Bonne Terre Missouri
ATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Bonne Terre, Missouri.
1. Gateway Arch
ARCHITECTURAL WONDER | ST LOUIS MO
Designed by Eero Saarinen, the Gateway Arch is an extraordinary feat of engineering and design that stands as a beacon of progress. Visitors can ride its tram for unparalleled views, watch documentaries about its construction, or explore exhibits highlighting its historical significance. This stainless steel structure embodies both beauty and purpose.
2. Missouri Botanical Garden
HISTORIC BEAUTY | ST LOUIS MO
Established by philanthropist Henry Shaw, this landmark garden showcases timeless elegance through attractions like the Gladney Rose Garden and Magnolia Grove. Its Sachs Museum features botanical art and artifacts that celebrate the intersection of science and creativity throughout history.
3. Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art
WORLD-CLASS ART | KANSAS CITY MO
Celebrated for its extensive Asian art collection and diverse global exhibits, the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art is a premier cultural institution. Its architectural marvels include the historic Beaux-Arts building and modern Bloch Building. Visitors can enjoy free admission, gourmet dining, and engaging events year-round.
4. Meramec Caverns
SCENIC ESCAPE | STANTON MO
Located near the Meramec River, this cavern system blends geological marvels with historical intrigue, including its role in the Underground Railroad. Guided tours reveal stunning formations like the Wine Table while patriotic light shows add a unique touch. Visitors can enjoy outdoor recreation or relax in riverside accommodations.
5. Ozark National Scenic Riverways Park
BIODIVERSITY HAVEN | VAN BUREN MO
Ozark National Scenic Riverways Park supports a wide variety of aquatic, terrestrial, and subterranean habitats within its 80,000 acres of protected land. Its rivers are designated Outstanding National Resource Waters due to their ecological importance. Wildlife diversity is further enriched by elk reintroduction efforts within the park's boundaries.
6. Old Chain of Rocks Bridge
ICONIC BEND BRIDGE | ST LOUIS MO
Known for its distinctive 30-degree turn, the Old Chain of Rocks Bridge is a historic marvel crossing the Mississippi River. Originally built in 1929 as a toll bridge, it now welcomes walkers and cyclists as part of the Route 66 experience. Its towering structure provides breathtaking views of the river and surrounding landscapes.
7. Missouri Great River Road
MISSISSIPPI HERITAGE | EASTERN MISSOURI
The Missouri Great River Road provides an immersive experience into the state's heritage, tracing the Mississippi River's winding path through historic towns and landmarks. Visitors can explore Hannibal's literary legacy, St. Louis's vibrant city life, and Cape Girardeau's natural wonders. This route is perfect for those seeking both adventure and reflection.
8. Loess Bluffs National Wildlife Refuge
MIGRATION HOTSPOT | MOUND CITY MO
Designated as an Internationally Important Bird Area, Loess Bluffs National Wildlife Refuge hosts hundreds of thousands of migratory birds each year. Flocks of snow geese create breathtaking sights and sounds at Loess Bluffs during peak migration seasons. Visitors can explore the refuge through hiking trails or the Wild Goose Auto Tour Loop for unforgettable experiences.
9. Harry S. Truman Presidential Library & Museum
RENOVATED EXPERIENCE | INDEPENDENCE MO
The Harry S. Truman Presidential Library & Museum has undergone a million renovation to enhance its storytelling capabilities and visitor engagement. Exhibits now feature cutting-edge technology to depict pivotal moments like the Korean War and Cold War strategies. This Independence attraction sets the standard for presidential libraries.
10. TITANIC Museum Attraction
SHIPWRECK LEGACY | BRANSON MO
TITANIC Museum Attraction pays tribute to the ill-fated voyage with its authentic recreations and extensive artifact collection. Guests can step onto sloping decks that simulate sinking conditions or view images from expeditions to the wreck site led by museum founder John Joslyn. This attraction offers both historical depth and emotional resonance for visitors of all ages.
