King City Missouri
ATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near King City, Missouri.
1. Gateway Arch
HISTORIC SYMBOL | ST LOUIS MO
The Gateway Arch stands as a proud symbol of America's manifest destiny and westward ambitions at 630 feet tall. Visitors can delve into pioneer history at its museum, ascend to its observation deck for sweeping vistas, or enjoy nearby riverboat cruises along the Mississippi River. Its timeless design continues to inspire awe decades after its completion.
2. Missouri Botanical Garden
SCIENTIFIC GEM | ST LOUIS MO
As a hub for botanical research and education, this garden boasts one of the largest collections of rare flora in the world. Visitors can admire its herbarium and Peter H. Raven Library, which are pivotal resources in plant taxonomy studies. Seasonal highlights include narrated tram tours that showcase its diverse gardens and sculptures.
3. Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art
ARTISTIC MASTERPIECES | KANSAS CITY MO
The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art is internationally recognized for its exceptional collection ranging from Ming dynasty porcelains to American Indian dioramas. Its iconic badminton birdie sculptures are a highlight for visitors exploring the grounds. Free admission ensures accessibility to this cultural treasure.
4. Meramec Caverns
CAVE WONDERLAND | STANTON MO
Known as America's most famous cave, Meramec Caverns dazzles visitors with intricate limestone formations and engaging light shows. Historical displays recount its role in Civil War mining and outlaw hideouts. Family-friendly amenities include ziplining, kayaking, and riverside lodging.
5. Ozark National Scenic Riverways Park
HISTORIC LANDMARKS | VAN BUREN MO
Ozark National Scenic Riverways Park preserves historic landmarks like Alley Mill and Welch Hospital, which showcase Missouri's cultural heritage. Alley Spring offers a picturesque setting with trails surrounding its turquoise waters. The park also features structures built by the Civilian Conservation Corps that add charm to its rich history.
6. Old Chain of Rocks Bridge
SCENIC FOOTBRIDGE | ST LOUIS MO
This historic bridge, spanning the Mississippi River, offers a peaceful retreat for walkers and bikers along its mile-long path. The Old Chain of Rocks Bridge is famous for its rare 30-degree bend and connection to Route 66 history. It provides an ideal spot for photography and reflection.
7. Missouri Great River Road
CULTURAL TREASURES | EASTERN MISSOURI
The Missouri Great River Road showcases a rich tapestry of cultural and historical sites along its scenic route. Notable attractions include the St. Louis Zoo, Ste. Genevieve's French heritage, and Trail of Tears State Park's poignant history. This drive offers a unique perspective on Missouri's past and present.
8. Loess Bluffs National Wildlife Refuge
BIRDING PARADISE | MOUND CITY MO
Known as one of the Midwest's premier birding destinations, Loess Bluffs National Wildlife Refuge hosts impressive gatherings of snow geese numbering over one million during peak migrations each year. Early morning visits to pools like Pelican Pool and Eagle Pool at Loess Bluffs provide optimal birdwatching opportunities for enthusiasts seeking unforgettable moments in nature. Seasonal surveys track bird populations across this vibrant refuge for visitors to follow closely during their trips to Loess Bluffs.
9. Harry S. Truman Presidential Library & Museum
CULTURAL TREASURE | INDEPENDENCE MO
The Harry S. Truman Presidential Library & Museum provides a cinematic experience of pivotal moments in U.S. history under Truman's leadership. The museum features rare artifacts, immersive theaters, and engaging role-playing games. Situated on a hill overlooking Independence, it celebrates Truman's enduring legacy.
10. TITANIC Museum Attraction
TIME MACHINE EXPERIENCE | BRANSON MO
TITANIC Museum Attraction transports visitors to 1912 with its half-scale replica of the ship's exterior and immersive exhibits inside. Guests can explore recreated spaces like third-class hallways and the Captain's bridge while touching authentic relics from the shipwreck. This museum offers a poignant tribute to those aboard the Titanic through storytelling and hands-on activities.
