19 Most Beautiful Places To Visit In Missouri

Famous for inspiring Mark Twain’s novels including The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, I discovered on my five week Missouri road trip that this intriguing Midwestern state had a wonderfully laid-back vibe — all wide-open spaces, sprawling mountains, rolling plains, winding rivers, and hidden gems. Here are the unforgettable places that made my trip so special…

1. The Ozarks

I thought the Ozarks were one of the most striking parts of Missouri, with their rugged mountains, thick forests, hidden caves, rolling hills, and lakes that glistened in the sun — it all felt both wild and laid-back at the same time!

On my state road trip, I drove two hours southeast from my previous stop in El Dorado Springs and settled in for an unforgettable ten days, staying for half the time at the rustic-chic Point View Resort. I spent my days gliding along the clear Buffalo National River (in a kayak) and venturing deep into the shadowy chambers of Blanchard Springs Caverns and Bridal Cave.

I couldn’t resist kayaking across the sparkling expanse of the Lake of the Ozarks, wandering Eureka Springs with its quirky shops and Victorian architecture, climbing up to the haunting stone ruins at Ha Ha Tonka, indulging in heavenly chocolate peanut butter fudge at Grandma’s Candy Kitchen, and unwinding by the tranquil shores of Table Rock Lake.

Location: South-central United States across Missouri, Arkansas, Oklahoma, and a corner of Kansas | Size: 47,000–50,000 square miles | Vibe: Rustic, outdoorsy, and quietly scenic |Wildlife: white-tailed deer, black bears, elk, bobcats, river otters, bald eagles, wild turkeys, turtles

My favorite highlights…

2. Ha Ha Tonka State Park

I thought Ha Ha Tonka State Park felt like stepping straight into a storybook, with rugged cliffs, picturesque woodlands, clear blue springs, and the haunting ruins of a stone castle perched on a bluff!

From my base in the Ozarks, it was just a 30-minute drive to Camdenton, and I spent a packed day hiking the scenic trails, standing beneath the towering 100-foot natural bridge, taking in sweeping views from Whispering Dell, cooling off at Ha Ha Tonka Spring, and wandering the dramatic castle ruins that looked both romantic and eerie against the skyline!

Location: Central Missouri near Camdenton | Size: Mid-sized park 3,700+ acres | Vibe: Dramatic and storybook-rugged Wildlife: white-tailed deer, wild turkey, armadillos, raccoons, foxes, pileated woodpeckers, bald eagles, turtles

My highlights…

• Hiking the leisurely 0.7-mile Colosseum Trail in just 40 minutes – I enjoyed going past a mossy sinkhole and into the echoing cool beneath the 125-foot-wide Colosseum natural bridge.

3. Table Rock Lake

Table Rock Lake was one of the prettiest spots I visited in the Ozarks, with sparkling waters framed by rolling emerald hills that made the whole place feel serene yet full of adventure. From Camdenton, I drove two hours south to Branson and spent four days at the cozy Mill Creek Resort on Table Rock Lake.

I explored the winding trails hugging the lake’s edge, dove into glassy waters for a swim, paddled out by kayak, and capped it off with a breezy boat cruise. Over the next few days, I wandered the lively three-mile-long Indian Point peninsula, gazed in awe at the massive Table Rock Dam, rode vertigo-inducing ziplines at Shepherd of the Hills, and even got swept up in the old-time fun of Silver Dollar City.

Location: Southwestern Missouri and northwestern Arkansas, near Branson | Size: Large reservoir (around 800 miles of shoreline) | Vibe: Relaxed and lake-life scenic

My highlights…

• Dining at the rustic-chic Indian Point Floating Café right on the water, I loved gazing over the sparkling lake while digging into their crispy golden waffle fries and tangy crispy dill pickle chips fresh from the fryer!

4. Elephant Rocks State Park

I thought Elephant Rocks State Park was such a unique stop – massive, weathered granite boulders scattered across rolling hills like a herd of elephants, with quiet woodlands wrapped around them that made the whole place feel both peaceful and very awe-inspiring!

