Miami MissouriATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Miami, Missouri.
1. Van Meter State Park
HISTORIC NATIVE AMERICAN SITE
Van Meter State Park features remnants of the Missouria Indian village that sat at the Great Bend of the Missouri River, marked on a map by Jacques Marquette and Louis Jolliet in 1673. The park preserves this important historical site with hand-dug features from the original native settlement. Visitors can explore the natural landscape while learning about the rich Native American heritage of the region.
2. World's Largest Pecan
UNIQUE ROADSIDE ATTRACTION
The World's Largest Pecan is a quirky roadside attraction near Miami, Missouri that draws curious visitors. This oversized replica celebrates the region's agricultural heritage and pecan farming industry. The monument stands as a testament to the area's rural character and serves as a popular photo opportunity for travelers.
3. Wonder Dog Memorial Garden
UNIQUE CANINE TRIBUTE
The Wonder Dog Memorial Garden is a special tribute site honoring remarkable canines near Miami, Missouri. This peaceful garden provides visitors a place to reflect on the bond between humans and dogs. The memorial features monuments and displays celebrating notable dogs and their contributions.
4. Miami Access
MISSOURI RIVER RECREATION
Miami Access provides a gateway to the Missouri River for outdoor enthusiasts just north of the town of Miami. Located about 13 miles north of Marshall on Highway 41, the access point allows visitors to enjoy fishing, boating, and wildlife observation. The site serves as an important recreational resource for both locals and visitors seeking to experience the mighty Missouri River.
5. Old Courthouse
HISTORIC LEGAL LANDMARK
The Old Courthouse in St. Louis is a historic legal landmark with significant importance in American history. The building hosted the famous Dred Scott case trials that impacted the course of civil rights in the United States. Its impressive dome and architecture make it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts traveling through Missouri.
6. Forest Park
URBAN NATURE OASIS
Forest Park in St. Louis is one of America's greatest urban parks, spanning over 1,300 acres of green space. The park houses numerous cultural institutions including the Zoo, Science Center, and several museums. Since hosting the 1904 World's Fair, it has remained a beloved recreational destination for millions of visitors each year.
7. Gateway Arch
ICONIC NATIONAL MONUMENT
The Gateway Arch stands as a towering 630-foot tall stainless steel monument next to the Mississippi River in St. Louis. This iconic structure commemorates the westward expansion of the United States and serves as the centerpiece of Gateway Arch National Park. Visitors can take a tram to the top for spectacular views of the city and river below.
8. St. Louis Union Station
HISTORIC TRANSPORTATION HUB
St. Louis Union Station is a former railroad terminal that has been transformed into a vibrant entertainment complex. The historic structure now houses an Aquarium and a giant Ferris wheel among other attractions. Its grand architecture and repurposed spaces offer visitors a glimpse into the golden age of rail travel while enjoying modern entertainment options.
9. Cathedral Basilica
STUNNING MOSAIC MASTERPIECE
The Cathedral Basilica in St. Louis features one of the largest mosaic collections in the Western Hemisphere with more than 41 million pieces of glass tesserae. This architectural marvel combines Byzantine and Romanesque styles to create an awe-inspiring sacred space. The cathedral's interior dome and ceiling mosaics depict biblical scenes and religious imagery with remarkable artistic detail.
10. Anheuser Busch Brewery
HISTORIC BEER PRODUCTION
The Anheuser Busch Brewery in St. Louis offers visitors a glimpse into the production of America's most famous beer brand. Tours include visits to the historic brew house, aging cellars, packaging facilities, and the legendary Clydesdale stable. The brewery complex combines historic architecture with modern production techniques to showcase more than 160 years of brewing heritage.
11. Busch Stadium
CARDINALS BASEBALL HOME
Busch Stadium serves as the home field for the St. Louis Cardinals baseball team, one of the most storied franchises in Major League Baseball. The stadium offers stunning views of the downtown skyline including the Gateway Arch from many of its seats. Baseball fans can enjoy America's pastime while experiencing the passionate Cardinals fanbase in this modern ballpark that opened in 2006.
12. City Museum
IMAGINATIVE URBAN PLAYGROUND
The City Museum in St. Louis is an eclectic mixture of children's playground, funhouse, surrealistic pavilion, and architectural marvel made out of repurposed industrial objects. Created by artist Bob Cassilly, this unique attraction features caves, slides, tunnels, and climbing structures that span multiple floors. Visitors of all ages can explore this immersive environment that defies traditional museum conventions.
13. Laclede's Landing
HISTORIC RIVERFRONT DISTRICT
Laclede's Landing is a historic district along the Mississippi River featuring cobblestone streets and century-old buildings that once served as warehouses and shipping facilities. This nine-block area now houses restaurants, bars, shops, and entertainment venues in its preserved brick structures. Visitors can experience the riverfront charm while enjoying views of the Gateway Arch and river traffic.
14. Blueberry Hill
LEGENDARY MUSIC VENUE
Blueberry Hill is a famous restaurant and music club in St. Louis known for hosting legendary musician Chuck Berry for over 200 monthly performances. The venue features an eclectic collection of pop culture memorabilia, music history artifacts, and vintage jukeboxes throughout its dining rooms and bar areas. Located in the Delmar Loop neighborhood near the St. Louis Walk of Fame, it remains a vital part of the city's musical heritage.
15. Arrow Rock State Historic Site
PRESERVED 19TH CENTURY VILLAGE
Arrow Rock State Historic Site preserves a once-thriving 19th-century Missouri River community that played a significant role in American westward expansion. The village features more than a dozen historic structures including the J. Huston Tavern, which dates to 1834 and is the oldest continuously operating restaurant west of the Mississippi River. Visitors can stroll the village streets, tour historic buildings, and learn about life on the frontier at this well-preserved site located within driving distance of Miami.