Explore new and expanded attractions throughout the Show-Me State.
This article is presented in partnership with Visit Missouri.
The name’s Missouri, but you can call me Mo. I’m excited to show you a few of the destinations and experiences that opened up around Missouri in the past year.
Bryant Creek State Park — Ava
The beauty of the Ozarks takes center stage at Missouri’s newest state park. Bryant Creek State Park’s massive oak trees and shortleaf pines blanket more than 2,900 acres of rolling hills. The park’s namesake creek adds to the nature-filled views.
Osage tribe members were some of the first inhabitants of the region. The area also drew 19th-century explorers because of the game trails that crisscrossed the land. The variety of native animals and forested landscape eventually attracted homesteaders from neighboring states. Today, visitors can still see many different species of animals and plants on the property.
The park includes two hiking trails and an accessible overlook. Future projects include day-use areas with picnic tables, informational kiosks, and a camping area.
Jack C. Taylor Visitor Center at the Missouri Botanical Garden — St. Louis
The Missouri Botanical Garden’s new Jack C. Taylor Visitor Center combines airy architecture, lush plants, and educational technology. The 90,000-square-foot welcome center features a video wall that tells the story of the garden’s global conservation mission, a gift shop where visitors can purchase garden-themed items and greenery, a restaurant with expansive views of the gardens, event spaces, and a conservatory filled with Mediterranean plants. Additionally, more than 46,000 plants — including rare and endangered varieties — have been added to the garden’s entry area.
The new center was built with sustainability in mind. Local materials were used for the construction of the building, solar panels were installed on the roof and a stormwater collection system was created to reduce the garden’s water consumption.
Finley Farms — Ozark
Located on the banks of the Finley River in southwest Missouri, Finley Farms has brought new life to a historic landmark and established an urban farm.
An early-1800s water mill was converted into The Ozark Mill restaurant, offering family-friendly dining, and a general store, which carries pantry staples and kitchenware. A self-guided history tour features the Ozarks and how a mill operates. Located beneath the mill, The Garrison is a fine-dining spot with an elegant atmosphere, delicious food, and craft cocktails. The Workshop, a renovated 1930s industrial garage, has found a second life as a coffee shop and makerspace.
Each eatery uses fresh produce grown on the farm. An apiary and mushroom yard provide additional ingredients.
Finley Farms also hosts culinary and craft workshops and other events as well as the Ozark Farmers Market every Thursday from May through September.
These are just a few of the places that recently opened their doors. Check out more of What’s New in Missouri on VisitMo.com.
