Looking for the best Missouri road trips? The best scenic drives in Missouri take you through the Ozarks, along the Mississippi River, past historic Route 66 landmarks and into charming small towns packed with character. These road trips showcase some of the state’s most unforgettable landscapes and attractions.
From the rolling hills of the Ozarks and the dramatic bluffs along the Mississippi River to vibrant cities, hidden caves and picturesque state parks, this State offers incredible road trip opportunities for every type of traveller. Whether you’re planning a weekend escape or a longer adventure, you’ll find routes that combine breathtaking scenery, fascinating history and unique local experiences.
This guide brings together 15 of the best Missouri road trips, featuring everything from waterfalls and wineries to ghost towns, famous landmarks and some of the state’s most beautiful scenic drives. Travelling with family, planning a romantic getaway or simply looking for new places to discover, you are going to love these Missouri road trips.
These carefully planned routes combine many of the best things to do in Missouri, making it easy to experience the state’s natural beauty, history and unique attractions.
15 Best Missouri Road Trips for an Unforgettable Adventure
Best Missouri Road Trips at a Glance
| Road Trip | Best For | Best Time to Visit | Ideal Trip Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| Natural Wonders | Caves, springs & waterfalls | Spring–Autumn | 2–3 days |
| Fall Foliage | Scenic autumn drives | Autumn | 2–3 days |
| Waterfalls | Hiking & photography | Spring | 2–3 days |
| Ghost Towns | Forgotten history | Year-round | 1–2 days |
| Small Towns | Shopping & local charm | Spring–Autumn | 2 days |
| Watermills | Historic sites & scenic countryside | Spring–Autumn | 2–3 days |
| Highway 36 – Way of American Genius | American history & museums | Year-round | 2–3 days |
| Missouri Wine Country | Vineyards & scenic drives | Spring–Autumn | 2–3 days |
| State Parks | Hiking & wildlife | Spring–Autumn | 2–3 days |
| Route 66 | Classic Americana | Spring–Autumn | 2–3 days |
| Major Cities | Food, culture & landmarks | Year-round | 3–4 days |
| Great River Road | Mississippi River scenery | Autumn | 2–3 days |
| Foodie Road Trip | Barbecue, wine & local flavours | Year-round | 2–3 days |
| Hidden Gems | Unique attractions | Spring–Autumn | 2–3 days |
| Murals | Public art & photography | Year-round | 2 days |
Whether you’re looking for scenic drives, outdoor adventures, historic towns or unforgettable foodie experiences, these Missouri road trips offer something for every type of traveller.
Natural Wonders of Missouri: Caves, Springs and Waterfalls
Highlights
- Marvel Cave
- Rocky Falls
- Big Spring
- Johnson Shut-Ins
- Devil’s Ice Box
Start your exploration of the Natural Wonders of Missouri at the Marvel Cave. It is a National Natural Landmark that you can tour during the day, or you can take lantern tours.
From there, head to Rocky Falls, where you’ll find a large waterfall that is multi-stepped. If you visit during the Summer months, you can even swim in the lake the falls flow into. Next, head to Big Spring.
Big Spring is one of the largest freshwater springs in the United States, with millions of gallons of crystal-clear water flowing from the ground every day.
Continue on to the Johnson Shut-Ins, which is another rocky waterfall. The Johnson Shut-Ins are apart of the Black River and you can swim in the East Forks area in the Summer months.
End this Missouri road trip at the Devil’s Ice Box. The Devil’s Icebox offers a fascinating glimpse beneath Missouri’s landscape, with caves, sinkholes and rock formations that make for a memorable final stop.
Road Trip Tip: This route covers some of Missouri’s most remote natural attractions, so fill up with fuel before leaving larger towns and download offline maps in case mobile signal is limited. Pack sturdy walking shoes, plenty of water and a picnic so you can make the most of the state parks and scenic stops along the way.
Missouri Fall Foliage Road Trip: Scenic Drives and Autumn Colours
Highlights
- Weston Bend State Park
- Hermann Wine Trail
- Elephant Rocks State Park
- Table Rock State Park
Autumn is one of the best times to explore Missouri, as forests, river valleys and state parks are transformed by vibrant shades of red, orange and gold. This scenic road trip takes you to some of the state’s best places to experience fall colour.
