Your Ultimate Guide To Spring Attractions And Activities In Missouri
Beth Price-Williams
Author
Spring is all about renewal. We’ve finally come through the gray of another winter, and we’re rewarded with some of the most spectacular natural beauty in Missouri – blossoming flowers, lush green trees, and cascading waterfalls. As we shed our winter wardrobe for spring, we start to make plans for the season ahead. From following scenic hiking trails and chasing waterfalls to sipping wine at our favorite wineries, we have so many Missouri spring activities from which to choose that a bucket list is a necessity. Start by adding these things to do in Missouri in spring.
Flower Blooms In Missouri
Is there any time more magical than springtime in Missouri? The sweet melody of the birds returns and vibrant colors paint the landscape as the flowers bloom. These are usually our first signs that winter’s grey days are coming to an end. There’s no better time than springtime to walk among the wildflowers, and these are some of the best places to see the flower blooms in Missouri.
1. Gooseberry Bridge Farm – Rogersville
Nestled in the Ozark Mountains, Gooseberry Bridge Farm in Rogersville, a small town in Missouri, is one of the best places to go if you want to pick your own flowers. Stroll through the flower field that's brimming with colorful blooms. Buy a container that holds between 50 and 80 flowers, and start picking. The farm also hosts baby animal playdates, an absolutely adorable springtime adventure.
2. Long Row Lavender Farm – Wright City
Stop to smell the sweetest scent of the season at Long Row Lavender Farm, which generally opens in early March each year. One of the most charming farms in the Midwest, this family-owned spot offers one you-pick event each year. Even if you can't visit then, you'll still find plenty to do here, including snapping photos of the lavender, exploring the shop, and grabbing a bite at the cafe.
3. Shaw Nature Reserve – Gray Summit
Around 35 miles from St. Louis, Shaw Nature Reserve is the perfect place to view wildflowers and undoubtedly one of the best cheap things to do in Missouri in spring. Flowers typically begin to bloom at the nature reserve in April, so try to time your visit for then. Follow one of the scenic hiking trails that will lead you past scores of beautiful Virginia bluebells. Did you know that Shaw Nature Reserve is part of Missouri Botanical Garden, also a must-visit in the springtime?
Botanical Gardens In Missouri
Spring is oh-so-fleeting and, before we know it, the heat of summer will be here again. That means we have to make the most of every golden moment of the season. One of the best ways to embrace spring’s beauty is with a visit to one of the best botanical gardens in Missouri.
4. Missouri Botanical Garden – St. Louis
A springtime visit to the Missouri Botanical Garden in St. Louis, a world-class destination, is a must for every Missourian. Carve out at least half a day, if you can, for your visit to this popular Missouri attraction that features a Japanese garden, a children's garden, and the Climatron. Need a breather? Grab a bite at the Sassafras Restaurant and Cafe. If you’re making it a day trip in Saint Louis, you might also want to visit the Gateway Arch, City Museum, Soulard Farmers Market, and Busch Stadium.
5. Powell Gardens – Kingsville
Just about an hour outside of Kansas City, Powell Gardens leaps alive during the spring. The best way to explore this botanical garden is on one of its nature trails that takes you past some of the 225,000 seasonal plants. The gardens are open all year, but you definitely want to visit during the spring. It's one of the best family things to do in Missouri in spring.
6. Mizumoto Japanese Stroll Garden – Springfield
Go on a leisurely walk through the 7.5-acre Mizumoto Japanese Stroll Garden at the Springfield Botanical Gardens. The oldest attraction at the gardens is brimming with natural and manmade beauty, including fairy-tale footbridges, stepping stones, and a waterfall. Sit down on one of the benches, where you can soak up the springtime scenery. (If you're looking for one of the most romantic things to do in Missouri in spring, you just might have found it.)
Parks To Visit In Missouri This Spring
Waking up on a sunny spring day, when we have free time, means we can do whatever we want, and one of the best things to do in Missouri in spring is visit our favorite neighborhood, like Forest Park in St. Louis, or state park. Here are a few of the best parks in Missouri to visit this spring.
7. Hidden Waters Park – Marshfield
Spend a lovely spring morning or afternoon exploring Hidden Waters Park, one of the best free things to do in Missouri in spring. Follow the tree-lined path that's brimming with colorful wildflowers in this park that exudes fairy tale vibes. From footbridges and waterfalls to springs and ponds, this Missouri park has something for everyone.