11. Silver Dollar City
ROLLER COASTER HAVEN | BRANSON MO
Thrill-seekers flock to Silver Dollar City for its record-breaking roller coasters like Outlaw Run and PowderKeg. Beyond the rides, Silver Dollar City offers live entertainment, artisan demonstrations, and historical attractions like Marvel Cave. Dining at Silver Dollar City features award-winning barbecue and festival treats that keep guests coming back for more.
12. City Museum
FUN FOR ALL | ST LOUIS MO
With its mix of artistic installations and playful attractions like spiral chutes and climbing towers, City Museum delights visitors young and old alike. The museum's rooftop offers additional thrills with unique sculptures and panoramic views of St. Louis. City Museum is an iconic destination that fosters joy through discovery and playfulness.
13. Mark Twain National Forest
UNPLUGGED RETREAT | SOUTHERN MO
For those looking to unplug from modern life, Mark Twain National Forest offers remote wilderness areas and quiet camping spots surrounded by nature's beauty. Its sparkling rivers and scenic vistas provide a peaceful backdrop for relaxation or adventure. A visit to Mark Twain National Forest rejuvenates both body and soul.
14. National WWI Museum and Memorial
A MUST-VISIT | KANSAS CITY MO
The National WWI Museum and Memorial is an essential stop for history enthusiasts seeking to understand the Great War's legacy through immersive exhibits like trench recreations or sound booths featuring period recordings. Rotating exhibitions add fresh perspectives on wartime culture while permanent galleries anchor visitors in historical depth. Ascending the Liberty Memorial Tower is a fitting conclusion to this impactful experience.
15. Fantastic Caverns
ACCESSIBLE ADVENTURE | SPRINGFIELD MO
Fantastic Caverns offers an accessible way to experience the beauty of Missouri's underground with its Jeep-drawn tram tours. The hour-long journey highlights breathtaking formations like stalagmites and soda straws while sharing the cave's rich history. Its year-round availability makes it a must-see destination for all visitors to Springfield.
16. Missouri History Museum
ST LOUIS HERITAGE | ST LOUIS MO
Located in Forest Park, the Missouri History Museum showcases the rich history of St. Louis through interactive exhibits on topics like the 1904 World's Fair and Charles Lindbergh's Spirit of St. Louis. Visitors can explore rotating displays alongside permanent collections that celebrate local culture and innovation. Admission is free, making it an accessible destination for history buffs.
17. The Fugitive Beach
WATER FUN | ROLLA MO
The Fugitive Beach transforms a former quarry into a vibrant water attraction with sandy beaches, swimming areas, and cliff diving spots. Visitors can enjoy volleyball courts or relax under shaded pavilions while taking in scenic views of the surrounding hills. It's an ideal destination for summer fun in Missouri.
18. Miner Mike's Inc
FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT | OSAGE BEACH MO
Miner Mike's Inc is a family-friendly indoor amusement center offering arcade games, rides, and interactive attractions themed around mining adventures. Kids love exploring tunnels on Miner Mike's Train or challenging friends at bumper cars or laser tag arenas. It's a perfect spot for fun-filled family outings in Osage Beach!
19. Alley Spring & Mill
HISTORIC MILL & SPRINGS | EMINENCE MO
Alley Spring & Mill combines natural beauty with historical charm as visitors explore its turquoise spring waters and iconic red mill listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The mill offers seasonal tours showcasing original equipment used to grind wheat into flour in bygone days. Surrounding trails provide scenic hikes through caves, cliffs, and rushing streams for an unforgettable outdoor adventure.
20. Pickle Springs Natural Area
GEOLOGICAL WONDER | STE GENEVIEVE MO
Pickle Springs Natural Area features the Trail Through Time, a two-mile loop showcasing 500-million-year-old sandstone formations and unique geologic features like box canyons and arches. Visitors can enjoy scenic waterfalls and rare flora while exploring this National Natural Landmark. The area's rugged beauty offers a tranquil escape for hikers and photographers alike.