Shoal Creek Drive Missouri
ATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Shoal Creek Drive, Missouri.
1. Gateway Arch
STUNNING VIEWS | ST LOUIS MO
The Gateway Arch provides awe-inspiring views of St. Louis and beyond from its observation deck reached via tram rides through its unique structure. Its museum showcases stories of pioneers who shaped America's landscape while surrounding park trails offer peaceful exploration opportunities along the Mississippi Riverfront.
2. Missouri Botanical Garden
BOTANICAL OASIS | ST LOUIS MO
Founded in 1859, the Missouri Botanical Garden is a National Historic Landmark and one of the oldest botanical institutions in the United States. Spanning 79 acres, it features exquisite horticultural displays, including a 14-acre Japanese strolling garden and the iconic Climatron geodesic dome conservatory. Visitors can explore historic architecture, rare plant collections, and interactive exhibits for all ages.
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
FAMILY DESTINATION | STANTON MO
Perfect for all ages, Meramec Caverns offers guided tours through its stunning limestone chambers alongside fun activities like gold panning and climbing walls. Historical legends of Jesse James enrich the experience with exciting stories of the past. Relaxation awaits at the campground or riverside motel.
5. Ozark National Scenic Riverways Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION | VAN BUREN MO
Ozark National Scenic Riverways Park is an outdoor enthusiast's dream with activities like horseback riding, motorized boating, and fishing. Visitors can choose from primitive campsites or developed campgrounds for overnight stays. Seasonal events such as bluegrass concerts enhance the park's vibrant atmosphere.
6. Old Chain of Rocks Bridge
MISSOURI ILLINOIS LINK | ST LOUIS MO
Spanning one mile across the Mississippi River, the Old Chain of Rocks Bridge connects two states with its historic charm. Once bustling with cars on Route 66, it now offers a tranquil path for pedestrians and cyclists. Its iconic bend remains a highlight for visitors.
7. Missouri Great River Road
RIVERFRONT BEAUTY | EASTERN MISSOURI
The Missouri Great River Road combines stunning riverfront scenery with fascinating historical sites for an unforgettable journey through the state. Attractions like St. Louis's Gateway Arch and New Madrid Historical Museum provide insight into local culture and history. This route is a must-see for travelers seeking both education and relaxation.
8. Loess Bluffs National Wildlife Refuge
CONSERVATION HUB | MOUND CITY MO
A cornerstone of conservation efforts since 1935, Loess Bluffs National Wildlife Refuge balances habitat preservation with public recreation opportunities in northwest Missouri's natural landscapes. Diverse ecosystems at Loess Bluffs support endangered species like massasauga rattlesnakes alongside thriving bird populations throughout the year at this refuge site. Visitors can learn about ongoing conservation initiatives through interactive exhibits or guided tours during migration seasons at Loess Bluffs.
9. Harry S. Truman Presidential Library & Museum
LEGACY PRESERVED | INDEPENDENCE MO
The Harry S. Truman Presidential Library & Museum preserves the life and legacy of President Truman through innovative storytelling techniques and historical artifacts. Visitors can explore his personal belongings, political memorabilia, and groundbreaking decisions on global issues. Nestled in Independence, Missouri, it serves as a beacon of education.
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
IMMERSIVE EXPERIENCE | ST LOUIS MO
Combining art, architecture, and play, City Museum captivates visitors with its unique exhibits crafted from repurposed materials. Highlights include the Enchanted Caves, giant slides, and rooftop adventures that offer stunning city views. City Museum delivers endless fun in an unforgettable setting.
13. Mark Twain National Forest
ADVENTURE HUB | SOUTHERN MO
Mark Twain National Forest is a playground for adventure seekers with ATV trails, horseback riding areas, and rugged hiking paths like the Greer Springs Trail. Its rivers offer thrilling float trips while its campgrounds provide serene escapes under starry skies. Every corner of Mark Twain National Forest invites exploration and discovery.
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
UNIQUE CAVE TOUR | SPRINGFIELD MO
Fantastic Caverns stands out as one of only four ride-through caves in the world and the only one in North America. Guests enjoy a leisurely tram ride through stunning formations while learning about the cave's discovery by John Knox and its early explorers. This family-friendly attraction offers an unforgettable glimpse into Missouri's underground wonders.
16. Negro Leagues Baseball Museum
SPORTS HISTORY | KANSAS CITY MO
The Negro Leagues Baseball Museum celebrates the history of African American baseball players who paved the way for integration in professional sports. Through exhibits featuring memorabilia, photographs, and interactive displays, visitors gain insight into this important chapter of American history. It's a must-visit for baseball fans and history enthusiasts alike.
17. Lake of the Ozarks State Park
OUTDOOR PARADISE | OSAGE BEACH MO
Lake of the Ozarks State Park offers over 17,000 acres of recreational opportunities, including hiking, biking, horseback riding, and water activities along its 85 miles of shoreline. Visitors can explore Ozark Caverns or relax on sandy beaches while enjoying breathtaking views. With campgrounds, cabins, and marinas, this park is perfect for extended stays or day trips.
18. Cuivre River State Park
NATURAL ESCAPE | TROY MO
Cuivre River State Park offers over 6,400 acres of rugged landscapes, including native grasslands, limestone bluffs, and forested hills. Visitors can enjoy hiking, fishing, swimming, and camping, with trails leading to scenic overlooks and wildlife observation areas. The park's rich biodiversity and historical features make it a serene retreat for nature lovers.
19. Jacob's Cave
UNDERGROUND WONDERS | VERSAILLES MO
Jacob's Cave invites visitors on a guided tour through its stunning underground formations like soda straws, rimstone dams, and stalactites at the Wishing Well site. Prehistoric animal bones are showcased in its museum section alongside whimsical formations resembling cartoon characters in the Children's Zoo area. Accessible pathways ensure a safe yet mesmerizing exploration of this active cave system.
20. Missouri Civil War Museum
HISTORIC LEGACY | ST LOUIS MO
Located in Jefferson Barracks, the Missouri Civil War Museum preserves the state's rich Civil War history through artifacts like uniforms, weapons, and medical kits. Interactive exhibits detail Missouri's divided loyalties during the war and its impact on local communities. The museum's setting in a restored historic building adds depth to its immersive storytelling.