You’ll start your Missouri road trip in Weston Bend State Park. It is just north of Kansas City and has some easy hikes that offer some stunning views.
Your next stop is the Hermann Wine Trail, which is in Hermann Missouri, the official home of Missouri wine country. There are seven wineries along the trail, and even if you don’t want to sample wine, you should make a stop. They all have beautiful landscapes that really shine when the leaves start to turn.
From there continue to Elephant Rocks State Park. Elephant Rocks State Park has tons of hiking trails that take you through the thick forest land. It is a great place to immerse yourself in all those beautiful Fall leaves.
End your road trip at another beautiful State Park, the Table Rock State Park. At Table Rock State Park you can go kayaking and hiking while you enjoy the Fall leaves.
Road Trip Tip: Plan this drive between mid-October and early November for the best chance of seeing peak fall colours. If you’re travelling at weekends, arrive early at the state parks, as they’re especially popular during autumn.
Missouri Waterfalls Road Trip: Discover the State’s Most Beautiful Falls
Highlights
- Forest Park Cascades
- Hickory Canyon Falls
- Mina Sauk Falls
- Grand Falls
From peaceful woodland cascades to the state’s tallest waterfall, this road trip showcases some of Missouri’s most beautiful waterfalls while taking you through scenic state parks and natural areas.
Start in St. Louis and head to Forest Park to see the Forest Park Cascades. They are manmade falls and were built in the 1930s and are next to the St. Louis Art Museum.
Next, head to the Hickory Canyons Natural Area Trail and take the pretty easy half mile hike to admire the Hickory Canyon Falls. The falls are particularly impressive after a heavy rain, but they are pretty all year round.
Continue to Taum Sauk Mountain State Park to admire the Mina Sauk Falls. The Mina Sauk Fall is the highest waterfall in Missouri and is over 132 feet of cascading water down a narrow groove in the rocks.
Finish your road trip at Grand Falls in Joplin, the largest continuously flowing natural waterfall in Missouri and an impressive place to end your journey. It is an impressive waterfall that perfectly ends your scenic drive of Missouri’s waterfalls.
Road Trip Tip: Many of Missouri’s waterfalls are at their most spectacular after periods of heavy rain or during spring, when water levels are higher. Wear sturdy footwear, as trails and rocks can become slippery near the falls.
Ghost Towns of Missouri: Explore the State’s Forgotten Communities
Highlights
- Arlington
- Bloodland
- Monark Springs
Step back in time on this fascinating Missouri road trip as you explore communities that have been abandoned, bypassed or slowly reclaimed by nature. Each stop tells a different story, offering a glimpse into the state’s past and making this one of Missouri’s most unusual road trips.
Begin your journey in Arlington, a town that once thrived along Route 66. As traffic moved away from the famous highway, the community gradually declined. Today, only a handful of buildings remain, including a restaurant, gift shop and a few cabins, providing a reminder of the town’s former importance.
Next, travel to Bloodland, a former military community that was once home to schools, stores and local businesses. Although little of the original town remains today, its history and isolated location have made it one of Missouri’s most talked-about ghost towns.
Finish your road trip at Monark Springs, now part of a Missouri State Conservation Area. Once a busy resort community, the town was eventually abandoned, leaving behind little more than traces of its past. While you’re here, enjoy the peaceful natural surroundings and reflect on the fascinating history of one of Missouri’s forgotten places.
Road Trip Tip: Some of these locations have limited facilities and sections of the route pass through quiet rural areas, so fill up with fuel before setting off. Always respect private property and enjoy these historic sites from public roads and designated access points where available.
Missouri’s Most Charming Small Towns Road Trip
Highlights
- Parkville
- Clarksville
- Carthage
If you enjoy browsing independent shops, discovering local history and exploring charming Main Streets, this road trip takes you to three of Missouri’s most picturesque small towns.
Begin your road trip in the town of Parkville. Parkville is only 15 minutes away from downtown Kansas City, but it feels like a secluded and quiet small town. Take a stroll through English Landing Park before continuing on to Clarksville.
Clarksville is an antique lover’s dream. The tiny town is only 4 blocks wide and 7 blocks long, but along those blocks you’ll find several antique stores. On the end of the Main Street is a massive antique mall, and through out the town there are other artisan shops and antique shops for you to explore.
