Elmo MissouriATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Elmo, Missouri.
1. Nodaway Valley Historical Museum
LOCAL HISTORY PRESERVED
The Nodaway Valley Historical Museum offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into the rich history of Elmo and the surrounding Nodaway Valley region. Exhibits showcase artifacts, photographs, and documents that tell the story of the area's settlement and development over the years. Visitors can explore the museum's collections to gain a deeper understanding of local heritage and cultural significance.
2. Glenn Miller Birthplace Museum
CELEBRATING MUSIC LEGEND
The Glenn Miller Birthplace Museum honors the legacy of the famous big band leader who was born in the nearby town of Clarinda, Iowa. The museum features an extensive collection of Miller's personal items, recordings, and memorabilia that chronicle his influential career and contributions to American music. Visitors can experience interactive exhibits that bring to life the sounds and culture of the swing era that Miller helped define.
3. Painting Barn Studio
CREATIVE ART SPACE
The Painting Barn Studio provides a charming creative space for artists and art enthusiasts in the Elmo area. The studio offers classes, workshops, and open studio time for those looking to develop their artistic skills or simply enjoy the creative process. Visitors appreciate the warm, rustic atmosphere that inspires creativity and community connection through art.
4. Clarinda Carnegie Art Museum
HISTORIC ART COLLECTION
The Clarinda Carnegie Art Museum is housed in a beautiful historic Carnegie library building near Elmo. The museum showcases rotating exhibitions of regional and national artists, offering cultural enrichment to visitors from across the region. Its well-preserved architecture adds to the experience, making it both an artistic and historical destination.
5. Gateway Arch National Park
ICONIC MISSOURI LANDMARK
The Gateway Arch National Park features the iconic 630-foot stainless steel arch that has become the symbol of St. Louis and a monument to America's westward expansion. Visitors can ride to the top of the arch for breathtaking views of the city and the Mississippi River from the observation deck. The park also includes a museum that explores the history of the westward movement and the significance of the St. Louis area in American history.
6. George Washington Carver National Monument
SCIENTIFIC LEGACY HONORED
The George Washington Carver National Monument preserves the birthplace and childhood home of the renowned agricultural scientist, educator, and humanitarian. Visitors can explore the 240-acre park that includes walking trails, a museum, and interactive exhibits highlighting Carver's contributions to agriculture and science. The site offers insight into how Carver's early experiences as the "Plant Doctor" tending his secret garden influenced his remarkable career and lasting impact on American agriculture.
7. Harry S Truman National Historic Site
PRESIDENTIAL HISTORY SITE
The Harry S Truman National Historic Site preserves the former home of the 33rd President of the United States and offers visitors a glimpse into his personal life. The site includes the Truman Home in Independence and the Truman Farm Home in Grandview, showcasing the modest lifestyle of a president who never forgot his roots. Visitors can experience the surroundings that shaped Truman from his early years through his political career and final years as a former president.
8. Ozark National Scenic Riverways
NATURAL RIVER BEAUTY
Ozark National Scenic Riverways was the first national park area specifically created to protect a river system, preserving the Current and Jacks Fork rivers. The spring-fed, cold and clear waters offer some of the finest floating, canoeing, swimming, and fishing opportunities in the country. Beyond the rivers, the park features hundreds of freshwater springs, caves, hiking trails, and historic sites such as the picturesque Alley Mill.
9. Wilson's Creek National Battlefield
CIVIL WAR HISTORY
Wilson's Creek National Battlefield preserves the site of the first major Civil War battle fought west of the Mississippi River in 1861. The 2,000-acre park offers a self-guided driving tour, walking trails, and a visitor center with exhibits that bring the battle's history to life. Visitors can explore the restored 1850s Ray House that served as a field hospital during the battle, providing a tangible connection to this pivotal moment in American history.
10. Anheuser-Busch Brewery
ICONIC BREWING HISTORY
The Anheuser-Busch Brewery, a National Historic Landmark, offers visitors a behind-the-scenes look at the brewing process of one of America's most famous beer producers. Tours include visits to the historic brewhouse, the aging cellars, and the packaging facility, as well as the opportunity to see the famous Budweiser Clydesdales. The experience concludes with product sampling for adults and provides insight into the company's long history and brewing traditions dating back to 1852.
11. Arrow Rock State Historic Site
PRESERVED FRONTIER TOWN
Arrow Rock State Historic Site preserves a once-thriving Missouri River community that played a significant role in westward expansion and the settlement of the American frontier. The site features more than a dozen historic structures, including the J. Huston Tavern, which has been serving travelers since 1834 and is the oldest continuously operating restaurant west of the Mississippi. Visitors can explore the visitor center museum, take guided tours of historic buildings, and attend performances at the renowned Arrow Rock Lyceum Theatre.
12. George Caleb Bingham House
ARTIST'S HISTORIC HOME
The George Caleb Bingham House was once home to the renowned 19th-century American artist known for his paintings of Missouri River life and frontier politics. The restored historic structure gives visitors insight into the life and times of this important cultural figure who was also involved in state politics. Tours of the house highlight Bingham's contributions to American art and the historical context of his work depicting life in Missouri during a pivotal period in the state's development.
13. Lake of the Ozarks
PREMIER RECREATIONAL WATERWAY
Lake of the Ozarks offers visitors one of Missouri's most popular recreational destinations with over 1,150 miles of shoreline and abundant opportunities for water activities. The lake features excellent fishing, boating, and water sports, along with numerous resorts, restaurants, and entertainment options along its shores. Visitors can also explore nearby attractions including Ha Ha Tonka State Park with its castle ruins and Ozark Caverns with its underground wonders.
14. Ulysses S. Grant National Historic Site
PRESIDENTIAL FARM ESTATE
The Ulysses S. Grant National Historic Site preserves White Haven, the farm home where future president and Civil War general Ulysses S. Grant lived with his wife Julia Dent Grant in the 1850s. The 10-acre estate includes the restored main house, outbuildings, and grounds that provide insight into Grant's pre-war life and the institution of slavery that he would later help abolish. Visitors can tour the historic home and explore exhibits that detail Grant's rise from humble beginnings to military leadership and eventually the presidency.
15. Alley Spring and Mill
HISTORIC RED MILL
Alley Spring and Mill features an iconic red mill building set against the stunning backdrop of one of Missouri's largest springs flowing at over 81 million gallons daily. The historic grist mill, built in 1894, has been beautifully preserved and stands as one of the most photographed sites in Missouri. Visitors can tour the mill to learn about early milling technology, picnic along the spring branch, or use the site as a starting point for exploring the surrounding Ozark National Scenic Riverways.