Cool Valley Missouri
ATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Cool Valley, Missouri.
1. Gateway Arch
WESTWARD EXPANSION | ST LOUIS MO
Rising above downtown St. Louis, the Gateway Arch is a stainless steel masterpiece commemorating America's westward expansion. Guests can ride to the top for panoramic views, visit the museum to learn about pioneer history, or relax on riverboat cruises along the Mississippi River. This iconic structure is a must-see destination for history and architecture enthusiasts alike.
2. Missouri Botanical Garden
EDUCATIONAL ESCAPE | ST LOUIS MO
With resources like the William T. Kemper Center for Home Gardening, this garden is an invaluable educational hub for aspiring horticulturists. Guided walking tours reveal seasonal highlights while fostering appreciation for global gardening traditions and sustainable practices.
3. Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art
ART AND HISTORY | KANSAS CITY MO
Combining historical significance with artistic innovation, the Nelson-Atkins Museum offers galleries filled with treasures like Whistler's Portrait of the Artist's Mother and Ming dynasty screens. The museum's architecture reflects Kansas City's cultural heritage while inviting visitors year-round with free admission.
4. Meramec Caverns
CAVE ADVENTURE | STANTON MO
Meramec Caverns invites visitors to explore its majestic limestone formations through guided tours that span seven levels. This historic site boasts connections to Civil War-era saltpeter mining and tales of outlaw escapades. Outdoor activities like kayaking and ziplining enhance the experience for adventure seekers.
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
MISSOURI ILLINOIS LINK | ST LOUIS MO
Spanning one mile across the Mississippi River, the Old Chain of Rocks Bridge connects two states with its historic charm. Once bustling with cars on Route 66, it now offers a tranquil path for pedestrians and cyclists. Its iconic bend remains a highlight for visitors.
7. Missouri Great River Road
CULTURAL TREASURES | EASTERN MISSOURI
The Missouri Great River Road showcases a rich tapestry of cultural and historical sites along its scenic route. Notable attractions include the St. Louis Zoo, Ste. Genevieve's French heritage, and Trail of Tears State Park's poignant history. This drive offers a unique perspective on Missouri's past and present.
8. Loess Bluffs National Wildlife Refuge
NATURE'S SANCTUARY | MOUND CITY MO
Spanning over 7,400 acres, Loess Bluffs National Wildlife Refuge serves as a critical habitat for migratory birds along the Central Flyway while supporting local biodiversity year-round. Hiking trails like the Interpretive Trail at Loess Bluffs offer moderately challenging climbs with rewarding views of the floodplain below this scenic refuge. Nature photographers are drawn to Loess Bluffs for rare wildlife encounters in pristine surroundings.
9. Harry S. Truman Presidential Library & Museum
CIVIC LEADERSHIP | INDEPENDENCE MO
The Harry S. Truman Presidential Library & Museum celebrates the achievements of America's 33rd president through immersive exhibits and interactive displays. Guests can learn about his role in shaping postwar policies and advancing civil rights initiatives. Located in Independence, Missouri, it remains a cornerstone of historical exploration.
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
CRAFTSMANSHIP & FUN | BRANSON MO
Silver Dollar City celebrates American craftsmanship with over 100 artisans demonstrating timeless skills like glassblowing and blacksmithing. Silver Dollar City combines thrilling roller coasters, family-friendly attractions, and live entertainment to create unforgettable memories. Seasonal festivals at Silver Dollar City add a festive flair to the park's charming 1880s atmosphere.
12. City Museum
CREATIVE LANDMARK | ST LOUIS MO
Known for its imaginative use of industrial remnants, City Museum offers an unparalleled experience featuring tunnels, slides, and rooftop attractions like the Big Eli Ferris Wheel. Guests can explore four floors of artistic installations that encourage hands-on interaction. City Museum is a vibrant destination that celebrates creativity.
13. Mark Twain National Forest
OUTDOOR PARADISE | SOUTHERN MO
Encompassing diverse ecosystems from oak hardwoods to bluestem prairies, Mark Twain National Forest offers something for every nature enthusiast. Its secluded campgrounds provide peaceful retreats while its trails cater to hikers and bikers alike. Mark Twain National Forest is a must-visit destination for anyone craving outdoor adventure.
14. National WWI Museum and Memorial
UNIQUE COLLECTIONS | KANSAS CITY MO
Housing one of the world's most comprehensive collections of World War I artifacts, the National WWI Museum and Memorial offers an unparalleled glimpse into history. Highlights include trench recreations, rare vehicles, and personal keepsakes from soldiers' lives during wartime. The Liberty Memorial Tower crowns this remarkable experience with scenic views of Kansas City.
15. Fantastic Caverns
UNIQUE CAVE TOUR | SPRINGFIELD MO
Fantastic Caverns stands out as one of only four ride-through caves in the world and the only one in North America. Guests enjoy a leisurely tram ride through stunning formations while learning about the cave's discovery by John Knox and its early explorers. This family-friendly attraction offers an unforgettable glimpse into Missouri's underground wonders.
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. Maramec Spring Park
TURQUOISE SPRING | ST JAMES MO
Maramec Spring Park captivates visitors with its stunning turquoise spring, which pumps 100 million gallons of water daily and supports a thriving trout hatchery. The park's rich history is showcased through remnants of the Maramec Iron Works and two engaging museums. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy fishing, hiking, camping, and scenic drives through the Ozark landscape.
18. Cuivre River State Park
NATURAL ESCAPE | TROY MO
Cuivre River State Park offers over 6,400 acres of rugged landscapes, including native grasslands, limestone bluffs, and forested hills. Visitors can enjoy hiking, fishing, swimming, and camping, with trails leading to scenic overlooks and wildlife observation areas. The park's rich biodiversity and historical features make it a serene retreat for nature lovers.
19. SuperSplash USA
WATERPARK THRILLS | LAKE OF THE OZARKS MO
SuperSplash USA delivers 20 acres of water-filled excitement with thrilling slides like Patriot's Plunge and family-friendly attractions such as Adventure Island. Guests can relax in shaded cabanas or enjoy adult-only retreats while kids explore splash zones and aquatic playgrounds. This revamped waterpark ensures fun for all ages with its diverse offerings and welcoming atmosphere.
20. Missouri State Museum
STATE HERITAGE | JEFFERSON CITY MO
Situated in the State Capitol, the Missouri State Museum highlights the state's natural and cultural history through rotating exhibits and interactive displays. Visitors can explore themes ranging from Civil War battle flags to environmental conservation efforts. Free guided tours enhance the experience with insights into Missouri's rich heritage.