End your journey in Carthage, where beautifully preserved historic buildings, Route 66 heritage and the iconic Route 66 Drive-In Theatre make it an ideal place to spend the night. It is full of historical buildings and homes, plenty of green space, and one of the best Route 66 attractions.
Stop in for the night, catch a show at the Drive In, and relax after a day spent exploring Missouri’s small towns.
Missouri Watermills Road Trip: Discover Historic Mills and Scenic Landscapes
Highlights
- Rockbridge Mill
- Falling Springs Mill
- Dillard Mill
- Reed Springs Mill
Missouri is home to some of the Midwest’s most beautiful historic watermills, many of which are surrounded by forests, rivers and scenic countryside. This road trip takes you through the Ozarks to discover four unique mills, each offering a glimpse into the state’s rural heritage and early industry.
Begin your journey at Rockbridge Mill, a picturesque 19th-century mill set alongside Spring Creek. Surrounded by natural beauty, it’s a peaceful place to start your road trip and one of Missouri’s most photographed historic mills.
Continue to Falling Springs Mill, a charming log-built mill tucked away in a tranquil forest setting. Although it’s one of the newer mills on this route, its rustic design and peaceful surroundings make it one of the most memorable stops.
Next, visit Dillard Mill, one of Missouri’s best-preserved grist mills and a designated historic site. After exploring the mill, take some time to enjoy the nearby picnic areas, walking trails and the beautiful Ozark scenery.
Finish your road trip at Reed Springs Mill, another reminder of Missouri’s milling history. Located in a quiet rural setting, it’s a fitting final stop before heading home and reflecting on one of the state’s most scenic and historic driving routes.
Road Trip Tip: Many of these mills are located in rural areas with limited services, so plan your fuel stops ahead of time. Bringing a picnic is also a great way to enjoy the peaceful surroundings before continuing your journey.
Highway 36: The Way of American Genius Road Trip
Highlights
- National Pony Express Museum
- Missouri Star Quilt Company
- Walt Disney Hometown Museum
- Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum
Missouri’s Highway 36 is known as the Way of American Genius, celebrating the innovators, artists and historical figures who helped shape the nation. This fascinating road trip combines American history, creativity and small-town charm as you travel across northern Missouri.
Begin your journey in St. Joseph at the National Pony Express Museum, where you can discover the story of the legendary mail service that connected the American frontier and helped shape the country’s communication network.
Next, continue to Hamilton, home of the Missouri Star Quilt Company. Often called the “Quilt Town USA”, Hamilton has become a popular destination for quilters and crafters from around the world, with multiple shops, classes and events to explore.
From there, head to Marceline, the boyhood home of Walt Disney. Visit the Walt Disney Hometown Museum to learn how this small Missouri town inspired many of the places and ideas that later appeared in Disney’s films and theme parks.
Finish your road trip in Hannibal, where you can tour the Mark Twain Boyhood Home & Museum and discover the places that inspired classics such as The Adventures of Tom Sawyer and Adventures of Huckleberry Finn.
Road Trip Tip: Allow extra time in Hannibal, as there’s much more to see than the museum alone. The historic downtown, Mississippi River waterfront and Mark Twain Cave make excellent additions if you’re extending your road trip.
Missouri Wine Country Road Trip
Highlights
- Augusta
- Klondike Park
- Hermann
- Stone Hill Winery
- Katy Trail State Park
Missouri is home to one of the oldest wine regions in the United States, making it a fantastic destination for a relaxed road trip through vineyards, historic towns and beautiful river scenery. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or simply enjoy scenic drives and charming small towns, this route showcases the very best of Missouri Wine Country.
Begin your journey in Augusta, America’s first recognised American Viticultural Area (AVA), where rolling vineyards and quiet country roads set the tone for the trip. Spend some time visiting local wineries before continuing along the Missouri River Valley.
Next, stop at Klondike Park, where scenic walking trails and panoramic views across the river valley provide a perfect break from driving.
Continue to the historic town of Hermann, the heart of Missouri Wine Country. Stroll through its charming streets, browse independent shops and enjoy the town’s German heritage before visiting Stone Hill Winery, one of Missouri’s oldest and most celebrated wineries. Join a guided tour, sample local wines and enjoy lunch overlooking the vineyards.
