Old Monroe Missouri
ATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Old Monroe, Missouri.
1. Gateway Arch
ICONIC MONUMENT | ST LOUIS MO
The Gateway Arch, standing 630 feet tall, is the tallest monument in the United States and a symbol of westward expansion. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views from the top via a tram ride, explore interactive exhibits in the museum, and stroll through the scenic national park grounds. This architectural marvel, designed by Eero Saarinen, has become an enduring landmark of St. Louis.
2. Missouri Botanical Garden
HISTORIC BEAUTY | ST LOUIS MO
Established by philanthropist Henry Shaw, this landmark garden showcases timeless elegance through attractions like the Gladney Rose Garden and Magnolia Grove. Its Sachs Museum features botanical art and artifacts that celebrate the intersection of science and creativity throughout history.
3. Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art
GLOBAL COLLECTIONS | KANSAS CITY MO
Housing nearly 40,000 works from Africa, Asia, Europe, and beyond, the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art showcases humanity's artistic achievements across centuries. Outdoor sculptures complement its indoor exhibits while dining options like Rozzelle Court add to its charm. Free admission invites everyone to explore.
4. Meramec Caverns
ROUTE 66 GEM | STANTON MO
A favorite stop on Route 66, Meramec Caverns combines natural beauty with rich history, including legends of its use as a hideout by Jesse James. The guided tours showcase breathtaking formations and interactive light displays. Additional attractions include ziplining, gold panning, and riverside camping.
5. Ozark National Scenic Riverways Park
WATERFALLS AND TRAILS | VAN BUREN MO
Ozark National Scenic Riverways Park offers stunning natural features like Rocky Falls, a perfect spot for swimming or relaxing on gravel shores. The Ozark Trail winds through the park, connecting visitors to scenic locations such as Powder Mill and Blue Spring. These areas provide excellent opportunities for hiking and exploring nature's wonders.
6. Old Chain of Rocks Bridge
MISSISSIPPI CROSSING | ST LOUIS MO
Stretching over the Mississippi River, the Old Chain of Rocks Bridge is a testament to early 20th-century engineering. This former vehicular bridge is now a serene pedestrian trail connecting Missouri and Illinois. Its historic charm and panoramic views make it a must-visit destination.
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
NATURE'S SANCTUARY | MOUND CITY MO
Spanning over 7,400 acres, Loess Bluffs National Wildlife Refuge serves as a critical habitat for migratory birds along the Central Flyway while supporting local biodiversity year-round. Hiking trails like the Interpretive Trail at Loess Bluffs offer moderately challenging climbs with rewarding views of the floodplain below this scenic refuge. Nature photographers are drawn to Loess Bluffs for rare wildlife encounters in pristine surroundings.
9. Harry S. Truman Presidential Library & Museum
HISTORIC LEGACY | INDEPENDENCE MO
The Harry S. Truman Presidential Library & Museum offers visitors a deep dive into the life and leadership of America's 33rd president. Immersive exhibits highlight Truman's pivotal decisions, from WWII strategies to civil rights advancements. Located in Independence, Missouri, the museum also features Truman's working office and his family's final resting place.
10. TITANIC Museum Attraction
NAUTICAL HISTORY | BRANSON MO
TITANIC Museum Attraction in Branson is a celebration of the ship's legacy, featuring personal stories of passengers and crew. Visitors receive boarding passes of real passengers and discover their fates through engaging exhibits. With artifacts valued at over .5 million, the museum combines history with hands-on experiences for all ages.
11. Silver Dollar City
ARTISANS & ENTERTAINMENT | BRANSON MO
Artisans at Silver Dollar City showcase timeless crafts like glassblowing and pottery while entertaining visitors with their skills. Live performances at Silver Dollar City range from signature shows to celebrity concerts during seasonal festivals. The park's 40 attractions offer fun for all ages in a charming 1880s setting.
12. City Museum
ARTISTIC WONDERLAND | ST LOUIS MO
City Museum transforms industrial and architectural remnants into a surreal playground filled with interactive exhibits. Highlights include the Enchanted Caves, MonstroCity, and multi-story slides that thrill visitors of all ages. City Museum's creative design invites exploration and sparks imagination at every turn.
13. Mark Twain National Forest
MISSOURI GEM | SOUTHERN MO
As Missouri's only national forest, Mark Twain stands out with its unique blend of geological wonders and recreational opportunities. Visitors can hike through ancient volcanic terrain or float down spring-fed rivers teeming with wildlife. Every visit to Mark Twain National Forest uncovers new treasures waiting to be explored.
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
MISSOURI'S NATURAL GEM | SPRINGFIELD MO
Located near Springfield, Missouri, Fantastic Caverns invites visitors to explore its beauty on a ride-through tram tour. The cave features awe-inspiring formations and fascinating historical tales from its discovery to its role during Prohibition. With no walking required, it is an ideal destination for guests of all ages and mobility levels.
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. 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. Montauk State Park
TROUT FISHING HAVEN | SALEM MO
Montauk State Park is renowned for its trout fishing at the headwaters of the Current River, where seven springs converge. Anglers flock here during trout season, while others enjoy hiking trails, camping facilities, and tours of the historic 1896 gristmill. The park's natural beauty and serene atmosphere make it a favorite destination in the Ozarks.
19. The National Museum of Toys and Miniatures
WORLD'S LARGEST MINIATURE COLLECTION | KANSAS CITY MO
The National Museum of Toys and Miniatures showcases the world's largest collection of fine-scale miniatures alongside an impressive array of historic toys. Visitors can marvel at intricate dollhouses, furniture, and other handcrafted miniatures while reminiscing about toys from decades past. This museum offers a unique blend of artistry and nostalgia, making it a must-see for families and collectors alike.
20. Pickle Springs Natural Area
GEOLOGICAL WONDER | STE GENEVIEVE MO
Pickle Springs Natural Area features the Trail Through Time, a two-mile loop showcasing 500-million-year-old sandstone formations and unique geologic features like box canyons and arches. Visitors can enjoy scenic waterfalls and rare flora while exploring this National Natural Landmark. The area's rugged beauty offers a tranquil escape for hikers and photographers alike.