Cosby Missouri
ATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Cosby, Missouri.
1. Gateway Arch
URBAN LANDMARK | ST LOUIS MO
Dominating St. Louis' skyline, the Gateway Arch is both an architectural marvel and a historical emblem of westward expansion. Guests can enjoy tram rides to its peak, engaging museum exhibits, and serene park grounds that enhance its allure. This iconic site draws millions annually for its breathtaking views and rich heritage.
2. Missouri Botanical Garden
URBAN RETREAT | ST LOUIS MO
Nestled in St. Louis, this garden combines urban accessibility with natural splendor across 79 acres of curated landscapes. Attractions like the Chinese Garden and Climatron rainforest dome captivate visitors with their unique designs and biodiversity. Its mission emphasizes environmental stewardship through engaging exhibits and programs for all ages.
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
HISTORIC LIMESTONE CAVE | STANTON MO
Meramec Caverns is a seven-level limestone cave system that has captivated visitors since its opening in 1933. Known for its stunning formations and legendary ties to Jesse James, the caverns offer guided tours featuring light shows and historical anecdotes. Located along Route 66, this attraction also provides outdoor activities like ziplining and riverboat rides.
5. Ozark National Scenic Riverways Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION | VAN BUREN MO
Ozark National Scenic Riverways Park is an outdoor enthusiast's dream with activities like horseback riding, motorized boating, and fishing. Visitors can choose from primitive campsites or developed campgrounds for overnight stays. Seasonal events such as bluegrass concerts enhance the park's vibrant atmosphere.
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
SCENIC BYWAY | EASTERN MISSOURI
The Missouri Great River Road offers travelers a chance to experience scenic views and historic charm along its stretch of the Mississippi River. Highlights include kayaking adventures at Crystal City Underground and exploring Ste. Genevieve National Historical Park's preserved buildings. With its blend of outdoor activities and cultural stops, this drive is ideal for all ages.
8. Loess Bluffs National Wildlife Refuge
BIRDING PARADISE | MOUND CITY MO
Known as one of the Midwest's premier birding destinations, Loess Bluffs National Wildlife Refuge hosts impressive gatherings of snow geese numbering over one million during peak migrations each year. Early morning visits to pools like Pelican Pool and Eagle Pool at Loess Bluffs provide optimal birdwatching opportunities for enthusiasts seeking unforgettable moments in nature. Seasonal surveys track bird populations across this vibrant refuge for visitors to follow closely during their trips to Loess Bluffs.
9. Harry S. Truman Presidential Library & Museum
PRESIDENTIAL LANDMARK | INDEPENDENCE MO
The Harry S. Truman Presidential Library & Museum offers visitors a unique glimpse into the challenges faced by the 33rd president. Exhibits include sound-and-light theaters and a 14-foot interactive globe exploring post-WWII peace efforts. This landmark blends history with innovation in Independence, Missouri.
10. TITANIC Museum Attraction
UNIQUE EXPERIENCE | BRANSON MO
TITANIC Museum Attraction offers a one-of-a-kind journey through time with its combination of historical accuracy and interactive displays. Guests can explore galleries filled with original artifacts while experiencing life aboard through recreated spaces like lifeboats and hallways. This attraction captures both the grandeur and tragedy of the RMS Titanic in stunning detail.
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
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
NATURAL WONDERLAND | SOUTHERN MO
Mark Twain National Forest spans 1.5 million acres across the Ozark Highlands, offering visitors a mix of rugged landscapes and serene waterways. The forest features over 750 miles of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, as well as designated areas for motorized recreation. With its ancient springs, scenic byways, and abundant wildlife, Mark Twain National Forest is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.
14. National WWI Museum and Memorial
IMMERSIVE EXPERIENCE | KANSAS CITY MO
The National WWI Museum and Memorial captivates guests with its comprehensive collection of artifacts and interactive exhibits. Highlights include a glass bridge above a symbolic poppy field and detailed galleries showcasing the war's timeline. Visitors can also ascend the Liberty Memorial Tower for stunning panoramic views.
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. Negro Leagues Baseball Museum
SPORTS HISTORY | KANSAS CITY MO
The Negro Leagues Baseball Museum celebrates the history of African American baseball players who paved the way for integration in professional sports. Through exhibits featuring memorabilia, photographs, and interactive displays, visitors gain insight into this important chapter of American history. It's a must-visit for baseball fans and history enthusiasts alike.
17. Lake of the Ozarks State Park
OUTDOOR PARADISE | OSAGE BEACH MO
Lake of the Ozarks State Park offers over 17,000 acres of recreational opportunities, including hiking, biking, horseback riding, and water activities along its 85 miles of shoreline. Visitors can explore Ozark Caverns or relax on sandy beaches while enjoying breathtaking views. With campgrounds, cabins, and marinas, this park is perfect for extended stays or day trips.
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. Glore Psychiatric Museum
MENTAL HEALTH HISTORY | ST JOSEPH MO
The Glore Psychiatric Museum explores centuries of mental health treatment through thought-provoking exhibits featuring artifacts, patient artwork, and life-size models of historical devices. Housed in a former mental hospital building, the museum provides a sobering yet fascinating look at the evolution of psychiatric care. Recognized as one of the nation's most unusual museums, it offers a unique educational experience for visitors.
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.