Sullivan MissouriATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Sullivan, Missouri.
1. Meramec State Park
NATURAL BEAUTY AND RECREATION
Meramec State Park offers visitors a chance to explore the natural beauty of Missouri with its lush forests and scenic river views. The park features numerous hiking trails, camping areas, and water activities along the Meramec River. Visitors can enjoy outdoor recreation year-round, including fishing, canoeing, and wildlife observation.
2. Fisher Cave
UNDERGROUND WONDER TOUR
Fisher Cave is one of the most spectacular caves in Meramec State Park, featuring stunning formations and underground chambers. Guided tours take visitors through the fascinating geological history and unique ecosystem of this natural wonder. The cave maintains a constant cool temperature year-round, making it a refreshing attraction during hot summer months.
3. Meramec Caverns
FAMOUS UNDERGROUND ADVENTURE
Meramec Caverns is a 4.6-mile cave system known for its impressive formations and historical significance as a hideout for Jesse James. Guided tours lead visitors through spectacular chambers featuring colorful stalactites, stalagmites, and the remarkable Wine Table formation. The experience concludes with a memorable light and sound show in one of the cave's largest rooms.
4. Long Ridge Conservation Area
WILDERNESS AND WILDLIFE
Long Ridge Conservation Area provides a pristine natural setting for outdoor enthusiasts to explore the Missouri wilderness. The conservation area features diverse habitats that support a variety of wildlife and plant species native to the region. Visitors can enjoy activities such as hiking, bird watching, and seasonal hunting in accordance with local regulations.
5. Pea Ridge Conservation Area
NATURE LOVER'S PARADISE
Pea Ridge Conservation Area offers visitors access to unspoiled natural landscapes and diverse ecosystems. The area provides opportunities for hiking, wildlife observation, and photography in a serene setting. Nature enthusiasts can experience the changing seasons across the area's varied terrain and woodlands.
6. Sunny Jim Bottomley City Park
COMMUNITY RECREATION SPOT
Sunny Jim Bottomley City Park serves as a central recreational facility for Sullivan residents and visitors alike. The park offers various amenities including playgrounds, picnic areas, and sports facilities for community enjoyment. Named after Baseball Hall of Famer Jim Bottomley who was from the area, the park hosts local events and provides a gathering place for families.
7. Route 66 Hydrant Mural Project
ROADSIDE ART INSTALLATION
The Route 66 Hydrant Mural Project transforms ordinary fire hydrants into artistic landmarks depicting cities and attractions along the historic Mother Road. Twenty-seven painted hydrants are positioned in east-to-west alignment along Route 66 in Sullivan, starting with Chicago at the southeast corner of Mary Street. Each colorful hydrant serves as both functional infrastructure and a creative celebration of America's most famous highway.
8. Sullivan Route 66 Mural
HISTORIC HIGHWAY ARTWORK
The Sullivan Route 66 Mural is a vibrant piece of public art located at 227 E. Springfield Road that celebrates the town's connection to the historic highway. The east-facing wall mural depicts nostalgic Route 66 scenes including a diner waitress, jukebox, vintage car, and gas station logos. A map across the country highlights Sullivan's location along the famous route with a "You are Here" arrow, creating a popular photo opportunity for travelers.
9. Sullivan Country Club
GOLF AND RECREATION
Sullivan Country Club provides a scenic golf experience for players of all skill levels in a picturesque setting. The course offers well-maintained fairways and greens surrounded by the natural beauty of the Missouri countryside. Beyond golf, the country club serves as a social hub for the community with additional amenities and special events throughout the year.
10. Jesse James Wax Museum
OUTLAW HISTORY EXHIBIT
The Jesse James Wax Museum showcases the controversial life and times of America's most famous outlaw through lifelike wax figures and historical exhibits. Located near Meramec Caverns, the museum explores the many theories surrounding Jesse James, including claims that he faked his own death. Visitors can examine artifacts, photographs, and dramatized scenes that bring the Wild West era to life.
11. Riverside Wildlife Center
ANIMAL EDUCATION EXPERIENCE
Riverside Wildlife Center offers visitors close encounters with various animal species in an educational environment. The center focuses on conservation awareness and provides information about native and exotic wildlife through interactive exhibits. Families can learn about animal habitats, behaviors, and the importance of protecting diverse species for future generations.
12. Riverside Reptile Ranch
EXOTIC REPTILE EXHIBITS
Riverside Reptile Ranch houses an impressive collection of reptiles from around the world in a fascinating educational setting. Visitors can observe snakes, lizards, turtles, and other exotic species while learning about their natural habitats and behaviors. The facility offers guided tours and sometimes provides opportunities for supervised interaction with select reptiles.
13. Fanning Route 66 Outpost
HISTORIC HIGHWAY STOP
Fanning Route 66 Outpost is home to the former World's Largest Rocking Chair, a roadside attraction that has drawn travelers along the Mother Road for years. The site features a general store with Route 66 memorabilia, local products, and refreshments for weary travelers. Visitors can take photos with the enormous chair while experiencing a slice of Americana and highway culture.
14. Onondaga Cave
UNDERGROUND NATURAL WONDER
Onondaga Cave is a National Natural Landmark featuring stunning formations created over thousands of years beneath the Missouri landscape. Guided tours lead visitors through illuminated passageways showcasing massive stalactites, stalagmites, and active flowstone in this living cave. The constant 57-degree temperature provides a cool respite while exploring this underground wonderland with its impressive Cathedral Room and Lily Pad Room.
15. St. Francois State Park
OUTDOOR ADVENTURE DESTINATION
St. Francois State Park encompasses over 2,700 acres of beautiful Ozark landscape with the Big River flowing through its boundaries. The park offers extensive recreational opportunities including hiking along the Mooner's Hollow Trail, swimming, fishing, and camping facilities. Visitors can explore the diverse ecosystems within the park while enjoying scenic overlooks and the peaceful sounds of nature.