Fidelity MissouriATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Fidelity, Missouri.
1. Meramec Caverns
MISSOURI'S MOST-VISITED CAVE
Meramec Caverns is Missouri's most-visited cave, offering a spectacular underground adventure with intricate limestone formations. Notable features include the Ballroom and a stage used for tours and events. Guided tours showcase the cavern's natural beauty and its historical ties to local legends.
2. Gateway Arch
ICONIC NATIONAL MONUMENT
The Gateway Arch in St. Louis is the tallest arch monument in the world, standing at 630 feet and symbolizing the gateway to the west. Visitors can ride to the top for sweeping views of the city and the Mississippi River. This national park also offers a rich museum exploring America's westward expansion.
3. Mark Twain Boyhood Home & Museum
LITERARY LANDMARK
The Mark Twain Boyhood Home & Museum in Hannibal celebrates the childhood of Samuel Clemens, better known as Mark Twain. Guests can tour the house where Twain grew up and see memorabilia related to his famous novels. The museum offers insight into both his life and his enduring literary impact.
4. George Washington Carver National Monument
HISTORIC EDUCATIONAL SITE
George Washington Carver National Monument honors the life and scientific achievements of the noted botanist and inventor. The site features a museum, walking trails, and the preserved Carver family home. Educational exhibits detail Carver's contributions to agriculture and environmentalism.
5. Grand Falls
SCENIC WATERFALL
Grand Falls near Joplin is the largest continuously flowing natural waterfall in Missouri. The site is popular for its picturesque setting and serves as a peaceful getaway for photography, picnics, and swimming. The falls are a favorite local spot for both tourists and residents.
6. Route 66 Carousel Park
FAMILY AMUSEMENT PARK
Route 66 Carousel Park offers classic amusement rides, mini-golf, and games for families and visitors. The park captures the nostalgia of the famous Route 66 and provides a fun environment for children and adults alike. Seasonal events and group packages make it a go-to destination during holidays and weekends.
7. Precious Moments Chapel
INSPIRATIONAL ART DESTINATION
The Precious Moments Chapel features elaborate murals and stained glass inspired by the beloved figurines. Visitors marvel at the spiritual artwork and tranquil gardens that surround the chapel. Guided tours share the story behind the artist Samuel J. Butcher and his creations.
8. Carthage Civil War Museum
CIVIL WAR HISTORY
The Carthage Civil War Museum presents exhibits and artifacts focusing on the area's role in the Civil War, especially the Battle of Carthage. Visitors can learn about local military history through interactive displays and preserved relics. The museum provides insights into the community's past and its significance during the conflict.
9. Jasper County Courthouse
ARCHITECTURAL LANDMARK
The Jasper County Courthouse, built in Romanesque Revival style, is renowned for its ornate architecture and pink granite construction. Its clock tower is a distinctive feature visible throughout Carthage. Guided tours highlight both the building's history and its role in the local legal system.
10. Wildcat Glades Conservation & Audubon Center
NATURE AND WILDLIFE TRAILS
Wildcat Glades Conservation & Audubon Center offers scenic trails, native grasslands, and educational programs focused on the area's unique chert glade ecosystem. Families and nature lovers enjoy birdwatching, hiking, and interactive exhibits. The center is a hub for conservation and outdoor learning.
11. Battle of Carthage State Historic Site
HISTORIC BATTLEFIELD
The Battle of Carthage State Historic Site commemorates the first major land battle of the Civil War in Missouri. Visitors can tour the markers and learn about troop movements and strategies used in 1861. The site provides educational resources and a tranquil landscape for reflection.
12. Joplin History & Mineral Museum
MINING HERITAGE MUSEUM
The Joplin History & Mineral Museum explores the region's lead and zinc mining roots with extensive mineral displays and mining artifacts. Exhibits also cover local history and notable figures from the area. The museum is a fascinating stop for those interested in geology and industrial history.
13. Red Oak II
ARTISTIC GHOST TOWN
Red Oak II is an open-air art installation created by artist Lowell Davis, resembling a recreated early 20th-century Missouri town. The site features restored buildings, whimsical sculptures, and vintage memorabilia across a rural landscape. Visitors can stroll through the grounds and experience a nostalgic journey into Missouri's past.
14. Cunningham Park
COMMUNITY RECREATION PARK
Cunningham Park is a spacious city park featuring playgrounds, gardens, walking trails, and a commemorative area dedicated to the community's tornado resilience. Families enjoy the splash pad and picnic pavilions during warmer months. The park serves as a center for local gatherings and outdoor activities.
15. Shoal Creek Conservation Education Center
ENVIRONMENTAL LEARNING HUB
Shoal Creek Conservation Education Center provides immersive programs on local ecology and sustainability. Its interactive exhibits focus on the unique habitats along Shoal Creek, with trails and observation decks for wildlife viewing. The center is popular for educational outings and nature exploration.