Best Landmarks in Great Plains
Planning a trip to Great Plains? Discover the best landmarks in Great Plains with history, expert tips, and routes. Free on web or the Evendo app.
The best landmarks in Great Plains
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70 landmarks
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Historical landmark4.7★37,251 reviews
The Gateway Arch
The Gateway Arch in St. Louis is an iconic symbol of American history and a must-visit for tourists. Standing at 630 feet, it is the tallest arch in the world and offers stunning views of the Mississippi River and the cityscape. Visitors can enjoy a tram ride to the top, explore the accompanying museum, and learn about the westward expansion of the United States. Whether you're a history buff or just looking for breathtaking views, the Gateway Arch is an unforgettable experience.
Daily 9:00–18:00
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Historical landmark4.7★12,340 reviews
Gateway Arch National Park
Rising majestically on the St. Louis riverfront, the Gateway Arch National Park commemorates the westward expansion of the United States. The park, home to the iconic Gateway Arch, offers visitors a chance to explore the history of the American West through its museum, the Old Courthouse, and the soaring views from the top of the Arch.
Daily 5:00–23:00
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Tourist attraction4.7★10,330 reviews
Mark Twain National Forest
Spanning 1.5 million acres across southern Missouri, Mark Twain National Forest offers a diverse landscape of ancient springs, over 5,000 caves, rocky glades, and old volcanic mountains. Named after Missouri native and famed author Mark Twain, the forest provides a vast playground for outdoor enthusiasts with a rich history tied to logging and conservation efforts.
Open 24 hours
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Tourist attraction4.5★4,388 reviews
Dickerson Park Zoo
Dickerson Park Zoo is a must-visit destination in Springfield, Missouri, offering a delightful experience for families and animal lovers alike. With a diverse range of animals, immersive exhibits, and lush park-like surroundings, this zoo guarantees an unforgettable day of exploration and fun.
Daily 9:00–17:00
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National reserve4.8★1,837 reviews
Wilson's Creek National Battlefield
Preserving the site of the first major Civil War battle west of the Mississippi River, Wilson's Creek National Battlefield offers a poignant look into a conflict that shaped the nation. Explore the battleground, museum, and research library to understand the events of August 10, 1861, and their lasting impact.
Daily 9:00–17:00
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Tourist attraction4.8★1,702 reviews
Ancient Ozarks Natural History Museum
The Ancient Ozarks Natural History Museum, located at Top of the Rock in Ridgedale, Missouri, offers an immersive journey through the region's rich history. From prehistoric creatures to Native American artifacts and Civil War relics, the museum showcases the diverse stories of the Ozarks over 12,000 years.
Daily 9:00–19:00
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State park4.7★1,639 reviews
Montauk State Park
Nestled in the Ozark Mountains, Montauk State Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Renowned for its pristine trout fishing in the Current River, the park also offers hiking, camping, and a glimpse into Missouri's milling history.
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Historical place4.6★1,493 reviews
Watkins Woolen Mill State Park And Historic Site
Step back in time at Watkins Woolen Mill, a remarkably preserved 19th-century textile mill and historic site near Lawson, Missouri. Explore the original machinery, the Watkins family home, and learn about the self-sufficient community that thrived here, offering a unique glimpse into industrial and domestic life in the 1870s.
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State park4.6★1,459 reviews
St. Joe State Park
St. Joe State Park is a picturesque haven in Missouri, offering tourists a perfect blend of outdoor activities and natural beauty. From hiking and biking trails to serene lakes and camping spots, it caters to adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.
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Historical place museum4.7★1,378 reviews
Laura Ingalls Wilder Historic Home & Museum
Visit the home and museum of beloved author Laura Ingalls Wilder in Mansfield, Missouri. Explore the place where she wrote the Little House books, see family artifacts, and experience pioneer life.
Mon–Sat 9:00–17:00 · Sun 12:30–17:00
George Washington Carver National Monument
Explore the birthplace and childhood home of George Washington Carver, the pioneering African American scientist, at this national monument in Diamond, Missouri. Discover his remarkable journey from slavery to becoming a renowned agricultural innovator and educator.
Daily 9:00–17:00
Ulysses S. Grant National Historic Site
Explore the life and times of Ulysses S. Grant at White Haven, his wife Julia Dent Grant's childhood home and the heart of their life together before the Civil War. Tour the meticulously restored house and grounds, and delve into the stories of both the Grant family and the enslaved people who lived and worked on the plantation.
