Photos provided by Missouri State Parks, the Kansas CityZoo & Aquarium, the St. Louis City Museum, Rutledge-WilsonFarm Park, Fox and Pearl, The Fabulous Fox Theater, The PearTree Kitchen & Bar and L.G. Patterson
Columbia has so many wonderful things to do during the spring, but sometimes you want a little change of scenery. To help you narrow down your next destination beyond city limits, we’ve made a guide for exploring spots across the state without needing to arrange or pay for lodging for the night. So, grab your day bag, hit the road and get ready to make the most of your next Missouri adventure!
North
Explore
Macon County Historical Society Museum
1402 S. Missouri St., Macon
maconcountyhistoricalsociety.com/our-museum
Sometimes, learning can be fun. In this case, at the Macon County Historical Society Museum, it is just that. Located on Missouri Street is a showcase of all things Macon from displays of a school activity room, barber shop, photography room, hospital room and more, to donated military photos and items to honor the men and women connected to Macon County who have served our country. The museum is open April-October, on Saturdays and Mondays, or by appointment. For museum tour information, call 660-651-6814.
Food & Drink
Pear Tree Kitchen & Bar
1407 N. Missouri St., Macon
thepeartreerestaurant.com
The best memories are often made around food, whether that’s looking at a new establishment, sharing an incredible bite or just stopping in to meet new people. When visiting Macon, or just heading up north for the day, you can make a stop at Pear Tree Kitchen & Bar. According to its website, it is known for its magical atmosphere and deliciously crafted menu, which includes your choice of steak, seafood, hand-crafted pasta and more. PearTree is open Wednesday-Saturday.
Family Fun
Thousand Hills State Park
20431 MO-157, Kirksville
mostateparks.com/park/thousand-hills-state-park
After a cold winter, it’s safe to say we are all ready to spend some time outside. If you’re looking to get out of the house and drive north, you can start your adventure at Thousand Hills State Park in Kirksville. This family-friendly park offers all kinds of activities for people of all ages. Ryan Persinger, the park superintendent, says the park has all you need for a springtime day trip. “Thousand Hills State Park has 17miles of trails, a swim beach, marina, a restaurant and a petroglyph site that is listed on the National Register of Historic Places,” he says. When visiting the park you can dive into water adventures like fishing, swimming and boating, or lace up your boots for hiking and mountain biking along scenic trails. For a day trip on the water, paddle boards, kayaks and canoes are available to rent. And during the summer months, Persinger says you can even rent a boat from the marina. You can also rent out a variety of ski and boating accessories to make your day at the lake even more fun. For more family excitement, Persinger says the park also has seasonal programs available. “We provide interpretive/educational programs in the park mainly on weekends from April to October,” he says. The program schedule can be found on the ThousandHills State Park website.
Late Night Adventure
Club One
301 W. McPherson, Kirksville
kvclu1.com
If you’re not quite ready to call it a night after a day of exploring, ClubOne in Kirksville offers a lively dance floor and a great atmosphere to keep the good times going. With two floors of entertainment, a dance floor and a backyard patio, there’s plenty of space to enjoy the night and make the most of your evening before heading back to Columbia. Club One is open from 9 p.m. to 1:30 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. You can also book the space for an event if needed.
East
Explore
Museum at the Gateway Arch
11 N. 4th St., St. Louis
gatewayarch.com/museum
When heading east for the day, a fun place to start could be the Museum at the Gateway Arch. If you’ve never been to St. Louis before, the Arch is a must-see! The museum is a free experience with six interactive galleries, where you get to learn about the founding of St. Louis, including Colonial St. Louis, Jefferson’s Vision, Manifest Destiny, The Riverfront Era, New Frontiers and Building the Arch. There are so many things to do, whether you are visiting the free museum, grabbing lunch at the Arch Café, watching an award-winning documentary, taking the tram to the top of the Arch, shopping at the Arch Store or taking a walk through the park. And if you run into any locals, make sure to ask them what high school they went to! (A little St. Louis humor)
Food & Drink
Charlie Gitto’s on the Hill
5226 Shaw Ave., St.Louis
777 Casino Center, Maryland Heights
charliegittos.com
Charlie Gitto’s is a well-known establishment located in St. Louis on “The Hill” and at the Hollywood Casino, with a 40-year history in the area. This restaurant has been established as a must-visit spot when visiting the East, especially if you are a fan of Italian and Sicilian cuisine. When you enter, you can expect the ambiance of a cozy, warm restaurant with classic Italian decor. The menu features famous toasted ravioli, brick-oven pizzas, handcrafted pasta, steak, veal, chicken entrees and several seafood options. Charlie Gitto’s is open seven days a week at both locations.
