Allenville MissouriATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Allenville, Missouri.
1. Allenville Museum of Art
LOCAL ART EXHIBITS
The Allenville Museum of Art displays works from both local and regional artists, providing a unique perspective on the area's creative talent. Visitors can explore rotating exhibitions that highlight various mediums, including painting and sculpture. The museum is a cultural centerpiece for the village, frequently hosting community events and artist talks.
2. History Museum of Allenville
VILLAGE HERITAGE CENTER
The History Museum of Allenville showcases the rich history of the village, featuring artifacts and stories from its founding days. Permanent and temporary exhibits explore the social, economic, and cultural evolution of Allenville. It is an essential stop for anyone interested in learning about the area's past.
3. Village Hall
CIVIC LANDMARK
Allenville's Village Hall serves as the administrative heart of the community, providing a location for local government meetings and public events. The building is an example of small-town Missouri civic architecture. Visitors can stop by to see how local governance shapes life in the village.
4. Gateway Arch
ICONIC NATIONAL MONUMENT
The Gateway Arch in St. Louis is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the United States, symbolizing the westward expansion of the country. Standing 630 feet tall, it offers breathtaking views of the city and the Mississippi River from its observation deck. The site includes a museum that explores the history of St. Louis and the American frontier.
5. Missouri Botanical Garden
HISTORIC GARDEN OASIS
The Missouri Botanical Garden is renowned for its stunning landscapes, historic buildings, and a remarkable array of plant collections. Founded in 1859, it is one of the oldest botanical gardens in the nation and promotes both education and conservation. Guests can enjoy themed gardens, conservatories, and year-round events for all ages.
6. Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art
ART MASTERPIECES COLLECTION
The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art houses an outstanding collection from around the world, with especially strong holdings in Asian art. Its famous sculpture garden features massive shuttlecocks, making it a favorite spot for both art lovers and families. Admission to the museum is free, making it an accessible cultural destination.
7. Meramec Caverns
NATURAL UNDERGROUND WONDER
Meramec Caverns is a vast cave system in the Ozarks, offering guided tours that reveal spectacular formations and rich geological history. Known as the supposed hideout of Jesse James, the caverns have become a legendary destination for generations of explorers. Visitors enjoy activities ranging from underground tours to riverboat rides and ziplining.
8. Ozark National Scenic Riverways
RIVER RECREATION AREA
Ozark National Scenic Riverways is America's first national park dedicated to protecting a river system, preserving pristine stretches of the Current and Jacks Fork Rivers. The park is a haven for canoeing, fishing, hiking, and wildlife watching. Its natural beauty attracts visitors seeking adventure and tranquility in the heart of the Ozarks.
9. Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum
LITERARY HISTORIC SITE
The Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum in Hannibal lets visitors step back into the world that inspired Samuel Clemens' classic stories. The museum complex includes six historic buildings, such as Twain's boyhood home and interactive galleries. It is an essential pilgrimage for fans of American literature.
10. Scott Joplin House State Historic Site
RAGTIME COMPOSER'S HOME
The Scott Joplin House State Historic Site preserves the modest flat where the legendary composer wrote some of his most famous compositions. Visitors can explore period furnishings and listen to Joplin's music on an antique player piano. The site provides insight into the King of Ragtime's life and the era's cultural context.
11. Ste. Genevieve National Historical Park
COLONIAL FRENCH HERITAGE
Ste. Genevieve National Historical Park preserves some of the oldest and rarest French colonial architecture in the United States. Visitors can tour historic buildings like the Amoureux House, constructed in the 18th century using rare methods. The park offers a glimpse into early European settlement in Missouri.
12. Walt Disney Hometown Museum
DISNEY'S CHILDHOOD MUSEUM
The Walt Disney Hometown Museum in Marceline celebrates the formative childhood years of animation pioneer Walt Disney. Housed in a restored 1913 railway station, the museum features thousands of family artifacts and stories that shaped Disney's vision. Visitors will recognize the inspiration for Disney's Main Street USA in Marceline's downtown.
13. Pershing Boyhood Home State Historic Site
GENERAL PERSHING'S LEGACY
The Pershing Boyhood Home State Historic Site in Laclede commemorates the early life of John J. 'Black Jack' Pershing, America's highest-ranking military officer. The site includes Pershing's childhood home and school, along with exhibits about his military career. Guided tours provide a deeper understanding of Pershing's enduring influence.
14. Lake Boutin Recreation Area
OUTDOOR FAMILY DESTINATION
Lake Boutin Recreation Area offers opportunities for swimming, fishing, picnicking, and hiking in a scenic natural setting. The area is particularly popular during the summer months for its sandy beach and clear water. Families can enjoy day trips surrounded by the landscapes of Bollinger County.
15. Trail of Tears State Park
HISTORICAL STATE PARK
Trail of Tears State Park commemorates the forced relocation of Cherokee people in the 1830s and preserves a poignant chapter of American history. The park features interpretive exhibits, hiking trails, and stunning views of the Mississippi River. Visitors gain a deep appreciation for both the area's natural beauty and its historical significance.