Daily 9:00–17:00
Alley Spring & Mill
Alley Spring & Mill, located near Eminence, Missouri, in the Ozark National Scenic Riverways, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical insight. The centerpiece is the Alley Mill, a beautifully restored grist mill powered by the vibrant turquoise waters of Alley Spring, one of Missouri's largest springs.
Daily 9:00–17:00
Harry S Truman State Park
Nestled on a peninsula in west-central Missouri, Harry S Truman State Park offers a diverse range of outdoor activities. With the expansive Truman Lake as its centerpiece, visitors can enjoy boating, fishing, swimming, and hiking amidst the scenic Ozark landscape.
Smallin Civil War Cave
Explore Smallin Civil War Cave in Ozark, Missouri, a historical landmark with a rich past dating back 8,500 years. Discover its Native American heritage, Civil War connections, and unique cave life on guided tours suitable for all ages and abilities.
Mon–Sat 9:30–17:00 · Sun 13:00–17:00
World's Largest Fork By Mass
A quirky roadside attraction in Springfield, Missouri, the World's Largest Fork by Mass is a colossal 35-foot-tall, 11-ton stainless steel fork. Originally created for a restaurant, it now stands outside an office building, offering a fun photo opportunity.
Open 24 hours
Patee House Museum And Jesse James Homes
The Patee House Museum in St. Joseph, Missouri, is a National Historic Landmark that served as the headquarters for the Pony Express in 1860. Built in 1858 as a luxury hotel, it also played roles as a women's college, Union Army headquarters, and shirt factory, offering a unique glimpse into 19th-century American history.
Mon–Sat 9:00–16:00
Harry S Truman National Historic Site
Explore the rich history of the Harry S Truman National Historic Site, a significant landmark that offers a glimpse into the life and times of the 33rd President of the United States. Located in Independence, Missouri, this historic site features the Truman family home and a museum dedicated to his legacy, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.
Wed–Sun 9:00–17:00
Graham Cave State Park
Explore Graham Cave State Park, a site of immense archaeological significance where evidence of human habitation dates back 10,000 years. Walk in the footsteps of ancient peoples and discover the natural beauty of Missouri's diverse landscape.
Arrow Rock State Historic Site
Step back into the 19th century at Arrow Rock State Historic Site, a preserved Missouri River town that once thrived as a key stop on the Santa Fe Trail. Explore historic buildings, wander along the boardwalk, and immerse yourself in the rich history of this charming village.
Red Oak II
Red Oak II is an enchanting open-air museum located in Carthage, Missouri, showcasing a nostalgic glimpse into rural American life with its unique collection of historical buildings and artifacts. Visitors can stroll through this charming environment, exploring the preserved structures and enjoying the ambiance of a bygone era.
Daily 7:00–21:00
Grand Gulf State Park
Grand Gulf State Park, often called Missouri's "Little Grand Canyon," is a stunning geological formation featuring a collapsed cave system. Visitors can explore the mile-long canyon with its 130-foot walls and a 250-foot natural bridge, a remnant of the original cave.
Bollinger Mill State Historic Site
Bollinger Mill State Historic Site in Burfordville, Missouri, preserves a historic gristmill and covered bridge dating back to the 19th century. Visitors can explore the four-story mill, learn about milling processes, and stroll across the Burfordville Covered Bridge, one of the oldest in Missouri. The site offers a glimpse into the state's industrial and agricultural heritage.
Rockcliffe Mansion
Perched atop a limestone cliff overlooking the Mississippi River in Hannibal, Missouri, Rockcliffe Mansion is a stunning example of Gilded Age opulence. Built in the late 1890s by lumber baron John J. Cruikshank, Jr., this historic house museum and bed and breakfast offers a glimpse into the life of Hannibal's elite at the turn of the century.
Battle of Lexington State Historic Site
Explore the site of the 1861 Battle of Lexington, a pivotal Civil War clash, at this Missouri State Historic Site. Walk the battlefield, tour the Oliver Anderson mansion riddled with bullet holes, and delve into exhibits detailing the battle's impact. Discover a crucial moment in Missouri's Civil War history.
Missouri Town Living History Museum
Step back in time at Missouri Town 1855, a living history museum in Lee's Summit, Missouri. Explore original 19th-century buildings, interact with historical interpreters, and experience life in a rural Missouri town on the eve of the Civil War. See heritage livestock and heirloom crops that would have been common in the 1850s.
