Rushville Missouri
ATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Rushville, 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
HORTICULTURAL HAVEN | ST LOUIS MO
The Missouri Botanical Garden offers a serene escape with its meticulously designed gardens, such as the Victorian District and Ottoman Garden. Its Climatron conservatory houses a vibrant tropical rainforest, while the Temperate House showcases Mediterranean flora. Seasonal events and educational tours make it a year-round destination for nature enthusiasts.
3. Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art
CULTURAL ICON | KANSAS CITY MO
Known for its Beaux-Arts architecture and innovative Bloch Building, the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art is a must-visit destination in Kansas City. It houses over 40,000 works of art, including masterpieces from Africa, Asia, and Europe. Guests can enjoy curated exhibitions, self-guided tours, and serene outdoor spaces.
4. Meramec Caverns
NATURAL TREASURE | STANTON MO
Missouri's most-visited cave, Meramec Caverns offers an immersive journey through its intricate limestone formations. Highlights include the Ballroom and stage curtain used for light shows, as well as fascinating historical displays. The surrounding area features camping, river activities, and family-friendly amenities.
5. Ozark National Scenic Riverways Park
FAMILY DESTINATION | VAN BUREN MO
Ozark National Scenic Riverways Park provides family-friendly activities such as picnicking at Watercress Park or swimming at Rocky Falls day-use area. Ranger-led nature hikes educate visitors about local wildlife during summer months. Accessible trails make it easy for all ages to explore the park's iconic landmarks and natural beauty.
6. Old Chain of Rocks Bridge
ICONIC BEND BRIDGE | ST LOUIS MO
Known for its distinctive 30-degree turn, the Old Chain of Rocks Bridge is a historic marvel crossing the Mississippi River. Originally built in 1929 as a toll bridge, it now welcomes walkers and cyclists as part of the Route 66 experience. Its towering structure provides breathtaking views of the river and surrounding landscapes.
7. Missouri Great River Road
RIVER ROAD ESCAPE | EASTERN MISSOURI
The Missouri Great River Road delivers an escape into scenic beauty and historical richness along its winding path beside the Mississippi River. Visitors can enjoy iconic sites like the Gateway Arch while discovering hidden gems such as Crystal City Underground kayaking tours or artisan galleries in Clarksville. It is a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration for any traveler seeking adventure in Missouri.
8. Loess Bluffs National Wildlife Refuge
MIGRATION HOTSPOT | MOUND CITY MO
Designated as an Internationally Important Bird Area, Loess Bluffs National Wildlife Refuge hosts hundreds of thousands of migratory birds each year. Flocks of snow geese create breathtaking sights and sounds at Loess Bluffs during peak migration seasons. Visitors can explore the refuge through hiking trails or the Wild Goose Auto Tour Loop for unforgettable experiences.
9. Harry S. Truman Presidential Library & Museum
RENOVATED EXPERIENCE | INDEPENDENCE MO
The Harry S. Truman Presidential Library & Museum has undergone a million renovation to enhance its storytelling capabilities and visitor engagement. Exhibits now feature cutting-edge technology to depict pivotal moments like the Korean War and Cold War strategies. This Independence attraction sets the standard for presidential libraries.
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
CRAFTSMANSHIP & FUN | BRANSON MO
Silver Dollar City celebrates American craftsmanship with over 100 artisans demonstrating timeless skills like glassblowing and blacksmithing. Silver Dollar City combines thrilling roller coasters, family-friendly attractions, and live entertainment to create unforgettable memories. Seasonal festivals at Silver Dollar City add a festive flair to the park's charming 1880s atmosphere.
12. City Museum
UNIQUE PLAYGROUND | ST LOUIS MO
City Museum in St. Louis is a one-of-a-kind playground built inside a repurposed shoe warehouse, offering an immersive experience for all ages. Visitors can explore slides, tunnels, and whimsical installations like a rooftop Ferris wheel and a bus hanging off the edge. City Museum combines art, history, and adventure to create an unforgettable destination.
13. Mark Twain National Forest
FAMILY FUN | SOUTHERN MO
Families visiting Mark Twain National Forest can enjoy activities like geocaching, scenic drives, or easy hikes such as the Greer Springs Trail. The forest's vast size ensures plenty of space for picnics and exploration without crowds. A trip to Mark Twain National Forest guarantees lasting memories in nature.
14. National WWI Museum and Memorial
GLOBAL HISTORY | KANSAS CITY MO
The National WWI Museum and Memorial delves into global events surrounding World War I with engaging displays and films. Visitors can walk through recreated environments like trenches or admire unique artifacts such as vintage motorcycles used in the war effort. A trip to the Liberty Memorial Tower completes this historical exploration.
15. Fantastic Caverns
ALL-SEASON ATTRACTION | SPRINGFIELD MO
Fantastic Caverns provides a 55-minute guided tour through a stunning underground landscape, all from the comfort of a Jeep-drawn tram. Its constant 60-degree temperature makes it an ideal destination no matter the season. Visitors can learn about the cave's rich history while enjoying its breathtaking formations and family-friendly accessibility.
16. Ha Ha Tonka State Park
CASTLE RUINS & SPRINGS | CAMDENTON MO
Ha Ha Tonka State Park combines natural beauty with history, featuring the ruins of a European-style castle overlooking Lake of the Ozarks. Visitors can hike trails through caves, sinkholes, and karst formations or admire the stunning Ha Ha Tonka Spring. This park offers a unique blend of geological wonders and cultural intrigue.
17. National Museum of Transportation
TRANSPORT HISTORY | KIRKWOOD MO
The National Museum of Transportation showcases an extensive collection of trains, cars, planes, and boats spanning 15 decades of American history. Highlights include rare locomotives like Union Pacific Big Boy #4006 and unique vehicles such as a Chrysler turbine car. Interactive exhibits and guided tours make it a family-friendly destination for learning about transportation evolution.
18. Discovery Center of Springfield
HANDS-ON SCIENCE | SPRINGFIELD MO
The Discovery Center of Springfield is an interactive science museum featuring exhibits on health, technology, and natural history. Visitors can explore a giant walk-through brain or engage in STEM-focused activities like virtual reality simulations. This dynamic center inspires curiosity for learners of all ages.
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. Kansas City Workhouse
CASTLE-LIKE LANDMARK | KANSAS CITY MO
Built in 1897, the Kansas City Workhouse is a Romanesque Revival structure originally used as a jail for petty offenders. Its castle-like architecture and storied past make it an intriguing historical site for visitors. Guided tours reveal tales of reform efforts and community impact during its operational years.