Missouri is seriously one of the most underrated states. In fact, many people call Missouri a fly over state. However, locals know that the Show Me State has some of the nation’s most stunning locals. From state parks to national memorials, Missouri is full of surprising splendor. Check out the 10 places in Missouri that we think are better than any where else in the country..
1. Ha Ha Tonka State Park - Camdenten
For a stunning and unique sight, visit Ha Ha Tonka State Park on the Lake of the Ozarks. The huge castle ruins were once a grand estate but sadly was lost to a fire in the 1942. Today the ruins are the focal point of Ha Ha Tonka State Park. The stunning cliff side park is full of amazing trials, small caves, a jewel blue spring, and an island. Find the park at 1491 State Road D,
Camdenton, MO.
2. Alley Spring Mill - Eminence
The stunning red mill in the heart of the Ozarks is one of the most pristine sites in all of Missouri. Alley Spring Mill sits on the bluest waters and is the perfect spot for hiking or picnicking. The present building was constructed in 1894 and is now managed by the National Parks Service. Visit the spring at Hwy 106, Eminence, MO.
3. Devil's Ice Box - Columbia
One of the most unique cave systems can be found at Rock Bridge Memorial State Park. Visitors can explore the Devil's Ice Box by flashlight. It's one of the most unique state park experiences in the state. Visit Rock Bridge Memorial State Park at 5901 South Highway 163, Columbia, MO.
4. Dogwood Canyon - Lampe
Dogwood Canyon is one of the most beautiful spots in all of Missouri. This awe-inspiring nature park is a part of the Johnny Morris empire. He created an Ozark oasis within 10,000 acres on the Missouri/Arkansas boarder. Admission for a single day is $10 for adults (13 and older) and $5 for children. Visit Dogwood Canyon at 2038 West State Hwy 86, Lampe, MO.
5. Forest Park - St. Louis
Forest Park is St. Louis' largest city park. It was the site for the 1904 World's Fair and now it houses an extensive museum district and the #1 zoo in the country. The park also features miles of trails that are popular among bikes, rollerbladers, and walkers. Find Forest Park at 5595 Grand Dr, St. Louis, MO.
6. Sandy Creek Covered Bridge - Hillsboro
There are only 4 covered bridges left in the state of Missouri. All four bridges are now considered historic sites and are managed by the Missouri Department of Natural Resources. One of the most striking bridges is the bright red Sandy Creek Covered Bridge. This little barn bridge was built in 1872 and is a rare example of a Howe truss bridge. To see it for yourself take the .3 mile out and back trail at 2545 Old Lemay Ferry Rd., Hillsboro, MO.
7. Liberty Memorial - Kansas City
The stunning tower at the National World War I Museum and Memorial is known at Liberty Memorial. The tower represents a burning pyre and rises 265 feet above the city. For a trip to the top, visit the National World War I Museum and Memorial at 2 Memorial Dr., Kansas City, MO.
8. Prairie State Park - Mindenmines
Missouri was once covered in tallgrass prairies. In fact, before the 1900s a third of the state was covered in prairies. Today you can see these breathtaking grasslands at Prairie State Park. In addition to the scenery, visitors can also spot bison, grouse, and other native birds. Visit the park at 128 NW 150th Ln., Mindenmines, MO
9. Historic Main Street - St. Charles
If you love charming historic towns, you're going to fall in love with historic St. Charles. Walk down cobble stone streets and pop into the shops inside the large brick buildings. With so much to do and see you'll want to visit historic St. Charles often! Find the visitors center at 230 S Main St.,
St. Charles, MO.
10. Onondaga Cave State Park - Leasburg
Go below the surface to see one of the most beautiful caves in Missouri. This state park features both Onondaga and Cathedral caves for you to tour. In addition, above ground the park has stunning river views and miles of trails. Find the park at 7556 Hwy. H,
Leasburg, MO.
Have you visited any of these stunning sights? Tell us about your visit in the comments below.
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