Hallsville MissouriATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Hallsville, Missouri.
1. Hallsville City Park
LOCAL FAMILY RECREATION SPOT
Hallsville City Park is a beloved green space in the heart of Hallsville, offering a peaceful setting for families and visitors. The park features playground equipment, picnic areas, and open fields suitable for sports or leisurely strolls. It is a popular gathering place for community events and outdoor relaxation.
2. Rock Bridge Memorial State Park
SCENIC HIKING AND CAVES
Rock Bridge Memorial State Park is renowned for its dramatic karst features, including caves, sinkholes, and the iconic natural rock bridge. Visitors enjoy miles of hiking and biking trails that wind through forested landscapes and limestone formations. The Devil's Icebox Cave is a particularly notable attraction for those interested in geology and adventure.
3. Stephens Lake Park
URBAN LAKE AND TRAILS
Stephens Lake Park is a favorite outdoor destination boasting a picturesque lake for fishing, swimming, and kayaking. Its paved and natural trails wind through beautiful gardens and scenic vistas, making it ideal for walkers, joggers, and nature lovers. The park also features playgrounds and hosts several community events throughout the year.
4. Capen Park
ROCK CLIMBING AND NATURE
Capen Park is celebrated for its limestone bluffs, which attract rock climbers seeking a challenge with a variety of climbing routes. The park covers almost 32 acres and includes hiking trails, scenic overlooks, and connections to the Hinkson Creek Trail. Its natural beauty and outdoor opportunities make it a gem for adventurers and families alike.
5. Shelter Gardens
PEACEFUL BOTANICAL OASIS
Shelter Gardens is a beautifully landscaped seven-acre botanical garden featuring over 300 varieties of trees and shrubs. The tranquil grounds include a waterfall, garden paths, and a sensory garden for visually impaired visitors. It's an ideal spot for peaceful walks, photography, and connecting with nature.
6. Boone County History & Culture Center
MUSEUM AND HISTORIC VILLAGE
The Boone County History & Culture Center offers engaging exhibits that chronicle local history, culture, and art. Visitors can explore restored historic buildings, rotating art displays, and a large genealogical library. The center provides educational experiences suitable for all ages interested in Boone County's heritage.
7. MKT Nature and Fitness Trail
SCENIC RAIL-TRAIL ADVENTURE
The MKT Nature and Fitness Trail, popular among cyclists, joggers, and walkers, is a 9-mile scenic trail built on a former railroad bed. It links Columbia to the Katy Trail State Park, meandering through woodlands, creeks, and open fields. The trail offers an immersive way to experience the region's natural beauty.
8. Twin Lakes Recreation Area
DOG PARKS AND LAKE FUN
Twin Lakes Recreation Area is a multifaceted park, well-known for its off-leash dog parks and two serene fishing lakes. Visitors enjoy walking trails, picnic facilities, and a swimming beach during summer months. The area also hosts several pet-friendly community events annually.
9. Eagle Bluffs Conservation Area
WILDLIFE WATCHING HAVEN
Eagle Bluffs Conservation Area spans more than 4,400 acres of wetlands, forests, and grasslands along the Missouri River floodplain. It's a prime spot for birdwatching, especially waterfowl and bald eagles, and has well-maintained trails for hiking and nature photography. The area is also popular for hunting and fishing during permitted seasons.
10. Museum of Art and Archaeology
UNIVERSITY ART MUSEUM
The Museum of Art and Archaeology at the University of Missouri houses impressive collections of ancient and modern art. Exhibits range from Greek statues to intricate paintings and changing contemporary installations. The free-admission museum offers educational programs and guided tours for visitors of all ages.
11. Finger Lakes State Park
OFF-ROAD AND WATER ADVENTURES
Finger Lakes State Park is known for its extensive off-road vehicle trails, making it a unique destination for ATV and dirt bike enthusiasts. The park also features lakes for fishing, swimming, and canoeing, as well as hiking and mountain biking trails. Its reclaimed coal mining landscape now hosts vibrant outdoor recreation for all ages.
12. Cosmo Park
EXPANSIVE CITY RECREATION AREA
Cosmo Park is Columbia's largest municipal park, offering facilities for soccer, baseball, hiking, and an extensive skate park. The sprawling grounds include numerous picnic shelters, playgrounds, and walking paths. It is a central hub for sports leagues, tournaments, and community festivals.
13. Perche Creek Golf Club
FUN DRIVING RANGE AND GOLF
Perche Creek Golf Club provides a relaxed setting for golfers of all skill levels, featuring a driving range and a challenging 9-hole course. The facility also offers mini-golf, batting cages, and a practice green. It's a favorite for families and those wanting to hone their golf game in a casual atmosphere.
14. Stephens College Historic Campus
ARCHITECTURAL AND ACADEMIC HISTORY
The Stephens College Historic Campus features beautiful early 20th-century architecture and well-manicured gardens. Visitors can enjoy a stroll among historic academic buildings and attend arts performances or lectures. The campus is a picturesque reflection of Columbia's educational and cultural traditions.
15. Rocheport Historic District
CHARMING RIVER TOWN
The Rocheport Historic District is a delightful small-town destination along the Missouri River, renowned for its preserved 19th-century buildings and vibrant bed-and-breakfasts. The area offers unique shops, gourmet dining, and access to the Katy Trail for hiking and biking. It's a perfect day trip for those seeking history, charm, and river views.
16. Katy Trail State Park
MISSOURI'S PREMIER RAIL-TRAIL
Katy Trail State Park is the longest developed rail-trail in the United States, stretching over 200 miles across Missouri. The trail invites cyclists, hikers, and nature enthusiasts to traverse scenic landscapes, including farmland, river bluffs, and charming rural towns. Its Boonville trailhead is easily accessible from Hallsville and the surrounding areas.