouri Folk Art Shop and Gallery is located inside the beautiful historic Miller-Bradford home, originally built in 1839 and masterfully restored. The gallery showcases traditional Missouri folk art from local and regional artists. Visitors can browse and purchase unique handcrafted items while appreciating the historical significance of the building itself.
6. George Caleb Bingham House
FAMOUS AMERICAN PAINTER'S HOME
The George Caleb Bingham House was the residence of the renowned American painter and Arrow Rock citizen George Caleb Bingham. Visitors can explore the home where this significant 19th-century artist lived and worked. The house provides insight into Bingham's life and the cultural history of Arrow Rock during a formative period in American art.
7. Arrow Rock Main Street Boardwalk
HISTORIC SHOPPING DISTRICT
The Arrow Rock Main Street Boardwalk features period shops where visitors can browse and purchase unique items and souvenirs. The boardwalk captures the charm and atmosphere of 19th-century Missouri with preserved historic structures. Visitors can enjoy specialty shops, antiques, and local crafts in this picturesque setting.
8. Arrow Rock Museum and Visitors Center
HISTORICAL EXHIBITS AND INFORMATION
The Arrow Rock Museum and Visitors Center offers exhibits and audio-visual presentations about the history of Arrow Rock and the 'Boone's Lick Country.' Visitors can learn about the area's significance to Native Americans, explorers, and early westward travelers. The center provides valuable context for understanding Arrow Rock's role in American history and westward expansion.
9. Black History Museum
AFRICAN AMERICAN HERITAGE SITE
The Black History Museum in Arrow Rock preserves and celebrates the African American heritage and contributions to the region. Exhibits highlight the experiences and accomplishments of Black residents throughout Arrow Rock's history. The museum provides an important perspective on the complete historical narrative of this National Historic Landmark village.
10. Dr. John Sappington Museum
MEDICAL PIONEER TRIBUTE
The Dr. John Sappington Museum honors the legacy of an important medical pioneer who made significant contributions to treating malaria in the 19th century. Visitors can learn about Dr. Sappington's revolutionary quinine pills that helped combat the deadly disease throughout the Mississippi and Missouri River valleys. The museum showcases medical practices of the era and Sappington's influence on frontier healthcare.
11. The Missouri River Bird Observatory
AVIAN CONSERVATION CENTER
The Missouri River Bird Observatory offers visitors the opportunity to learn about and observe native bird species in their natural habitat. The observatory conducts research and conservation efforts to protect the diverse bird populations along the Missouri River corridor. Bird enthusiasts can participate in guided walks, educational programs, and citizen science initiatives throughout the year.
12. Big Muddy National Fish and Wildlife Refuge
MISSOURI RIVER ECOSYSTEM PRESERVE
The Big Muddy National Fish and Wildlife Refuge preserves and restores natural Missouri River habitats near Arrow Rock. Visitors can explore wetlands, forests, and grasslands while observing diverse wildlife including migratory birds, deer, and aquatic species. The refuge offers hiking, fishing, wildlife photography, and educational opportunities about river ecosystems and conservation.
13. Arrow Rock Historic Courthouse
19TH CENTURY JUDICIAL BUILDING
The Arrow Rock Historic Courthouse stands as a testament to the village's importance as a regional center in the 19th century. The well-preserved structure offers visitors insight into the judicial and governmental systems of frontier Missouri. Tours of the courthouse highlight its architectural features and historical significance to the development of Arrow Rock.
14. Friends of Arrow Rock Headquarters
HISTORIC PRESERVATION CENTER
The Friends of Arrow Rock Headquarters serves as the center for preservation efforts in this National Historic Landmark village. Visitors can learn about ongoing conservation projects and the organization's role in maintaining Arrow Rock's historical integrity since 1959. The headquarters offers information about historic buildings, walking tours, and special events throughout the year.
15. Lewis and Clark Trail Historic Site
CORPS OF DISCOVERY LANDMARK
The Lewis and Clark Trail Historic Site commemorates Arrow Rock's role in the Corps of Discovery's journey, where William Clark documented the area as 'The Prairie of Arrows' in 1804. Interpretive displays explain how the limestone bluff served as an important landmark on the Missouri River for Native Americans, explorers, and early westward travelers. Visitors can learn about Clark's return in 1807 when he noted that the prairie would be a prime location for a fort and town.