Ozark MissouriATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Ozark, Missouri.
1. Smallin Civil War Cave
HISTORIC NATURAL WONDER
Smallin Civil War Cave features a breathtaking ten-story arch entrance that leads visitors into a world of rich human history, unusual geology, and rare cave life. Discovered in 1818, this cavern offers one-hour guided tours that explore its historical significance and natural formations. The cave is open year-round, making it an accessible attraction regardless of when travelers visit the area.
2. Stained Glass Theatre
CHRISTIAN COMMUNITY THEATER
Stained Glass Theatre is a live production Christian community theatre with seating for 275 patrons. The venue presents seven different productions each year, with each show typically running for five to six weeks. This cultural attraction offers family-friendly entertainment with a faith-based perspective.
3. Heather Hill Farms
VINEYARD AND GOURMET SHOP
Heather Hill Farms is a charming vineyard and specialty shop offering a wide selection of gourmet treats and local products. Visitors can browse through various snacks, mixes, and condiments including pickled goods, salsas, and many other unique items. The farm provides a rustic shopping experience with a focus on locally-made culinary delights.
4. Camp Flea Antique Mall
TREASURE HUNTER'S PARADISE
Camp Flea Antique Mall offers an extensive collection of vintage items and collectibles for antique enthusiasts. Visitors consider searching through the store a great way to get exercise while discovering unique and off-beat items. The antique mall provides a fun shopping experience for those looking to find one-of-a-kind treasures.
5. Keen Eye Antiques
ECLECTIC VINTAGE FINDS
Keen Eye Antiques is a true antique store featuring all types of old and eclectic items for visitors to browse through. The shop maintains an authentic vintage shopping experience rather than focusing on reproductions or newer items. Customers often express their eagerness to return for another visit to explore more of the shop's unique offerings.
6. Finley Farms
HISTORIC MILL COMPLEX
The Ozark Mill at Finley Farms is a restored historic mill that now serves as a dining and event destination along the Finley River. This revitalized property features dining options, outdoor spaces, and celebrates the region's heritage through preservation and modern amenities. Visitors can enjoy the unique blend of history and contemporary experiences in this riverside setting.
7. Lambert's Cafe
HOME OF THROWN ROLLS
Lambert's Cafe is a beloved regional restaurant famous for its unique tradition of servers throwing fresh, hot rolls to diners across the room. The restaurant offers generous portions of home-style cooking and country favorites in a lively, family-friendly atmosphere. Lambert's has become a destination dining experience that attracts visitors from across the country to experience their distinctive serving style and hearty meals.
8. Vineyard Market
LOCAL CULINARY DESTINATION
Vineyard Market in Ozark offers a curated selection of gourmet foods, wines, and specialty items for culinary enthusiasts. The market provides a shopping experience focused on quality ingredients and local products. Visitors can discover unique food items and gifts while supporting local producers and artisans.
9. Ozarks Amphitheater
PREMIER OUTDOOR PERFORMANCE VENUE
The Ozarks Amphitheater is an outdoor performance venue hosting concerts and events near the Lake of the Ozarks. The amphitheater features national touring acts and local performances in a scenic natural setting. Visitors can enjoy live music and entertainment under the stars during the venue's seasonal schedule.
10. Bridal Cave
UNDERGROUND WEDDING DESTINATION
Bridal Cave at Thunder Mountain Park is a spectacular underground cave system known for hosting over 3,000 weddings in its natural cathedral room. The cave features stunning formations including stalactites, stalagmites, and massive columns in a constant 60-degree environment. Guided tours take visitors through the illuminated passages while sharing the geological and cultural history of this natural wonder.
11. Stark Caverns
ANCIENT UNDERGROUND WORLD
Stark Caverns is a fascinating cave system with evidence of prehistoric Native American use dating back thousands of years. The caverns feature impressive rock formations, underground streams, and a rich history that guides share during the tour experience. Visitors can explore the carefully illuminated passages while learning about both the natural and human history connected to this subterranean landmark.
12. Alley Spring and Mill
ICONIC HISTORIC WATERMILL
Alley Spring and Mill features a striking red mill building set against the backdrop of the crystal-clear spring that once powered it. The historic gristmill, built in 1894, stands as one of the most photographed sites in Missouri with its vibrant color contrasting against the turquoise spring waters. Visitors can explore the mill's interior, learn about its operation, and enjoy the surrounding grounds that include the spring, hiking trails, and picnic areas within Ozark National Scenic Riverways.
13. Big Spring
POWERFUL NATURAL SPRING
Big Spring is one of the largest single-outlet springs in the United States, pumping an average of 276 million gallons of water daily into the Current River. The spring's crystal-clear blue waters emerge from the base of a limestone bluff, creating a stunning natural spectacle within Ozark National Scenic Riverways. Visitors can view the spring from several observation points, hike surrounding trails, and learn about the hydrogeology of the Ozarks region through interpretive displays.
14. Round Spring and Cave
UNDERGROUND RIVER TOUR
Round Spring Cave offers visitors a unique lantern-lit tour through an underground river system within the Ozark National Scenic Riverways. The cave features impressive formations, underground pools, and passages that reveal the complex karst hydrology of the region. Nearby Round Spring itself produces millions of gallons of water daily, creating a beautiful circular pool surrounded by lush vegetation and recreational facilities.
15. Rocky Falls
NATURAL WATERFALL PARADISE
Rocky Falls cascades over ancient rhyolite rock formations, creating a scenic waterfall and natural swimming hole within Ozark National Scenic Riverways. The falls feature a series of drops totaling about 40 feet in height, with water flowing over reddish volcanic stone that contrasts beautifully with the surrounding green forest. Visitors can swim in the plunge pool during warmer months, picnic in the adjacent area, or hike the connecting trails to explore more of the park's natural beauty.