Sparta MissouriATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Sparta, Missouri.
1. Devreaux Ridge
SCENIC NATURAL WONDER
Devreaux Ridge is one of the top attractions in Sparta, offering visitors beautiful natural scenery. The ridge provides hiking opportunities with panoramic views of the surrounding Missouri countryside. Visitors can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and connect with nature in this picturesque location.
2. Roller Park
FAMILY FUN CENTER
Roller Park is a popular recreational facility in Sparta that offers roller skating and other family activities. The park provides entertainment options for visitors of all ages in a welcoming environment. It serves as a community gathering spot for locals and tourists alike.
3. Gateway Arch
ICONIC NATIONAL MONUMENT
The Gateway Arch stands 630 feet tall as the tallest monument in the United States and a symbol of westward expansion. Visitors can take a tram to the top for breathtaking views of St. Louis and the Mississippi River. The arch is part of the Jefferson National Expansion Memorial and represents an engineering marvel.
4. Elroy-Sparta State Trail
HISTORIC BIKING TRAIL
The Elroy-Sparta State Trail holds the distinction of being the first rails-to-trails conversion in the country. This 32-mile trail passes through three rock tunnels and beautiful countryside, making it a favorite for cyclists and hikers. The trail connects five small communities and offers a glimpse into the region's railroad history.
5. Ben Bikin Statue
WORLD'S LARGEST BICYCLIST
Ben Bikin, also known as Big Ben, is a 32-foot-tall Victorian-era bicyclist statue marking Sparta's claim as the Bicycling Capital of America. The impressive roadside attraction features a speaker at its base that provides visitors with an audio history of Sparta. This unique monument welcomes visitors to town and celebrates the area's rich cycling heritage.
6. Dr. Evermor's Art Park
WHIMSICAL SCULPTURE GARDEN
Dr. Evermor's Art Park features a magical collection of out-of-this-world sculptures created from salvaged metal parts. The centerpiece of the park is Forevertron, a 400-ton, 50-foot scrap metal sculpture often recognized as the largest of its kind in the world. Visitors can tour the grounds for free and discover many surprising artistic creations throughout this unique attraction.
7. Devil's Lake State Park
NATURAL QUARTZITE CLIFFS
Devil's Lake State Park features impressive natural rock sculptures formed by ancient quartzite cliffs. Hikers can explore numerous trails that offer spectacular views of the lake and surrounding Baraboo Hills. The park provides opportunities for swimming, boating, rock climbing, and wildlife viewing throughout the year.
8. Missouri Sports Hall of Fame
CELEBRATING ATHLETIC ACHIEVEMENT
The Missouri Sports Hall of Fame honors the outstanding sports accomplishments of athletes, coaches, and contributors from the state. Exhibits showcase memorabilia, photographs, and interactive displays spanning numerous sports and eras. Visitors can learn about Missouri's rich sports heritage and the individuals who have made significant contributions to athletics.
9. Ha Ha Tonka State Park
CASTLE RUINS AND NATURE
Ha Ha Tonka State Park features the stone ruins of a 1900s castle perched on a bluff overlooking the Lake of the Ozarks. The park encompasses more than 3,700 acres of karst landscape with sinkholes, caves, natural bridges, and a large spring. Visitors can explore 15 miles of trails that wind through the unique geological features and historic remains.
10. Silver Dollar City
1880S THEME PARK
Silver Dollar City is an 1880s-themed amusement park featuring more than 40 rides and attractions, including world-class roller coasters and water rides. The park showcases traditional craftsmanship with over 100 resident craftsmen demonstrating glass blowing, blacksmithing, pottery, and other heritage skills. Throughout the year, the park hosts six unique festivals featuring special entertainment, seasonal foods, and holiday celebrations.
11. Wilson's Creek National Battlefield
CIVIL WAR HISTORIC SITE
Wilson's Creek National Battlefield preserves the site of the first major Civil War battle fought west of the Mississippi River on August 10, 1861. The 1,920-acre park features a 5-mile self-guided driving tour with eight interpretive stops at significant battle locations. Visitors can explore the visitor center museum with its collection of Civil War artifacts and learn about this pivotal moment in American history.
12. Fantastic Caverns
AMERICA'S RIDE-THROUGH CAVE
Fantastic Caverns is America's only ride-through cave, where visitors tour the underground wonder aboard Jeep-drawn trams. The cave maintains a constant 60-degree temperature year-round, making it a perfect destination regardless of weather conditions. Discovered by an exploring dog in 1862, the cave features massive columns, flowstones, and other spectacular formations created over thousands of years.
13. Laura Ingalls Wilder Historic Home
LITERARY HERITAGE SITE
The Laura Ingalls Wilder Historic Home preserves the farmhouse where the beloved author wrote her famous "Little House" series of books. Visitors can tour the modest home filled with original furnishings and personal belongings of Laura and her husband Almanzo. The adjacent museum houses the family's belongings, original manuscripts, and memorabilia related to Laura's life and literary legacy.
14. Titanic Museum
SHIP-SHAPED INTERACTIVE EXPERIENCE
The Titanic Museum is a ship-shaped attraction featuring a half-scale replica of the front half of the RMS Titanic. Inside, visitors can explore more than 400 artifacts in 20 galleries that tell the stories of the passengers and crew who sailed on the ill-fated voyage. Interactive experiences allow guests to touch an iceberg, feel 28-degree water, and walk the Grand Staircase, providing a connection to this historic maritime tragedy.
15. Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World
FLAGSHIP OUTDOOR RETAIL EXPERIENCE
Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World in Springfield is the original and largest store in the chain, spanning over 500,000 square feet of immersive retail space. The massive destination features indoor waterfalls, aquariums with native fish species, wildlife displays, and extensive collections of outdoor equipment. Visitors can explore the adjoining Wonders of Wildlife National Museum and Aquarium, which has been voted America's Best Aquarium and Best New Attraction.