Finish your road trip with a walk or cycle ride along Katy Trail State Park, where the trail follows the Missouri River through vineyards, forests and picturesque countryside.
Road Trip Tip: If you plan on visiting several wineries, stay overnight in Hermann so you can enjoy the tastings without feeling rushed.
Missouri State Parks Road Trip
Highlights
- Weston Bend State Park
- Loess Bluffs National Wildlife Refuge
- Crowder State Park
If you’re looking to experience some of Missouri’s most beautiful outdoor landscapes, this road trip is a fantastic place to start. From scenic river overlooks and peaceful wetlands to rolling hills and woodland trails, it’s the perfect route for anyone who enjoys spending time in nature.
Begin your journey at Weston Bend State Park, just north of Kansas City. With easy walking trails and scenic overlooks across the Missouri River Valley, it’s a wonderful introduction to the state’s natural beauty and a great place to stretch your legs before continuing your drive.
Next, head to Loess Bluffs National Wildlife Refuge, one of Missouri’s premier wildlife-watching destinations. The refuge is home to hundreds of species of birds, mammals and reptiles, making it a fantastic stop for photographers and anyone hoping to spot native wildlife, especially during the spring and autumn migrations.
Finish your road trip at Crowder State Park, where peaceful forests, rolling hills and well-maintained hiking trails provide the perfect setting to end your adventure. If you have time, stay overnight at one of the park’s campsites and enjoy the tranquillity before heading home.
Road Trip Tip: Bring binoculars and a camera for Loess Bluffs National Wildlife Refuge, and wear comfortable walking shoes as each stop offers excellent opportunities to get out of the car and explore.
Here are 15 Beautiful Vineyards And Wineries In Missouri.
Missouri Route 66: An Iconic American Road Trip
Highlights
- The Gateway Arch
- Mural City
- Route 66 Museum
- Route 66 Drive-In Theater
If you want to explore Missouri’s Route 66, start in St. Louis at the Gateway Arch. The Gateway Arch is the tallest arch in the world and the National Park Service has deemed it the “Gateway to the West”.
From there, head to Cuba Missouri. In 2002 Cuba was nicknamed the “Route 66 Mural City” because the small town has over 12 murals depicting different Route 66 scenes.
Next, head to the Route 66 Museum in Lebanon. If you’ve always wondered what Route 66 looked like in it’s hey day, you’ll love this museum.It features depictions of classic gas stations, motel rooms, and diners.
End your Route 66 road trip with a night at the movies. Everyone should experience the magic of a Drive-In Movie Theater, and you can find a classic one on Route 66 in Carthage. The classic Drive-In frequently plays old and new releases, so make sure you make a stop.
Road Trip Tip: Don’t just stop at the major attractions. Some of the best Route 66 experiences are the vintage motels, classic diners, roadside murals and quirky shops you’ll discover along the way.
Missouri City Road Trip: Explore State’s Biggest Cities
Highlights
- Kansas City
- Jefferson City
- St. Louis
- Springfield
If you prefer vibrant cities packed with museums, great food, historic landmarks and entertainment, this Missouri road trip links four of the state’s most exciting urban destinations.
Start your scenic drive through Missouri’s major cities in Kansas City. Try some barbecue, listen to some jazz and visit the National WWI Museum and Union Station.
Continue to Jefferson City, Missouri’s capital, where you can tour the impressive State Capitol, stroll through the historic downtown and enjoy views of the Missouri River. It’s a relaxed stop that offers plenty of history and local charm.
Next, head to St. Louis, home to the iconic Gateway Arch, the vibrant Delmar Loop and the beautiful Forest Park, one of the largest urban parks in the United States. Whether you’re interested in museums, food or history, there’s more than enough to fill a day or two.
Finish your road trip in Springfield, where you can explore the fascinating Fantastic Caverns, discover Route 66 history and enjoy the city’s parks, restaurants and nearby outdoor attractions before heading home.
Road Trip Tip: Plan at least three or four days for this route so you have enough time to explore each city. Parking is generally straightforward, but staying overnight in the city centres lets you experience the restaurants, nightlife and local attractions without feeling rushed.
