Licking MissouriATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Licking, Missouri.
1. Licking Aquatic Center
LOCAL SWIMMING POOL PARADISE
Licking Aquatic Center is a popular recreational facility offering refreshing swimming options for locals and visitors alike. The center features various water amenities perfect for cooling off during hot Missouri summers. Families particularly enjoy this venue for its safe and fun environment.
2. Texas County Museum of Art
LOCAL CULTURAL EXHIBITION
Texas County Museum of Art showcases diverse artistic works from local and regional artists. The museum offers rotating exhibitions throughout the year, highlighting different styles and mediums. Visitors can immerse themselves in the rich cultural heritage of the region through its thoughtfully curated collections.
3. PJ's Cafe
LOCAL CULINARY EXPERIENCE
PJ's Cafe serves as a beloved dining establishment offering homestyle meals in Licking. The cafe is known for its friendly atmosphere and comfort food that attracts both locals and travelers. Visitors appreciate the authentic small-town dining experience that captures the essence of rural Missouri.
4. El Carnaval
MEXICAN CUISINE DESTINATION
El Carnaval brings authentic Mexican flavors to the heart of Licking, Missouri. The restaurant offers a diverse menu of traditional Mexican dishes prepared with fresh ingredients. Diners enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and cultural dining experience that stands out in this small Missouri town.
5. Gateway Arch
ICONIC MISSOURI MONUMENT
The Gateway Arch stands as a magnificent 630-foot tall stainless steel monument next to the Mississippi River in St. Louis. This iconic structure symbolizes the role of St. Louis as the gateway to the American West during the nation's expansion. Visitors can take a tram ride to the top for breathtaking views of the city and surrounding landscape.
6. St. Louis City Museum
PLAYFUL URBAN ADVENTURE
St. Louis City Museum offers an eclectic mix of architectural marvels, play areas, and artistic displays created from repurposed industrial objects. The museum spans multiple floors with caves, slides, and climbing structures that appeal to visitors of all ages. General admission tickets provide access to this unique attraction that blends art, architecture, and playful exploration.
7. Old Courthouse
HISTORIC LEGAL LANDMARK
The Old Courthouse in St. Louis stands as a significant historical landmark where the famous Dred Scott case was tried. The building features impressive Greek Revival architecture with a beautiful rotunda and dome interior. Visitors can explore exhibits detailing the courthouse's role in American legal history and the development of St. Louis.
8. Forest Park
URBAN RECREATIONAL HAVEN
Forest Park encompasses 1,300 acres of green space featuring multiple attractions including the St. Louis Zoo and Science Center. The park served as the site of the 1904 World's Fair and continues to be a cultural hub for the region. Visitors can enjoy walking trails, picnic areas, and seasonal events throughout this expansive urban park.
9. St. Louis Zoo
WORLD-CLASS ANIMAL SANCTUARY
St. Louis Zoo houses over 12,000 animals representing 500 species within Forest Park. The zoo is renowned for its conservation efforts and naturalistic habitats designed for animal well-being. Visitors can experience diverse exhibits including the Penguin & Puffin Coast, River's Edge, and the historic 1904 World's Fair Flight Cage.
10. Cathedral Basilica
MAGNIFICENT MOSAIC COLLECTION
The Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis houses one of the largest mosaic collections in the Western Hemisphere. The interior features over 41.5 million pieces of glass tesserae covering 83,000 square feet in a stunning array of colors and religious imagery. Visitors are awestruck by the Byzantine and Romanesque architectural elements that make this cathedral a must-see attraction.
11. Blueberry Hill
LEGENDARY MUSIC VENUE
Blueberry Hill serves as an iconic restaurant and music venue located near the St. Louis Walk of Fame. The establishment is famous for hosting Chuck Berry's monthly performances for over 200 consecutive months. Visitors can enjoy American cuisine while surrounded by an extensive collection of pop culture memorabilia spanning multiple decades.
12. St. Louis Science Center
INTERACTIVE LEARNING EXPERIENCE
The St. Louis Science Center offers over 700 interactive exhibits exploring various scientific disciplines. The center features a planetarium, OMNIMAX theater, and hands-on displays designed to make science accessible and engaging. Visitors of all ages can participate in demonstrations, experiments, and educational programs that inspire curiosity and discovery.
13. Anheuser-Busch Brewery
HISTORIC BEER PRODUCTION
The Anheuser-Busch Brewery offers tours of its historic brewing facilities dating back to the 19th century. Visitors can observe the famous Clydesdale horses and learn about the beer-making process from start to finish. The tour culminates with product samples for adult guests in a traditional beer garden setting.
14. Laclede's Landing
HISTORIC RIVERFRONT DISTRICT
Laclede's Landing represents St. Louis' oldest district with cobblestone streets and historic buildings along the Mississippi riverfront. The nine-block area features restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues housed in 19th-century warehouses. Visitors can experience the charm of old St. Louis while enjoying modern amenities and scenic river views.
15. Old Chain of Rocks Bridge
HISTORIC ROUTE 66 CROSSING
The Old Chain of Rocks Bridge is a mile-long steel truss structure spanning the Mississippi River with a unique 30-degree bend midway across. Once part of the legendary Route 66, the bridge now serves as a pedestrian and cycling path offering spectacular river views. Visitors can appreciate this engineering marvel while learning about its historical significance to transportation in America.