Glenaire MissouriATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Glenaire, Missouri.
1. Ozark National Scenic Riverways Park
HISTORIC NATURAL PRESERVE
Ozark National Scenic Riverways Park preserves historic landmarks and showcases Missouri's cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the beautiful natural scenery and historic sites throughout the park. The park offers various recreational activities including hiking, canoeing, and wildlife viewing.
2. Alley Mill
HISTORIC GRIST MILL
Alley Mill is a historic landmark preserved within the Ozark National Scenic Riverways area. The bright red mill stands as a testament to Missouri's industrial heritage along the crystal-clear Alley Spring. Visitors can tour the mill and learn about traditional milling processes that were once vital to the local economy.
3. Welch Hospital
HISTORIC MEDICAL FACILITY
Welch Hospital represents an important piece of Missouri's healthcare history preserved in the Ozark region. The historic medical facility offers visitors insight into early rural healthcare practices. Tours of the hospital showcase medical equipment and techniques from a bygone era.
4. Alley Spring
CRYSTAL BLUE WATERS
Alley Spring is a stunning natural spring that produces millions of gallons of clear blue water daily. The spring creates a picturesque setting with its vibrant turquoise waters contrasting against the surrounding green forest. Visitors can enjoy photography opportunities, picnicking, and short hiking trails around this natural wonder.
5. City of Glenaire Historic District
CHARMING COMMUNITY HERITAGE
The City of Glenaire Historic District showcases the community that was officially incorporated as a village in 1950 before becoming a fourth-class city in 1994. Walking through the district offers visitors a glimpse into small-town Missouri life and architectural styles. The area preserves the charm and history of this quaint Missouri community.
6. Kansas City Zoo
WILDLIFE CONSERVATION CENTER
Kansas City Zoo is a premier wildlife attraction located near Glenaire featuring over 1,700 animals from around the world. The zoo spans more than 200 acres with naturalistic habitats including an award-winning penguin exhibit and African safari area. Visitors can enjoy daily animal presentations, feeding experiences, and educational programs throughout the year.
7. Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art
WORLD-CLASS ART COLLECTION
The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art houses an impressive collection spanning 5,000 years of human creativity and cultural heritage. Its iconic giant shuttlecock sculptures on the lawn have become symbols of the museum and Kansas City's artistic spirit. The museum offers free admission to its permanent collections, making fine art accessible to all visitors.
8. National WWI Museum and Memorial
AMERICA'S LEADING WWI EXHIBIT
The National WWI Museum and Memorial stands as America's official museum dedicated to preserving the history and experiences of the First World War. Visitors begin their journey by walking over a glass bridge suspended above a field of 9,000 poppies, each representing 1,000 combatant deaths. The museum houses one of the world's most comprehensive collections of WWI artifacts, documents, and personal narratives.
9. Worlds of Fun
THRILLING AMUSEMENT PARK
Worlds of Fun is a 235-acre amusement park featuring over 100 rides, shows, and attractions for visitors of all ages. The park includes seven world-class roller coasters alongside family rides, live entertainment, and seasonal events. Adjacent to the main park is Oceans of Fun waterpark, which can be enjoyed with a combination ticket during summer months.
10. Country Club Plaza
HISTORIC SHOPPING DISTRICT
Country Club Plaza is a beloved outdoor shopping and entertainment district known for its Spanish-inspired architecture and iconic fountains. Built in 1922 as the country's first planned shopping center, the district spans 15 blocks filled with upscale retailers, restaurants, and cultural attractions. During the holiday season, the Plaza lights transform the area with a spectacular display of over 80 miles of colorful lights outlining every tower, dome and window.
11. Missouri Town 1855
LIVING HISTORY VILLAGE
Missouri Town 1855 is an open-air museum featuring more than 25 original structures dating from the antebellum period. Costumed interpreters demonstrate 19th-century skills and daily activities throughout the authentically recreated village. Visitors can experience Missouri life as it was before the Civil War through seasonal events, craft demonstrations, and interactive exhibits.
12. Jesse James Farm and Museum
NOTORIOUS OUTLAW'S HOMESTEAD
The Jesse James Farm and Museum preserves the birthplace and childhood home of America's most famous outlaw. Visitors can tour the restored 1822 farmhouse where Jesse and his brother Frank were raised and where their mother lived until her death in 1911. The adjacent museum houses the world's largest collection of James family artifacts, including Jesse's boots and Frank's surrender letter.
13. Watkins Woolen Mill State Park
HISTORIC INDUSTRIAL COMPLEX
Watkins Woolen Mill State Park preserves one of the best-preserved 19th-century textile factories in North America. The original machinery remains intact inside the brick mill building, offering a rare glimpse into America's industrial revolution. Visitors can also tour the Watkins family home, hike scenic trails, fish in the 100-acre lake, and camp in the adjacent state park.
14. Shoal Creek Living History Museum
PIONEER VILLAGE EXPERIENCE
Shoal Creek Living History Museum features a collection of 19th-century buildings arranged as an authentic Missouri village. Each structure has been carefully relocated and restored to recreate life in the 1800s for visitors to experience. The museum hosts regular living history events where reenactors in period clothing demonstrate traditional crafts, cooking, and daily activities from Missouri's pioneer era.
15. Weston Bend State Park
SCENIC MISSOURI RIVER VIEWS
Weston Bend State Park offers spectacular views of the Missouri River from bluffs that rise 200 feet above the water. The park features miles of hiking and biking trails through lush forests and open meadows teeming with wildlife. Visitors can enjoy picnicking, bird watching, and camping facilities while exploring one of the most scenic areas in northwest Missouri.