Maitland MissouriATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Maitland, Missouri.
1. Backyard Vine & Wine
LOCAL WINE EXPERIENCE
Backyard Vine & Wine offers visitors a charming wine tasting experience in Maitland. Guests can sample locally produced wines while enjoying the serene rural atmosphere. The establishment has earned a 4.6 rating from visitors who appreciate its quality beverages and welcoming environment.
2. Loess Bluffs National Wildlife Refuge
BIRD WATCHERS PARADISE
Loess Bluffs National Wildlife Refuge is a premier destination for nature enthusiasts near Maitland. The refuge is renowned for its spectacular bird migrations, particularly snow geese and bald eagles during seasonal transitions. With a stellar 4.8 rating, visitors praise the refuge for its well-maintained trails and abundant wildlife viewing opportunities.
3. Big Lake State Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION HUB
Big Lake State Park offers diverse recreational activities centered around Missouri's largest oxbow lake. Visitors can enjoy fishing, boating, swimming, and camping in this picturesque natural setting. The park maintains a solid 4.0 visitor rating for its family-friendly amenities and beautiful lakeside views.
4. Mozingo Lake Recreational Park
LAKESIDE ADVENTURE DESTINATION
Mozingo Lake Recreational Park encompasses a 1,000-acre reservoir with extensive outdoor recreation options. The park features golfing, camping, fishing, hiking trails, and watersports that attract visitors throughout the year. With a 4.4 rating, the park is celebrated for its well-maintained facilities and beautiful natural surroundings.
5. Maitland Access
RIVER RECREATION SPOT
Maitland Access provides visitors with entry to the scenic Nodaway River east of Maitland off Route A. This conservation area serves as a popular spot for fishing, canoeing, and enjoying the natural river ecosystem. Although there is no boat ramp, the access point allows for easy enjoyment of the river's recreational opportunities.
6. Pickle Springs Natural Area
GEOLOGICAL WONDER TRAILS
Pickle Springs Natural Area features a scenic two-mile trail showcasing unique sandstone formations and natural wonders. Hikers can explore box canyons, natural bridges, waterfalls, and lush vegetation throughout the protected area. The natural area is considered one of Missouri's geological treasures with its distinctive rock formations and diverse plant life.
7. Springfield Art Museum
CULTURAL ART CENTER
Springfield Art Museum houses an impressive collection of American art spanning multiple centuries and styles. The museum offers rotating exhibitions, educational programs, and houses over 10,000 permanent collection items. Visitors appreciate the museum's combination of historical and contemporary art in a welcoming, accessible environment.
8. George Washington Carver National Monument
HISTORICAL SCIENTIFIC LEGACY
George Washington Carver National Monument preserves the birthplace and childhood home of the renowned scientist and educator. The site includes a museum, interactive exhibits, and nature trails that tell the story of Carver's remarkable life and achievements. Visitors can explore the 240-acre park while learning about Carver's contributions to sustainable agriculture and his journey from slavery to becoming one of America's most respected scientists.
9. Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum
LITERARY HISTORICAL SITE
Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum celebrates Missouri's most famous author at the actual location that inspired his classic stories. The attraction includes six historic buildings and two museums featuring artifacts and exhibits about Samuel Clemens' life and literary works. Visitors can experience the setting where Tom Sawyer convinced his friends to whitewash a fence in one of American literature's most iconic scenes.
10. Lewis and Clark Statue
HISTORIC EXPLORATION MONUMENT
The Lewis and Clark Statue stands as a larger-than-life bronze monument honoring two of America's most famous explorers. Located in Frontier Park along the Missouri Riverfront, this impressive sculpture commemorates the 1804 gathering point where the explorers collected final supplies before their westward expedition. The monument marks the historical significance of St. Charles, then known as Les Petites Cotes, as the last civilized outpost before the explorers ventured into the Louisiana Purchase territory.
11. Graham Cave State Park
ANCIENT ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITE
Graham Cave State Park preserves a significant archaeological site where artifacts dating back more than 10,000 years have been discovered. Visitors can enter the mouth of the cave and view exhibits explaining the cultural and natural significance of this prehistoric dwelling. The park combines archaeological importance with natural beauty, offering hiking trails and outdoor recreation in addition to its historical significance.
12. Gary's Gay Parita
ROUTE 66 NOSTALGIA
Gary's Gay Parita offers a nostalgic glimpse into Route 66's golden era through a lovingly recreated 1930s Sinclair gas station. This roadside attraction features original gas pumps and authentic memorabilia from the historic 'Mother Road' that once served as America's primary east-west highway. Visitors can step back in time while experiencing the unique charm and hospitality that made Route 66 an enduring American icon.
13. Riverview Park
SCENIC RIVER OVERLOOK
Riverview Park features a stately statue of Samuel Clemens overlooking the majestic Mississippi River. The park offers spectacular views that inspired many of Mark Twain's literary works and descriptions of life along the mighty river. Visitors can enjoy the peaceful setting while contemplating the connection between the landscape and the author's enduring stories about American river life.
14. Community Bookshelf
UNIQUE LITERARY LANDMARK
The Community Bookshelf transforms the parking garage of Kansas City's Central Library into a striking 25-foot tall display of book spines representing literary classics. This unique architectural feature has become one of the city's most photographed and beloved landmarks since its installation. Each of the 22 giant book titles was selected by local readers and library staff to represent influential literature that resonates with the community.
15. Second Nature
NATURAL EDUCATION CENTER
Second Nature provides educational experiences focused on Missouri's natural environment and wildlife conservation efforts. The center offers interactive exhibits and guided outdoor activities that help visitors understand local ecosystems and conservation practices. Families appreciate the hands-on learning opportunities that connect people of all ages with the natural world surrounding Maitland.