Oak Ridge MissouriATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Oak Ridge, Missouri.
1. Pinecrest Azalea Gardens
BEAUTIFUL FLORAL WONDERLAND
Pinecrest Azalea Gardens is a stunning floral attraction in Oak Ridge that showcases vibrant azaleas and other flowering plants. Visitors can stroll through winding paths surrounded by colorful blooms and peaceful garden settings. The gardens offer a tranquil escape with well-maintained landscapes that are especially breathtaking during peak flowering season.
2. Apple Creek Vineyard & Winery
LOCAL WINE EXPERIENCE
Apple Creek Vineyard & Winery offers visitors a chance to sample locally produced wines in a charming setting. The winery features tastings of various wine varieties made from grapes grown in the region. Guests can enjoy the picturesque vineyard views while learning about the winemaking process from knowledgeable staff.
3. Oak Ridge Conservation Area
NATURAL OUTDOOR RETREAT
Oak Ridge Conservation Area is located just outside the city limits and offers outdoor enthusiasts access to pristine natural habitats. The conservation area features hiking trails, wildlife viewing opportunities, and spaces for outdoor recreation. Nature lovers can explore diverse ecosystems while enjoying the peaceful surroundings away from urban areas.
4. Missouri Great River Road
HISTORIC MISSISSIPPI RIVERSIDE DRIVE
The Missouri Great River Road is a historic byway that passes near Oak Ridge, offering spectacular views of the Mississippi River. Travelers can explore cultural landmarks and natural wonders while driving along this scenic route. The byway connects various historic sites and provides insights into the region's rich cultural heritage.
5. Apple Creek Conservation Area
WILDLIFE AND RECREATION
Apple Creek Conservation Area provides visitors with opportunities for fishing, hiking, and wildlife observation near Oak Ridge. The area encompasses diverse habitats including woodlands, streams, and open fields that support a variety of plant and animal species. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy activities such as hunting (in season), bird watching, and nature photography throughout the year.
6. Bollinger Mill State Historic Site
HISTORIC MILL AND BRIDGE
Bollinger Mill State Historic Site features a beautiful four-story stone mill that dates back to the Civil War era near Oak Ridge. Visitors can explore the mill's inner workings and learn about 19th-century grain processing techniques through informative displays. The site also includes the Burfordville Covered Bridge, Missouri's oldest remaining covered bridge, creating a picturesque historical attraction.
7. Trail of Tears State Park
HISTORICAL NATIVE AMERICAN SITE
Trail of Tears State Park commemorates the forced relocation of the Cherokee Nation and offers visitors both historical education and natural beauty. The park features interpretive exhibits about the Trail of Tears along with hiking trails, camping facilities, and Mississippi River overlooks. Visitors can learn about this significant chapter in American history while enjoying outdoor recreation opportunities throughout the 3,415-acre park.
8. Cape Girardeau Conservation Nature Center
INTERACTIVE WILDLIFE LEARNING
Cape Girardeau Conservation Nature Center offers interactive exhibits showcasing Missouri's diverse wildlife and natural habitats. The center features live animal displays, hands-on learning stations, and educational programs for visitors of all ages. Surrounding the center are nature trails that wind through woodlands and wetlands, providing opportunities to observe local flora and fauna in their natural settings.
9. Riverfront Park
MISSISSIPPI RIVER VIEWS
Riverfront Park in Cape Girardeau offers stunning views of the Mississippi River and serves as a gathering place for community events. The park features a flood wall mural tour depicting the history of the region through vibrant artistic representations. Visitors can stroll along the river walk, enjoy the Mississippi River Tales mural, and learn about the area's historical connection to river commerce.
10. Old Town Cape
HISTORIC DOWNTOWN DISTRICT
Old Town Cape is a charming historic district featuring well-preserved 19th-century architecture and local businesses. Visitors can explore unique shops, restaurants, and galleries housed in beautiful historic buildings along brick-paved streets. The district regularly hosts community events, farmers markets, and festivals that celebrate the region's cultural heritage.
11. Lazy L Safari Park
INTERACTIVE ANIMAL EXPERIENCE
Lazy L Safari Park offers visitors close encounters with exotic and domestic animals in a drive-through safari experience. Guests can feed animals from their vehicles as they drive through habitats housing species such as camels, bison, and various exotic deer species. The park also includes a petting zoo area where visitors can interact with friendly farm animals and learn about wildlife conservation.
12. Southeast Missouri State University River Campus
ARTS AND CULTURE HUB
The River Campus at Southeast Missouri State University serves as the region's premier arts and culture destination. The campus houses several performance venues, art galleries, and the Crisp Museum which features historical and archaeological exhibits about the region. Visitors can attend theatrical productions, music performances, and art exhibitions throughout the year in this vibrant cultural center.
13. Saxony Lutheran Hills
HISTORIC SETTLEMENT AREA
Saxony Lutheran Hills preserves the heritage of German Lutheran settlers who established communities in this region during the 1800s. Visitors can explore historic buildings, including a beautiful Lutheran church with distinctive architecture reflecting the settlers' European origins. The area offers insight into the religious and cultural traditions that shaped the development of southeast Missouri.
14. Shawnee Park Center
RECREATION AND SPORTS COMPLEX
Shawnee Park Center is a modern recreational facility offering a variety of sports and fitness opportunities for visitors of all ages. The center features indoor and outdoor sports courts, swimming facilities, and walking trails spread across beautifully maintained grounds. Throughout the year, the complex hosts community events, sports tournaments, and recreational programs in a family-friendly environment.
15. Cape Splash Family Aquatic Center
WATER FUN FOR ALL
Cape Splash Family Aquatic Center provides refreshing summer entertainment with multiple water attractions for all ages. The center features water slides, a lazy river, splash pads, and swimming areas designed for both thrill-seekers and those looking to relax. Families can enjoy a full day of water recreation with convenient amenities including concessions, shade structures, and comfortable seating areas.