Family Fun
City Museum St. Louis
750 N.16th St., St. Louis
citymuseum.org
Nestled in an old shoe factory in downtown St.Louis, this one-of-a-kind attraction is a masterpiece of repurposed materials and artistic ingenuity. The 600,000 square-foot artistic experience is filled with more than 29,000 artifacts from all over the world.Designed as an interactive playground for all ages, the museum boasts a labyrinth of tunnels, slides and climbing structures crafted from salvaged treasures.The City Museum has been offering fun experiences to the area for 25 years under the motto, “Old objects. New stories.” According to its website, the City Museum started when trained sculptors Bob and Gail Cassilly and their crew started turning things cities left behind into a playground for artists. Today, the team of artists continues to expand the always-thrilling museum. Perfect for families, couples or solo adventurers, this unforgettable spot will leave you inspired long after your visit.
Late Night Adventure
The Fabulous Fox Theatre, St. Louis
527 N Grand Blvd, St. Louis
fabulousfox.com
Step into the magic of The Fabulous Fox Theatre, a historic gem in St. Louis that’s perfect for a memorable day-cation to the east.Publicity Manager Megan Ketcherside says the Fox Theatre originally opened in 1929 as a movie palace, and now operates as aplace to view shows, music and more. “The theatre was reopened in 1982, and today it is one of the most exquisite venues in thecountry to enjoy live touring Broadway shows, concerts and comedians,” she says. Along with the array of entertainment options,the theatre is a spectacle, from its towering columns and intricate carvings to the sparkling chandeliers. Whether you are taking atour or stopping in to see a performance, make sure to add The Fabulous Fox Theatre to your day-cation itinerary for a touch ofhistory, culture and a bit of old-world charm
West
Food & Drink
Fox and Pearl
2143 Summit St., Kansas City
foxandpearlkc.com
Whether you are just starting your trip or ending the night with a bite to eat, Fox and Pearl in Kansas City offers the perfect cozy and inviting atmosphere for all. This award-winning bistro offers seasonal and local ingredients during its brunch, lunch and dinner service. Chef Vaughn Good works directly with local farmers to craft his French-inspired menus. ChefGood mixes his French culinary background with his Southern and Midwestern upbringing to provide a flavor explosion in every bite. Whether you want to sit at the main bar, venture to the cellar lounge level, eat in the upper dining room or spend time outside on the patio with the twinkle lights overhead,Fox and Pearl has the ambiance you are craving. Kristine Hull with Fox and Pearl says if you’re looking to order a meal that captures the essence of the restaurant, you have to “start with a craft seasonal cocktail and charcuterie board with the potted cheese and pickles, then a house-made pasta and pork chop with a bottle of (our natural) wine, and finish the night with a seasonal dessert paired with amaro. Or, just do an amaro float with house-made ice cream.” Hull explains Fox and Pearl does all their own charcuterie and butchery in-house so you can’t go wrong with trying the classic pork chop. “They are bone-in, thick cut, with the fat cap left on. We brine and smoke them first then finish them on the grill,” she says. “The set will change depending on the season, but you can never go wrong.”To add to the experience, diners at Fox and Pearl will also be listening to Chef Good’s vinyl record collection while experiencing their food. And if you’re wondering about the name, Fox and Pearl comes from the middle names of ChefGood and Kristine Hull’s two daughters.
