Summer is winding down, but there’s still time to have fun and make some great family memories. We recently posted some ideas for a Kansas road trip. But for Missouri folks, you don’t even have to venture outside of the Show Me State to have a fun trip. We’ve got the run down on a few great weekend or day trips for you and your kids!
Silver Dollar City!
Silver Dollar City is a uniquely Missourian outing. Their rides, shows and attractions are a nod to Missouri’s pioneering past. The size of the park is perfect for a family: big enough to keep the older kids entertained and small enough that the younger kids can go all day. If the day is especially toasty, take the kids over to Whitewater to chill out and splash around.
Table Rock State Park
Want to spend a few days around Branson? Table Rock State Park is just 10 miles from Silver Dollar City and a wonderful place to set up camp. If your family loves the water, Table Rock Lake is the right spot for you.
There is swimming, snorkeling, fishing and more! The lake has its own marina so you can bring the family boat or everyone can go out on a day cruise with a local tour guide.
Hannibal, Missouri
Photo by Jimmy Emerson.
If you have teens that are literature buffs, or WANT your teen to be a literature buff, take a trip over to Hannibal, Missouri. The hometown of Mark Twain is chockfull of museums, sites and excursions. Children can see and learn about the town and its residents that served as the basis for The Adventures of Tom Sawyer and Adventures of Huckleberry Finn.
If the family needs a break from Twain mania, there are many other diversions in Hannibal. Visit the historical Rockcliffe Mansion to admire the beauty and be charmed by the history of the home. Hannibal is right on the Mississippi River, so riverboat cruises should certainly be on the tourist to do list.
Kansas City Attractions
Want to stay in town and still escape from everyday life? Kansas City is ready to serve. If you haven’t already taken your kids to Legoland, make time for it! Been there before? There’s always something new. Kids can take classes with a Master Builder or see a movie in the 4D cinema.
The Sea Life Aquarium is also nearby, so you can make a day of visiting Crown Center for Legoland and the aquarium. Have the kids ever eaten a hamburger delivered by a train? No? Don’t forget to stop for lunch at Fritz’s, a Kansas City institution.
If you are looking for something incredibly specific and interesting, try The National Museum of Toys and Miniatures. Give your kids a taste of the history of toys they still enjoy today and let them feel like giants among the miniature collection. If you go in the month of August, you’ll catch the Pedal to the Metal exhibit- a history of kids and wheeled things.
The countdown to school begins! Make the end of summer count! We are sure that there are many more fantastic outings in Missouri. If we missed your favorite, fill us in on Facebook!