After leaving Branson, I drove three hours northeast to my nearby overnight base at the charming Fort Davidson Hotel and spent a very full day hiking the trails, clambering over the giant rocks, picnicking in the shade, and snapping photos of the surreal and Insta-worthy formations! I loved the thoughtful touches too, like the accessible Braille Trail and the handy weekend food truck!

Location: Southeastern Missouri near Graniteville | Size: Small state park | Vibe: Playful, otherworldly, and geologic-cool Wildlife: white-tailed deer, raccoons, gray foxes, armadillos, lizards, turtles, frogs, pileated woodpeckers, hawks, and songbirds

My highlights…

• Taking a 10-minute detour off the Braille Trail – it led me through dense woods to the mossy 1890s Engine House Ruins, where I saw crumbling reddish-pink granite walls and rusted iron remains of the Iron Mountain & Southern Railroad repair shop!

5. Wah Kon-Tah Prairie

Wandering around Wah Kon-Tah Prairie was pure nostalgia — rolling seas of tallgrass shimmered in the breeze, alive with colorful wildflowers!

From Joplin, I drove an hour and a half northeast to El Dorado Springs, where I based myself for two nights at the nearby cozy El Dorado Springs Cabin (which was just a 15 minute drive from the prairie). I hiked through whisper-quiet prairies, chased the horizon on sunset drives, and watched wildlife ghost across the wide-open landscape.

Location: Southwest Missouri near El Dorado Springs | Size: Large preserve over 3,000 acres | Vibe: Peaceful, wide-open, and nature-pure | Wildlife: white-tailed deer, prairie chickens, coyotes, bobcats, box turtles and prairie kingsnakes

My personal highlights…

• The incredible sunsets! This was when warm golds, fiery oranges, soft pinks, and deep purples washed over the wide-open prairie while crickets and meadow birds filled the air with sound!

6. Big Cedar Lodge

The 4-star Big Cedar Lodge was the most romantic stop on my trip — a rustic-chic resort where warm wood and stone interiors looked out over the shimmering Table Rock Lake and rolling Ozark hills.

From my former stop in Branson, it was only a 20-minute drive south to Ridgedale, and I checked in for two dreamy nights. My Falls Lodge Premier King Room came with a balcony view that I couldn’t stop gazing at, and I spent my time soaking up spa treatments, dining in cozy restaurants, exploring the Top of the Rock Lost Canyon Cave and Nature Trail by golf cart, and admiring the gleaming championship golf courses!

Location: Ozark Mountains near Branson, southern Missouri | Size: Large wilderness resort around 4,600 acres | Vibe: Rustic-luxury, outdoorsy, and family-friendly | Wildlife: White-tailed deer, wild turkeys, songbirds, and waterfowl

My highlights…

• Indulging in a Botanical Bliss Organic Facial in the upscale spa – cooling aloe and cucumber soothed my skin, and green tea with rosehip oil left me glowing and refreshed!

7. Dogwood Canyon

I found this tranquil private nature park tucked into the Ozarks – it was filled with trickling streams, cascading waterfalls, vintage-style timber buildings and gorgeous forests linked by quaint stone bridges and boardwalks.

While staying at Big Cedar Lodge, I drove just 15 minutes south for a full day of hiking and biking along shaded trails. I also hopped on a scenic tram, dined at the rustic Mill & Canyon Grill and even stumbled across whimsical little treehouse — it all felt very nostalgic and beautifully crafted!

Location: Ozark Mountains on the Missouri–Arkansas border, near Branson | Size: Private 10,000-acre nature park| Vibe: Peaceful, pristine, and outdoorsy

My favorite highlights…

• The two-hour open-air tram tour – I really enjoyed gliding past bluffs and waterfalls while learning the park’s ecology and history, and staring at shaggy bison and hearing noisy elk bugles echo just feet away in the Bison-Elk Country pasture!

8. Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park

This rugged, scenic park was one of the most adventurous places I visited — where the Black River carved its way through ancient volcanic rock, creating natural water slides, swimming holes, and pools that felt like a giant outdoor playground tucked into the St. Francois Mountains!

