Preston Missouri
ATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Preston, Missouri.
1. Gateway Arch
GATEWAY TO WEST | ST LOUIS MO
The Gateway Arch in St. Louis is a towering tribute to America's exploration and expansion. Its observation deck offers views spanning up to 30 miles, while its museum immerses visitors in historical narratives of pioneers and settlers. Surrounded by lush park grounds and scenic riverfront trails, it provides a perfect blend of history and leisure.
2. Missouri Botanical Garden
FLORAL PARADISE | ST LOUIS MO
Renowned for its vast botanical collections, the Missouri Botanical Garden includes unique features like a pioneer village and Osage camp in its Children's Garden area. The Japanese Garden is among North America's largest strolling gardens, offering tranquility amidst lush greenery. Guided tours enhance the visitor experience with fascinating insights into plant science and history.
3. Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art
ART AND COMMUNITY | KANSAS CITY MO
The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art serves as a community cornerstone with its free access to world-class collections and engaging programs. Visitors can enjoy diverse artworks across multiple galleries or relax in the sculpture park's tranquil setting. Its welcoming atmosphere fosters connections through art.
4. Meramec Caverns
UNDERGROUND WONDER | STANTON MO
Nestled in the Ozarks, Meramec Caverns spans 4.6 miles of limestone formations shaped over millions of years. Visitors can explore unique features like the Wine Room and Mirror Room while enjoying light displays and historical exhibits. The site also offers camping, canoeing, and family-friendly amenities for a complete getaway.
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
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
SCENIC BYWAY | EASTERN MISSOURI
The Missouri Great River Road offers travelers a chance to experience scenic views and historic charm along its stretch of the Mississippi River. Highlights include kayaking adventures at Crystal City Underground and exploring Ste. Genevieve National Historical Park's preserved buildings. With its blend of outdoor activities and cultural stops, this drive is ideal for all ages.
8. Loess Bluffs National Wildlife Refuge
BIRD MIGRATION HAVEN | MOUND CITY MO
Loess Bluffs National Wildlife Refuge, located in northwestern Missouri, is a vital sanctuary for migratory birds and diverse wildlife. Visitors to Loess Bluffs can witness spectacular migrations of snow geese, trumpeter swans, and bald eagles during spring and fall. The refuge features a scenic auto tour, hiking trails, and a visitor center with educational exhibits.
9. Harry S. Truman Presidential Library & Museum
POLITICAL HERITAGE | INDEPENDENCE MO
The Harry S. Truman Presidential Library & Museum reveals the personal and professional life of President Truman through engaging exhibits and authentic memorabilia. Highlights include his working office and burial site alongside his family members in the courtyard garden area. This Independence landmark embodies American resilience and leadership.
10. TITANIC Museum Attraction
TIME MACHINE EXPERIENCE | BRANSON MO
TITANIC Museum Attraction transports visitors to 1912 with its half-scale replica of the ship's exterior and immersive exhibits inside. Guests can explore recreated spaces like third-class hallways and the Captain's bridge while touching authentic relics from the shipwreck. This museum offers a poignant tribute to those aboard the Titanic through storytelling and hands-on activities.
11. Silver Dollar City
THEME PARK THRILLS | BRANSON MO
Silver Dollar City is an 1880s-themed park nestled in the picturesque Ozark Mountains, offering visitors a unique blend of history and entertainment. Silver Dollar City features over 40 rides, live shows, and artisan demonstrations, creating an immersive experience for all ages. Guests at Silver Dollar City can also explore Marvel Cave and enjoy award-winning dining and seasonal festivals.
12. City Museum
WHIMSICAL ESCAPE | ST LOUIS MO
City Museum is an enchanting space where visitors can lose themselves in a maze of slides, caves, and artistic creations. The rooftop offers breathtaking views along with quirky features like a bus teetering on the edge. City Museum is a celebration of creativity and exploration for all ages.
13. Mark Twain National Forest
OUTDOOR PARADISE | SOUTHERN MO
Encompassing diverse ecosystems from oak hardwoods to bluestem prairies, Mark Twain National Forest offers something for every nature enthusiast. Its secluded campgrounds provide peaceful retreats while its trails cater to hikers and bikers alike. Mark Twain National Forest is a must-visit destination for anyone craving outdoor adventure.
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
HIDDEN MISSOURI TREASURE | SPRINGFIELD MO
Fantastic Caverns is an unforgettable destination where guests can explore stunning underground landscapes without leaving their seats on a Jeep-drawn tram tour. Highlights include intricate mineral formations and fascinating stories about its early explorers and varied uses over time. Its welcoming design ensures everyone can enjoy this natural wonder regardless of age or ability level.
16. Laumeier Sculpture Park
OUTDOOR ART GALLERY | ST LOUIS MO
Laumeier Sculpture Park blends art with nature across its sprawling outdoor space filled with contemporary sculptures by renowned artists. Visitors can stroll through wooded trails or open fields while enjoying thought-provoking installations that engage with their surroundings. This free attraction offers a peaceful yet inspiring cultural experience.
17. Talking Rocks Cavern
VERTICAL BEAUTY | BRANSON WEST MO
Talking Rocks Cavern offers an hour-long guided tour through breathtaking limestone formations like stalactites and flowstone columns in a comfortable 63-degree environment. Above ground, guests can enjoy mini-golf, gemstone panning, nature trails to lookout points, and family games. This living cave continues to grow its formations, making every visit unique.
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. Missouri State Capitol
ARCHITECTURAL BEAUTY | JEFFERSON CITY MO
The Missouri State Capitol impresses visitors with its grand architecture featuring stunning murals depicting state history alongside intricate stonework throughout its halls. Guided tours reveal fascinating details about legislative processes while showcasing art collections housed within its walls. Overlooking the Missouri River, this iconic building serves as both a political hub and cultural treasure for locals and tourists alike.
20. Jesse James Wax Museum
OUTLAW HISTORY | STANTON MO
Located near Meramec Caverns, the Jesse James Wax Museum invites visitors to explore the life of America's infamous outlaw through lifelike wax figures and captivating exhibits. The museum features artifacts belonging to Jesse James and his gang, alongside vintage firearms and historical displays that delve into his exploits during the Wild West era. This roadside attraction provides an engaging mix of folklore and history, perfect for families and history buffs alike.