Tue–Sun 9:00–16:30
Fort Osage National Historic Landmark
Step back in time at Fort Osage, a partially reconstructed early 19th-century military outpost and trading post established in 1808 by William Clark of the Lewis and Clark Expedition. Overlooking the Missouri River in Sibley, Missouri, the landmark offers breathtaking views and a glimpse into the lives of the soldiers, Native Americans, and civilians who shaped the American frontier.
Tue–Sun 9:00–16:30
Kansas City Workhouse
The Kansas City Workhouse, often called the 'Workhouse Castle,' is a historic 1897 Romanesque Revival-style building that once served as a city jail for minor offenders. Designed to resemble a medieval castle, it stands as a unique, graffiti-covered landmark in the 18th and Vine District.
Open 24 hours
First Missouri State Capitol State Historic Site
Visit Missouri's first state capitol in St. Charles, a Federal-style brick building that served as the center of governance from 1821 to 1826. Explore the restored rooms and exhibits to understand Missouri's early government and daily life.
Missouri Mines State Historic Site
Explore the remnants of a once-thriving lead mining operation at Missouri Mines State Historic Site in Park Hills. Discover the history of the Old Lead Belt through towering mill structures, a comprehensive mining museum, and fascinating geological exhibits.
Park Visitor Center - Harry S Truman National Historic Site
Start your exploration of Harry S Truman's life and legacy at the visitor center in Independence, Missouri. Here, you can get tickets for a tour of the Truman Home, view exhibits, and learn about the 33rd President of the United States.
Wed–Sun 9:00–17:00
Bingham-Waggoner Estate
The Bingham-Waggoner Estate in Independence, Missouri, is a stunning historical landmark that offers visitors a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the 19th century. With its beautiful architecture and lush gardens, it's a perfect destination for history enthusiasts and those seeking a picturesque venue for events.
Thu–Sat 10:00–16:00 · Sun 13:00–16:00
Missouri Down Under Adventure Zoo
Discover a slice of the Australian outback nestled in the Missouri Ozarks at the Missouri Down Under Adventure Zoo. This unique zoo offers close encounters with kangaroos, exotic birds, and other animals, combined with gemstone mining and cave exploration for a memorable family experience.
Daily 10:00–17:00
Prairie State Park
Prairie State Park protects a significant remnant of Missouri's once vast tallgrass prairie, offering visitors a chance to experience the beauty and biodiversity of this unique ecosystem. Home to a reintroduced bison herd and diverse plant and animal life, the park provides hiking, camping, and educational opportunities.
Harry S Truman Birthplace State Historic Site
Visit the humble beginnings of the 33rd U.S. President, Harry S Truman, at his birthplace in Lamar, Missouri. This state-owned historic site features the small, six-room house where Truman was born on May 8, 1884, offering a glimpse into life in rural Missouri in the late 19th century.
Devil's Well
Devil's Well, located near Salem, Missouri, is a collapsed sinkhole leading to the state's largest underground lake. A spiral staircase descends into the earth, offering a glimpse into this unique geological formation.
Open 24 hours
Historic Fort D
Fort D, built in 1861, is the only remaining Civil War fort of the four that once protected Cape Girardeau, Missouri. Visitors can explore the well-preserved earthen walls and a WPA-built blockhouse, immersing themselves in the fort's rich history.
Daily 7:00–21:00
Dawt Mill Resort
Nestled in the Ozark Mountains of Missouri, Dawt Mill Resort offers a unique blend of history and recreation. Once a bustling grist mill and village dating back to the 1800s, it now provides lodging, camping, dining, and access to the scenic North Fork River for floating and fishing.
Klepzig Mill
Klepzig Mill, nestled in the Ozark National Scenic Riverways, is a historic turbine mill built in 1928 by Walter Klepzig. This well-preserved 'sawmill house' offers a fascinating look into the ingenuity and self-sufficiency of early 20th-century Ozark life.
Open 24 hours
Falling Spring Mill
Falling Spring Mill, nestled in the Mark Twain National Forest near Winona, Missouri, is a picturesque and historic site featuring a waterfall, a vintage mill, and a charming log cabin. It offers visitors a tranquil escape into nature and a glimpse into the past.
Hall Of Waters Visitor Center
The Hall of Waters in Excelsior Springs is a stunning Art Deco building and a testament to the town's mineral water history. Built in the 1930s, it once housed the world's longest water bar and now serves as a visitor center and museum, offering a glimpse into the past.
