Prairie Home Missouri
ATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Prairie Home, Missouri.
1. Gateway Arch
STEEL CURVE | ST LOUIS MO
The Gateway Arch is an impressive stainless steel structure celebrating America's westward expansion with unparalleled elegance at 630 feet tall. Visitors can experience panoramic views from its top, learn about historical milestones in its museum exhibits, or take relaxing walks through its beautifully landscaped park grounds. It remains an iconic feature of St. Louis' cultural identity.
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
HISTORIC LEGACY | KANSAS CITY MO
Established in 1933 through visionary bequests, the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art combines history with artistic excellence. Its galleries feature works from nearly every continent and era, complemented by interactive exhibits and outdoor sculptures. The museum's free admission ensures accessibility to all visitors.
4. Meramec Caverns
MISSOURI LANDMARK | STANTON MO
A must-see attraction in Missouri, Meramec Caverns showcases awe-inspiring limestone formations across seven levels of underground beauty. The caverns are steeped in history, from Native American artifacts to Civil War-era mining operations. Activities such as ziplining and riverboat rides complement the cave tours.
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
RIVER VIEWS GALORE | ST LOUIS MO
Towering above the Mississippi River, the Old Chain of Rocks Bridge offers unparalleled views and a glimpse into Route 66's storied past. Its transformation into a pedestrian trail preserves its legacy while providing recreational opportunities. The bridge's iconic bend adds to its charm.
7. Missouri Great River Road
MISSOURI SCENES | EASTERN MISSOURI
The Missouri Great River Road takes visitors on a scenic tour of the state's diverse attractions along the Mississippi River corridor. From Hannibal's literary landmarks to Cape Girardeau's conservation areas, this route offers something for everyone to enjoy. Rich in history, nature, and culture, it is a quintessential American road trip.
8. Loess Bluffs National Wildlife Refuge
WILDLIFE OASIS | MOUND CITY MO
Loess Bluffs National Wildlife Refuge serves as an essential stopover on the Central Flyway for waterfowl migrations. The varied habitats at Loess Bluffs attract over 300 bird species annually, making it a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy wildlife observation, photography opportunities, and educational programs year-round at this picturesque refuge.
9. Harry S. Truman Presidential Library & Museum
AMERICAN HISTORY | INDEPENDENCE MO
The Harry S. Truman Presidential Library & Museum chronicles the extraordinary journey of President Truman through compelling exhibits and rare artifacts. Visitors can explore his decisive actions during WWII, civil rights breakthroughs, and diplomatic efforts worldwide. Situated in Independence, Missouri, it is a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts.
10. TITANIC Museum Attraction
INTERACTIVE EXHIBITS | BRANSON MO
TITANIC Museum Attraction invites guests to explore life aboard the RMS Titanic through interactive displays and historical artifacts. Visitors can experience sloping decks, touch a frigid iceberg, and view personal items from passengers. The museum's detailed recreations bring the ship's story to life in an unforgettable way.
11. Silver Dollar City
SEASONAL FESTIVALS | BRANSON MO
From springtime expos to dazzling Christmas celebrations, seasonal festivals make every visit to Silver Dollar City special. Guests at Silver Dollar City can enjoy themed entertainment, artisan crafts, and delicious festival foods throughout the year. The park's thrilling rides and historic charm complete the unforgettable experience at Silver Dollar City.
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
NATURAL WONDERLAND | SOUTHERN MO
Mark Twain National Forest spans 1.5 million acres across the Ozark Highlands, offering visitors a mix of rugged landscapes and serene waterways. The forest features over 750 miles of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, as well as designated areas for motorized recreation. With its ancient springs, scenic byways, and abundant wildlife, Mark Twain National Forest is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.
14. National WWI Museum and Memorial
HISTORICAL TREASURE | KANSAS CITY MO
As America's official World War I museum, the National WWI Museum and Memorial preserves personal stories alongside global history through its diverse exhibits. Visitors can explore trenches or admire rare items like uniforms from notable figures such as General Pershing. The Liberty Memorial Tower provides an unforgettable perspective on Kansas City's landscape while honoring wartime sacrifices.
15. Fantastic Caverns
HISTORIC CAVE EXPERIENCE | SPRINGFIELD MO
Discovered in 1862, Fantastic Caverns is steeped in history and offers a one-of-a-kind ride-through exploration. Guests can relax in a Jeep-drawn tram as they marvel at stalagmites, cave pearls, and other natural wonders. This accessible attraction is perfect for families and history enthusiasts alike, offering stories of its early explorers and unique past uses.
16. Elephant Rocks State Park
GEOLOGICAL MARVELS | GRANITEVILLE MO
Elephant Rocks State Park features massive granite boulders resembling a train of circus elephants that are perfect for climbing and exploration. The Braille Trail provides an accessible path through these ancient formations while offering interpretive signage for visitors with visual impairments. Picnic areas and historic quarry sites add to the park's charm.
17. Mastodon State Historic Site
ICE AGE LEGACY | IMPERIAL MO
Mastodon State Historic Site preserves the Kimmswick Bone Bed where mastodon fossils were discovered alongside Clovis spear points-evidence of Ice Age human activity. A museum features a full-size mastodon skeleton replica alongside hiking trails and picnic areas for outdoor exploration. This site is a must-visit for archaeology enthusiasts.
18. Beyond The Lens! Branson
TECHNO-TAINMENT FUN | BRANSON MO
Beyond The Lens! Branson combines interactive exhibits with pop culture themes to create a unique family-friendly experience. Highlights include virtual reality games, an alien egg pit, and the immersive FlyRide attraction that simulates flight over national landmarks. Visitors can explore mysteries of history alongside fun photo opportunities.
19. Alley Spring & Mill
HISTORIC MILL & SPRINGS | EMINENCE MO
Alley Spring & Mill combines natural beauty with historical charm as visitors explore its turquoise spring waters and iconic red mill listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The mill offers seasonal tours showcasing original equipment used to grind wheat into flour in bygone days. Surrounding trails provide scenic hikes through caves, cliffs, and rushing streams for an unforgettable outdoor adventure.
20. Devil's Well
UNDERGROUND WONDER | SALEM MO
Devil's Well is a fascinating geological feature in the Missouri Ozarks, showcasing a massive sinkhole that leads to the state's largest underground lake. Visitors can descend a metal staircase to view the lake 100 feet below, illuminated by a switch-activated light for an unforgettable glimpse into subterranean beauty. The surrounding Cave Spring Trail offers a challenging hike through rugged terrain, adding to the allure of this unique natural landmark.