Great River Road Missouri: A Scenic Mississippi River Road Trip
Highlights
- Historic St. Charles
- Bankhead Candies, Bowling Green
- Mark Twain Cave Complex, Hannibal
The Great River Road is one of America’s most scenic drives, following the Mississippi River through ten states. Missouri’s section combines historic river towns, local businesses and fascinating literary history, making it an ideal weekend road trip.
On the Missouri part of the Scenic Byway, there are a few stops that have become favorites for travelers.
The first is the Historic Downtown area of St. Charles. It was Missouri’s first registered historic district, and it’s also the nation’s largest registered historic district. It’s a great place to go for a stroll and admire the shops, homes, and parks in the area.
From there, head to Bowling Green to sample some Bankhead Candies. This chocolatier and candy shop has been open since 1919 and features hand dipped chocolates. They are an iconic Missouri candy shop that is absolutely worth the stop.
Finish in Hannibal, where the Mark Twain Cave Complex offers guided tours through the cave system that inspired scenes in The Adventures of Tom Sawyer, along with the chance to explore the hometown of one of America’s greatest authors.
Road Trip Tip: Take your time between stops and pull over at the river overlooks whenever you can. Some of the best views of the Mississippi aren’t marked as major attractions but are found along the drive itself
Missouri Foodie Road Trip
Highlights
- Kansas City Barbecue
- Hermann Wine Country
- St. Louis Food Scene
- Joplin Steakhouses
Missouri’s food scene is as diverse as its landscapes. From world-famous barbecue and German-inspired cuisine to historic wineries and classic Midwestern steakhouses, this road trip is a delicious way to experience the flavours that make the Show-Me State unique.
Begin in Kansas City, where barbecue is more than just a meal, it’s part of the city’s identity. Whether you choose a long-established institution or a modern smokehouse, this is the perfect place to experience authentic Kansas City barbecue.
Continue to Hermann, where wineries, cafés and traditional German restaurants showcase Missouri’s rich winemaking heritage. Pair local wines with regional specialities before continuing your journey.
Next, explore St. Louis, where you’ll find everything from toasted ravioli and St. Louis-style pizza to award-winning restaurants serving cuisine from around the world. The city’s diverse food scene makes it an essential stop for any foodie.
Finish your road trip in Joplin, where a classic Midwestern steakhouse provides the perfect ending after several days of exploring Missouri’s culinary traditions.
Road Trip Tip: Rather than trying to fit every meal into one day, spread this route over a long weekend so you have time to enjoy local cafés, bakeries and breweries along the way.
Hidden Gems of Missouri: Explore the State’s Best-Kept Secret
Highlights
- Meramec Caverns
- Ha Ha Tonka Castle Ruins
- The Pinnacles
Missouri road trips can be very unique if you are looking for some hidden gems.This Hidden Gems of Missouri road trip stops at some cool spots that may not be on your standard tour list.
First, head to the Meramec Caverns in Sullivan. They are over 400 million years old and made almost entirely of limestone.
The caverns are so expansive that they were frequently used as a hiding spot for various cultures that called the area home over the centuries.
Next, head to the Ha Ha Tonka Castle Ruins. The castle ruins are actually in Ha Ha Tonka State Park where the European-style castle was originally built when it was private land. The entire State Park is worth exploring, but definitely check out the ruins.
For your last stop on your list of unique places to see in Missouri are The Pinnacles.These types of rock formations are fairly common farther out West, but they are pretty unique to see in Missouri. The two massive rock formations were split over hundreds of millions of years of the river running along them. It is a super cool way to end your tour of Missouri’s hidden gems.
Road Trip Tip: Bring comfortable walking shoes and allow extra time at Ha Ha Tonka State Park. While many people visit for the castle ruins, the park’s trails, springs and scenic overlooks are just as rewarding.
Missouri Murals Road Trip
Highlights
- Prairie Passage Mosaic Mural
- Louisiana Murals
- Cuba’s Route 66 Murals
- Thomas Hart Benton Mural
Missouri’s towns and cities are home to an impressive collection of public art, making this one of the state’s most unusual road trips. From colourful mosaics and historic murals to Route 66 artwork, this journey offers a unique way to explore Missouri’s culture, history and creativity.
Begin at the Official Missouri Welcome Center, where the striking Prairie Passage Mosaic Mural introduces visitors to the landscapes, wildlife and heritage of northwest Missouri through hundreds of pieces of coloured glass.