Mon–Fri 10:00–16:45 · Sat–Sun 11:00–16:00
Scott Joplin House State Historic Site
Delve into the rich musical heritage of St. Louis at the Scott Joplin House State Historic Site, dedicated to the life and works of the legendary ragtime composer Scott Joplin. This historic site offers a glimpse into the past, showcasing memorabilia and the cultural significance of ragtime music in American history.
Battle of Carthage State Historic Site
Visit the site of one of the first major battles of the Civil War, fought on July 5, 1861. This state historic site in Carthage, Missouri, marks the location of the final skirmish and encampment of both Union and Confederate troops. Explore the grounds, little changed since the battle, and learn about this pivotal event at the interpretive kiosk.
Thomas Hart Benton Home and Studio State Historic Site
Step back in time at the Thomas Hart Benton Home and Studio State Historic Site, where the renowned 20th-century artist lived and worked from 1939 until his death in 1975. Explore his meticulously preserved home and studio, offering a unique glimpse into his creative process and personal life.
Gen. John J. Pershing Boyhood Home State Historic Site
Explore the early life of World War I General John J. "Black Jack" Pershing at his boyhood home in Laclede, Missouri. Tour the well-preserved house and the Prairie Mound School to learn about the influences that shaped his character and military career.
Mine Creek Civil War Battlefield State Historic Site
Commemorating one of the largest cavalry battles of the Civil War, the Mine Creek Battlefield State Historic Site in Pleasanton, Kansas, offers a glimpse into a pivotal moment in American history. Visitors can explore the preserved battlefield, walk interpretive trails, and visit the visitor center to learn about the Battle of Mine Creek and its significance in the broader context of the Civil War.
Wed–Sat 10:00–17:00 · Sun 13:00–17:00
Grinter Place State Historic Site
Explore the meticulously preserved Grinter Place, the oldest home in Wyandotte County, Kansas, dating back to 1857. This historic site offers a window into the lives of early settlers Moses and Annie Grinter and the interactions between European-Americans and Native American tribes in the area.
Wed–Sat 10:00–17:00 · Sun 13:00–17:00
Hunter-Dawson State Historic Site
The Hunter-Dawson State Historic Site in New Madrid, Missouri, offers a window into the lives of a wealthy family in the mid-19th century. This well-preserved antebellum mansion showcases a blend of architectural styles and contains a significant collection of original furnishings, providing visitors with a unique historical experience.
Current River State Park
Nestled along the scenic Current River, this state park offers a blend of natural beauty and historical significance. Once a corporate retreat known as the Alton Club, the park now welcomes visitors to explore its hiking trails, two lakes, and the beautifully preserved buildings from the 1930s and 40s.
Quindaro Ruins Overlook Structure
The Quindaro Ruins Overlook offers a poignant glimpse into the past, commemorating the site of Quindaro, a 19th-century town founded by abolitionists and Wyandot Indians as a haven for Free-State settlers and a key station on the Underground Railroad. Today, visitors can explore the ruins and enjoy panoramic views of the Missouri River.
Open 24 hours
The Centre for French Colonial Life & the Bolduc House Museum
Explore the French colonial history of Ste. Genevieve, Missouri, at the Centre for French Colonial Life and the Bolduc House Museum. Discover well-preserved historic homes, artifacts, and exhibits that showcase the unique French Creole culture of the region.
Mon–Sat 10:00–17:00 · Sun 12:00–17:00
Nathan and Olive Boone Homestead State Historic Site
Explore the 1837 homestead of Nathan Boone, son of Daniel Boone, and his wife Olive. This Missouri State Historic Site offers a glimpse into 19th-century pioneer life with tours of the preserved log house, cemeteries, and scenic trails.
Ste. Genevieve National Historical Park
Explore Ste. Genevieve National Historical Park, preserving the unique French Colonial history and architecture of the oldest permanent European settlement in Missouri, dating back to 1750. Discover distinctive poteaux-en-terre buildings and immerse yourself in the blend of French, Spanish, and early American cultures.
Daily 9:00–17:00
Clark's Hill/Norton State Historic Site
Walk in the footsteps of Lewis and Clark at Clark's Hill/Norton State Historic Site in Jefferson City, Missouri. Explore Native American burial mounds and ascend to the viewpoint where William Clark surveyed the confluence of the Missouri and Osage rivers in 1804.
Battle Of Island Mound State Historic Site
Commemorating the first engagement of African American troops in the Civil War, the Battle of Island Mound State Historic Site in Butler, Missouri, preserves the grounds where the 1st Kansas Colored Volunteer Infantry fought in 1862. Visitors can explore the site's history and natural beauty via the Courage Trail.
