From the iconic Gateway Arch National Park in St. Louis to world famous barbecue in Kansas City, there’s so much to see and do in Missouri. And while I was drawn to the state for its brisket and burnt ends, I knew I wanted to uncover more of what Missouri had to offer. Come along on my road trip adventure and discover the hidden gems and unique stops in southwest Missouri.
Springfield
Springfield is often referred to as the Birthplace of Route 66, so it was the perfect jumping-off point for my southwest Missouri road trip. From its abundance of parks and trails to the numerous museums and attractions, there’s so much to do in the city.
Eager to try some Missouri barbecue, I beelined straight to Smokin’ Bob’s Barbeque for dinner. You won’t want to miss their mouthwatering slow-smoked brisket, paired with your choice of sides. The plates are piled-high, and I guarantee you’ll leave full.
I made the most of my night in Springfield by staying at Hotel Vandivort. Originally constructed in 1906 as a Masonic Temple, the hotel is a perfect blend of historic preservation and modern additions. The hotel’s rooftop bar, Vantage, is a great place to catch the sunset and unwind after a day of exploring Springfield.
Bluff Dwellers Cave and Browning Museum
The following morning, I headed out from Springfield, driving two-and-a-half hours southwest to Bluff Dwellers Cave. The cave was accidentally discovered by Arthur Browning in 1925. Historical evidence has led scientists to believe that the cave was used by Indigenous peoples, known as the Bluff Dwellers – nearly 8,500 years ago. The aptly named Bluff Dwellers lived in family groups under the protection of bluffs and within small caves.
I hopped on the first tour of the cave that was available. The guided tour lasts for one hour and meanders beneath the ancient rock formations. Adorned with stalactites, stalagmites, flowstones (rock formations that resemble dripping candle wax as they hang from the ceiling), and soda straws (thin, icicle-looking formations), it was a mesmerizing sight to see. Tours of the cave are given on a first– come, first– served basis, so I recommend getting there early. We wove through roughly one-third mile of the cave, where we spotted fossils and cave salamanders.
Before you leave, be sure to visit the Browning Museum. It displays cases of rocks, fossils, archaic tools, and other artifacts found in the cave. You can also view photos of the Browning family and historical images of the cave through the decades. The self-guided tour of the museum is included with the cave’s admission fee.
Neosho National Fish Hatchery
Next, I made my way to the Neosho National Fish Hatchery. This fishy little piece of history is the oldest, continuously operational federal fish hatchery. Walking around the hatchery, you’ll come across numerous tanks filled with growing trout that are waiting to be released. The hatchery is proud of the high-quality production of trout because it has enhanced the fishing opportunities for anglers of all ages at Lake Taneycomo in Branson.
If alien-looking sturgeon are your thing, you can find the hatchery’s endangered pallid sturgeon pools, where these biblically large fish are being raised for restoration purposes. As many as 15,000 sturgeon are released annually into the Missouri River, and it’s hard not to applaud the extensive efforts of the Neosho hatchery.
The site’s Visitor Center is chock–full of information – it has so many buildings that guests can wander through. The best part? Visiting the hatchery is free, and if you’re lucky, you might even get the chance to participate in a feeding. You can also take a walk along the nearby trails where I spotted ample tables that would be perfect for picnics.
George Washington Carver National Monument
Located in Diamond, Missouri, about 15 miles southeast of Joplin, lies the George Washington Carver National Monument. Carver, affectionately known as “The Peanut Man,” was an agricultural scientist who invented more than 300 products made from peanuts. A few examples include glue, shampoo, and even wood stains. Though Carver was born enslaved, he overcame many obstacles and went on to become a respected scientist and humanitarian.
When Carver’s childhood home was dedicated as a national monument in 1943, it was the first of its kind to honor a Black American. Today, the well maintained 240-acre national park highlights Carver’s many scientific contributions – between the wooded walking trails, discovery center, theater, and museum, one could easily spend hours experiencing all that this place has to offer. I noticed many students exploring the monument, and almost every local resident I encountered told me they had visited the monument at least once for a school field trip.
Fun fact: Carver invented hundreds of products made from peanuts, but ironically, peanut butter was not one of them.
World’s Largest Small Electric Appliance Museum
Yes, it’s a mouthful. And yes, it’s exactly as it sounds. Housed behind a hidden door in JR’s Western Store, the World’s Largest Small Electric Appliance Museum should be on everyone’s bucket list. How often does one get to peruse thousands of small electric appliances that have been used throughout the ages?
We have Richard Larrison to thank for this unique museum. What originally started as a toaster collection has now led to more than 4,000 small electric appliances. His lovingly curated collection houses one-of-a-kind appliances that you can’t find anywhere else in the world. From hot dog makers to iron hair curlers, I guarantee you’ll come across an appliance (or a thousand) that you’ve never seen before.
For me, it was fascinating to literally walk through time and see how our appliances have evolved over the decades. And it’s a testament that you can turn any passion into a profession – even a love and appreciation for small electric appliances. It’s hard not to respect the dedication.
Please note that the museum is tucked at the back of JR’s Western Store. You’ll need to politely ask an employee for entrance. If you’re bringing a large group or would like a private tour, you can reach out to Richard through the museum’s website.
Route 66 Mural Park
What better way to encapsulate my road trip through southwest Missouri than with a stop at the Route 66 Mural Park? The park (located downtown between two buildings) is home to two large murals dedicated to the Mother Road. The tiled murals were designed by artists Chris Auckerman and Jon White. I recommend snapping a photo posed with the mock 1964 Corvette.
Whisler’s Drive-Up
I uncovered many rustic Americana dining options on my road trip, but I tip my hat to Whisler’s Drive-Up. The menu may be simple, but it means that Whisler’s has perfected the art of cooked-to-order burgers.
Operating since 1953, Whisler’s is located right off Route 66 and is a great spot to enjoy a burger al fresco (there’s no indoor dining). If you want to get really crazy, treat yourself to a “Sow n’ Cow” (a burger topped with bacon) or a “Pig n’ Bull” (a burger topped with ham).
The next time you find yourself in the Show-Me State, be sure to venture off the beaten path to some of the more unexpected places above.
