Things to Do in Missouri

Published Aug 14, 2026 · Things to Do ·

Missouri — the Show-Me State — is packed with attractions for every kind of traveler. Here are the top places to put on your list.

Top attractions & activities

How do I plan a trip to Missouri?

Start with the Missouri state guide for key facts (capital Jefferson City, population 6,154,913 (2020 census)), then explore city guides for Kansas City and other major cities in the state.

City guides: Jefferson City, Kansas City, St. Louis, Springfield.

Frequently asked questions

What are the top things to do in Missouri?

The most-visited places in Missouri include Gateway Arch (St. Louis), Branson entertainment district and Ozark National Scenic Riverways. The full list is above, and the Missouri state guide has more detail.

What is the capital of Missouri?

The capital of Missouri is Jefferson City; the largest city is Kansas City.

How do I plan a trip to Missouri?

Start with the Missouri state guide for key facts, then check the official state tourism office and National Park Service sites for current hours, fees and seasonal closures.

Sources

National Park Service, state tourism offices and official attraction websites. Details verified at time of publication — always check official sites for hours, fees and seasonal closures.

More Missouri guides

Moving to Missouri

Relocation

Key facts and what to know before relocating to the Show-Me State.

All 50 States

Nationwide

Browse state guides for every state in the U.S.

Nearby states

Iowa Guide

Midwest

Capital Des Moines, population 3,190,369 (2020 census) and top places to visit across the Hawkeye State.

Illinois Guide

Midwest

Capital Springfield, population 12,812,508 (2020 census) and top places to visit across the Prairie State.

Kentucky Guide

South

Capital Frankfort, population 4,505,836 (2020 census) and top places to visit across the Bluegrass State.

Tennessee Guide

South

Capital Nashville, population 6,910,840 (2020 census) and top places to visit across the Volunteer State.

Arkansas Guide

South

Capital Little Rock, population 3,011,524 (2020 census) and top places to visit across the Natural State.

Oklahoma Guide

South

Capital Oklahoma City, population 3,959,353 (2020 census) and top places to visit across the Sooner State.

Kansas Guide

Midwest

Capital Topeka, population 2,937,880 (2020 census) and top places to visit across the Sunflower State.

Nebraska Guide

Midwest

Capital Lincoln, population 1,961,504 (2020 census) and top places to visit across the Cornhusker State.

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