St Joseph MissouriATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near St Joseph, Missouri.
1. Patee House Museum
HISTORIC MUSEUM COMPLEX
Patee House Museum is a renowned historical museum complex featuring Civil War artifacts, a steam locomotive, and even a vintage carousel. The museum recreates an Old West main street, allowing visitors to step back in time and experience the era's vibrant history. It also includes the storied Jesse James Home, offering a window into the life and times of the famous outlaw.
2. Pony Express Museum
LEGENDARY MAIL ROUTE
The Pony Express Museum commemorates the famed mail service that revolutionized communication across the American West in the 1860s. Through interactive exhibits and historical displays, visitors can discover stories of the courageous riders and the critical role St. Joseph played as the Pony Express's eastern terminus. Kids and adults alike enjoy learning about frontier life and the challenges of early mail delivery.
3. Glore Psychiatric Museum
HISTORY OF MENTAL HEALTH
The Glore Psychiatric Museum is housed in a former state hospital and is one of the country's most unique museums dedicated to psychiatric history. With original exhibits dating back to 1968, it explores the often misunderstood evolution of mental health care through compelling displays and artifacts. The museum provides a powerful and educational perspective on the progress made in the treatment of mental illness.
4. Jesse James Home Museum
OUTLAW'S HISTORIC RESIDENCE
The Jesse James Home Museum preserves the house where the notorious outlaw Jesse James was shot and killed in 1882. Visitors can see original furnishings and artifacts, gaining insight into one of America's most famous criminals and his dramatic end. Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with stories from Jesse James's life and legacy.
5. Remington Nature Center
RIVERFRONT NATURE EXPERIENCE
Remington Nature Center sits along the Missouri River and combines local history with environmental education. The center boasts a 7,000-gallon freshwater aquarium, live animal exhibits, and interpretive displays about regional wildlife and Native American history. Its scenic river views and easy trails make it a favorite for families and nature lovers.
6. Krug Park
SCENIC URBAN PARK
Krug Park is one of St. Joseph's oldest and most beloved green spaces, known for its beautiful landscaping, fishing pond, and abundant wildlife. The park offers walking trails, playgrounds, and picnic areas amid well-tended gardens and historic stonework. It's also famous for its elaborate holiday light displays, drawing visitors from across the region.
7. Hall Street Historic District
MILLIONAIRE'S ROW MANSIONS
Hall Street Historic District, also known as 'Millionaire's Row,' features an unmatched collection of Victorian-era mansions built during St. Joseph's affluent past. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the district showcases architectural styles such as Queen Anne, Italianate, and Gothic Revival. Walking or driving through the district provides a glimpse into the city's Gilded Age opulence.
8. Wyeth-Tootle Mansion
VICTORIAN ARCHITECTURAL GEM
The Wyeth-Tootle Mansion is an iconic 1879 Victorian mansion located in the Museum Hill Historic District. Open for tours most of the year, the mansion lets visitors explore ornate interiors and learn about the city's wealthy past. The home is a showcase of intricate woodwork, stained glass, and period furnishings.
9. St. Joseph Museums
DIVERSE MUSEUM COMPLEX
The St. Joseph Museums house four unique collections, including the Glore Psychiatric Museum, Black Archives Museum, Doll Museum, and Native American and History Galleries. Each museum is located in a historically significant building, offering visitors a diverse range of stories and artifacts. The complex is a cultural hub, drawing both locals and tourists with its educational exhibits.
10. Missouri Theatre
HISTORIC PERFORMING ARTS VENUE
Missouri Theatre is a restored 1927 movie palace and one of the region's premier venues for live performances, concerts, and community events. The theatre's opulent Art Deco interior and ornate detailing offer a unique atmosphere for entertainment. It continues to be a cultural centerpiece in downtown St. Joseph.
11. River Bluff Trails Park
OUTDOOR ADVENTURE NETWORK
River Bluff Trails Park offers a network of multi-use and singletrack trails that wind through the bluffs along the Missouri River. The park is popular among joggers, hikers, and especially mountain bikers, thanks to its challenging skill zones and scenic views. Its natural beauty and proximity to downtown make it an exciting destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
12. Black Archives Museum
AFRICAN AMERICAN HERITAGE
The Black Archives Museum is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the history of African Americans in St. Joseph and the surrounding area. Exhibits feature artifacts, photographs, and stories highlighting the contributions and experiences of the local Black community. The museum serves as both an educational resource and a celebration of cultural heritage.
13. Doll Museum
CHARMING FIGURINE COLLECTION
The Doll Museum features an extensive collection of dolls from various eras and cultures, providing a whimsical window into childhoods of the past. Visitors can marvel at rare, antique dolls as well as popular figures from more recent decades. The museum appeals to collectors and families alike.
14. Museum Hill Historic District
ARCHITECTURAL TIME CAPSULE
The Museum Hill Historic District encompasses a vibrant neighborhood filled with historic churches, grand homes, and public buildings. Its diverse architecture, including Queen Anne and Romanesque styles, tells the story of St. Joseph's boom years. Guided and self-guided tours let visitors explore the district's rich architectural heritage.
15. East Hills Shopping Center
REGIONAL SHOPPING DESTINATION
East Hills Shopping Center is the largest mall in St. Joseph, offering a wide variety of retail stores, dining options, and family-friendly events. With popular national brands and local shops, it's a go-to for shopping and entertainment. Seasonal events and community activities add to its appeal as a local gathering spot.