mark twain riverboat cruise hannibal missouri

Hannibal River Cruises on the Mark Twain Riverboat

The Mark Twain Riverboat brings the mystique of the Mississippi River and the history of Hannibal to life through one-hour sightseeing cruises, two-hour dinner cruises, and the Captain's Sunday Lunch events.

Schedule can vary, call for times.

Cruises on the Mark Twain Riverboat have been a tradition for decades

The Mark Twain Riverboat has been a unique fixture on the banks of the Mississippi for more than 30 years, offering visitors an up-close view of the Mississippi River during 1-hour narrated sightseeing cruises or 2-hour dinner cruises.

Hannibal river cruises give visitors the opportunity to explore the Mississippi just like Tom and Huck.  This Mississippi River Cruise departs from Center Street Landing three times daily between Memorial Day and Labor Day, with two departures daily during September and October.  Dinner cruises depart at 6:30 p.m; check for availability. Built in 1964, the Mark Twain Riverboat is 120 ft. long, 33 ft. wide and has a 400-passenger capacity, so there is plenty of room aboard the vessel, which is wheelchair accessible (w/ some limitations.)

1-Hour Sightseeing Mississippi River Cruise

If you have an afternoon to spare in Hannibal, the Mark Twain Riverboat is a must-stop.  One-hour sightseeing cruises on the river include commentary on river history, legends, and sights.  You will see Jackson’s Island, Lover’s Leap, and of course, the Mighty Mississippi rolling along.  Beverages and sandwiches are available on-ship for purchase during these tours.  A cruise aboard the Mark Twain Riverboat is great for family events.  Whether you are a visitor or resident of Hannibal, you can make wonderful memories aboard our unique riverboat experience!

2-Hour Dinner Cruises on the Mark Twain Riverboat

For an extended Mississippi River cruise, be sure to reserve your spot on a 2-hour dinner cruise aboard the Mark Twain Riverboat.

Guests aboard Mark Twain Riverboat dinner cruises are treated to live music, a buffet meal featuring Riverboat Roast Beef, Baked Boneless Chicken Breast, Baked Potatoes, Seasoned Green Beans, the Captain’s Favorite Pasta Salad, a Deluxe Tossed Salad, Dinner Rolls and Dessert.  Iced Tea and Coffee are included, and a cash bar is also available.

Once on board, you are escorted to your table, then you are free to roam the boat until the captain announces that dinner is ready.  After dinner, you are free to dance or sit back and enjoy the music.  Live entertainment is included on Dinner Cruises.  It may be The Rivermen playing modern jazz (Saturday night from Memorial Day thru September), or you might get to enjoy the music of Tim Hart (Mondays & Tuesdays), or Adam Ledbetter and David Damm (Sunday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday).  Listen or dance to their favorite tunes — and they have been known to take a request or two.  And you never know when a crew member or two may step up on the stage and join in.

It’s a fun night of music for the young and the young at heart!  The dancefloor is available after dinner if you are so inclined, or you can choose to dance under the stars on the outer decks (no dancing on the tables and chairs, please).

The Captain’s Sunday Lunch

Enjoy lunch and a cruise on a lovely Sunday!  The dockside meal includes a buffet of Roast Beef, Mashed Potatoes and Gravy, Seasoned Green Beans, Deluxe Lettuce Salad with dressing, Dinner Roll, and the Captain’s Favorite Pasta Salad.  Iced tea, coffee and water accompany the meal.  Top all of this with a delicious Ghirardelli Triple Chocolate Brownie.

Following lunch, enjoy a delightful one-hour sightseeing cruise on the “Mighty Mississippi” complete with river history, facts about Mark Twain, riverboat stories, and a few (or more!) tall-tales.

Lunch begins at 12:30 p.m.  Departure from the dock will be at 1:30 p.m. and returns at 2:30 p.m.

We hope you will join us for a delicious meal and casual river cruise; where you’re sure to become more like family by the time the landing whistle blows across the hills of Hannibal!

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See Hannibal, the famous river town, from the boat that bears the name of Hannibal’s most famous citizen.

