Travel

At Castlewood State Park, so named because of the rocky bluffs that give the appearance of a castle's fortress, visitors take in stunning views from limestone glades while adventuring over some thirty miles of wooded trail.

There's a lot to love in one short jaunt through the Missouri River Valley. This scenic ride takes motorists through an off-the-radar town that’s home to museums, music, a plethora of outdoor activities, and Missouri’s favorite wonder dog.

Feeling nostalgic? These country stores—which can carry anything from seeds and tools to artisanal groceries and handicrafts—might have what you're looking for. Stock up on supplies and sundries and get to know the communities these shops serve.

Half the fun of driving somewhere is finding a new, unexplored route. This scenic ride takes motorists on a tour of mid-Missouri that includes barn quilts, Clydesdales, and some mighty fine wine. Short on time? We factored in a short cut.

What could be better than taking the kids on a trip to the Ozarks? From roller coasters and shows to caves and aquariums—plus plenty of places to get an ice cream—the region offers much in the way of family-friendly fun and enrichment.

The wind is your friend when you're sailing on Stockton Lake, Missouri's premier sailing lake. With more than 25,000 acres of pristine water and 300 miles of shoreline, it's the perfect place to make a run and take in the sights.

Turn up the tunes, roll down the window, and hit the road. Perfect for two- or four-wheeled rides, this scenic route visits three historic towns, two lakes, a swinging bridge, and so much more. Don’t forget to check out the Barn Quilt Trail, too.

Montauk State Park is one of the oldest in the Missouri State Park system. Visitors can see the headwaters that form the Current River, cast a line in a well-stocked trout run, explore a pre-Civil War mill, and maybe even spot a pair of bald eagles.

The richly diverse Current River State Park features almost two miles of beautiful river frontage, offering ample opportunity for swimming, floating, and fishing as well as hiking, backcountry camping, and interpretive programming.

In the May 2024 issue of Missouri Life, we encouraged you to head to the edges of our state and then meander just a bit over the state line for some fascinating day trips. Here are 13 more fascinating journeys to add to your edgy travelog.