From Belleview, it was just a 30-minute drive south, and I stayed in the nearby Arcadia Academy (which was a 30 minute drive away) for a wonderful two days. I tackled the 2.25-mile Shut-Ins Trail, then cooled off sliding into pools, picnicked on sun-warmed rocks, wandered shady forests, and dug into the park’s geology at the Black River Center. There was just one caveat though— there weren’t any lifeguards here, so swimming was completely at our own risk!

Location: Southeastern Missouri | Size: Mid-sized state park | Vibe: Fun, adventurous, and refreshingly wild | Wildlife: White-tailed deer, river otters, raccoons, gray foxes, armadillos, pileated woodpeckers, warblers, copperhead and black rat snakes, turtles,

My favorite highlights…

• Browsing the cool outdoor River Store – I bought a reusable tote and a mug, each stamped with an eye-catching design of the Black River!

9. Blue Spring

This vivid natural spring was one of the most breathtaking natural spots I found in the state— its sapphire-blue water was so clear I could see straight to the bottom, shimmering like a hidden jewel tucked deep in the forest! 

From Taum Sauk, I drove an hour and a half west to Eminence and spent an afternoon hiking the short half-mile trail from Route 19, winding through lush woodland before the spring suddenly appeared like a secret oasis. Sadly I found I couldn’t swim there, since it’s protected to keep its pristine condition, but just standing at the edge watching the water glow felt special enough for me!

Location: Ozark National Scenic Riverways in southeastern Missouri, near Eminence | Size: Small natural spring | Vibe: Tranquil and almost mystical

My highlights…

• Hearing a faint splash and seeing a silvery minnow flicker through the turquoise ripples! 

10. Missouri State Capitol and Governor’s Mansion, Jefferson City

I thought these were two of the most attractive landmarks in the state! The State Capitol‘s grand Neoclassical dome, marble halls, and Thomas Hart Benton murals were just gorgeous, while the Governor’s Mansion completely charmed me with its elegant Victorian interiors and pretty riverside gardens. I loved the sense of historical grandeur and the formal, almost regal vibe they both had!

From my previous stop in Dixon, it was about an hour’s drive north to reach my base in Jefferson on the Missouri River. I spent an afternoon here, joining a free guided tour I had reserved online to explore the soaring dome, the legislative chambers, and the Missouri State Museum. Afterwards, I toured the Governor’s Mansion and strolled through its beautifully kept gardens before heading on my way.

Location: Jefferson City, central Missouri | Size: Grand capitol complex | Vibe: Historic, stately, and art-filled

My personal highlights…

• The Governor’s Mansion which dated back to the 1870s – I loved the intricate soft ivory crown moldings, walnut parquet floors, hand‑carved black walnut staircase and how the scent of polished mahogany and beeswax made it feel wonderfully timeless!

11. Prairie State Park

I loved visiting this quieter natural gem—it felt like stepping into an endless sea of tallgrass prairie, with far-stretching vistas, and wildflower-dotted meadows bursting with color! It had a raw, untouched beauty which made it one of the most tranquil spots on my road trip.

After visiting Powell Gardens, I made the 2.5-hour drive south to Mindenmines, right on the Kansas border, and set up base in Joplin. I hiked the family-friendly and leisurely Coyote Trail, watched free-roaming bison grazing against golden grasses, went bird-watching, and soaked up the history woven into this preserved ecosystem of native tallgrass prairie.

Location: Southwestern Missouri | Size: Large prairie ~4,000 acres | Vibe: Wild, windswept, and natural Wildlife: Bison, white-tailed deer, coyotes, red foxes, badgers, box turtles, prairie snakes

My personal highlights…

• Staying at the nearby cute and funky Westport Inn – I really enjoyed the cozy vibe, funky decor (especially the long-horned cow cushions) and starting my mornings on my porch with a state-brewed Kingdom Coffee peppermint mocha in hand!

12. Gateway Arch, St. Louis

I was completely awed by this gleaming stainless steel curve soaring above St. Louis – it shimmered against the sky and Mississippi River and perfectly captured the city’s spirit of exploration! Standing beneath it, I could feel why it’s such a powerful symbol of America’s westward expansion!