The riverboat offers one-hour narrated sightseeing cruises, with commentary on river history, legends and points of interest on the Mighty Mississippi. Also, two-hour dinner cruises featuring live entertainment. (Reservations are required for dinner cruises.)

Restrictions based upon weather and river conditions apply. Call or see the sign at the landing for information.

Check our website for information, schedules and tickets.

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7 Unique Things To Do In Hannibal, Missouri You Can't Miss

Hannibal Missouri, is a beautiful location full of rich culture and literary history. It is, of course, the hometown of the legendary Mark Twain and offers plenty of opportunities to learn more about the famous author and his literary masterpieces. If you’ve been wondering what to do in Hannibal MO, during your stay, we’ve got you covered with this list!

Visit Mark Twain’s boyhood home off Main St in Downtown Hannibal or take in the rich history of the small town at one of the many museums and info-packed tourist attractions. No matter how you decide to spend your time in Hannibal Missouri, you’re sure to be enchanted by its charm.

A tour we think you'll love

1) Journey Down The Mississippi

Take a Mark Twain Riverboat tour with us and discover the serene beauty of the landscape of the Mississippi River and Mark Twain’s hometown. We have two cruise experiences available, the first being a standard sightseeing tour up the mighty Mississippi and the other option being a buffet-style dinner cruise complete with live entertainment.

Contact us ahead of your trip to book the tour time that works best with your plans!

2) Visit A Popular Hannibal Missouri Winery

When visiting Hannibal Missouri, you can’t miss out on the incredible craft beer and wine curated in the area. The Cave Hollow West Winery is located within the Mark Twain Cave Complex and has a cozy campground on site for those who want to take in the fresh air and sleep under the stars.

You’ll also find a wonderful gift shop on the complex, and you can book guided tours of the Mark Twain Cave/Cameron Cave for a thrilling adventure deep into the cavernous rock faces.

3) Some Come To Hannibal For The View

Once you see the views in Hannibal, you’ll understand how Mark Twain could draw inspiration from such a gorgeous place. If you want to see panoramic views of the town, the best place to go for a photo op is the Mark Twain Memorial Lighthouse. Climb to the top for some of the best 360-degree views of Hannibal.

The next stop on your list of places to find the best views is Riverview Park. Just like its name implies, this 465-acre forested park has some of the most stunning views of the Mississippi River.

On top of the unbeatable scenery that inspired a literary genius like Mark Twain, there are plenty of other things to enjoy. You’ll find trails to take a leisurely stroll, a spring house to visit and relax in, a cascading waterfall, and even a playground and picnic area to relax with family and friends.

4) Learn The Rich History Behind Mark Twain’s Life And His Beloved Hometown

While you might think of simple things like visiting Mark Twain boyhood home to learn about the inspiring author, several locations throughout Hannibal can teach you a thing or two about the author and some of his famous characters.

First, the Hannibal History Museum will teach you all about Hannibal’s history and what makes the town special, and your next stop should be Main St, where you’ll find the house that will teach you about Mark Twain and his boyhood home.

Next, take a trip to the Becky Thatcher’s House Museum to learn about a childhood friend of Mark Twain’s daughter and the famous character she inspired in the “Adventures of Tom Sawyer” story. After the Becky Thatcher House, the Molly Brown Birthplace Museum changes the pace by teaching you about the life of a woman whose heroic actions during the sinking of the Titanic made her famous.

After you finish at the Molly Brown birthplace exhibit, take a trip back in time to the golden age of railroading at Big River Train Town. At this vintage-filled museum, you can interact with old-school railroad toys, shop for vintage trinkets, and more!

5) Tour The Huck Finn Freedom Center

Unfortunately, the time of Huckleberry Finn and Tom Sawyer was not a pleasant time for all. The Huck Finn Freedom Center is the first memorial to Jim and the only African American museum in Northeast Missouri.

It’s not only a tribute to the wonderful man that inspired the beloved character Jim, but it highlights influential and prominent African American figures from Hannibal.

6) See How The Locals Lived

It’s always interesting to take a step back and look at how things were for different generations. There are a few locations in Hannibal that allow you to see how Mark Twain and his neighbors may have lived, but two structures stand out to us the most out of all the historic places to explore.