11. Silver Dollar City
THEME PARK THRILLS | BRANSON MO
Silver Dollar City is an 1880s-themed park nestled in the picturesque Ozark Mountains, offering visitors a unique blend of history and entertainment. Silver Dollar City features over 40 rides, live shows, and artisan demonstrations, creating an immersive experience for all ages. Guests at Silver Dollar City can also explore Marvel Cave and enjoy award-winning dining and seasonal festivals.
12. City Museum
ADVENTURE HAVEN | ST LOUIS MO
A visit to City Museum means discovering hidden treasures like underground caves, towering slides, and quirky rooftop features such as a vintage bus installation. This dynamic space encourages creativity through interactive exhibits designed for all ages to enjoy together. City Museum redefines what it means to explore.
13. Mark Twain National Forest
FAMILY FUN | SOUTHERN MO
Families visiting Mark Twain National Forest can enjoy activities like geocaching, scenic drives, or easy hikes such as the Greer Springs Trail. The forest's vast size ensures plenty of space for picnics and exploration without crowds. A trip to Mark Twain National Forest guarantees lasting memories in nature.
14. National WWI Museum and Memorial
ARCHITECTURAL BEAUTY | KANSAS CITY MO
The National WWI Museum and Memorial combines historical exhibits with architectural beauty at its iconic Liberty Memorial Tower site. Visitors can cross a glass bridge over a symbolic poppy field before diving into galleries filled with war relics and multimedia displays. The tower offers unmatched views of Kansas City's skyline.
15. Fantastic Caverns
FAMILY-FRIENDLY ESCAPE | SPRINGFIELD MO
Perfect for families, Fantastic Caverns combines natural beauty with ease of exploration on its Jeep-drawn tram tours. Guests are treated to stunning views of underground formations while hearing engaging stories about the cave's history and ecosystem. Its constant temperature and accessibility make it an enjoyable destination year-round for visitors of all ages.
16. Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park
NATURAL WATERPARK | MIDDLE BROOK MO
Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park is a breathtaking natural retreat where visitors can swim, wade, and explore the unique rock formations carved by the East Fork Black River. The park features hiking trails, picnic areas, and campgrounds for those looking to enjoy the outdoors. Its crystal-clear pools and cascading waters make it a favorite destination for families and adventurers alike.
17. Wilson's Creek National Battlefield
CIVIL WAR HISTORY | REPUBLIC MO
Wilson's Creek National Battlefield commemorates the first major Civil War battle fought west of the Mississippi River through preserved landscapes and historical exhibits at its visitor center. Self-guided tours allow visitors to explore key sites like Bloody Hill while learning about the conflict's impact on Missouri.
18. Cuivre River State Park
NATURAL ESCAPE | TROY MO
Cuivre River State Park offers over 6,400 acres of rugged landscapes, including native grasslands, limestone bluffs, and forested hills. Visitors can enjoy hiking, fishing, swimming, and camping, with trails leading to scenic overlooks and wildlife observation areas. The park's rich biodiversity and historical features make it a serene retreat for nature lovers.
19. SuperSplash USA
WATERPARK THRILLS | LAKE OF THE OZARKS MO
SuperSplash USA delivers 20 acres of water-filled excitement with thrilling slides like Patriot's Plunge and family-friendly attractions such as Adventure Island. Guests can relax in shaded cabanas or enjoy adult-only retreats while kids explore splash zones and aquatic playgrounds. This revamped waterpark ensures fun for all ages with its diverse offerings and welcoming atmosphere.
20. Shaw Nature Reserve
NATURAL HAVEN | GRAY SUMMIT MO
Shaw Nature Reserve offers visitors 2,400 acres of diverse ecosystems, including reconstructed tallgrass prairies, wetlands, and woodlands. With over 18 miles of hiking trails and the Whitmire Wildflower Garden, it provides an immersive experience in Missouri's native flora and fauna. Educational programs and serene landscapes make it a perfect destination for nature enthusiasts.