Diggins Missouri
ATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Diggins, 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
CULTURAL TREASURE | ST LOUIS MO
The garden's diverse attractions include cultural gems like sculptures by Dale Chihuly and Niki de Saint Phalle alongside its horticultural displays. Visitors can explore themed gardens that reflect global influences while learning about conservation efforts through interactive exhibits and workshops.
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
ROUTE 66 GEM | STANTON MO
A favorite stop on Route 66, Meramec Caverns combines natural beauty with rich history, including legends of its use as a hideout by Jesse James. The guided tours showcase breathtaking formations and interactive light displays. Additional attractions include ziplining, gold panning, and riverside camping.
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
SCENIC DRIVE | EASTERN MISSOURI
The Missouri Great River Road offers a picturesque journey along the Mississippi River, showcasing diverse landscapes and historic sites. Travelers can explore vibrant St. Louis, charming river towns like Hannibal, and unique attractions such as the Ste. Genevieve National Historical Park. From cultural landmarks to natural beauty, this route provides an unforgettable experience for history buffs and nature enthusiasts alike.
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
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
NAUTICAL HISTORY | BRANSON MO
TITANIC Museum Attraction in Branson is a celebration of the ship's legacy, featuring personal stories of passengers and crew. Visitors receive boarding passes of real passengers and discover their fates through engaging exhibits. With artifacts valued at over .5 million, the museum combines history with hands-on experiences for all ages.
11. Silver Dollar City
OZARK ADVENTURE | BRANSON MO
Silver Dollar City offers a unique adventure in the heart of the Ozarks with thrilling rides, historical attractions, and live performances. Visitors to Silver Dollar City can enjoy interactive play areas, scenic train rides, and fascinating cave tours. Dining at Silver Dollar City includes award-winning barbecue and festival specialties that delight every palate.
12. City Museum
WHIMSICAL ESCAPE | ST LOUIS MO
City Museum is an enchanting space where visitors can lose themselves in a maze of slides, caves, and artistic creations. The rooftop offers breathtaking views along with quirky features like a bus teetering on the edge. City Museum is a celebration of creativity and exploration for all ages.
13. Mark Twain National Forest
RECREATION HAVEN | SOUTHERN MO
From motorized trails at Chadwick to serene fishing spots on Big Piney River, Mark Twain National Forest caters to all types of outdoor recreation. Its expansive trails provide opportunities for backpacking or mountain biking through stunning landscapes. Visitors to Mark Twain National Forest will find endless ways to enjoy the great outdoors.
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. Uranus Missouri Towne Center
QUIRKY ROADSTOP | ST ROBERT MO
Uranus Missouri Towne Center is a playful Route 66 attraction known for its humor-filled shops and the famous Uranus Fudge Factory. Visitors can explore unique attractions like the Sideshow Museum, escape rooms, and the world's largest belt buckle. This lighthearted stop offers plenty of laughs, photo ops, and delicious fudge for travelers.
17. Stark Caverns
UNDERGROUND WONDER | ELDON MO
Stark Caverns invites visitors to explore stunning geological formations, ancient bear beds, and Native American artifacts through guided tours. Specialty experiences like the Black Light Tour reveal fluorescent minerals, while above-ground activities include gemstone mining and picnic areas. This year-round attraction combines natural beauty with educational adventures for all ages.
18. Discovery Center of Springfield
HANDS-ON SCIENCE | SPRINGFIELD MO
The Discovery Center of Springfield is an interactive science museum featuring exhibits on health, technology, and natural history. Visitors can explore a giant walk-through brain or engage in STEM-focused activities like virtual reality simulations. This dynamic center inspires curiosity for learners of all ages.
19. Sam A. Baker State Park
OZARK MOUNTAIN ESCAPE | PATTERSON MO
Sam A. Baker State Park spans over 5,000 acres of rugged terrain in the St. Francois Mountains, providing opportunities for hiking, camping, and fishing. Visitors can enjoy scenic views from Mudlick Mountain or relax by Big Creek's gentle waters. With its rich history and abundant wildlife, this park offers a quintessential Ozark outdoor experience for families and adventurers alike.
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.