California MissouriATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near California, Missouri.
1. Burgers' Smokehouse
HISTORIC MEAT CURING
Burgers' Smokehouse serves as Central Missouri's link to the eighteenth century art of meat curing, located along the Moreau River just three miles south of California off Highway 87. While closed to the public, they ship their products to grocery stores, restaurants, and direct to customers through mail order and ecommerce. Visitors can request free catalogs by calling 1-800-705-2323.
2. California Country Club
NINE-HOLE GOLF COURSE
California Country Club features a nine-hole golf course located northwest of California on Country Club Road. Visitors can enjoy the course during weekdays by paying green fees. Interested golfers can contact the club at (573) 796-2089 for more information.
3. California Shooters Club
LOCAL SHOOTING RANGE
California Shooters Club provides a dedicated space for shooting enthusiasts in the California area. The club offers facilities for various shooting activities and competitions. Visitors interested in shooting sports can experience this local attraction that serves the community's recreational needs.
4. Finke Opera House/Ritz Theatre
HISTORIC ENTERTAINMENT VENUE
The Finke Opera House/Ritz Theatre, built in 1885 and designed by renowned St. Louis architect Jerome Bibb Legg, stands at 312 North High Street in downtown California. Named to the National Register of Historic Places in 2004, this two-story brick building served as California's main entertainment center, hosting stage shows, plays, musical performances, and later vaudeville and motion pictures. Recently renovated by California Progress, Inc., the venue reopened as the Finke Theater in 2009, preserving its historical significance for future generations.
5. Rice House
VICTORIAN HISTORIC MANSION
The Rice House is a stately Victorian mansion built in 1867 by Niles Rice and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Located at 205 South Oak Street in California, this historic home features impressive 12-foot ceilings, six-foot hallways, and 36 narrow seven-foot windows. Currently a private residence, the Rice House stands as a testament to the area's architectural heritage.
6. California City Hall and Fire Station
HISTORIC MUNICIPAL BUILDINGS
California City Hall and Fire Station are listed on the National Register of Historic Places, representing important civic architecture in the community. These buildings have served as central administrative and emergency service locations for the city over the years. Visitors can appreciate the historical significance and architectural details of these municipal structures while exploring downtown California.
7. Prairie Home Wildlife Area
OUTDOOR RECREATION HAVEN
The Prairie Home Wildlife Area spans 1,455 acres near Jamestown and is managed by the Missouri Department of Conservation for multiple recreational uses. Primary activities include hunting and fishing, while visitors can also enjoy mushroom hunting, nature study, primitive camping, and horseback riding on designated trails. The area features the eight-mile circular Buckhorn Hiking Trail specifically developed for hikers to experience the natural beauty of the region.
8. Moniteau County Courthouse
HISTORIC COUNTY SEAT
The Moniteau County Courthouse serves as the center of government operations for Moniteau County in California, the county seat. This historic building represents the civic heritage and administrative history of the region. Visitors can appreciate the architectural details and historical significance of this important landmark in downtown California.
9. Double X Vineyard & Winery
LOCAL WINE EXPERIENCE
Double X Vineyard & Winery offers visitors a taste of locally produced wines in the California area. The winery showcases the region's viticultural potential with various wine varieties crafted from locally grown grapes. Visitors can enjoy wine tastings and experience the charm of Missouri wine country in a relaxed countryside setting.
10. Moniteau County Historical Society Museum
LOCAL HISTORY COLLECTION
The Moniteau County Historical Society Museum preserves and displays artifacts and documents relating to the history of California and Moniteau County. Exhibits showcase the region's development, significant historical events, and the lives of early settlers. Visitors can gain insights into local heritage and the cultural evolution of this central Missouri area.
11. Proctor Park
COMMUNITY RECREATION SPACE
Proctor Park provides California residents and visitors with a welcoming green space for outdoor recreation and community gatherings. The park features various amenities including playgrounds, picnic areas, and sports facilities for public enjoyment. Seasonal events and activities are often held at the park, making it a central hub for community life in California.
12. Jamestown C-1 School Historic District
EDUCATIONAL HERITAGE SITE
The Jamestown C-1 School Historic District represents an important part of the educational history in the region near California. The district includes historic school buildings that showcase the evolution of public education in rural Missouri. Visitors interested in architectural history and educational development can appreciate this preserved piece of local heritage.
13. Russellville City Park
FAMILY-FRIENDLY OUTDOOR SPACE
Russellville City Park offers recreational opportunities for visitors in the community near California. The park provides green spaces, playground equipment, and picnic areas for families and individuals to enjoy outdoor activities. Community events and gatherings are frequently hosted in this central community space throughout the year.
14. Moreau River Access
SCENIC WATER RECREATION
The Moreau River Access provides entry points to enjoy the natural beauty of the Moreau River flowing near California. Outdoor enthusiasts can engage in activities such as fishing, canoeing, and wildlife observation along this scenic waterway. The river access points serve as gateways to experiencing the region's natural resources and aquatic ecosystems.
15. Centertown Baptist Church
HISTORIC RELIGIOUS ARCHITECTURE
Centertown Baptist Church stands as a notable historic religious building in the community near California. The church features distinctive architectural elements that reflect the religious heritage of the region. Visitors interested in historical architecture and community institutions can appreciate this longstanding structure that has served generations of local residents.