Explore
National WWI Museum & Memorial
2 Memorial Drive, Kansas City
theworldwar.org
For a day-cation spot to the west steeped in history and reflection, the National WWI Museum and Memorial inKansas City is a place you won’t want to miss. The National WWI Museum is dedicated to remembering, interpreting and understanding the Great War and how it continues to impact the world we live in today. When you visit, you can dive into several exhibitions, including the Virtual Reality Experiences, the SacredService, The Little War, Mail Call, the Architectural Tour and more.You also have the opportunity to climb to the top of the Liberty Memorial for breathtaking views on a 217 foot-high open-air observation deck. You can reach this view by riding an elevator then climbing 45 steps. Whether you are looking to learn a little bit more about history or engage in an immersive yet educational experience, this is the spot for you in Kansas City.
Family Fun
Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium
6800 Zoo Drive, Kansas City
kansascityzoo.org
Since 1909, the Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium has been a magical place for families and friends alike. The Kansas City Zoological Gardens first opened its doors with four lions, three monkeys, a wolf, a fox, a coyote, a badger, a lynx, an eagle and various other birds. The establishment has since expanded to include theDiscovery Barn, the Zoo Learning Center, river otters, trumpeter swans, an Endangered Species Carousel, the Polar Bear Passage, the African Sky Safari, the Tiger Terrace and much more. Ellie McMullen, the communications manager for the Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium, says they are also building a new giraffe habitat for patrons to enjoy. “Guests can visit these majestic animals year-round, experience the joy of feeding the giraffes by hand and enjoy updated amenities in the zoo’s 30-year-old Africa section,”she says. There is also a new zip line ride called the FlyingFlamingo coming this spring. The zoo also features a Sea Lion Show, Keeper Chats, elephant painting demonstrations and more.Spanning 202 acres, the Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium serves as a vibrant nature sanctuary, connecting urban and suburban families with wildlife from around the globe. A visit here is more than just a trip – it’s an interactive experience that brings the natural world to life.
Late Night Adventure
Boulevard Brewing Co.
2534 Madison Ave., Kansas City
2501 Southwest Blvd., Kansas City
8700 Elmwood Ave. #100, Kansas City
boulevard.com
If you’re looking to support a local business while out on the town, Boulevard Brewing Co. is the place to go after your day out west. Since 1989, Boulevard Brewing has been serving fresh, flavorful beers. Now, Boulevard Brewing is the largest specialty brewer in the Midwest. Along with serving delicious brews, Boulevard Brewing keeps sustainability as atop priority. According to its website, the team has a strong sense of responsibility to protect the environment and promote sustainable business practices. “We’re always looking for new ways to reduce our environmental impact while working to ensure a positive future for our local and global communities,”the website states. From composting nearly all its waste and harnessing solar power to crafting 100% recyclable packaging, this facility goes above and beyond in sustainability. With a thoughtfully designed energy-efficient structure and a vibrant green roof, its commitment to eco-friendly innovation is truly unmatched. You can either visit the rec center and take a tour, head straight to the brewery or visit the distribution warehouse.Visit the website for all visiting hours.
Southeast
Explore
Gone Girl Tour
visitcape.com/gone-girl-driving-tour
If you’re a fan of the popular Gone Girl film, you’ll want to check out Gone Girl Comes to Life in Cape Girardeau: A Driving Tour of Iconic Filming Locations. In 2013, Hollywood came to Missouri and shot in more than 30 local Cape Girardeau locations. So if you want to see a glimpse into the Hollywood magic, this tour is for you. You’ll start the tour at the Riverfront Park along the Mississippi River, which made several shots in the film. Part of the tour also includes the Courthouse Gazebo, which is where the candlelight vigil for Amy was filmed. The tour ends with a bonus stop to Andy’s Frozen Custard, where the cast and crew enjoyed desserts. If you’re eager to explore all the incredible locations and iconic filming spots included on the tour, be sure to visit the website. There, you’ll find detailed information to help you make the most of your experience.
Family Fun
Melaina’s Magical Playland
N. County Park Road, Cape Girardeau
facebook.com/p/melainas-magical-playland-10077481221068
For a fun place for the family, Melaina’s Magical Playland in Cape Girardeau is a great spot. According to its Facebook page, this nonprofit organization was brought to southeast Missouri as the first public, all-inclusive, accessible playground to the area. “We believe everyone is entitled to experience play alongside their peers in an environment where fun knows no limitations,” the site states. In October, a new addition was brought to the playland. Melaina’s Music Garden is now open for all. A post to Facebook honored all those who helped make this new attraction possible, saying “Thank you to everyone who has donated and supported this effort over the last few years.” For more information about the playland, visit the group on Facebook.
