Houstonia MissouriATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Houstonia, Missouri.
1. Bothwell Lodge State Historic Site
HISTORIC HILLTOP MANSION
Bothwell Lodge State Historic Site features a grand stone mansion built atop a bluff overlooking the countryside. The site offers guided tours of the mansion, showcasing early 20th-century architecture and the unique blend of natural stone and woodwork throughout the home. The grounds include several hiking trails, picnic areas, and scenic views, making it a popular destination for both history enthusiasts and outdoor lovers.
2. Saint Paul's Lutheran Church
HISTORIC RURAL CHURCH
Saint Paul's Lutheran Church is a charming, historic place of worship situated in the small community of Houstonia. Known for its classic architecture and tranquil surroundings, the church offers visitors a glimpse into the religious and cultural heritage of the area. The church hosts regular services and occasional community events in a peaceful rural setting.
3. Central Park
GREEN COMMUNITY GATHERING PLACE
Central Park in Sedalia is a popular recreation area that serves as a gathering spot for locals and visitors alike. The park features open green spaces, playgrounds, walking paths, and picnic areas, making it an ideal spot for family outings and community events. Seasonal festivals and outdoor activities are frequently held here, adding to its vibrant appeal.
4. Hasselbring's Harmony Alpaca Ranch
FAMILY-FRIENDLY ALPACA FARM
Hasselbring's Harmony Alpaca Ranch invites guests to meet and interact with a herd of friendly alpacas. The ranch offers tours where visitors can learn about alpaca care, fiber production, and enjoy the peaceful rural setting. Special events and farm store offerings add to the ranch's charm, making it a unique agri-tourism spot in the area.
5. Katy Trail State Park
SCENIC RAIL-TRAIL ADVENTURE
Katy Trail State Park is a renowned recreational trail stretching across central Missouri, with a popular trailhead in Sedalia. The park offers more than 200 miles of biking, hiking, and running opportunities along a scenic, converted railroad corridor. The trail passes through picturesque landscapes, small towns, and offers frequent wildlife sightings.
6. Daum Museum of Contemporary Art
MODERN ART EXHIBITIONS
Daum Museum of Contemporary Art is located on the campus of State Fair Community College in Sedalia. The museum showcases an impressive collection of modern and contemporary artworks, including paintings, sculptures, and ceramics. Temporary exhibitions, educational programs, and free admission make it an accessible cultural highlight for the region.
7. Missouri State Fairgrounds
ANNUAL FAIR AND EVENTS
The Missouri State Fairgrounds in Sedalia hosts the state's famous annual fair, attracting thousands for live music, agricultural exhibits, carnival rides, and food. Throughout the year, the fairgrounds are also home to livestock shows, festivals, and car events, making it a year-round hub of activity. The fair's legacy and community importance make it a must-visit regional attraction.
8. Liberty Park
FAMILY RECREATION HOTSPOT
Liberty Park is a spacious and well-equipped park in Sedalia featuring sports fields, playgrounds, picnic shelters, and a picturesque lagoon. The park is ideal for family gatherings and recreational activities, with amenities including tennis courts, fishing spots, and a community center. Seasonal events and festivals further enhance its role as a community staple.
9. Pettis County Museum
LOCAL HISTORY DISPLAYS
Pettis County Museum, located in Sedalia, showcases the rich history of the area through diverse exhibits and historical artifacts. Visitors can explore displays ranging from pioneer days to modern times, including military memorabilia and antique furnishings. The museum is run by local volunteers and serves as a resource for history buffs and genealogists alike.
10. Historic Katy Depot
RAILROAD HERITAGE SITE
The Historic Katy Depot is a beautifully restored railroad station that now serves as a visitor center and museum in Sedalia. It offers exhibits on local railroad history and the significance of the Missouri-Kansas-Texas Railroad. The depot is also a trailhead for the Katy Trail, connecting history and recreation in one location.
11. Bothwell Regional Health Center Healing Garden
TRANQUIL HEALING GARDEN
Bothwell Regional Health Center Healing Garden provides a peaceful and restorative green space for visitors and patients alike. The garden is designed with walking paths, water features, and seating areas amid lush landscaping. It offers a quiet retreat for relaxation, reflection, and healing in the heart of Sedalia.
12. Vernon County Historical Society Jail Museum
HISTORIC JAIL EXPERIENCE
The Vernon County Historical Society Jail Museum gives visitors a look into law enforcement history through preserved jail cells, period artifacts, and guided tours. Once serving as the county jail, the building now brings local stories and dramatic moments to life. Visitors learn about the people who lived and worked within its walls over the years.
13. Powell Gardens
EXPANSIVE BOTANICAL GARDENS
Powell Gardens, located east of Kansas City near Warrensburg, is a 970-acre botanical garden renowned for its themed landscapes and seasonal displays. Visitors can stroll through lush gardens, woodland trails, and specialty collections such as the Heartland Harvest Garden. The gardens host festivals, educational programs, and art installations throughout the year.
14. Whiteman Air Force Base
MILITARY BASE TOURS
Whiteman Air Force Base, home to the B-2 Spirit stealth bomber, occasionally offers public tours showcasing its unique military mission. Visitors learn about the base's history, aircraft, and the personnel who serve there. The base is a point of pride for the region and provides insight into modern aerospace defense.
15. Blind Boone Park
HISTORIC COMMUNITY PARK
Blind Boone Park honors renowned African American musician John William 'Blind' Boone and offers a blend of green space and local history. The park features memorials, walking paths, and playgrounds, making it a favorite for families and history enthusiasts. Informational displays celebrate Boone's legacy and his contributions to music.
16. Fitzgibbon Hospital Mosaic Healing Garden
SERENE HOSPITAL GARDEN
Fitzgibbon Hospital Mosaic Healing Garden is a quiet oasis designed to support the well-being of patients and visitors. The garden features artistic mosaics, peaceful seating areas, and carefully landscaped plantings. It serves as a place for relaxation, reflection, and connection to nature within the hospital campus.