Historic Phelps House
Step back in time at the Historic Phelps House in Carthage, Missouri, a beautifully restored 1895 Victorian mansion. Explore its opulent interiors, admire original features, and learn about the influential Phelps family who shaped Carthage's history.
Iliniwek Village State Historic Site
Explore the Iliniwek Village State Historic Site in Wayland, Missouri, the only Illinois Indian village site in the state. Walk the trails, discover the remains of longhouses, and learn about the culture of the Illinois tribe who lived here from 1640 to the late 1670s.
Osage Village State Historic Site
Step back in time at Osage Village State Historic Site, where a thriving Osage village once stood between 1700 and 1775. Explore the grounds, visualize the lodges that housed 2,000-3,000 people, and learn about the daily lives of this influential Native American tribe through interpretive exhibits along a self-guided trail.
Kansas City Power and Light Building
The Kansas City Power and Light Building, a stunning Art Deco skyscraper completed in 1931, stands as a landmark in downtown Kansas City. Once the tallest building west of the Mississippi River, its illuminated lantern and intricate architectural details continue to captivate visitors and symbolize the city's progress and innovation.
Mon–Fri 9:00–18:00 · Sat 10:00–17:00
Round Spring Cave
Explore the depths of Round Spring Cave, a stunning natural cavern within the Ozark National Scenic Riverways. With guided lantern tours, discover unique geological formations and diverse cave wildlife in this well-preserved subterranean world near Eminence, Missouri.
Arrow Rock Historic District
Step back into the 19th century in Arrow Rock, Missouri, a village and National Historic Landmark. Once a bustling river port and key stop on the Santa Fe Trail, Arrow Rock offers a glimpse into the era of westward expansion with its preserved buildings and rich history.
1855 Harris-Kearney Historical House Museum
Step back in time at Kansas City's oldest brick residence, the 1855 Harris-Kearney House, in the historic Westport neighborhood. Explore 19th-century life through period furnishings and guided tours, and learn about the area's role in westward migration and the Civil War.
Sat–Sun 13:00–17:00
Lewis And Clark Historical Site
Explore a landmark along the Katy Trail in Rocheport, MO, where Lewis and Clark passed through in 1804. This area offers a glimpse into the expedition's early journey and the natural beauty of the Missouri River Valley.
Mon–Thu open 24 hours · Sun open 24 hours
Noland House
The Noland House, located in Independence, Missouri, offers a glimpse into the life and times of President Harry S Truman. Home to Truman's aunt and uncle, and his favorite cousins, the house provided a backdrop for his courtship with Bess Wallace and a gathering place for family. Today, the house functions as part of the Harry S Truman National Historic Site, with exhibits highlighting the Truman family and their life in Independence.
Sauer Castle
Sauer Castle, an Italianate-style mansion built in Kansas City, Kansas, between 1871 and 1873, stands as a testament to the area's rich history and architectural beauty. Constructed for German immigrant Anton Sauer, the castle has become a local landmark, shrouded in legends and undergoing restoration.
Towosahgy State Historic Site
Explore the remains of Towosahgy, a fortified Native American village and ceremonial center inhabited from A.D. 1000 to 1400. This 64-acre site in Mississippi County, Missouri, features preserved earthen mounds and a kiosk detailing the area's rich Mississippian culture.
Roger Pryor Pioneer Backcountry
The Roger Pryor Pioneer Backcountry is a 60,000-acre wilderness in the Missouri Ozarks, offering over 70 miles of trails for hiking, backpacking, and equestrian use. Managed by Missouri State Parks and part of the larger Pioneer Forest, it's a haven for those seeking solitude and natural beauty.
Devils Backbone Wilderness
The Devils Backbone Wilderness, nestled in the Missouri Ozarks, offers a rugged and scenic escape with its namesake ridge, diverse flora and fauna, and the clear-flowing North Fork River. It's a haven for hikers, backpackers, and nature enthusiasts seeking a tranquil wilderness experience.
Open 24 hours
Abandoned Missouri
Abandoned Missouri is a Facebook group dedicated to documenting and exploring the forgotten corners of the state. It serves as a hub for enthusiasts interested in the history and mystery of abandoned places, from ghost towns to forgotten historical sites.
Open 24 hours
4050 Pennsylvania Ave
4050 Pennsylvania Ave is located in the heart of Kansas City's vibrant Westport neighborhood. Once an independent town and a vital outfitting post for westward-bound pioneers, Westport is now a bustling entertainment and shopping district. The address itself houses The Mail Center, offering a variety of business services.
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