Missouri
The rivers arrived first, carving their priceless art into the Missouri landscape. They were our first trails, cutting a path for hundreds of explorers and thousands of settlers. The early pioneers branched out, forming their own trails, establishing towns along the way.As you follow those first settlers through the Gateway to the West, you too will carve a path. One filled with memories from an adventure second to none. Branch out, like the pioneers did, covering the trails that launched thousands of prairie schooners.
Along the way, experience Missouri's natural beauty and neighborliness, with a lifetime of navigable rivers. Just ask the ghosts of Lewis and Clark, who started - and ended - their 1804 Corps of Discovery in St. Charles. Carve your own path of discovery along Missouri's rivers. Blaze your own trails and write your own journals.
All across the state, you'll find plenty of opportunities to take home Missouri memories. Our shops are like our rivers. No two are the same. Each offers something new. So take off antiquing through Missouri's rich history. Browse through hundreds of shops at two of the world's largest railroad stations turned into shoppers' paradise, they're the state's biggest bookends, both named Union Station - one in Kansas City, one in St. Louis. From either spot, you can do more than read about Missouri's past, you can jump right in.
Explore Missouri
Frisco Caboose and Visitor Center
Mt. Vernon Chamber of Commerce operates an office and visitor center at the start of the Ozark Mountain Parkway (Route 265)
Mt. Vernon, MO Railroad HistoryCity Square Park
Mansfield's downtown City Square Park is the center of community events and outdoor enjoyment. An historic gazebo stands in the center of the park surrounded by shaded grass areas for picnics, visiting with neighbors, or just walking barefoot through the park!
Mansfield, MO Recreation
Bothwell Lodge State Historic Site
A turn-of-the-century "Castle on the Hill." Bothwell Lodge represents early 20th-century living and arts and crafts architecture. This castlelike building was constructed between 1897 and 1928 for a prominent Sedalia lawyer, John Homer Bothwell.
Sedalia, MO Famous HomesMark Twain Lake Trails
Hikers and backpackers are encouraged to use the many miles of trails throughout the lake area. Wildlife blinds, food plots and small ponds enhance a hiker's chance of spotting a deer, bluebird or other wild inhabitants of Missouri.
, MO HikingMormon Visitors Center
Learn about the key roles Mormons played in the early and tempestuous history of Independence. See rare artifacts, exhibits and artwork documenting the history and belief of the Saints. Of particular note is a two story mural entitled "The Second Coming of Jesus Christ."
Independence, MO MuseumsLong Branch Lake Area Hunting
Opportunities for hunting at Long Branch Lake can be found on over 5,500 acres managed by the Corps of Engineers and the Missouri Department of Conservation. The Corps manages approximately 1,000 acres on the east and west side of the lake that are open to public hunting. The Corps licensed 2,454
, MO HuntingBust of Laura Ingalls Wilder
Well known sculptor William J. Williams is the creator of the collection of bronze busts of famous Missourians that are on display in the State Capitol Building in Jefferson City, Missouri.
When Mansfield citizens learned that a bust of Laura Ingalls Wilder was being
Mansfield, MO ArtsEverett J. Ritchie Tri-State Mineral Museum
Founded in 1931, this museum boasts one of the world's most exceptional collections of lead and zinc ore dating back to Joplins mining days as well as a quality collection of mining tools and equipment.
Joplin, MO MuseumsBloodworth House
The original red brick Queen Anne style cottage built around 1910 was the home of the C.T. Bloodworth family for many years. Today, this home has been restored as an English Baroque stately home in the style of the William and Mary Period (1689-1702)
Poplar Bluff, MO Historic HomesStockton Lake Area Hunting
Whether you are an avid fisherman, hunter, or weekend naturalist, Stockton Lake offers an abundance of fish and wildlife for your enjoyment. More than 20,000
, MO HuntingCenter Creek Golf Course
A nine-hole, public golf course at the Center Creek Recreation and Golf Club offers year round activity. Green fees are very reasonable. Rental carts are available.
Sarcoxie, MO Recreation