Doniphan MissouriATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Doniphan, Missouri.
1. Current River Heritage Museum
LOCAL HISTORY ON DISPLAY
Current River Heritage Museum showcases the rich history of Doniphan and the surrounding area. Visitors can explore exhibits featuring artifacts, photographs, and stories about the region's past. The museum provides insight into the Ozark culture and the importance of the Current River to local development.
2. Rocky River Resort
OUTDOOR ADVENTURE GETAWAY
Rocky River Resort offers a variety of outdoor recreational activities along the beautiful Current River. Guests can enjoy camping, fishing, floating, and hiking in the scenic Ozark foothills. The resort provides a perfect base for exploring the natural beauty that surrounds Doniphan.
3. Patsy's Hitch N Rail
LOCAL FLAVOR AND FUN
Patsy's Hitch N Rail serves as a popular gathering spot for locals and visitors in Doniphan. The establishment offers a taste of authentic Ozark hospitality with its unique atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy good food and entertainment while experiencing the local culture.
4. KC's On the Current
RIVERSIDE DINING EXPERIENCE
KC's On the Current provides a scenic dining experience along the banks of the Current River. Patrons can enjoy meals while taking in views of one of Missouri's most beautiful waterways. The restaurant captures the essence of Doniphan's connection to the river that helped shape the community.
5. Current River
PRISTINE OZARK WATERWAY
The Current River flows through Doniphan, offering exceptional recreational opportunities for visitors and residents alike. Crystal clear waters make it ideal for floating, kayaking, canoeing, and fishing throughout much of the year. The river is central to Doniphan's identity and serves as the community's most treasured natural resource.
6. Irish Wilderness
RUGGED OZARK FOREST
The Irish Wilderness near Doniphan is a 16,500-acre designated wilderness area within the Mark Twain National Forest. Hikers and nature enthusiasts can explore its dense forests, limestone bluffs, and pristine streams. The wilderness area has a fascinating history connected to an Irish settlement that mysteriously disappeared during the Civil War.
7. Doniphan Public Library
COMMUNITY LEARNING CENTER
Doniphan Public Library serves as an important cultural and educational resource for the community. The library offers books, digital resources, and programs for residents and visitors of all ages. Its collection includes materials about local history and the Ozark region.
8. Four State Lookout
PANORAMIC REGIONAL VIEWS
Four State Lookout offers visitors spectacular views across four different states: Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, and Iowa. Located near Doniphan County, this elevated viewpoint provides a unique geographical experience. The panoramic vista showcases the rolling landscape of the Missouri River Valley and surrounding areas.
9. Glacial Hills Scenic Byway
HISTORIC DRIVING ROUTE
Glacial Hills Scenic Byway winds through the unique landscape of northeastern Kansas near the Missouri border. The route takes travelers through rolling hills formed by glacial activity that occurred thousands of years ago. Scenic overlooks along the byway offer views of farmland, forests, and the Missouri River.
10. Iowa, Sac & Fox Mission Historic Site
NATIVE AMERICAN HISTORY
The Iowa, Sac & Fox Mission Historic Site preserves an important piece of Native American and missionary history. The Presbyterian mission was established in 1837 to serve the Iowa, Sac, and Fox tribes who had been relocated to the area. Visitors can explore the restored mission building and learn about the complex relationships between missionaries and Native Americans during this period.
11. Doniphan County Historical Society Museum
REGIONAL HERITAGE COLLECTION
Doniphan County Historical Society Museum houses a collection of artifacts and exhibits documenting the history of the region. The museum showcases items from Native American cultures, early settlers, and subsequent developments in the area. Visitors can gain insights into how the landscape and communities have evolved over time.
12. Indian Cave State Park
NATURAL WONDER PRESERVE
Indian Cave State Park features a large sandstone cave with prehistoric Native American petroglyphs carved into its walls. The park encompasses over 3,000 acres of rugged, forested terrain along the Missouri River. Visitors can enjoy hiking, camping, horseback riding, and wildlife viewing in this scenic natural area.
13. Brown State Fishing Lake and Wildlife Area
ANGLER'S HIDDEN GEM
Brown State Fishing Lake and Wildlife Area offers excellent opportunities for fishing, hunting, and wildlife observation. The 62-acre lake is stocked with several fish species including channel catfish, largemouth bass, and crappie. Nature enthusiasts can explore the surrounding habitat that supports a diverse range of wildlife.
14. Patee House Museum
NATIONAL HISTORIC LANDMARK
Patee House Museum, located in nearby St. Joseph, is housed in a former luxury hotel built in 1858. The museum contains an impressive collection of artifacts related to westward expansion, the Pony Express, and Civil War history. Visitors can also tour the adjacent Jesse James Home where the famous outlaw was shot and killed in 1882.
15. Glore Psychiatric Museum
MENTAL HEALTH HISTORY
The Glore Psychiatric Museum chronicles the evolution of mental health treatment through thought-provoking exhibits. Located in the former St. Joseph State Hospital, the museum features reconstructions of treatment rooms, medical devices, and patient artwork. The fascinating and sometimes disturbing displays provide insight into historical approaches to mental illness.