Hayti Heights MissouriATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Hayti Heights, Missouri.
1. Gateway Arch
ICONIC ST. LOUIS MONUMENT
The Gateway Arch is a 630-foot stainless steel monument that serves as the iconic symbol of St. Louis. Visitors can take a tram ride to the top for panoramic views of the city and the Mississippi River. The arch is part of the Gateway Arch National Park, which also includes the Old Courthouse and Museum of Westward Expansion.
2. Saint Louis Art Museum
WORLD-CLASS ART COLLECTION
The Saint Louis Art Museum houses an impressive collection of more than 34,000 objects spanning 5,000 years of history and cultures. Located in Forest Park, the museum features works by famous artists such as Monet, Picasso, and Van Gogh. Admission to the main collection is free, making it accessible to all visitors.
3. Missouri Botanical Garden
HISTORIC URBAN OASIS
The Missouri Botanical Garden is one of the oldest botanical institutions in the United States, founded in 1859. The 79-acre garden features a Japanese garden, a climatron tropical rainforest dome, and numerous themed gardens. It serves as both a beautiful attraction for visitors and an important center for botanical research.
4. Ozark National Scenic Riverways
NATURAL RIVER WONDERS
Ozark National Scenic Riverways is the first national park area to protect a river system, preserving the Current and Jacks Fork Rivers. The park features fascinating karst formations including Devils Well, an underground lake visible through a sinkhole, and Cave Spring. Visitors can enjoy canoeing, kayaking, fishing, and hiking throughout this natural wonderland.
5. Devils Well
MYSTERIOUS UNDERGROUND LAKE
Devils Well is a remarkable natural wonder located within the Ozark National Scenic Riverways, featuring an underground lake visible through a sinkhole. This karst formation contains an estimated 22 million gallons of water and is one of the largest known underground lakes in Missouri. Visitors can view this geological marvel from a platform constructed over the sinkhole opening.
6. Cave Spring
HISTORIC NATURAL SPRING
Cave Spring is a significant natural spring within the Ozark National Scenic Riverways that flows from a small cave entrance. The spring produces millions of gallons of crystal-clear water daily that contributes to the Current River. Historical significance adds to its appeal as it was once used by early settlers and indigenous peoples of the region.
7. Blue Star Museums
FREE MILITARY FAMILY ACCESS
Blue Star Museums is a nationwide program offering free admission to active-duty military personnel and their families during the summer months. Several museums and cultural attractions near Hayti Heights participate in this patriotic initiative. The program represents a collaboration between the National Endowment for the Arts, Blue Star Families, and the Department of Defense.
8. Pemiscot County Historical Museum
LOCAL HISTORY SHOWCASE
The Pemiscot County Historical Museum preserves and displays artifacts and documents related to the rich history of Pemiscot County. Located in nearby Caruthersville, the museum features exhibits on early settlement, agricultural development, and the impact of the Mississippi River on local communities. Visitors can explore collections of photographs, farming implements, household items, and Native American artifacts that tell the story of this unique region in Missouri's bootheel.
9. Bootheel Youth Museum
INTERACTIVE LEARNING CENTER
The Bootheel Youth Museum offers hands-on educational exhibits designed to inspire curiosity and learning in children and families. With interactive displays covering science, history, art, and technology, the museum provides an engaging experience for visitors of all ages. The facility hosts special events, workshops, and educational programs throughout the year.
10. Mississippi River State Park
RIVERSIDE NATURAL BEAUTY
Mississippi River State Park offers spectacular views of America's most iconic river along with recreational opportunities for visitors. The park provides access points for fishing, boating, and wildlife observation along the mighty Mississippi. Nature enthusiasts can enjoy birdwatching, as the area is located along a major migratory flyway.
11. Reelfoot Lake State Park
UNIQUE CYPRESS WETLANDS
Reelfoot Lake State Park, just across the state line in Tennessee, was formed by the New Madrid earthquakes of 1811-1812 that caused the Mississippi River to flow backward and create this natural wonder. The park features unique cypress trees growing directly from the lake, creating a hauntingly beautiful landscape. Wildlife enthusiasts can observe bald eagles, herons, and numerous other bird species in this ecological treasure.
12. Caruthersville Casino
RIVERSIDE GAMING ENTERTAINMENT
Caruthersville Casino offers gaming entertainment on a riverboat along the Mississippi River near Hayti Heights. The casino features slot machines, table games, and regular tournaments for visitors seeking gaming excitement. Amenities include dining options, entertainment venues, and occasional special events.
13. Big Lake National Wildlife Refuge
BIRD SANCTUARY WETLANDS
Big Lake National Wildlife Refuge is located just across the Missouri-Arkansas border and encompasses over 11,000 acres of wetlands and cypress swamps. Established in 1915, it is one of the oldest wildlife refuges in the United States and serves as an important habitat for migratory birds. Visitors can enjoy wildlife viewing, fishing, photography, and hiking on designated trails through this pristine natural area.
14. Sikeston Rodeo
THRILLING WESTERN ENTERTAINMENT
The Sikeston Rodeo is an annual event drawing participants and spectators from across the region to enjoy traditional rodeo competitions. This exciting attraction features bull riding, barrel racing, steer wrestling, and other classic rodeo events. The family-friendly atmosphere includes food vendors, entertainment, and a celebration of Western heritage.
15. Lambert's Cafe
HOME OF THROWN ROLLS
Lambert's Cafe is a famous eatery known as the "Home of Thrown Rolls" where servers literally throw fresh, hot rolls to diners across the restaurant. Beyond the flying bread, this unique dining establishment offers generous portions of Southern comfort food served with a side of entertainment. The restaurant has become a tourist attraction in its own right, drawing visitors from across the country to experience its quirky dining concept.