Bonne Terre MissouriATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Bonne Terre, Missouri.
1. Bonne Terre Mine
HISTORIC UNDERGROUND ADVENTURE
The Bonne Terre Mine is one of the world's largest man-made caverns, founded in 1860 as one of history's earliest deep-earth lead mines. The mine features guided walking tours on the upper levels along old mule trails and boat tours on a billion-gallon underground lake formed by the lower three levels. National Geographic has recognized it as "One of America's Top 10 Greatest Adventures," offering visitors a constant 65-degree environment year-round with spectacular views of abandoned shafts and equipment below crystal clear water.
2. St. Francois State Park
NATURAL OUTDOOR RECREATION
St. Francois State Park offers visitors a chance to explore the natural beauty of Missouri with hiking trails, camping facilities, and outdoor activities. The park provides access to the Big River, perfect for fishing, canoeing, and kayaking adventures in a serene natural setting. Visitors can enjoy picnicking areas, wildlife viewing opportunities, and the chance to connect with nature just a short distance from Bonne Terre.
3. The Space Museum and Grissom Center
AEROSPACE HISTORY EXPLORATION
The Space Museum and Grissom Center showcases the history of space exploration and honors astronaut Gus Grissom's contributions to the space program. Visitors can view fascinating exhibits featuring space artifacts, historic memorabilia, and interactive displays that bring aerospace history to life. The museum provides educational opportunities for all ages while celebrating America's achievements in space exploration.
4. Bonne Terre Community Park
FAMILY RECREATION SPACE
Bonne Terre Community Park serves as a central gathering place for residents and visitors alike with various recreational facilities. The park features playgrounds, sports fields, and picnic areas perfect for family outings and community events. Visitors can enjoy walking paths, open green spaces, and seasonal activities in this well-maintained public park.
5. St. Francois Memorial Park
PEACEFUL REMEMBRANCE GROUNDS
St. Francois Memorial Park serves as a dedicated space honoring veterans and community members who have served their country. The park features memorial monuments, reflective spaces, and beautifully landscaped grounds for contemplation and remembrance. Visitors can pay their respects while enjoying the tranquil setting that commemorates sacrifice and service.
6. Treasure Emporium
UNIQUE SHOPPING EXPERIENCE
Treasure Emporium offers a distinctive shopping experience with an eclectic collection of antiques, collectibles, and unique finds. Visitors can browse through various vendor booths featuring vintage items, handcrafted goods, and one-of-a-kind treasures. The shop provides both locals and tourists with the opportunity to discover special mementos and gifts while exploring Bonne Terre's retail offerings.
7. Bonne Terre Mines Scuba Diving
UNDERWATER MINING EXPLORATION
Bonne Terre Mines Scuba Diving experience is known as the largest fresh water scuba diving venue in the world, offering underwater exploration of the historic mine. Divers can explore crystal clear 58-degree water with visibility extending more than 100 feet down, illuminated by 500,000 watts of stadium lighting above the water's surface. Guided diving tours take groups of nine through this unique subterranean environment, allowing visitors to view abandoned mining equipment and shafts in a truly one-of-a-kind adventure setting.
8. Missouri Mines State Historic Site
MINING HERITAGE PRESERVATION
Missouri Mines State Historic Site preserves the history of lead mining in the region through exhibits housed in the former St. Joe Minerals Corporation mine. Visitors can explore the massive old powerhouse building that contains mining machinery, equipment, and mineral specimens that tell the story of Missouri's mining industry. The site offers an educational journey through the state's rich mining heritage with interpretive displays explaining how lead was mined and processed in this once-thriving operation.
9. St. Joe State Park
OFF-ROAD RECREATION PARADISE
St. Joe State Park offers over 8,000 acres of outdoor recreation with a unique focus on off-road vehicle trails built on the tailings from former mining operations. The park features four lakes for swimming, fishing, and non-motorized boating, along with camping facilities and picnic areas for day visitors. Hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrians can also enjoy the park's extensive trail system while exploring this reclaimed mining landscape that now serves as a premier outdoor destination.
10. Crown Pointe Golf Club
PREMIER GOLFING EXPERIENCE
Crown Pointe Golf Club offers golfers a challenging 18-hole championship course designed by Gary Kern amid the rolling hills of Missouri's mineral region. The course features well-manicured fairways, strategic bunkers, and water hazards that provide both scenic beauty and a test of skill for players of all abilities. Visitors can enjoy the clubhouse amenities including a pro shop, restaurant, and practice facilities in this complete golfing destination near Bonne Terre.
11. Farmington Water Park
FAMILY AQUATIC FUN
Farmington Water Park provides a refreshing escape during summer months with multiple pools, water slides, and splash features for visitors of all ages. The facility includes a lazy river, diving boards, and dedicated children's areas designed for safe aquatic enjoyment. Families can spend a day cooling off while enjoying concessions, shaded seating areas, and organized activities at this popular regional attraction.
12. Engler Park
COMPREHENSIVE RECREATION COMPLEX
Engler Park serves as Farmington's premier outdoor recreation facility with extensive amenities including sports fields, walking trails, and playground equipment. The park features a disc golf course, fishing lake, and pavilions that host community events and private gatherings throughout the year. Visitors appreciate the well-maintained facilities and diverse recreational opportunities available in this expansive community park just a short drive from Bonne Terre.
13. Pickle Springs Natural Area
SCENIC GEOLOGICAL WONDER
Pickle Springs Natural Area showcases remarkable sandstone formations, box canyons, and natural arches along a 2-mile loop trail known as the Trail Through Time. Visitors can observe unique geological features including hoodoos, shelter caves, and seasonal waterfalls while hiking through the diverse ecosystem. The area is renowned for its rare plants, spring wildflowers, and pristine natural beauty that has earned it designation as a National Natural Landmark.
14. Historic Ste. Genevieve
FRENCH COLONIAL VILLAGE
Historic Ste. Genevieve preserves the oldest permanent European settlement in Missouri with its collection of authentic French colonial architecture dating to the 18th century. Visitors can tour historic homes including rare vertical log poteaux-en-terre buildings that showcase the region's distinct French heritage and construction methods. The charming downtown area features museums, shops, and restaurants within a National Historic Landmark District that transports visitors back to America's French colonial period.
15. Washington State Park
ANCIENT PETROGLYPHS PRESERVE
Washington State Park protects significant Native American petroglyphs created by the Mississippian culture over 1,000 years ago, with more than 250 symbolic carvings visible to visitors. The park encompasses 2,000 acres along the Big River with facilities for camping, hiking, swimming, and fishing in a scenic Ozark setting. Visitors can also explore historic structures built by the Civilian Conservation Corps during the 1930s while enjoying the diverse recreational opportunities available throughout the park.