Exeter Missouri
ATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Exeter, Missouri.
1. Gateway Arch
WESTWARD EXPANSION | ST LOUIS MO
Rising above downtown St. Louis, the Gateway Arch is a stainless steel masterpiece commemorating America's westward expansion. Guests can ride to the top for panoramic views, visit the museum to learn about pioneer history, or relax on riverboat cruises along the Mississippi River. This iconic structure is a must-see destination for history and architecture enthusiasts alike.
2. Missouri Botanical Garden
URBAN RETREAT | ST LOUIS MO
Nestled in St. Louis, this garden combines urban accessibility with natural splendor across 79 acres of curated landscapes. Attractions like the Chinese Garden and Climatron rainforest dome captivate visitors with their unique designs and biodiversity. Its mission emphasizes environmental stewardship through engaging exhibits and programs for all ages.
3. Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art
ART AND COMMUNITY | KANSAS CITY MO
The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art serves as a community cornerstone with its free access to world-class collections and engaging programs. Visitors can enjoy diverse artworks across multiple galleries or relax in the sculpture park's tranquil setting. Its welcoming atmosphere fosters connections through art.
4. Meramec Caverns
SCENIC ESCAPE | STANTON MO
Located near the Meramec River, this cavern system blends geological marvels with historical intrigue, including its role in the Underground Railroad. Guided tours reveal stunning formations like the Wine Table while patriotic light shows add a unique touch. Visitors can enjoy outdoor recreation or relax in riverside accommodations.
5. Ozark National Scenic Riverways Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION | VAN BUREN MO
Ozark National Scenic Riverways Park is an outdoor enthusiast's dream with activities like horseback riding, motorized boating, and fishing. Visitors can choose from primitive campsites or developed campgrounds for overnight stays. Seasonal events such as bluegrass concerts enhance the park's vibrant atmosphere.
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
RIVER ROAD ESCAPE | EASTERN MISSOURI
The Missouri Great River Road delivers an escape into scenic beauty and historical richness along its winding path beside the Mississippi River. Visitors can enjoy iconic sites like the Gateway Arch while discovering hidden gems such as Crystal City Underground kayaking tours or artisan galleries in Clarksville. It is a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration for any traveler seeking adventure in Missouri.
8. Loess Bluffs National Wildlife Refuge
WINTER WILDLIFE HAVEN | MOUND CITY MO
During winter months, visitors to Loess Bluffs National Wildlife Refuge can marvel at thousands of trumpeter swans and bald eagles gathering in its wetlands. The controlled water depths at Loess Bluffs create ideal conditions for waterfowl feeding and resting during colder seasons. Educational programs at the visitor center provide deeper insights into these seasonal spectacles at the refuge.
9. Harry S. Truman Presidential Library & Museum
PRESIDENTIAL LANDMARK | INDEPENDENCE MO
The Harry S. Truman Presidential Library & Museum offers visitors a unique glimpse into the challenges faced by the 33rd president. Exhibits include sound-and-light theaters and a 14-foot interactive globe exploring post-WWII peace efforts. This landmark blends history with innovation in Independence, Missouri.
10. TITANIC Museum Attraction
A TRIBUTE TO TITANIC | BRANSON MO
TITANIC Museum Attraction commemorates the iconic ship's legacy with its immersive exhibits and personal storytelling approach. Visitors receive boarding passes linked to real passengers, making their exploration deeply meaningful as they uncover individual fates at tour's end. With interactive features like icy water challenges, this museum connects guests to history in unforgettable ways.
11. Silver Dollar City
MARVEL CAVE EXPERIENCE | BRANSON MO
Marvel Cave is the heart of Silver Dollar City's history, offering guided tours through its awe-inspiring underground formations. Above ground, Silver Dollar City delights visitors with thrilling rides, artisan crafts, and live performances. Seasonal events at Silver Dollar City create magical experiences from spring through Christmas.
12. City Museum
IMMERSIVE EXPERIENCE | ST LOUIS MO
Combining art, architecture, and play, City Museum captivates visitors with its unique exhibits crafted from repurposed materials. Highlights include the Enchanted Caves, giant slides, and rooftop adventures that offer stunning city views. City Museum delivers endless fun in an unforgettable setting.
13. Mark Twain National Forest
SCENIC BYWAYS | SOUTHERN MO
Mark Twain National Forest is home to breathtaking drives like the Glade Top Trail and Blue Buck Knob Scenic Byway, which offer panoramic views of the Ozarks. The forest's rivers and lakes provide excellent spots for fishing and boating adventures. With its vast expanse and varied ecosystems, Mark Twain National Forest promises unforgettable exploration.
14. National WWI Museum and Memorial
CULTURAL INSIGHTS | KANSAS CITY MO
The National WWI Museum and Memorial offers cultural insights into World War I through rotating exhibitions like French fashion during wartime. Permanent galleries feature artifacts, sound booths, and interactive activities that deepen understanding of the era. The Liberty Memorial Tower provides an iconic view of Kansas City's skyline.
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. Elephant Rocks State Park
GEOLOGICAL MARVELS | GRANITEVILLE MO
Elephant Rocks State Park features massive granite boulders resembling a train of circus elephants that are perfect for climbing and exploration. The Braille Trail provides an accessible path through these ancient formations while offering interpretive signage for visitors with visual impairments. Picnic areas and historic quarry sites add to the park's charm.
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. Hidden Valley Ski Resort
WINTER THRILLS | WILDWOOD MO
Hidden Valley Ski Resort provides skiing and snowboarding fun across well-maintained slopes near St. Louis. Guests can enjoy night skiing under lights or relax at the lodge after conquering challenging terrain parks. With lessons available for beginners, it's an ideal winter destination for all skill levels.
19. Lewis & Clark Boat House and Museum
HISTORIC EXPEDITION REPLICAS | ST CHARLES MO
The Lewis & Clark Boat House and Museum immerses visitors in the history of the famous expedition with full-scale replicas of the boats used by the Corps of Discovery. Exhibits on the Missouri River ecosystem and Native American cultures enrich the experience, complemented by dioramas and interactive displays. Located by the riverfront, this museum provides a fascinating glimpse into early American exploration.
20. Missouri Down Under Adventure Zoo
WILDLIFE ESCAPE | BRANSON WEST MO
Missouri Down Under Adventure Zoo combines animal encounters with cave exploration for an unforgettable experience. Guests can interact with kangaroos, emus, and other exotic animals while learning about their habitats. The zoo's underground tours add an adventurous twist to wildlife appreciation.