Continue to the river town of Louisiana, where more than twenty murals tell the story of the community’s history. Pick up a self-guided walking tour and explore the murals while wandering the historic downtown.
Next, travel to Cuba, proudly known as Route 66 Mural City. The colourful murals celebrate the people, places and history of America’s Mother Road and make this one of Missouri’s most photographed small towns.
Finish your road trip in Joplin, where the impressive Thomas Hart Benton mural inside City Hall provides a fascinating insight into life in southwest Missouri at the turn of the twentieth century.
Road Trip Tip: Many of the murals are within easy walking distance of cafés, galleries and historic downtown areas, so leave the car parked and take time to explore each community on foot.
Planning Your Missouri Road Trip
One of the things I enjoy most about road tripping through Missouri is the sheer variety. In just a few days, you can drive through rolling Ozark hills, explore charming small towns, discover historic Route 66 landmarks and hike to waterfalls or caves. Having a car gives you the freedom to experience the state at your own pace and stop whenever something catches your eye.
Choose the Right Route
One of the best things about Missouri is that there’s a road trip for every type of traveller. If you love the outdoors, I’d recommend the Natural Wonders or Waterfalls road trips. History enthusiasts will enjoy Route 66, the Great River Road and the Way of American Genius, while food lovers and wine enthusiasts can explore Missouri’s culinary scene and historic wine country.
Allow Time for Detours
Some of my favourite discoveries in Missouri have been the places I wasn’t planning to visit. Scenic overlooks, quirky roadside attractions, historic downtowns and local cafés often become the highlights of the journey, so don’t be afraid to take a short detour if something looks interesting.
Travel in Every Season
Missouri is a fantastic road trip destination throughout the year. Spring brings waterfalls and wildflowers to life, summer is perfect for exploring caves and rivers, autumn offers spectacular fall colours, and winter is a quieter time to enjoy the state’s historic towns and museums without the crowds.
Don’t Rush the Journey
Many of these routes can be completed over a weekend, but I’ve found they’re much more enjoyable if you slow down and spend a night or two along the way. Staying in a small town, enjoying a local restaurant and taking your time to explore often creates the memories you’ll remember long after the drive is over.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best road trip in Missouri?
That depends on what you’re looking for. If you love the outdoors, I’d recommend the Natural Wonders of Missouri road trip. For history, you can’t beat Route 66 or the Great River Road, while food lovers should explore Missouri’s barbecue, wineries and local restaurants.
How many days do you need for a Missouri road trip?
Most of the routes in this guide can be enjoyed over a long weekend, although some, such as Route 66 or the Great River Road, are worth stretching into three or four days if you want to explore at a more relaxed pace.
What is the most scenic drive in Missouri?
The Great River Road is widely considered one of Missouri’s most scenic drives, with beautiful views of the Mississippi River, charming river towns and plenty of opportunities to stop along the way. The Fall Foliage Road Trip is another excellent choice during autumn.
What is Missouri famous for?
Missouri is known for Route 66, the Gateway Arch, Kansas City barbecue, the Ozarks, Mark Twain, historic wine country and its impressive caves, rivers and state parks.
When is the best time to take a Missouri road trip?
Missouri is a great road trip destination throughout the year. Spring is ideal for waterfalls and wildflowers, summer is perfect for rivers and caves, autumn offers spectacular fall colours, and winter is a quieter time to explore historic towns and cities.
Are Missouri road trips suitable for families?
Absolutely. Many of these routes include family-friendly attractions such as caves, waterfalls, state parks, museums, Route 66 attractions and charming small towns, making them ideal for travellers of all ages.
Missouri is one of those states that’s full of surprises. These road trips include many of the best places to visit in Missouri, from iconic Route 66 landmarks and historic towns to hidden caves, waterfalls and scenic river drives. There’s a road trip here for every kind of traveller.
I hope this guide has given you plenty of inspiration for your next adventure. Whether you’re planning a weekend escape or a longer journey, these Missouri road trips showcase some of the very best experiences Missouri has to offer. Take your time, enjoy the journey and don’t be afraid to venture off the main road, because that’s often where you’ll discover Missouri’s biggest hidden gems.
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