Oakwood MissouriATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Oakwood, Missouri.
1. Ozark National Scenic Riverways Park
NATURAL SPRINGS AND CAVES
Ozark National Scenic Riverways Park is renowned for its impressive concentration of first-magnitude springs and over 400 caves. Outdoor enthusiasts will find excellent opportunities for hiking, spelunking, fishing, and canoeing along the clear waters of the Current and Jacks Fork Rivers. The park's Big Spring is one of the largest in the United States, attracting visitors with its vibrant blue waters and scenic beauty.
2. Oakwood Park
FAMILY-FRIENDLY OUTDOOR SPACE
Oakwood Park offers a tranquil retreat with playgrounds, picnic areas, and walking trails suited for families and nature lovers. The park is a popular spot for community events, gatherings, and outdoor recreation throughout the year. Its green spaces provide an inviting setting for relaxation and enjoying the outdoors.
3. Gateway Arch
ICONIC AMERICAN MONUMENT
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 and take a tram ride to the top for sweeping views of St. Louis and the Mississippi River. The monument's distinctive stainless-steel arch makes it one of the most recognizable landmarks in the Midwest.
4. Blue Star Museums
ACCESSIBLE ART AND CULTURE
Blue Star Museums participate in a program offering free admission to active-duty military personnel and their families. These museums, located throughout Missouri, showcase everything from visual art and history to science and children's exhibits. The program operates seasonally and makes cultural experiences accessible to a broad audience.
5. Kickapoo State Recreation Area
RECLAIMED STATE PARK
Kickapoo State Recreation Area is a unique park that was converted from a former strip mine into a densely forested landscape. Visitors enjoy hiking, fishing, boating, and camping within the park's scenic beauty and abundant wildlife. Its transformation from industrial land to green haven makes it a notable destination for outdoor recreation.
6. State Parks of Missouri
DIVERSE OUTDOOR LANDSCAPES
Missouri's State Parks system features a wide variety of natural attractions, from rugged hills and forests to lakes and caves. Visitors can experience hiking, camping, swimming, and wildlife observation in protected environments. The parks are popular destinations for both relaxation and adventure in nature.
7. Junior Ranger Program
EDUCATIONAL KIDS' ACTIVITIES
The Junior Ranger Program encourages children to explore and learn about the natural world through guided activities in parks around Oakwood and the greater Missouri area. Kids can complete workbooks, participate in ranger-led programs, and earn badges for their achievements. The program aims to foster a love of conservation and the outdoors in young visitors.
8. National Parks in Missouri
PROTECTED NATURAL GEMS
National Parks in Missouri preserve significant landscapes and historical sites, from riverways and prairies to Civil War battlefields. These parks offer recreational opportunities such as hiking, boating, wildlife watching, and historical tours. They serve as important destinations for both education and recreation.
9. Animal Attractions
WILDLIFE AND ZOOS
Animal Attractions in the region include zoos, wildlife parks, and aquariums where visitors can observe and learn about animals from Missouri and around the world. These destinations often provide interactive exhibits and educational programs for families and children. They are popular destinations for fun and learning about biodiversity.
10. Factory Tours
BEHIND-THE-SCENES EXPERIENCES
Factory Tours in nearby metropolitan areas invite visitors to go behind the scenes of manufacturing processes, from food production to craft goods. Tours are often guided and interactive, providing insights into local industries and economies. They make for a unique and educational day trip.
11. Museums for All
AFFORDABLE MUSEUM ADMISSION
Museums for All is a nationwide initiative adopted by select museums in Missouri to offer reduced admission fees for families receiving SNAP benefits. This program ensures that educational and cultural resources are accessible to everyone, regardless of income. Participating museums cover a range of topics, from science to art and local history.
12. Pioneer History and Heritage Sites
EXPLORING LOCAL HISTORY
Pioneer History and Heritage Sites around St. Louis allow visitors to step back in time and discover the stories of early settlers and trailblazers. Historic buildings, interpretive centers, and reenactments provide a glimpse into 19th-century life. These sites highlight the region's contribution to America's westward expansion.
13. Second Nature Adventures
OUTDOOR ADVENTURE ACTIVITIES
Second Nature Adventures provides guided outdoor experiences such as hiking, kayaking, and wildlife tracking in the natural surroundings near Oakwood. The organization focuses on environmental education and safe exploration of the region's parks and riverways. It's a favorite choice for groups seeking adventure and learning in the outdoors.
14. Historic Downtown Liberty
CHARMING MAIN STREET STROLL
Historic Downtown Liberty, not far from Oakwood, boasts brick-lined streets, boutique shops, cafés, and a vibrant events calendar. The area preserves its 19th-century architecture, giving visitors a glimpse into local history and small-town charm. It's a great destination for leisurely shopping, dining, and community festivals.
15. Weston Bend State Park
PICTURESQUE BLUFFS AND TRAILS
Weston Bend State Park offers scenic overlooks of the Missouri River, as well as hiking and biking trails through woodlands and prairies. The park is known for its wildflowers in spring and vibrant foliage in fall, making it a photographer's paradise. It's an ideal spot for picnics, birdwatching, and outdoor recreation close to Oakwood.