West Line MissouriATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near West Line, Missouri.
1. The Gateway Arch
SYMBOL OF WESTERN EXPANSION
The Gateway Arch stands as the tallest arch monument in the world at 630 feet tall. It symbolizes the gateway to the west and commemorates Thomas Jefferson's role in expanding the United States. This iconic landmark offers visitors stunning views of St. Louis and the Mississippi River from its observation deck.
2. Branson Landing Fountain Show
SPECTACULAR WATER DISPLAY
The Branson Landing Fountain Show features a synchronized display of water, fire, light, and music. Visitors can enjoy this free attraction while shopping or dining at the waterfront development. The show runs regularly throughout the day and evening, creating a magical atmosphere along Lake Taneycomo.
3. Lake of the Ozarks
MIDWEST VACATION PARADISE
Lake of the Ozarks was created by the construction of the Bagnell Dam, which was completed in April 1931. With a surface area of 54,000 acres, it was the largest manmade lake in the United States at the time of its completion. The lake offers boating, fishing, swimming, and various water activities along its 1,150 miles of shoreline.
4. Mutual Musicians Foundation Building
HISTORIC JAZZ LANDMARK
The Mutual Musicians Foundation Building, located in the 18th and Vine Historic District of Kansas City, was constructed in 1910. It served as the headquarters of the Local 627 of the American Federation of Musicians and was a meeting place for jazz musicians. The historic venue continues to honor Kansas City's rich jazz heritage through performances and educational programs.
5. Fort Osage National Historic Landmark
EARLY AMERICAN FRONTIER
Fort Osage National Historic Landmark offers visitors a glimpse into early 19th-century frontier life. The reconstructed military fort, originally established in 1808 by William Clark, served as a factory trading post with Native American tribes. The site features beautiful natural surroundings, including scenic overlooks, nature trails, and picnic areas.
6. Tinsley's Ferris Wheel
HISTORIC AMUSEMENT ATTRACTION
Tinsley's Ferris wheel has a fascinating history as part of Missouri's largest amusement business. Originally purchased in 1954, the well-traveled Ferris wheel has been located at Holiday Hill Amusement Park in St. Louis, Miami, Coney Island, the Poconos, and St. Louis's Union Station before finding its permanent home alongside I-70. The Ferris wheel is festively lit at night, creating a nostalgic roadside attraction for travelers.
7. Elvis Statue
QUIRKY ROADSIDE ATTRACTION
A 16-foot statue of Elvis carrying a cross stands as an unusual roadside attraction in Wright City. Located on the north side of I-70, this peculiar monument marks the former home of the Elvis is Alive Museum. The oversized statue has become a popular photo opportunity for travelers passing through this part of Missouri.
8. Mark Twain Boyhood Home
LITERARY HISTORICAL SITE
The Mark Twain Boyhood Home preserves the early life setting of Samuel Clemens, better known as Mark Twain. This historic house museum offers insights into the formative years of one of America's most beloved writers. Visitors can explore the place that inspired classics like 'The Adventures of Tom Sawyer' and 'Adventures of Huckleberry Finn.'
9. Kansas City Barbecue Trail
ICONIC FOOD EXPERIENCE
The Kansas City Barbecue Trail offers visitors a chance to sample the city's world-famous smoked meats and sauces. Known for its slow-smoked meats and thick, tomato-based sauces, Kansas City has developed a distinctive barbecue style that attracts food enthusiasts from around the world. Visitors can explore numerous acclaimed barbecue restaurants throughout the metropolitan area, each with their own special techniques and recipes.
10. Bagnell Dam
ENGINEERING MARVEL
Bagnell Dam, constructed between 1929 and 1931, created the massive Lake of the Ozarks reservoir. The 2,543-foot-long concrete gravity dam stands 148 feet high and continues to generate hydroelectric power. Visitors can drive across the top of the dam and explore the historic Bagnell Dam Strip with its shops, restaurants, and attractions.
11. Missouri State Capitol
ARCHITECTURAL LANDMARK
The Missouri State Capitol building sits majestically on a bluff overlooking the Missouri River in Jefferson City. Completed in 1917, the Renaissance-style building features a distinctive dome topped with a statue of Ceres, the Roman goddess of agriculture. Visitors can tour the building to view its impressive architecture, historic exhibits, and renowned collection of Thomas Hart Benton murals depicting Missouri's history.
12. Silver Dollar City
1880S THEME PARK
Silver Dollar City transports visitors back to an 1880s Ozark Mountain town with over 40 rides and attractions. The theme park features traditional craftsmen demonstrating glass blowing, blacksmithing, candy making, and other heritage crafts. Throughout the year, Silver Dollar City hosts various festivals celebrating Ozark culture, music, food, and holiday traditions.
13. Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art
WORLD-CLASS ART COLLECTION
The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art houses an encyclopedic collection spanning over 5,000 years of human creativity. The museum is particularly known for its extensive Asian art collection, European paintings, and the outdoor Sculpture Park featuring oversized badminton shuttlecocks by Claes Oldenburg and Coosje van Bruggen. Admission to the main collection is free, making this cultural treasure accessible to all visitors.
14. Ha Ha Tonka State Park
CASTLE RUINS
Ha Ha Tonka State Park features the stone ruins of a 1905 castle built by wealthy businessman Robert Snyder. The European-style castle overlooks Ha Ha Tonka Spring and Lake of the Ozarks, providing dramatic views and photo opportunities. Visitors can explore more than 15 miles of trails showcasing natural bridges, sinkholes, a natural spring, and diverse woodland habitats.
15. City Museum
PLAYGROUND OF RECYCLED MATERIALS
City Museum is a unique playground built from repurposed architectural and industrial objects in downtown St. Louis. Created by artist Bob Cassilly, the museum features caves, slides, climbing structures, and even an airplane suspended in the air. This eclectic attraction defies traditional museum concepts, instead encouraging physical exploration, creativity, and play for visitors of all ages.