The Rockcliffe Mansion is a massive mansion masterpiece with more than 30 rooms to explore and ten giant stone fireplaces to cozy up around. They even rent our suites to travelers and locals who want to stick around the mansion for a night or two.

On the opposite end of the spectrum, you have more modest homes like the Huckleberry Finn House on Hill Street.

7) Enjoy The Great Outdoors

After all the tours and museums, head to Sodalis Nature Preserve to enjoy a quiet moment in nature. There are over six miles of leisurely trails to explore and picnic areas to lounge with friends.

Another great outdoor space to discover is Huckleberry Park. Huckleberry Park has brightly lit basketball and tennis courts, softball, and more ways to stay active.

Make The Most Of Your Mark Twain Experience

The absolute best way to capture the beauty of Mark Twain’s hometown is to climb aboard one of our boats at Mark Twain Riverboat.

Sit back and relax while our captains and guides take you down the mighty Mississippi for an educational tour you’ll never forget!

Sightseeing Tour

This one-hour sightseeing cruise travels along the mighty Mississippi River, allowing you to soak up the scenery at a relaxing, rhythmic pace. Listen as the captain guides your cruise with historical commentary on the history, legends, and sights of the Mississippi River.

A cruise aboard the Mark Twain Riverboat is great for family events. Whether you are a visitor or resident of Hannibal, you can make wonderful memories aboard our unique riverboat experience! Looking forward to having you onboard!

Departure time: Varies - check calendar Yearly availability: April 1 - Nov. 4 Weekly availability: Daily

Dinner Cruise

Enjoy a night of dinner and dancing on this cruise on the Mighty Mississippi. Indulge in a delicious buffet and share a wonderful dinner with your family or friends, then enjoy live music from the dance floor or the deck.

Once on board, you are escorted to your table, then you are free to roam the boat until the captain announces that dinner is ready. After dinner, you are free to dance or sit back and enjoy the music. Live entertainment is included on our Dinner Cruises. It may be The Rivermen playing modern jazz (Saturday night from Memorial Day thru October), or you might get to enjoy the music of Tim Hart (Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday) and David Damm (Thursday and Friday). Listen or dance to their favorite tunes — and they have been known to take a request or two. And you never know when a crew member or two may step up on the stage and join in.

Departure time: 6:30 pm (5:30 pm in October) Yearly availability: May 3 - Oct 28 Weekly availability: Varies - check calendar

Your Ultimate Guide to Fall Attractions and Activities in Missouri

From pumpkin picking to scenic hikes, add some of the best things to do in Missouri in the fall to your autumn bucket list.

Written by  

With all the things to do in Missouri in the fall , our schedules are usually jam-packed with fun. Our biggest challenge is finding a way to fit it all - leaf peeping, pumpkin-picking, scenic drives, leisurely hikes - in. If you don't already have a bucket list, now's the perfect time to start one. Adding the best things to do in Missouri in the fall makes it easy to get started.

Missouri Fall Foliage: Where to Go in Missouri for Fall Foliage

Missouri in the fall is simply enchanting. Even a simple walk through our neighborhood promises beautiful views of the foliage. The crisp temperatures also make it an idyllic time for an adventure. Start planning your leaf-peeping adventures by knowing when the leaves will change colors in Missouri . The peak of the Missouri fall foliage depends on where you are in the state. However, the peak usually occurs between mid- and late October, with the color changes beginning in the middle of September. That gives you plenty of time to make plans, starting with some of the best places to visit in Missouri in the fall.

1. Weston Bend State Park

• Location: Weston
• Wow Factor: A scenic vista boasts some of the best views of the fall foliage in Missouri.
• Need To Know: The park has picnic tables, so bring a meal.

Conveniently located around a half hour outside Kansas City, Weston Bend State Park promises plenty of ways to admire the Missouri fall foliage. If you're up for an adventure, follow one of the trails, all of which are rated either easy or moderate, on foot or bike. The easy, stroller-friendly Bear Creek Trail clocks in at half a mile, making it a fun way to walk amongst the colorful trees and admire the foliage. A playground and picnic tables are also available.

