King City MissouriATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near King City, Missouri.
1. Tri County Museum
HISTORY COMES ALIVE
The Tri County Museum has been a mainstay of King City since the American Bicentennial Celebration in 1976, featuring seven buildings on its campus. The museum grounds make up a community all their own, including the old King City train depot, a house filled with antiques, a barn, a chapel, and an authentic log cabin. Exhibits include a blacksmith shop, barber/beauty shop, general store, post office, military display, antique cars, a fire truck, and a chicken hatchery.
2. The Big Red Pump
ICONIC ROADSIDE ATTRACTION
The Big Red Pump is a striking 25-foot high building built to resemble an electric gasoline pump. It was constructed in 1937 as a functioning gas station and now stands as a unique piece of Americana. The structure is part of the Tri County Museum grounds and represents the area's transportation history.
3. Living History Day
ANNUAL HERITAGE FESTIVAL
Living History Day takes place on the third Saturday in September from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Tri County Museum grounds. Activities include barbecue, sheep herding dog demonstrations, old-time rock crushing, muzzle loaders encampment, musical entertainment, and various historical demonstrations. Visitors can also enjoy displays of old-time tractors and participate in children's activities during this celebration of local heritage.
4. Museum Chapel
HISTORIC WEDDING VENUE
The Museum Chapel is a beautiful historic building located on the Tri County Museum campus in King City. The chapel features a traditional pump organ and hosts weddings and other special events throughout the year. Its authentic period design offers visitors a glimpse into the religious life of early Missouri settlers.
5. King City Train Depot
PRESERVED RAILWAY HISTORY
The King City Train Depot is a preserved historical building that now serves as part of the Tri County Museum. Originally owned by an antiques dealer, the defunct railroad depot was donated to the community during the American Bicentennial Celebration and moved to its present location at 604 N. Grand Street. The depot offers visitors a glimpse into the importance of railway transportation in developing small Midwestern towns.
6. Holiday Craft Show
SEASONAL ARTISAN MARKET
The Holiday Craft Show is a seasonal event hosted at the Tri County Museum in King City. Local artisans and craftspeople gather to display and sell their handmade goods, perfect for holiday gift shopping. The event celebrates the creative talents of the region while supporting the local economy and museum operations.
7. Alley Mill
HISTORIC WATER MILL
Alley Mill is a historic red mill located near Eminence that showcases Missouri's cultural heritage. The picturesque water-powered grist mill was built in 1894 and is now preserved as part of the Ozark National Scenic Riverways. Visitors can explore the mill's mechanisms and learn about the importance of water mills in early Missouri communities.
8. Welch Hospital
MEDICAL HISTORY LANDMARK
Welch Hospital stands as an important landmark in Missouri's medical history. The historic building represents early healthcare development in rural Missouri communities. Visitors can learn about medical practices of the past and the significance of small-town hospitals in serving remote populations.
9. King City Park
COMMUNITY RECREATION AREA
King City Park provides recreational opportunities for residents and visitors alike. The park features playgrounds, picnic areas, and open spaces for community gatherings and outdoor activities. It serves as a central green space for the town and hosts various community events throughout the year.
10. Nodaway County Historical Society Museum
REGIONAL HERITAGE COLLECTION
The Nodaway County Historical Society Museum preserves the history of the broader region surrounding King City. Located in nearby Maryville, the museum houses artifacts, photographs, and documents that tell the story of Northwest Missouri's development. Visitors can explore exhibits on pioneer life, agriculture, education, and other aspects of regional history.
11. Mozingo Lake Recreation Park
OUTDOOR ADVENTURE DESTINATION
Mozingo Lake Recreation Park is a 3,000-acre outdoor recreation area located near Maryville, a short drive from King City. The park features a 1,000-acre lake for fishing, boating, and swimming, plus hiking trails, camping facilities, and an 18-hole golf course. Nature enthusiasts can enjoy wildlife viewing, while families appreciate the picnic areas and playgrounds.
12. Grand River Historical Society Museum
RIVER VALLEY HERITAGE
The Grand River Historical Society Museum in Chillicothe showcases the history of the Grand River valley region not far from King City. The museum features exhibits on Native American artifacts, pioneer life, agricultural development, and the coming of the railroad. Its collection includes vintage photographs, tools, household items, and military memorabilia that tell the story of life in north-central Missouri.
13. Crowder State Park
HIKING AND NATURE
Crowder State Park offers over 1,900 acres of natural beauty in the rolling hills of northern Missouri within driving distance of King City. The park features more than 17 miles of hiking trails, including the popular 8.6-mile Tall Oaks Trail that winds through native woodland and open fields. Visitors can also enjoy fishing in the 18-acre Crowder Lake, camping at one of the park's campsites, or picnicking in designated areas.
14. Poosey Conservation Area
WILDLIFE AND RECREATION
Poosey Conservation Area encompasses over 5,900 acres of diverse habitat for outdoor enthusiasts in the region surrounding King City. The area offers hunting, fishing in multiple lakes and ponds, hiking, horseback riding, and primitive camping opportunities. Its rugged terrain and scenic beauty make it a favorite destination for nature photographers and wildlife watchers.
15. Wallace State Park
WOODLAND RETREAT AREA
Wallace State Park provides a serene natural getaway on 501 acres of wooded land near Cameron, not far from King City. The park features a six-acre lake for fishing, four hiking trails ranging from easy to moderate difficulty, and picnic areas scattered throughout the grounds. Overnight visitors can stay at one of the park's basic or electric campsites while enjoying the peaceful woodland setting.