13 Destinations Everyone in Missouri Needs To Visit This Summer

Make a day of it! Take a stroll around Ste. Genevieve to admire the town's picturesque French architecture, sample some of its wines and book a stay at a quaint B&B.

The state fair (Aug. 11-21) is just one great reason to visit Sedalia. Check out the Sedalia Katy Depot, the town's official welcome center, before you clock some miles on the Katy trail. Contemplate the art in the Daum Museum and tour the Bothwell Lodge for a glimpse of stunning turn-of-the-century architecture.

Summer and baseball go hand-in-hand. Educate yourself about the history of African Americans in the sport at the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum in Kansas City. Address: 1616 E 18th St, Kansas City, MO 64108

Missouri's history is intimately entwined with our major rivers. See for yourself how mighty they really are at the Jones-Confluence Point State Park. Afterward, take a walk down the brick-lined streets of Historic St. Charles. Address: 1000 Riverlands Way, West Alton, MO 63386

Taum Sauk Mountain State Park is one of the state's most breathtaking, dramatic spots. A variety of hikes are available. Don't miss Mina Falls, a stunning waterfall, or the top of Taum Sauk Mountain, the state's highest point. Camping is available. Address: Hwy. CC, Ironton, MO 63656

Come hungry for this festival (July 30) celebrating the best in BBQ, bourbon and beer. Address: Kansas City Power & Light District,  13th & Walnut Sts., Kansas City, MO 64106

Get away from it all with a trip to one of our state's conservation areas. Amidon Memorial Conservation Area provides picturesque hiking, fishing and camping. Address: 1514-1898 County Rd 253, Fredericktown, MO 63645

Wallace State Park is the perfect spot to enjoy the great outdoors. Fish in the six-acre lake, hike scenic trails and enjoy a scenic picnic. Stay the night in the park's campground if you need more time to unwind! Address: 10621 MO-121, Cameron, MO 64429

Each summer, Missouri Botanical Garden hosts the Japanese Festival, a three-day celebration of Japanese culture. If you're coming in from out of town, stop in at the garden's sister site, Shaw Nature Reserve, for a beautiful, isolated hike through carefully maintained native landscapes. Address: 4344 Shaw Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63110

Pitch a tent at Wilderness Ridge Resort for an unforgettable camping experience. Said to be a less popular camping destination than other spots around the state, here you can enjoy nature while you canoe, raft, fish, hike, and more! Address: 33850 Windsor Ln, Duke, MO 65461

Lake of the Ozarks might get all the attention, but Truman Lake is actually the largest man-made lake in Missouri. Visit Harry S. Truman State Park to access fishing, boating and more. Address: 28761 State park Road West, Warsaw, MO 65366

Nothing says summer like screaming your heart out on a gnarly coaster. Silver Dollar City has tons for every age! Address: 399 Silver Dollar City Pkwy, Branson, MO 65616