Memphis Missouri
ATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Memphis, Missouri.
1. Gateway Arch
ARCHITECTURAL WONDER | ST LOUIS MO
Designed by Eero Saarinen, the Gateway Arch is an extraordinary feat of engineering and design that stands as a beacon of progress. Visitors can ride its tram for unparalleled views, watch documentaries about its construction, or explore exhibits highlighting its historical significance. This stainless steel structure embodies both beauty and purpose.
2. Missouri Botanical Garden
BOTANICAL OASIS | ST LOUIS MO
Founded in 1859, the Missouri Botanical Garden is a National Historic Landmark and one of the oldest botanical institutions in the United States. Spanning 79 acres, it features exquisite horticultural displays, including a 14-acre Japanese strolling garden and the iconic Climatron geodesic dome conservatory. Visitors can explore historic architecture, rare plant collections, and interactive exhibits for all ages.
3. Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art
ART AND HISTORY | KANSAS CITY MO
Combining historical significance with artistic innovation, the Nelson-Atkins Museum offers galleries filled with treasures like Whistler's Portrait of the Artist's Mother and Ming dynasty screens. The museum's architecture reflects Kansas City's cultural heritage while inviting visitors year-round with free admission.
4. Meramec Caverns
UNDERGROUND WONDER | STANTON MO
Nestled in the Ozarks, Meramec Caverns spans 4.6 miles of limestone formations shaped over millions of years. Visitors can explore unique features like the Wine Room and Mirror Room while enjoying light displays and historical exhibits. The site also offers camping, canoeing, and family-friendly amenities for a complete getaway.
5. Ozark National Scenic Riverways Park
FLOATING PARADISE | VAN BUREN MO
Ozark National Scenic Riverways Park is celebrated for its free-flowing rivers that provide some of the Midwest's best canoeing and kayaking experiences. Local outfitters make it easy to embark on half-day or full-day floats along scenic waterways. The rivers are fed by powerful springs, ensuring consistent water levels throughout the year.
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
MIGRATION HOTSPOT | MOUND CITY MO
Designated as an Internationally Important Bird Area, Loess Bluffs National Wildlife Refuge hosts hundreds of thousands of migratory birds each year. Flocks of snow geese create breathtaking sights and sounds at Loess Bluffs during peak migration seasons. Visitors can explore the refuge through hiking trails or the Wild Goose Auto Tour Loop for unforgettable experiences.
9. Harry S. Truman Presidential Library & Museum
POLITICAL HERITAGE | INDEPENDENCE MO
The Harry S. Truman Presidential Library & Museum reveals the personal and professional life of President Truman through engaging exhibits and authentic memorabilia. Highlights include his working office and burial site alongside his family members in the courtyard garden area. This Independence landmark embodies American resilience and leadership.
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
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
WHIMSICAL ESCAPE | ST LOUIS MO
City Museum is an enchanting space where visitors can lose themselves in a maze of slides, caves, and artistic creations. The rooftop offers breathtaking views along with quirky features like a bus teetering on the edge. City Museum is a celebration of creativity and exploration for all ages.
13. Mark Twain National Forest
RUGGED OZARKS | SOUTHERN MO
Mark Twain National Forest showcases Missouri's natural beauty with its rocky glades, volcanic mountains, and over 5,000 caves. Visitors can enjoy activities like floating on pristine rivers, camping in secluded spots, or exploring historic sites scattered throughout the forest. Its diverse terrain makes Mark Twain National Forest a unique destination for adventure and relaxation.
14. National WWI Museum and Memorial
INTERACTIVE HISTORY | KANSAS CITY MO
At the National WWI Museum and Memorial, history comes alive through interactive displays, sound booths, and immersive films about World War I's timeline. Guests can handle artifacts or create their own propaganda posters for a hands-on experience. A climb up the Liberty Memorial Tower adds a stunning visual highlight to the visit.
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. Hollywood Wax Museum
CELEBRITY WAX FIGURES | BRANSON MO
The Hollywood Wax Museum in Branson offers visitors the chance to pose with lifelike wax replicas of iconic celebrities from film, music, and sports. Its interactive exhibits and themed sets provide fun photo opportunities, including a replica of Mount Rushmore featuring Hollywood legends. Located in Branson's Entertainment District, this attraction is perfect for families and pop culture enthusiasts.
17. Talking Rocks Cavern
VERTICAL BEAUTY | BRANSON WEST MO
Talking Rocks Cavern offers an hour-long guided tour through breathtaking limestone formations like stalactites and flowstone columns in a comfortable 63-degree environment. Above ground, guests can enjoy mini-golf, gemstone panning, nature trails to lookout points, and family games. This living cave continues to grow its formations, making every visit unique.
18. Branson Zipline at Wolfe Mountain
ADRENALINE ADVENTURE | BRANSON MO
Branson Zipline at Wolfe Mountain offers thrilling zipline canopy tours through the scenic Ozark Mountains. Guests can experience suspension bridges, high-speed ziplines, and a 100-foot freefall while enjoying breathtaking treetop views. Certified guides ensure safety as visitors explore this eco-adventure paradise.
19. Springfield Art Museum
LOCAL & GLOBAL ART | SPRINGFIELD MO
The Springfield Art Museum offers free admission to its well-curated collection featuring works from various eras and genres alongside exhibits from regional artists. Visitors can enjoy rotating special exhibits that highlight unique artistic perspectives while navigating its intimate yet thoughtfully designed layout. A cultural gem in Springfield, this museum is perfect for art enthusiasts seeking inspiration without crowds or fees.
20. Missouri State Museum
STATE HERITAGE | JEFFERSON CITY MO
Situated in the State Capitol, the Missouri State Museum highlights the state's natural and cultural history through rotating exhibits and interactive displays. Visitors can explore themes ranging from Civil War battle flags to environmental conservation efforts. Free guided tours enhance the experience with insights into Missouri's rich heritage.