Bowling Green Missouri
ATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Bowling Green, Missouri.
1. Gateway Arch
STUNNING VIEWS | ST LOUIS MO
The Gateway Arch provides awe-inspiring views of St. Louis and beyond from its observation deck reached via tram rides through its unique structure. Its museum showcases stories of pioneers who shaped America's landscape while surrounding park trails offer peaceful exploration opportunities along the Mississippi Riverfront.
2. Missouri Botanical Garden
NATURE AND HISTORY | ST LOUIS MO
This historic garden blends natural beauty with education, featuring over 4,800 trees and stunning landscapes like the English Woodland Garden. The Tower Grove House provides insight into founder Henry Shaw's legacy, while family-friendly attractions like the Children's Garden inspire curiosity about sustainability and conservation.
3. Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art
HISTORIC LEGACY | KANSAS CITY MO
Established in 1933 through visionary bequests, the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art combines history with artistic excellence. Its galleries feature works from nearly every continent and era, complemented by interactive exhibits and outdoor sculptures. The museum's free admission ensures accessibility to all visitors.
4. Meramec Caverns
UNDERGROUND ESCAPE | STANTON MO
Explore seven levels of natural limestone beauty at Meramec Caverns, Missouri's iconic tourist attraction since 1933. The guided tours highlight unique formations and fascinating legends tied to local history. On-site activities such as camping and rafting ensure a memorable visit for all.
5. Ozark National Scenic Riverways Park
CAVE EXPLORATION | VAN BUREN MO
Ozark National Scenic Riverways Park features fascinating karst formations like Devils Well, an underground lake visible through a sinkhole, and Cave Spring, where subterranean rivers emerge into the Current River. These geological wonders highlight the park's complexity and beauty. Visitors can explore caves or admire their features from above ground.
6. Old Chain of Rocks Bridge
RIVER VIEWS GALORE | ST LOUIS MO
Towering above the Mississippi River, the Old Chain of Rocks Bridge offers unparalleled views and a glimpse into Route 66's storied past. Its transformation into a pedestrian trail preserves its legacy while providing recreational opportunities. The bridge's iconic bend adds to its charm.
7. Missouri Great River Road
MISSOURI SCENES | EASTERN MISSOURI
The Missouri Great River Road takes visitors on a scenic tour of the state's diverse attractions along the Mississippi River corridor. From Hannibal's literary landmarks to Cape Girardeau's conservation areas, this route offers something for everyone to enjoy. Rich in history, nature, and culture, it is a quintessential American road trip.
8. Loess Bluffs National Wildlife Refuge
EAGLE WATCHING SPOT | MOUND CITY MO
Loess Bluffs National Wildlife Refuge is famous for its winter gatherings of bald eagles and trumpeter swans. The refuge's 10-mile Wild Goose Auto Tour Loop offers stunning views of wetlands teeming with wildlife at Loess Bluffs. Hiking trails provide access to panoramic overlooks of the Missouri River floodplain and surrounding landscapes.
9. Harry S. Truman Presidential Library & Museum
EDUCATIONAL HUB | INDEPENDENCE MO
The Harry S. Truman Presidential Library & Museum is a premier destination for learning about one of America's most transformative leaders. Visitors can engage with exhibits on the atomic bomb decision, NATO formation, and desegregation policies. Its recent renovation ensures an unforgettable experience for all ages.
10. TITANIC Museum Attraction
GRAND STAIRCASE | BRANSON MO
TITANIC Museum Attraction features a stunning replica of the Grand Staircase built to exact specifications from original blueprints. Guests can immerse themselves in the luxury of first-class cabins while learning about passengers' lives. The museum's blend of historical artifacts and interactive elements creates a deeply personal connection to the Titanic's history.
11. Silver Dollar City
MEMORIES TO CHERISH | BRANSON MO
At Silver Dollar City, families create lasting memories through thrilling rides, artisan crafts, and live entertainment in a charming 1880s atmosphere. Seasonal festivals bring unique experiences like craft fairs and musical performances to every visit to Silver Dollar City. Marvel Cave tours add a touch of adventure to the unforgettable journey at Silver Dollar City's Ozark Mountain retreat.
12. City Museum
FAMILY FUN HUB | ST LOUIS MO
City Museum provides an interactive experience where families can explore repurposed industrial artifacts turned into playful exhibits. From the ten-story slide to the rooftop adventures, there is something for everyone to enjoy. City Museum's vibrant atmosphere ensures hours of entertainment for both kids and adults.
13. Mark Twain National Forest
PRISTINE SPRINGS | SOUTHERN MO
With nearly 3,000 springs feeding clear streams year-round, Mark Twain National Forest boasts some of Missouri's most pristine aquatic landscapes. Activities like tubing on the Eleven Point River or fishing along Big Piney make it an ideal destination for water lovers. The natural beauty of Mark Twain National Forest is unmatched.
14. National WWI Museum and Memorial
GLOBAL HISTORY | KANSAS CITY MO
The National WWI Museum and Memorial delves into global events surrounding World War I with engaging displays and films. Visitors can walk through recreated environments like trenches or admire unique artifacts such as vintage motorcycles used in the war effort. A trip to the Liberty Memorial Tower completes this historical exploration.
15. Fantastic Caverns
HISTORIC CAVE EXPERIENCE | SPRINGFIELD MO
Discovered in 1862, Fantastic Caverns is steeped in history and offers a one-of-a-kind ride-through exploration. Guests can relax in a Jeep-drawn tram as they marvel at stalagmites, cave pearls, and other natural wonders. This accessible attraction is perfect for families and history enthusiasts alike, offering stories of its early explorers and unique past uses.
16. Elephant Rocks State Park
GEOLOGICAL MARVELS | GRANITEVILLE MO
Elephant Rocks State Park features massive granite boulders resembling a train of circus elephants that are perfect for climbing and exploration. The Braille Trail provides an accessible path through these ancient formations while offering interpretive signage for visitors with visual impairments. Picnic areas and historic quarry sites add to the park's charm.
17. Talking Rocks Cavern
VERTICAL BEAUTY | BRANSON WEST MO
Talking Rocks Cavern offers an hour-long guided tour through breathtaking limestone formations like stalactites and flowstone columns in a comfortable 63-degree environment. Above ground, guests can enjoy mini-golf, gemstone panning, nature trails to lookout points, and family games. This living cave continues to grow its formations, making every visit unique.
18. Montauk State Park
TROUT FISHING HAVEN | SALEM MO
Montauk State Park is renowned for its trout fishing at the headwaters of the Current River, where seven springs converge. Anglers flock here during trout season, while others enjoy hiking trails, camping facilities, and tours of the historic 1896 gristmill. The park's natural beauty and serene atmosphere make it a favorite destination in the Ozarks.
19. Lewis & Clark Boat House and Museum
HISTORIC EXPEDITION REPLICAS | ST CHARLES MO
The Lewis & Clark Boat House and Museum immerses visitors in the history of the famous expedition with full-scale replicas of the boats used by the Corps of Discovery. Exhibits on the Missouri River ecosystem and Native American cultures enrich the experience, complemented by dioramas and interactive displays. Located by the riverfront, this museum provides a fascinating glimpse into early American exploration.
20. Jesse James Home and Museum
OUTLAW'S LEGACY | ST JOSEPH MO
The Jesse James Home Museum offers a glimpse into the life of the infamous outlaw, showcasing artifacts from his family and his final moments in the house where he was killed. Visitors can view the legendary bullet hole and learn about James' controversial legacy through engaging exhibits. This small museum provides an intimate look at a pivotal figure in American history.