I began my Missouri road trip here, flying into Lambert International Airport and driving just 20 minutes downtown to the Arch. On my three day city trip, I rode the quirky tram to the very top and saw incredible panoramic views, explored the interactive Gateway Arch Museum, strolled the landscaped park grounds, took a riverboat cruise on the Mississippi, and stepped inside the historic Old Courthouse nearby.

Location: Downtown St. Louis, Eastern Missouri | Size: 630-foot — the tallest arch in the world | Vibe: Sleek, iconic, and boldly modern

My personal highlights…

• Staying at the cool 4-star 21c Museum Hotel – I loved the trendy decor (especially the giant crimson penguin sculptures), the sleek indoor pool, and sipping on a floral Tiger by the Tail cocktail of passion fruit liqueur and orgeat syrup in the Idol Wolf bar.

13. Grand Falls

I was really wowed by this majestic waterfall (the largest continuously flowing natural waterfall in the state) —the wide, tumbling waters crashing over rocky ledges created a scene that felt both powerful and serene, especially when the sunlight sparkled across the foamy spray!

Coming from my previous stop at Mindenmines, I drove an hour east to Joplin and spent a charming afternoon at Grand Falls. I admired the stunning views, stretched out on the rocky ledges, explored the nearby creek, and ended with a romantic picnic while listening to the soothing rush of water—my favorite part of the visit!

Location: Southwestern Missouri on Shoal Creek, just south of Joplin | Size: 12 feet high and 163 feet wide | Vibe: Scenic, relaxing, and photo-worthy

My favorite highlights…

• I loved taking a dip in the calm pools just downstream of the falls – I was really struck how the air carried a faint mineral scent mixed with the earthy freshness of the riverbank (I was thankful I bought my water shoes, as it was rocky in parts)!

14. Clifty Creek Natural Bridge

I thought this striking 40-foot natural rock arch was like something out of a fairy’s grotto! This ancient stone arch framed the forest beautifully, with rugged rock formations and the gentle sound of Clifty Creek flowing beneath—it felt almost magical with the rustle of leaves all around me!

From Sullivan, I drove two hours west into Maries County to the Clifty Creek Conservation Area and stayed for a full day. I hiked the moderately challenging 2.5-mile trail from the parking area on Maries County Road 511. The uneven terrain, creek crossings, and small climbs made it an adventure, but it was so worth it to stand beneath the arch and just soak in the wonderful scenery!

Location: Central Missouri near Dixon | Size: 40-foot | Vibe: Quiet, rugged, and geologic-cool

My favorite highlights…

• Staying for sunset and loved how everything came together—the gurgling creek, the faint cedar scent, the rustling leaves, and the sky glowing in a palette of dramatic hues! 

15. Cape Girardeau

I thought this was one of the most charming riverside cities in the state! Sitting right on the Mississippi River, it won me over with its pretty riverfront views, historic brick architecture, and leafy parks that gave the whole place a relaxed, small-town feel with plenty of character.

I ended my loop with a 2.5-hour drive east to reach this mid-sized city and spent two nights at the romantic Rockwood Inn. I wandered the historic downtown, strolled the riverfront, learned about local history at the Cape River Heritage Museum, and walked the grounds of Fort D. I also hiked part of the Trail of Tears National Historic Trail, admired the Wall of Fame with its 47 famous Missourians, and browsed quaint antique shops.

Location: Southeastern Missouri along the Mississippi River, near the Illinois border | Size: Mid-sized city | Vibe: Friendly and heritage-rich

My highlights…

• Dining in the Mary Jane bourbon + smokehouse – I loved the cool, laid back vibe, their bodied Single Barrel Select Rye Whiskey and their divine caramelized crispy sprouts which was a potent mix of roasted walnuts, fried capers and a chile garlic dressing!

16. Meramec Caverns

I discovered that this sprawling, colorful limestone cave system was a striking natural wonder! This unique underground world of the Meramec Cavernsin the Ozarks completely amazed me with its intricate stalactites and stalagmites, shimmering limestone walls, and the illuminated “Wine Table,” which gave the whole place an almost mystical glow. I loved the mix of natural beauty and fascinating history—it felt both educational and otherworldly at the same time!

