The next time you find yourself moving through Jefferson City, Missouri, don’t be left wondering what to do. There is so much to do in this wonderful city that it’s almost impossible to be bored, whether you’re there for a day or for a week.
To give you some preparation for your trip, we’ve listed the top 21 things to do in Jefferson City, MO. From great parks to visit to bars and historical museums, this city surely has it all.
21. Stark Caverns
For some of the US’ most incredible geologic formations, you should make your way to Stark Caverns. Here, you travel down into the earth to experience underground rock formations, Native American artifacts, and so much more.
They’re open year-around and even have wheelchair-accessible routes so every member of your family can enjoy the beauty with ease. While you’re there, check out their geode cracking activities and gift shop.
20. Cole County Historical Museum
To get a taste of what Cole County has been through and how it came to be, stop by the Cole County Historical Museum. This is a great place to take your whole family. It’s full of various attractions that really help you get to know Cole County in ways you never thought possible.
With extremely low prices and so many different rooms to go through and learn from, taking a tour through the Cole County Historical Museum will certainly bring you back in time. Right now, it’s closed due to COVID, but it’s planning on re-opening soon.
19. Ashford Castle
I know what you’re thinking: a castle in Missouri? That’s right. Ashford Castle is a 13th-century mansion that embraces the look of traditional Irish culture alongside 5-star luxury experiences. It is inspired by the real Ashford Castle in Ireland and provides guests a look into Missouri that may have otherwise never been experienced.
While you can’t go inside, even just seeing this view from afar is more than enough to take your breath away. So, if you’re looking to experience something totally unique from Jefferson City, this is the place to go.
18. Museum of Missouri Military History
Yet another incredible museum, the Museum of Missouri Military History is a great place to unwind and appreciate the space you’re in. Dedicated to celebrating and remembering Missouri’s military history, this museum has everything dating back to the Revolutionary War.
This museum is totally free to visit and is open year-round. Plus, within only a few miles, you can explore various hiking trails, fishing spots, and boating locations.
17. Rock Bridge Memorial State Park
One of Missouri’s most gorgeous state parks, and not too far from Jefferson City, is Rock Bridge Memorial State Park. There are so many hiking trails to explore, bike paths to ride on, and horse trails to use if you’re hoping to go horseback riding. If you want, you can even camp in Rock Bridge Memorial State Park if you have the right equipment.
I’d suggest printing out a map when you first get there and becoming familiar with the state park. This way, you and your group can safely and confidently explore.
16. Finger Lakes State Park
Previously a strip mine used for mining coal, Finger Lakes State Park is now a huge outdoor park full of activities for every family. This is one of two state parks in the entire state of Missouri that allows for ATV riding, so hop on your quad and enjoy the scenic views that this park offers. Or, if you’re not into that, you can swim, kayak, or have a nice picnic. The options are seemingly endless.
Whether you’re camping for a few days or just visiting for a few hours, you can find a whole lot to do at this state park near Jefferson City.
15. BoatHenge
Maybe you’ve never had the chance to experience the Stonehenge (like most of us). That’s okay! Instead, you can take a short drive from Jefferson City to Columbia and visit the BoatHenge. Here, you’ll come across a set of obscure boats stuck straight up in the ground in someone’s lawn. Six boats, exactly, are set up randomly in this patch of grass in Columbia that brings about almost as much curiosity as the StoneHenge itself.
14. Shattered Screams
In the event that you’re visiting Jefferson City in October, Shattered Screams is a place you have to visit. This is a haunted house that’s been rated PG13, so anyone under the age of 13 should probably stay at home. For those a bit older, though, this is a great place to get a little spooked and have some unconventional fun in Jefferson City.
13. Devil’s Icebox Cave
Hidden inside Rock Bridge Memorial State Park is one of the most interesting caves you’ll ever hike into. Pretty much any time of the year, the Devil’s Icebox Cave will hover around 50 degrees. You can hike right into the cave if you want, or explore the area around it full of running water, wildlife, and trails. There are even sinkholes to be on the lookout for.
If you’re in the mood for a relaxing, serene little adventure, going to the Devil’s Icebox is highly recommended. It’s quiet, secluded, and you get to enjoy the nature of Missouri that’s so often overlooked.
12. Runge Nature Center
Smack dab in the middle of Jefferson City, you’ll find the Runge Nature Center. The Runge Nature Center is a wildlife outpost that offers gorgeous views of outdoor scenery, MO wildlife, and various nature trails. You can see various live animals, visit aquariums, and see all that Jefferson City has to offer. It’s a perfect spot for families, and the trails are even wheelchair accessible.
Take your family and go visit some cute animals and see some wonderful wildlife. It’s a great contrast to the rest of the hustle and bustle of Jefferson City. Inhale a breath of fresh air and take in the naturalism that this nature center has to offer.