2. Dogwood Canyon Nature Park

• Location: Lampe
• Wow Factor: Go on a walk to see the park's waterfalls flanked by the fall foliage.
• Need To Know: Dogwood Canyon Nature Park charges an admission fee. Activities, including guided tours and horseback riding, will cost additional.

A beloved year-round destination in Lampe, Dogwood Canyon Nature Park is simply magical when the leaves change colors in the fall. The 10,000-acre nature park offers a full menu of amenities, including guided tours, horseback riding, and trout fishing. Rent a bike or wear a pair of comfy shoes. The park boasts more than 15 miles of paved and nature trails, making it easy to breathe in the crisp air and drink in the colors of the season.

3. Crowder State Park

• Location: Trenton
• Wow Factor: Camping is available through the end of November.
• Need To Know: Kayaking and boating are allowed in Crowder Lake, but you'll have to bring your own since it's the off-season.

Crowder State Park 's more than 1,900 acres promise plenty of ways to marvel at the fall foliage. If you've got a boat or a kayak, slip it into the 18-acre Crowder Lake for a bit of exploring. Four hiking trails wander through the state park, but you'll need to be up for the challenge. Two earn a hard rating while the other two are considered moderate. If you don't feel like hiking, kick back and relax with a leisurely picnic.

4. Ha Ha Tonka State Park

• Location: Camdenton
• Wow Factor: The castle ruins, framed by the fall foliage, are breathtaking. Bring a camera.
• Need To Know: Kayaks are available for rent through October.

One of the best places to view the Missouri fall foliage, Ha Ha Tonka State Park 's crowning jewel is, arguably, its castle ruins. Follow the short, sweet, and easy .08-mile Castle Trail that leads to the ruins and an overlook with sensational views of the Lake of the Ozarks. For a relaxing way to view the fall foliage, rent a kayak or pack a picnic.

Best Pumpkin Patches in Missouri

We all have that one thing that reminds us that fall has finally arrived in Missouri. For some of us, it's a trip to our favorite pumpkin patches in Missouri, where we go on a hayride, pick pumpkins, and dig into our favorite fall treats. While we have our favorites, it's always fun to try somewhere new, too, right? Here are a few more of the best pumpkin patches in Missouri that are worthy of a spot on your autumn bucket list.

5. The Pumpkin Pad

• Location: Lone Jack
• Wow Factor: The 75-acre farm features more than 30 attractions.
• Need To Know: Admission is $14.99 plus tax. Children one year and under are free.

If you've been searching for the best fall activities near me in Missouri, you've hit upon one of the best with The Pumpkin Pad . Start your autumn adventure with a visit to the 20-acre pumpkin patch to pick out your favorites. That, however, is just the beginning of the fun. Climb aboard for a hay ride; escape from the eight-acre corn maze; try your hand at inflatable axe throwing, and grab a delicious bite from the food trucks.

6. Fun Farm Pumpkin Patch

• Location: Kearney
• Wow Factor: The 300-acre farm has more than 30 attractions and activities.
• Need To Know: You can purchase tickets online or at the gate.

The Fun Farm Pumpkin Patch hosts one of the best fall festivals in Missouri, but it all starts with a trip to the U-pick pumpkin patch. Search for your favorite pumpkins, for decorating or baking, before exploring the rest of the family-friendly attractions. How long will it take you to escape from the corn maze? Carve out plenty of time for your visit, so you can (yes, adults can, too!) go down the giant slide; pet the farm animals; cheer on the pig races, and shoot apples from a cannon. Work up an appetite because you have scrumptious seasonal goodies - from turkey legs to pumpkin donuts - from which to choose.

7. Fischer Farms Pumpkin Patch  

• Location: Jefferson City
• Wow Factor: The pick-your-own pumpkin patch spans more than 40 acres
• Need To Know: Admission is $8 per person for guests three years and older.

Pile the whole family in the car. Destination: Fischer Farms Pumpkin Patch , a favorite fall destination in Missouri for 25 years, promises a full day of fun. Explore the more than 40-acre pumpkin patch that's brimming with pumpkins of all sizes. Enjoy a hayride, and time how long it takes to find your way out of the 10-acre corn maze. So many photo-worthy moments await, including posing on the photo-op chair, so bring your camera . Stock up on gourds, mums, and corn stalks for all your fall decorating.

