Canton Missouri
ATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Canton, Missouri.
1. Gateway Arch
NATIONAL PARK ICON | ST LOUIS MO
As part of Gateway Arch National Park, this towering monument offers visitors breathtaking views from above and immersive educational experiences below in its museum exhibits on westward migration history. Scenic walking trails and riverboat cruises enhance the experience around this historic landmark in downtown St. Louis.
2. Missouri Botanical Garden
FLORAL PARADISE | ST LOUIS MO
Renowned for its vast botanical collections, the Missouri Botanical Garden includes unique features like a pioneer village and Osage camp in its Children's Garden area. The Japanese Garden is among North America's largest strolling gardens, offering tranquility amidst lush greenery. Guided tours enhance the visitor experience with fascinating insights into plant science and history.
3. Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art
GLOBAL COLLECTIONS | KANSAS CITY MO
Housing nearly 40,000 works from Africa, Asia, Europe, and beyond, the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art showcases humanity's artistic achievements across centuries. Outdoor sculptures complement its indoor exhibits while dining options like Rozzelle Court add to its charm. Free admission invites everyone to explore.
4. Meramec Caverns
UNDERGROUND WONDER | STANTON MO
Nestled in the Ozarks, Meramec Caverns spans 4.6 miles of limestone formations shaped over millions of years. Visitors can explore unique features like the Wine Room and Mirror Room while enjoying light displays and historical exhibits. The site also offers camping, canoeing, and family-friendly amenities for a complete getaway.
5. Ozark National Scenic Riverways Park
SPRINGS AND CAVES | VAN BUREN MO
Ozark National Scenic Riverways Park is renowned for its impressive concentration of first-magnitude springs and over 400 caves. Highlights include Big Spring, one of the largest in the world, and Round Spring Caverns, which offers guided tours. The park's karst landscape creates stunning geological formations and unique ecosystems.
6. Old Chain of Rocks Bridge
ROUTE 66 LANDMARK | ST LOUIS MO
The Old Chain of Rocks Bridge, once a vital link on Route 66, is now a preserved piece of history for pedestrians and cyclists. Its unique bend and proximity to water intake towers add to its allure. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely walk or bike ride with picturesque views of the Mississippi.
7. Missouri Great River Road
AMERICANA EXPERIENCE | EASTERN MISSOURI
The Missouri Great River Road celebrates the spirit of Americana with its blend of cultural landmarks and natural beauty along the Mississippi River. Travelers can visit historic homes, enjoy riverboat cruises, and discover artisan studios on the 50 Miles of Art Corridor between Hannibal and Clarksville. This journey promises lasting memories for all who explore it.
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
CULTURAL TREASURE | INDEPENDENCE MO
The Harry S. Truman Presidential Library & Museum provides a cinematic experience of pivotal moments in U.S. history under Truman's leadership. The museum features rare artifacts, immersive theaters, and engaging role-playing games. Situated on a hill overlooking Independence, it celebrates Truman's enduring legacy.
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
OZARK HERITAGE | BRANSON MO
Nestled in the Ozark Mountains, Silver Dollar City celebrates regional heritage with its 1880s-themed attractions and Marvel Cave tours. Guests at Silver Dollar City can enjoy thrilling rides, artisan crafts, and award-winning dining options that reflect local traditions. Seasonal events add excitement to every visit to Silver Dollar City's picturesque setting.
12. City Museum
IMMERSIVE EXPERIENCE | ST LOUIS MO
Combining art, architecture, and play, City Museum captivates visitors with its unique exhibits crafted from repurposed materials. Highlights include the Enchanted Caves, giant slides, and rooftop adventures that offer stunning city views. City Museum delivers endless fun in an unforgettable setting.
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
HISTORIC LANDMARK | KANSAS CITY MO
The National WWI Museum and Memorial is a premier destination for exploring the history and impact of World War I. Visitors can view immersive exhibits, including life-size trench recreations, interactive displays, and thousands of artifacts. The Liberty Memorial Tower offers breathtaking views of Kansas City, making it a must-visit attraction.
15. Fantastic Caverns
MISSOURI'S NATURAL GEM | SPRINGFIELD MO
Located near Springfield, Missouri, Fantastic Caverns invites visitors to explore its beauty on a ride-through tram tour. The cave features awe-inspiring formations and fascinating historical tales from its discovery to its role during Prohibition. With no walking required, it is an ideal destination for guests of all ages and mobility levels.
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. Missouri State Penitentiary
HISTORIC PRISON | JEFFERSON CITY MO
Missouri State Penitentiary offers guided tours through its historic prison buildings where infamous inmates once served time. Visitors can learn about its 168-year history while exploring cells and hearing stories about escapes and riots that shaped its legacy. Nighttime ghost tours add a thrilling twist to this unique attraction.
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.