11. The Mission
Looking for a place to go in Jefferson City for some good drinks and even better live music? The Mission is where it’s at. A popular music venue in the middle of the city, The Mission is known for having some of the best shows in town. As a building that was built back in the 1800s, it’s hard not to feel like you’re being taken back in time.
Over the years, the venue has gotten quite a remodel, becoming the modern, hip joint that it is today. While it’s closed currently due to COVID, you can expect them to reopen again soon.
10. Governor’s Mansion
The next stop on your historic tour of Missouri is that of the Governor’s Mansion. This historic building is straight out of the early 1900s, with huge red brick features that the First Family resides in. However, it’s open for tours practically all day long, and you’re able to experience this piece of history firsthand.
Just slightly outside of Jefferson City, visiting the Governor’s Mansion gives you a quick escape into a much simpler time.
9. Jefferson Landing State Historic Site
The Jefferson Landing State Historic Site tells you so much about the history of Jefferson City. This whole district is historic and belongs to various famous buildings that helped make the city what it is today. You can walk all throughout the site to explore old buildings and historic landmarks, as well as popular museums and other shops.
If you don’t want to pay money to keep yourself entertained, visiting this historic place is the perfect option. It’s totally free, family-friendly, and super easy to navigate yourself.
8. Serenity Valley Winery
Time to relax. At Serenity Valley Winery, the only thing you have to worry about is the next type of wine you want to try. This beautiful winery is right on the water and home to dozens of high-quality, flavorful wines that show you just what Missouri is about. Whether you’re going for a wine tasting or a wedding, Serenity Valley Winery will provide your whole family a gorgeous, serene experience.
Even during COVID, this winery is open to the public as long as proper procedures are followed. So, schedule a visit today!
7. Katy Trail State Park
Get yourself away from the city and explore the beauty that Katy Trail State Park has to offer. You can take a walk, ride your horse, or hop on your bike to explore all that this place brings in terms of nature.
A lot of the trails go right alongside the Missouri River, making for beautiful scenery that’s hard to beat anywhere else. 26 trailheads and several railroad depots on the way, the Katy Trail State Park is a perfect place to go and become one with nature for a few hours.
6. Missouri State Penitentiary
Looking to do something a bit more unconventional when you visit Jefferson City? Then head on over to the Missouri State Penitentiary.
Here, you can experience some of the creepiest paranormal tours in the whole country. You can learn about the history of the penitentiary and see how it looks today, as well. Both the History and Paranormal Tours are great for older families–one is just a lot scarier than the other.
5. High Voltage Arcade
If you’re in need of a place that’ll distract your little ones for a while, High Voltage Arcade in Jefferson City is the best place to go.
This arcade is located in the middle of Capital Mall, so you can go enjoy some shopping while your kiddos have fun with this popular arcade. Filled with so many different types of games and more space than you’d think, there’s no short of entertainment at the High Voltage Arcade.
They offer food, prizes, and so much more. Give you and your family a fun break and stop by this family-friendly arcade in Jefferson City.
4. Prison Brews
For a great place to relax on some high-quality brew, Jefferson City’s Prison Brews is where to go.
This brewpub is in the historic district of Jefferson City and it takes brand-new, creative twists on your typical bar. If you couldn’t tell by the name, this bar thrives off of its prison theme, wanting you to “break free” from the ordinary.
With a great selection of food and beer, as well as games of bocce for you to play, you’ll never be bored visiting this brewpub. It’s easily one of my favorite spots to get a drink in Jefferson City.
3. Missouri State Museum
For everything you’d want to know and more about Missouri, you can find here at the Missouri State Museum.
With over 30,000 artifacts and huge collections of WWI flags, this museum will appeal to every type of person. From here, you can even take your family to the State Capitol Building for a tour. All at once, you’re getting quite the comprehensive tour of Missouri’s most important buildings and pieces of history.
2. Binder State Park
Gorgeous views and great spots for the kids, visiting Binder State Park is a must when you’re in Jefferson City. You can play a game of sand volleyball, softball, or even disc golf. Plus, there’s even a dog park to keep your four-legged friends happy and entertained.
Binder State Park has RV hookups available in case you’re traveling through and looking for a good place to stay. I’d say that this is one of the best spots you could ask for.
1. Missouri State Capitol Building
Sign yourself up for a tour of the Missouri State Capitol Building and get a taste of legislative history.
Here, you can explore this 3-acre property either with a tour guide or on your own, checking out the Missouri State Museum that’s attached (but we’ll talk about that place later). On their own, the architectural features of this building are breathtaking, making for some great family photos.
Have Fun in Jefferson City!
No matter where you go, make sure you simply have fun in Jefferson City. It’s a wonderful place to visit that’s full of so much to do, so many places to visit, and all the good food you could ever want.
For other travel guides and suggestions, check us out here.