Rensselaer MissouriATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Rensselaer, Missouri.
1. Van Rensselaer Academy
HISTORIC EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTION
The Van Rensselaer Academy stands as a significant historical landmark in Rensselaer, Missouri. Visitors can explore this preserved educational institution that played an important role in the region's development. The academy offers a glimpse into 19th-century education and architectural design.
2. Big Creek Presbyterian Church
HISTORIC RELIGIOUS SITE
Big Creek Presbyterian Church is a cherished historical religious site in Rensselaer, Missouri. The church features traditional architecture and serves as a testament to the area's religious heritage. Visitors can appreciate both the historical significance and the peaceful surroundings of this longstanding community landmark.
3. St. Peter's Catholic Church
ARCHITECTURAL RELIGIOUS TREASURE
St. Peter's Catholic Church is an architectural treasure located near Rensselaer in Ralls County. The church is considered one of the best examples of church planting in Missouri with distinctive construction features. Visitors can admire the historic significance and beautiful design of this religious landmark.
4. Mark Twain Lake
SCENIC RECREATIONAL WATERS
Mark Twain Lake offers 300 miles of shoreline, making it the largest lake in Northeast Missouri. The lake provides numerous recreation opportunities including fishing, boating, swimming, and hiking along its scenic shores. Visitors can access the lake through various public access points near Rensselaer.
5. M.W. Boudreaux Cannon Dam Visitors Center
DAM AND EDUCATIONAL EXHIBITS
The M.W. Boudreaux Cannon Dam Visitors Center is operated by the US Army Corps of Engineers and offers educational exhibits about the dam and surrounding ecosystem. The complex includes scenic overlooks ideal for picnics, an exhibit gallery, gift shop, and community room. Visitors can enjoy spectacular views of Cannon Dam from the center's observation deck.
6. Northeast Missouri Vietnam Veterans Memorial
HONORING MILITARY SERVICE
The Northeast Missouri Vietnam Veterans Memorial honors local natives who served and died in Vietnam. Located on the grounds of the M.W. Boudreaux Visitors Center, the memorial provides a place for reflection and remembrance. Visitors can pay their respects while learning about the contributions of Northeast Missouri residents to the Vietnam War effort.
7. Warren See Spillway Recreation Area
DAM VIEWS AND RECREATION
The Warren See Spillway Recreation Area provides visitors with a ground-level view of Cannon Dam. The area includes family-friendly amenities such as a play area and public restrooms. Visitors can enjoy both the impressive engineering of the dam and outdoor recreational opportunities in this well-maintained public space.
8. Frank Russell Public Use Area
HIKING AND NATURE
The Frank Russell Public Use Area offers additional recreational opportunities off Route J near Mark Twain Lake. Featuring hiking trails through wooded terrain, the area allows visitors to experience the natural beauty of Northeast Missouri. Nature enthusiasts can enjoy wildlife viewing and outdoor activities in this serene setting.
9. Spalding Beach Public Use Area
SWIMMING AND OUTDOOR RECREATION
The Spalding Beach Public Use Area includes shelter houses and swimming facilities near Mark Twain Lake. Visitors can enjoy water recreation during summer months in a maintained beach environment. The area provides amenities for family outings and relaxation along the scenic shoreline.
10. Ray Behrens Recreation Area
HIKING AND SHORELINE ACCESS
The Ray Behrens Recreation Area offers visitors access to Mark Twain Lake's beautiful shoreline. The area features hiking trails through scenic terrain with views of the lake. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy both land and water activities in this well-maintained recreation area.
11. Duane Wheeler Access Area
LAKE ACCESS POINT
The Duane Wheeler Access Area provides public access to Mark Twain Lake for fishing and boating enthusiasts. Located along the 300-mile shoreline, this area offers convenient facilities for water recreation. Visitors can launch boats or fish from the shore while enjoying the natural beauty of Northeast Missouri.
12. Ralls County Heritage Driving Trail
SCENIC HISTORICAL DRIVE
The Ralls County Heritage Driving Trail takes visitors through the scenic and historic areas of Ralls County, including Rensselaer. The driving route connects various historical sites, natural attractions, and cultural landmarks throughout the region. Travelers can experience the rich heritage and natural beauty of Northeast Missouri at their own pace along this well-marked trail.
13. Spalding Springs
NATURAL WATER SOURCE
Spalding Springs is a natural water feature located near Rensselaer in Ralls County. The springs have historical significance to the region and represent the natural water resources of Northeast Missouri. Visitors can observe the springs and learn about their importance to early settlement and development in the area.
14. Gateway Arch
ICONIC NATIONAL MONUMENT
The Gateway Arch dominates St. Louis' skyline as both an architectural marvel and a historical emblem of westward expansion. Visitors can enjoy tram rides to the top of this 630-foot stainless steel monument for panoramic views of the city and the Mississippi River. The Gateway Arch National Park also includes a museum that details the history of St. Louis and its role in the American westward movement.
15. Saint Louis Zoo
FREE WILDLIFE EXPERIENCE
The Saint Louis Zoo is one of the few free major zoos in the United States, offering visitors the chance to see over 12,000 animals representing 500 species. The zoo features immersive habitats including the Penguin & Puffin Coast, River's Edge, and the award-winning Big Cat Country. Families can enjoy a full day of wildlife education and entertainment across the zoo's 90 acres within Forest Park.