Crystal City Missouri
ATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Crystal City, Missouri.
1. Gateway Arch
GATEWAY TO WEST | ST LOUIS MO
The Gateway Arch in St. Louis is a towering tribute to America's exploration and expansion. Its observation deck offers views spanning up to 30 miles, while its museum immerses visitors in historical narratives of pioneers and settlers. Surrounded by lush park grounds and scenic riverfront trails, it provides a perfect blend of history and leisure.
2. Missouri Botanical Garden
FAMILY FUN | ST LOUIS MO
The garden offers interactive experiences such as koi fish feeding bridges and maze explorations in the Victorian District, perfect for families seeking adventure. Seasonal events like Garden Glow illuminate its grounds with festive lights during winter months, creating magical memories for visitors of 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
MISSOURI LANDMARK | STANTON MO
A must-see attraction in Missouri, Meramec Caverns showcases awe-inspiring limestone formations across seven levels of underground beauty. The caverns are steeped in history, from Native American artifacts to Civil War-era mining operations. Activities such as ziplining and riverboat rides complement the cave tours.
5. Ozark National Scenic Riverways Park
WATERFALLS AND TRAILS | VAN BUREN MO
Ozark National Scenic Riverways Park offers stunning natural features like Rocky Falls, a perfect spot for swimming or relaxing on gravel shores. The Ozark Trail winds through the park, connecting visitors to scenic locations such as Powder Mill and Blue Spring. These areas provide excellent opportunities for hiking and exploring nature's wonders.
6. Old Chain of Rocks Bridge
ICONIC BEND BRIDGE | ST LOUIS MO
Known for its distinctive 30-degree turn, the Old Chain of Rocks Bridge is a historic marvel crossing the Mississippi River. Originally built in 1929 as a toll bridge, it now welcomes walkers and cyclists as part of the Route 66 experience. Its towering structure provides breathtaking views of the river and surrounding landscapes.
7. Missouri Great River Road
RIVERFRONT BEAUTY | EASTERN MISSOURI
The Missouri Great River Road combines stunning riverfront scenery with fascinating historical sites for an unforgettable journey through the state. Attractions like St. Louis's Gateway Arch and New Madrid Historical Museum provide insight into local culture and history. This route is a must-see for travelers seeking both education and relaxation.
8. Loess Bluffs National Wildlife Refuge
MIGRATION HOTSPOT | MOUND CITY MO
Designated as an Internationally Important Bird Area, Loess Bluffs National Wildlife Refuge hosts hundreds of thousands of migratory birds each year. Flocks of snow geese create breathtaking sights and sounds at Loess Bluffs during peak migration seasons. Visitors can explore the refuge through hiking trails or the Wild Goose Auto Tour Loop for unforgettable experiences.
9. Harry S. Truman Presidential Library & Museum
LEGACY PRESERVED | INDEPENDENCE MO
The Harry S. Truman Presidential Library & Museum preserves the life and legacy of President Truman through innovative storytelling techniques and historical artifacts. Visitors can explore his personal belongings, political memorabilia, and groundbreaking decisions on global issues. Nestled in Independence, Missouri, it serves as a beacon of education.
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
FAMILY FUN DESTINATION | BRANSON MO
Silver Dollar City is a family-friendly destination featuring attractions for all ages, from adrenaline-pumping coasters to interactive play zones. Visitors to Silver Dollar City can enjoy daily live shows, artisan demonstrations, and delicious home-style cooking. Seasonal festivals at Silver Dollar City bring unique experiences like clogging jamborees and craft fairs.
12. City Museum
URBAN ADVENTURE | ST LOUIS MO
City Museum in St. Louis offers a sprawling 600,000-square-foot space packed with slides, climbing structures, and hidden tunnels. The rooftop features unique attractions like a Ferris wheel and a giant praying mantis sculpture. City Museum is an ever-evolving masterpiece that blends play with artistic ingenuity.
13. Mark Twain National Forest
ADVENTURE HUB | SOUTHERN MO
Mark Twain National Forest is a playground for adventure seekers with ATV trails, horseback riding areas, and rugged hiking paths like the Greer Springs Trail. Its rivers offer thrilling float trips while its campgrounds provide serene escapes under starry skies. Every corner of Mark Twain National Forest invites exploration and discovery.
14. National WWI Museum and Memorial
HISTORICAL TREASURE | KANSAS CITY MO
As America's official World War I museum, the National WWI Museum and Memorial preserves personal stories alongside global history through its diverse exhibits. Visitors can explore trenches or admire rare items like uniforms from notable figures such as General Pershing. The Liberty Memorial Tower provides an unforgettable perspective on Kansas City's landscape while honoring wartime sacrifices.
15. Fantastic Caverns
ACCESSIBLE ADVENTURE | SPRINGFIELD MO
Fantastic Caverns offers an accessible way to experience the beauty of Missouri's underground with its Jeep-drawn tram tours. The hour-long journey highlights breathtaking formations like stalagmites and soda straws while sharing the cave's rich history. Its year-round availability makes it a must-see destination for all visitors to Springfield.
16. Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park
NATURAL WATERPARK | MIDDLE BROOK MO
Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park is a breathtaking natural retreat where visitors can swim, wade, and explore the unique rock formations carved by the East Fork Black River. The park features hiking trails, picnic areas, and campgrounds for those looking to enjoy the outdoors. Its crystal-clear pools and cascading waters make it a favorite destination for families and adventurers alike.
17. Museum at the Gateway Arch
WESTWARD HISTORY | ST LOUIS MO
Located beneath the iconic Gateway Arch, this museum features six interactive galleries that explore St. Louis' role in westward expansion and American history. Highlights include immersive exhibits on colonial life, industrial growth, and the Arch's construction. Free admission makes it an accessible cultural experience for visitors of all ages.
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. World's Largest Fork By Mass
QUIRKY LANDMARK | SPRINGFIELD MO
The World's Largest Fork By Mass stands proudly as a whimsical roadside attraction drawing curious visitors to Springfield's quirky charm. Measuring an impressive height and weight, this oversized utensil is a fun photo opportunity for travelers passing through town or exploring local landmarks nearby. Its playful presence embodies Missouri's love for offbeat attractions that spark joy in unexpected ways.
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.