I drove just over an hour southwest along I-44 to Stanton from my previous stay at St. Louis and joined an interesting 80-minute guided tour on the well-lit 1.25-mile route. I learnt about the caverns’ 400-million-year history while walking through the cool, echoing chambers. 

Location: Eastern Missouri near Stanton | Size: Large, multi-level cave system stretching over 4.6 miles | Vibe: Dramatic, mysterious, and historic-cool

My personal highlights…

• Learning all about the Jesse James connection on the guided tour – our guide told us that artifacts such as rusty revolvers, saddles, coins, and even old lanterns were discovered in the cave, adding weight to the story that the notorious outlaw really did use it as a hideout in the 1870s!

17. Meramec State Park

Meramec State Park Website was a peaceful natural haven! Set in the Ozark Mountains near Sullivan, it drew me in with its lush forests, towering bluffs, and the gentle flow of the Meramec River—it felt wonderfully tranquil compared to busier parks. I loved how immersive the landscape was, with caves, glades, and dense woodlands all around!

Only a short 10-minute drive from Meramec Caverns, I stayed for two nights and packed in hiking along 13 miles of trails, mountain biking the Meramec Loop, and paddling the river by kayak and raft. Armed with only a handheld light, I explored Fisher Cave (a true trip highlight) and finished with a fascinating visit to the park’s nature center!

Location: Eastern Missouri near Sullivan | Size: Large state park 6,800+ acres | Vibe: Peaceful, outdoorsy, and nature-immersed | Wildlife: Beavers, white-tailed deer, red foxes, and woodland birds

My highlights…

• Staying at the low-key Meramac Caverns Motel – I really liked the super friendly staff, being able to walk to the caverns in under 10 minutes and listening to the quiet hum of cicadas at night!

18. Powell Gardens

I thought Powell Gardens was the prettiest botanical gardens I came across on my trip! It impressed me with its tranquil atmosphere, colorful plant collections, and striking contemporary architecture. I loved how immersive it felt, with each themed garden offering its own charm!

From Meramec State Park, I drove 2.5 hours northwest and spent a lovely afternoon here. For the $12 entrance fee, I wandered through seven themed spaces which included the Fountain Garden, Heartland Harvest Garden, and the Perennial Garden, strolled along peaceful trails, and admired the beautifully curated landscapes bursting with seasonal blooms!

Location: Western Missouri near Kingsville | Size: Large 970-acre garden | Vibe: Peaceful, colorful, and artfully landscaped | Wildlife: Butterflies, dragonflies, songbirds, and frogs

My highlights…

• Attending their ‘Gardening 101’ class – I learned how to test its moisture with just my fingers, smelled the rich compost as we prepped beds, and even practiced planting bright marigolds and zinnias in neat rows, with got tips on pruning herbs (including basil and mint)! 

19. Taum Sauk Mountain State Park

I thought Taum Sauk Mountain State Park was a rugged and unspoiled gem! Home to the state’s highest point and tallest waterfall, Mina Sauk Falls, it felt wonderfully under-the-radar, with dense ecologically rich forests, rocky glades, and stunning views of the St. Francois Mountains. I loved its untouched, tranquil vibe—it was the perfect place to find solitude in nature!

From Johnson’s Shut-Ins, I drove just 20 minutes deeper into the mountains and stayed nearby for two nights. I hiked to Mina Sauk Falls, explored the rugged out-and-back Highpoint Trail, and soaked up the breathtaking views from the rocky overlooks—I thought it was wild, raw Missouri at its very best! 

Location: Southeastern Missouri in the St. Francois Mountains near Ironton | Size: Large park around 7,400 acres | Vibe: Rugged, remote, and quietly spectacular | Wildlife: Coyotes, deer, wild turkeys, and migratory hawks

My personal highlights…

• I stayed at the nearby charming 4-star Crown Pointe Lodge, BW Signature Collection – the fresh breakfast starter of locally grown apples and berries, topped with a drizzle of honey and toasted pecans was a real highlight for me!

Where is Missouri?

Missouri is a Midwest state bordered by Iowa to the north, Illinois and Kentucky to the east, Arkansas to the south, and Kansas, Nebraska, and Oklahoma to the west.