Denver MissouriATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Denver, Missouri.
1. Dunn Ranch
PRAIRIE NATURE PRESERVE
Dunn Ranch is a stunning natural prairie preserve managed by The Nature Conservancy. Visitors can explore miles of grasslands teeming with bison, prairie chickens, and native wildflowers. The ranch offers hiking, wildlife watching, and educational programs for those interested in conservation and prairie ecosystems.
2. Eagleville Welcome Center
TRAVELERS' REST STOP
Eagleville Welcome Center serves as a friendly rest stop for travelers near Denver, offering clean facilities and helpful local information. The center provides visitors with maps, brochures, and details about area attractions. It's a convenient spot for a break and to plan the next leg of a northeast Missouri adventure.
3. Benedictine Sisters of Perpetual Adoration
SPIRITUAL RETREAT CENTER
The Benedictine Sisters of Perpetual Adoration offer a peaceful retreat in Clyde just a short drive from Denver. Their monastery features meditation spaces, lovely grounds, and a unique religious gift shop. Guests are welcome to experience quiet reflection or join the sisters in prayer.
4. Mozingo Lake Recreational Park
LAKESIDE OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES
Mozingo Lake Recreational Park is a popular destination for boating, fishing, camping, and golfing on 3,000 scenic acres. The park features a championship golf course, campgrounds, hiking trails, and multiple boat ramps. It offers a full day of recreation for families and outdoor enthusiasts.
5. Crowder State Park
HIKING AND WILDLIFE SPOTTING
Crowder State Park offers over 1,900 acres of woodlands, prairies, and bluffs in nearby Trenton. With miles of hiking, biking, and equestrian trails, the park is an excellent spot for outdoor activities and wildlife observation. Facilities include campsites, picnic areas, and a small lake for boating and fishing.
6. Jamesport Amish Country
HISTORIC AMISH COMMUNITY
Jamesport Amish Country invites visitors to step back in time and experience Missouri's largest Amish community. The town is known for its handcrafted goods, homemade foods, and unique shops. Guided tours offer insight into Amish culture and traditions.
7. Little River Lake Conservation Area
FISHING AND BIRDWATCHING
Little River Lake Conservation Area provides quiet opportunities for fishing, hunting, and birdwatching in a natural setting. The area is managed for wildlife habitat and outdoor recreation. Trails and lake access points make it a peaceful destination for nature lovers.
8. Graceland University Arboretum
BOTANICAL GARDEN STROLLS
Graceland University Arboretum, located just north of Denver, offers a serene walking environment among beautifully maintained trees and gardens. The arboretum features labeled plantings and scenic paths ideal for a quiet stroll. Educational signs provide information on the local and exotic plant species.
9. Harrison County Lake
WATER RECREATION AREA
Harrison County Lake is a small reservoir near Bethany that offers fishing, boating, and camping. Its peaceful shoreline is perfect for picnics and birdwatching, with a playground for children. The lake provides a relaxing retreat for families and anglers.
10. Ridgeway Lake Conservation Area
NATURE VIEWING AND FISHING
Ridgeway Lake Conservation Area boasts a 17-acre fishing lake surrounded by rolling hills and woodland habitats. Anglers can enjoy the stocked waters, while hikers and wildlife watchers explore the trails. The area is managed by the Missouri Department of Conservation for outdoor recreation.
11. Lamoni Historical Museum
LOCAL HISTORY EXHIBITS
The Lamoni Historical Museum showcases the history and heritage of the Lamoni area, just across the state line from Denver. Visitors can explore intriguing exhibits featuring artifacts, photos, and stories of pioneer life. The museum also offers guided tours and special community events.
12. Bethany Aquatic Center
FAMILY WATER FUN
The Bethany Aquatic Center is a modern outdoor swimming facility featuring slides, splash zones, and lap lanes. It's a favorite family destination during the summer months for cooling off and recreation. Amenities include shaded seating, concessions, and lifeguard supervision.
13. Mormon Trail State Park
HISTORIC PIONEER PATH
Mormon Trail State Park preserves a section of the historic Mormon Pioneer Trail near the Iowa-Missouri border. The park features interpretive signage, hiking trails, and a serene landscape reminiscent of 19th-century wagon journeys. Visitors can learn about the migration and legacy of Mormon settlers.
14. Harrison County Historical Village
OPEN-AIR VILLAGE MUSEUM
Harrison County Historical Village allows guests to explore preserved and restored buildings, including a log cabin, schoolhouse, and general store. The site offers insight into late 19th-century rural life in Missouri. Special events and guided tours enrich the visitor experience.
15. Mount Ayr Depot Museum
RAILROAD HERITAGE SITE
Mount Ayr Depot Museum preserves an early 20th-century train depot and railway memorabilia in a charming Iowa town close to Denver. The museum displays artifacts from the region's railroad and agricultural history. Interactive exhibits and community programs make it a family-friendly attraction.