Downing MissouriATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Downing, Missouri.
1. Downing House Museum Complex
HISTORIC GREEK REVIVAL MANSION
Downing House is a 14-room Greek revival mansion built in 1858, featuring a three-story tower with Italianate character. The historic home contains Scotland County memorabilia, artifacts, and displays including a life-size model of Ella Ewing, the Missouri Giantess who stood eight feet four inches tall. During the Civil War, Union soldiers used the mansion as their headquarters and rode horses through the 10-foot doors.
2. Dutchman's Store
SPECIALTY & GIFT SHOP
Dutchman's Store is a popular specialty and gift shop in Downing that offers unique merchandise to visitors. The store has earned a strong reputation with a 4.6 rating from 73 reviews, making it one of the town's most highly-rated attractions. Visitors can explore a variety of specialty items and gifts while experiencing local culture and commerce.
3. Downing Railroad Depot
HISTORIC RAILWAY MUSEUM
The Downing Railroad Depot, constructed in April 1872 by the Missouri, Iowa, and Nebraska Railway, now serves as a museum after being listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1983. The depot was relocated approximately one-quarter mile from its original trackside location and currently functions as the centerpiece of a city park. Visitors can explore this historic structure alongside other nearby buildings, including the former Downing jail.
4. Thousand Hills State Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION PARADISE
Thousand Hills State Park offers visitors a beautiful natural setting with diverse outdoor recreation opportunities near Kirksville. The park features Forest Lake, hiking trails, campgrounds, and cabins for visitors seeking to immerse themselves in nature. Nature enthusiasts can enjoy activities such as fishing, boating, swimming, and wildlife viewing throughout the expansive state park.
5. Keith's Cafe
LOCAL DINING FAVORITE
Keith's Cafe is a beloved local eatery in Downing that serves American cuisine, steakhouse specialties, and cafe favorites. The restaurant has earned a positive reputation with 41 reviews, making it a must-visit dining establishment for visitors to the area. Guests can enjoy affordable, quality meals in a charming small-town atmosphere.
6. The Ville Escape Room
INTERACTIVE PUZZLE ADVENTURE
The Ville Escape Room offers interactive puzzle-solving adventures for groups looking for an exciting mental challenge. With an impressive 4.8 rating from 29 reviews, this attraction provides engaging entertainment that requires teamwork and critical thinking. Visitors must solve clues and puzzles within a time limit to successfully escape themed rooms.
7. Lake Wapello State Park
SCENIC LAKESIDE RECREATION
Lake Wapello State Park features a beautiful lake surrounded by forests and hiking trails for outdoor enthusiasts. The park offers multiple recreational activities including fishing, boating, swimming, and camping in a picturesque natural setting. Visitors can enjoy the tranquility of nature while exploring hiking trails that showcase the park's diverse flora and fauna.
8. Kirksville Aquatic Center
FAMILY WATER RECREATION
The Kirksville Aquatic Center is a modern sports complex offering water-based recreation for visitors of all ages. The facility features swimming pools, water slides, and various aquatic amenities designed for both exercise and entertainment. Families can enjoy a refreshing break from sightseeing while children splash and play in a safe, supervised environment.
9. DuKum Inn
HISTORIC LOCAL BAR
The DuKum Inn is a popular local establishment offering drinks, food, and a welcoming atmosphere to both residents and visitors. With a solid 4.3 rating from 12 reviews, this bar and club provides a taste of local nightlife and social culture. Patrons can enjoy beverages, conversation, and potentially live entertainment in this charming regional establishment.
10. Del and Norma Robison Planetarium
COSMIC EDUCATIONAL EXPERIENCE
The Del and Norma Robison Planetarium offers fascinating astronomical shows and educational presentations for science enthusiasts of all ages. This children's museum and science center provides immersive experiences that bring the wonders of the universe to life through state-of-the-art projection technology. Visitors can learn about stars, planets, and cosmic phenomena in an engaging, accessible format.
11. Bloom and Bark Glass Blowing Studio & Natural Farm
ARTISAN CRAFTS & NATURE
Bloom and Bark Glass Blowing Studio & Natural Farm combines artistic craftsmanship with agricultural experiences in a unique attraction. Visitors can observe glass blowing demonstrations while also enjoying the natural beauty of the working farm. The dual focus on art and nature provides a multifaceted experience that appeals to a wide range of interests.
12. West Winery at Jackson Stables
RURAL WINE EXPERIENCE
West Winery at Jackson Stables offers wine tasting experiences in a charming rural setting near Kirksville. Visitors can sample locally produced wines while enjoying the picturesque surroundings of the property. The unique combination of equestrian elements with viticulture creates a distinctive atmosphere for wine enthusiasts.
13. Southfork Motel & Grill
LODGING WITH LOCAL DINING
Southfork Motel & Grill provides both comfortable accommodation and quality American dining options for travelers visiting the region. The establishment features guest rooms at reasonable rates (from $83/night) along with a restaurant serving mid-range American cuisine. Visitors appreciate the convenience of having dining and lodging in a single location while exploring the surrounding attractions.
14. Milkweed Mercantile Eco Inn
SUSTAINABLE LUXURY LODGING
The Milkweed Mercantile Eco Inn offers environmentally conscious accommodations with a focus on sustainability and comfort. With an impressive 81 reviews, this eco-friendly lodging option provides a unique stay experience that emphasizes harmony with nature. Guests can enjoy comfortable rooms while learning about sustainable living practices implemented throughout the property.
15. Sebree's
REGIONAL AMERICAN DINING
Sebree's restaurant offers mid-range American cuisine in a welcoming atmosphere for visitors to the Memphis area. With 29 reviews, this dining establishment has built a reputation for quality food and service that appeals to both locals and tourists. Diners can enjoy classic American dishes prepared with care in a comfortable setting that reflects regional culinary traditions.