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8. Wallace State Park – Cameron
With 93 state parks in Missouri, we're never lacking for fun things to do in Missouri in spring, but which state park do we visit first? How about Wallace State Park? Less than an hour from Kansas City, this tranquil state park boasts a six-acre lake, four scenic hiking trails, boating, and a playground for the kiddos. Follow the 1.4-mile Skunk Hollow Trail to stop and smell the colorful wildflowers.
9. Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park – Wildwood
If you're looking for the perfect spring getaway - a camping adventure, perhaps? - plan a trip to Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park. Spend the day exploring one or more of the more than half-dozen hiking trails; go bike riding or horseback riding, or watch the kiddos at the playground. The Dogwood and Woodbine Trail is a must-hike if you want to see the glorious spring wildflowers.
Spring Hikes In Missouri
As the landscape transforms with wildflowers and lush green, there’s no better time to slip on our hiking shoes and set off on one of the best hiking trails in Missouri. One of the best free things to do in Missouri in spring, these hikes promise a little bit of everything – beautiful scenery, local wildlife, and wondrous waterfalls.
10. Wilderness Trail – Sullivan
Spring was just meant to be spent outdoors hiking. Slip on your hiking shoes for a trek along the Wilderness Trail, a nearly nine-mile trail that wanders past fields of wildflowers in Meramec State Park. You'll cross streams (waterproof shoes are recommended) and likely cross paths with local wildlife, including deer. The trail is also popular with backpackers, so if you're yearning for an overnight getaway, bring your gear. Meramec State Park is just about nine miles from Meramec Caverns, too, if you’re up for more exploring.
11. White Bison Trail – Valley Park
Tucked in St. Louis County, Lone Elk Park is one of the best family things to do in Missouri in spring, especially for animal lovers. Set off on the 3.2-mile White Bison Trail that meanders past a lake and an abundance of wildflowers. Because wildlife is abundant in the park, dogs and other pets are not allowed. Bring your camera because you might just see elk, turkey, geese, deer, and bison.
12. Line Creek Trail – Kansas City
From a breathtaking waterfall to colorful wildflowers, the Line Creek Trail in Kansas City has something for everyone. This popular biking and hiking trail meanders 8.2 miles, so you'll need around 3.5 hours. Don't be surprised if you pass grazing deer, waddling ducks, and scurrying squirrels. After your hike, consider exploring more of Kansas City, home to Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, the National World War I Museum, or Worlds of Fun, an epic theme park. KC also boasts some of the best BBQ and brews in America, so be sure to grab a bite and a sip when you’re in the city.
Spring Picnic Spots In Missouri
While igloos and heated patios allow us to enjoy outdoor dining during the warmer months, nothing compares to a picnic in the springtime, does it? On those sunny springtime days, pull out your picnic basket, fill it to the brim with delicious goodies, and make your way to one of the best picnic spots in Missouri.
13. Hawn State Park – New Offenburg
Springtime, especially after a long winter, means spending as much time as we can outdoors, and what better way to do that than with a picnic? Hawn State Park provides an idyllic destination for a leisurely picnic, but that's just the start of the fun that awaits. The park is home to four scenic hiking trails and a playground. If you're up for a getaway, why not pitch a tent and camp out?
14. Prairie State Park – Mindenmines
Prairie State Park has everything - picnic tables, wildflowers, and bison - to create the perfect springtime adventure. Pack your basket with all of your favorites, and enjoy a relaxing picnic. The park also features more than a half-dozen picturesque hiking trails, where you'll see the wildflowers and bison. If you're on the lookout for a unique spring break getaway, consider pitching a tent and camping out.
Did your favorite things to do in Missouri in spring make the list? If not, what else would you add? Let us know in the comments! From St. Louis and Kansas City to Springfield and the Ozarks, Missouri is simply spellbinding in the springtime. Whether you’re looking for the perfect spring break destination or an idyllic spring getaway, you’ll find just what you’re looking for in Missouri. Or how about getting behind the wheel and following one of these unforgettable road trips in Missouri? Before setting off on your next Missouri getaway, make sure you consult the OIYS Road Trip Essentials Packing List.
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