Food & Drink
Top of the Marq
338 Broadway St. 7th Floor, Cape Girardeau
topofthemarq.com
There’s nothing better than sitting down for a bite to eat in an elegant atmosphere, with a classic drink in hand and some of your favorite people surrounding you. That’s exactly what you’ll get at Top of the Marq, which is housed in the top floor of the Marquette Tower. This location gives customers the perfect view for any occasion, whether it’s a romantic dinner or a casual night out. Top of the Marq is known for its social plates, wine list and cocktail menu. Some of the shared plates include truffle fries, deviled eggs, crispy beef bites, fried sweet potatoes, birria tacos, garlic bread, buffalo cauliflower, pepperoni flatbread and so much more. No matter the occasion, Top of the Marq offers the perfect blend of great food, classic drinks and stunning views to make your day trip truly unforgettable.
Late Night Adventure
Minglewood Brewery
121 Broadway St., Cape Girardeau
minglewoodbrewery.com
If local beer is something you love, you won’t want to miss out on the one and only Minglewood Brewery. This local brewery in Cape Girardeau is known for its craft beer, pizza and sandwich options. The brewery, which sits in a building built in 1891 in downtown Cape Girardeau, has all kinds of options to sip on, whether you like light beer, lagers or IPAs. Minglewood is open until 9 p.m. Sunday-Thursday and 10 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. Minglewood also has happy hour from 2-5 p.m. Monday-Friday. If you want to enjoy a drink outside on the patio, the website also says well-behaved dogs are welcome to join the fun outside. So grab your friends, family, pup or just head over yourself and enjoy a delicious craft beer in Southeast Missouri.
Southwest
Explore
Fantastic Caverns
4872 N. Farm Road 125, Springfield
missouricave.com
Get ready to explore the depths of Missouri caves at Fantastic Caverns. This incredible underground experience allows visitors to explore breathtaking rock formations from the comfort of a tram, making it perfect for all ages and mobility levels. The guided tour takes you deep into the heart of the caves, not only showing the rich history but also showcasing incredible views. Fantastic Caverns is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking adventure, education or a stunning escape into nature. The cave tours are open daily except Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. The last tour of the day departs one hour before closing. For hours of operation and ticket information, visit missouricave.com.
Food & Drink
Aviary Cafe
2144 E. Republic Road, Springfield
aviarycafe.com
Satisfy your sweet and salty cravings at the Aviary Cafe located in Farmer’s Park! This locally owned eatery in Springfield has everything you need, from a quick caffeine pick-me-up to a full meal before your day of adventures. The Aviary Cafe is known for its homemade crepes, sauces, dressings, sides and entrees. You’ll find a wide variety of dishes, from the sweet Bananas Foster crepe to the savory steak and egg crepe, along with sandwiches, omelets, salads and more.
Family Fun
Rutledge-Wilson Farm Park
3825 W. Farm Road 146, Springfield
parkboard.org/farmpark
This 207-acre farm is the perfect stop for an authentic farm experience. Take the family or head over with your friends and enjoy animal barns, a visitor center and gift shop, a farm-themed playground, a fishing pond, a 20-acre native prairie, pastured garden plot rentals, a trailhead and a one-mile paved trail along Wilson’s Creek Greenway and Wilson’s Creek. Since 2007, Rutledge-Wilson Farm Park has been filled with fun for the community and visitors passing through. Whether you are hanging out at the big red barn, fishing in the pond, bringing a picnic or enjoying the butterfly garden, this one-stop-shop for farm fun is the place to be. While admission is free, there is a small fee for some activities and to fish in the pond. For a detailed visitor’s map and a comprehensive guide to exploring everything the park has to offer, be sure to visit the website. It’s a great resource for planning your trip and making the most of your visit.
Late Night Adventure
Blue Room Comedy Club
420 W. College St., Springfield
blueroomcomedyclub.com
Get ready to end the night with laughter at the Blue Room Comedy Club. There are several comedy shows throughout March and April to enjoy, including Mike Vecchione, an Italian-American comedian on March 1. Next is standup comedian Shane Torres on March 6-8, then Damon Wayans Jr., most known for his role as Coach on New Girl. To view all upcoming shows and get tickets throughout the year, visit blueroomcomedyclub.com.
Central
Food & Drink
Rocheport General Store
202 Central St., Rocheport
rocheport-mo.com/rocheport-general-store
Stop by the Rocheport General Store for a bite to eat, a brew, a glass of wine, homemade ice cream or just good conversation. In 2007, the Rocheport General Store served as a store, cafe and music venue. Since then, the energy has remained the same but they changed focus to quality food, a unique atmosphere and occasional music on Sundays. Building Owner, Diane Dunn says while there are no groceries for sale, they kept the name as a dedication to the original store. “The name was selected to encompass the original idea of an old-fashionedGeneral Store & Cafe. Now, it is mainly a cafe, no groceries but there are unique and unusual vintage and antique items for sale on the shelves,” Dunn says.The cafe can accommodate any gathering, whether you are going for a bite to eat with friends or taking the whole family. “It is a great walking town, offering many unique shops and areas of interest within walking distance,” Dunn says. However, due to the size of the space and its popularity, it is recommended to book a reservation to make sure you have a spot at this beloved eatery.
Explore
Boonville’s Walking History Tour
goboonville.com/boonvilles-historic-walking-tour
To highlight some of the 400 sites and structures on the National Register of Historic Places in Boonville, Boonville Tourism created a walking tour showing off 23 key spots.Katie Gibson, the tourism director, says what started asa small brochure has morphed into a colorful guide to help you have the most interactive tour. “It started as a small trifold brochure and has developed into a multi-page color booklet that features much more information about each location, as well as things to look for along your way,” she says. The tour’s goal is to be for anyone at anytime of the year. “We developed the tour, so that there would be a self-guided overview of the downtown area for people to enjoy and can be walked, biked or driven for all abilities in all different weather conditions,” Gibson says. Whether you are visiting the Katy Bridge off MorganStreet and Bridge Avenue the Mitchell Antique MotorcarMuseum on 210 East Spring St. or Thespian Hall at 522 Main St., you’ll learn something new about Boonville, while having fun along the way. For a bonus piece of history, at the Mitchell AntiqueMotorcar Museum you can ask them to play a song about the cars from 1910 while you look around, and along the bridge you can add your name to a lock and be a part of it forever! To read up on all the spots on this walking tour, stop by the Visitors Center at 100 East Spring St. to pick up the full guide.
Family Fun
Warm Springs Ranch
25270 S. Hwy 98, Boonville
warmspringsranch.com
Sometimes you need to spend some time with horses. You can do just that at Warm Springs Ranch, the official breeding facility of the Budweiser Clydesdales. This legendary spot is over 300 acres, including a mare, stallion and foaling barn, a veterinary lab and 10 pastures. Right now, Warm SpringsRanch hosts more than 70 Clydesdales, including foals and stallions. Along with tours, you can book the spot for private gatherings. The facility also has its own events throughout the year, including its popular Holidays with the Clydesdalesevent during the Christmas season. Reservations are required and can be booked on the website. For all events and information about Warm Springs Ranch, visitwarmspringsranch.com.
Late Night Adventure
Hotel Frederick Dining
501 High St., Boonville
hotelfrederick.com/dining
If you haven’t checked it out already, the historic Hotel Frederick is not just a bed and breakfast, but a place to wine and dine. The Fred, which is the eatery and lounge at Hotel Frederick, is known for its casual dining, craft cocktails, local ingredients and charming atmosphere. Enjoy items like smoked chicken nachos, parmesan truffle fries, mushroom Swiss burgers, country fried steak, Greek chicken and so much more. The Fred is open Tuesday-Saturday with the main level lounge open at 4 p.m. and the dining room open at 5 p.m. Enjoy live music, cocktails and food in The Brick Room on Friday and Saturday nights. The Brick Room opens at 7 p.m., music starts at 8 p.m. and food is served until 10 p.m.