Best Fall Festivals in Missouri

Autumn leaps alive with color and activity, and we have no shortage of fall festivals to add to our bucket list. From walking past glowing pumpkins to going on an old-fashioned hayride, the best fall festivals in Missouri offer something for everyone.

8. Augusta Harvest Festival

• Location: Augusta
• Wow Factor: One of the highlights of the daylong festival, the parade kicks off at 10:30 a.m.
• Need To Know: The Augusta Harvest Festival will be held on Sept. 21, 2024, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Mark your calendar for the final official day of summer and the Augusta Harvest Festival . The daylong festival kicks off with a Fun Run at 9 a.m. and is followed by the parade at 10:30 a.m. Activities include a pie-eating contest, a car show, and a live owl demonstration. Stop by the petting zoo, and watch the kiddos hop up and down in the bounce house before checking out the street fair, where you'll find live music and delicious food and drink.

9. Silver Dollar City Harvest Festival/Pumpkins in the Park

• Location: Branson
• Wow Factor: Several popular Silver Dollar City rides, including Time Traveler, are open for Rides Into The Night during Pumpkins in the Park.
• Need To Know: Tickets are available online.

Silver Dollar City is the place to be when autumn rolls around, and it promises daytime and evening fun. During the day, enjoy the Harvest Festival, an annual event with a full menu of fun. Visit and learn from craftsmen; watch a cook-off at Cowboy Camp, and indulge in seasonal goodies like pumpkin whoopie pies. When the sun goes down, Silver Dollar City glows with the Pumpkins in the Park. Marvel at the glowing pumpkins; join a pumpkin dance party; snap photos with characters, and watch a master pumpkin carver work his magic. Save some time, too, for a ride or two.

10. Rhymers Ridge Fall Harvest Festival  

• Wow Factor: Unicorn (yes!) rides are available.
• Need To Know: The annual Missouri fall festival runs from the end of September until the beginning of November.

A monthlong celebration of all things autumn, the Rhymers Ridge Fall Harvest Festival has one activity that will thrill the littles: Unicorn rides. (A fee is required to ride the unicorns, ahem, horses.) Wander through the pumpkin patch or, if you're in a hurry, you can purchase already-picked pumpkins. Are you brave enough to zip down the giant slide before meeting some of the farm's friendly animals? Say hi to the peacocks, cows, goats, sheep, and donkeys.

11.  Liberty Fall Fest

• Location: Liberty
• Wow Factor: The festival will feature more than 200 vendors and artists.
• Need To Know: Admission to the festival is free.

For nearly half a century, Liberty Fall Fest has brought autumn revelers together for a full weekend of fun at the end of September. The weekend features an old-fashioned carnival with rides and booths. Show off your talent by signing up for the chalk art contest; enjoy live music, and grab a seat on the sidelines for the Saturday morning parade.

12.  Maple Leaf Festival

• Location: Carthage
• Wow Factor: The 10-day festival is jam-packed with family-friendly fun.
• Need To Know: The Maple Leaf Festival, celebrating its 58th year, runs from Oct. 11-19, 2024

For 10 glorious days every fall, the Maple Leaf Festival returns to Carthage with a full menu of family-friendly fun that includes a parade, dachshund races, a rodeo, a tractor show, a car show, and a quilt crawl. The festival will feature an old-fashioned carnival with rides, live entertainment, a petting zoo, and food vendors.

Free & Cheap Missouri Fall Activities

Celebrating autumn doesn't have to break our budgets. Some of the best Missouri fall activities are free. If you're watching your wallet or simply want to spend some time outdoors, start with these free Missouri fall activities.

13. Set off on a fall hike

• Wow Factor: Awe-inspiring views of the Missouri River and the Missouri fall foliage.
• Need To Know: Perfect for a fall stroll.

With more than 1,400 trails in Missouri, we're never too far from one that has everything we're looking for, whether we want an easy stroll or a challenging trek. Often described as an easy walk, the .06-mile Missouri River Trail won't take more than a half-hour. The pretty path follows train tracks and leads to the Missouri River. However, the highlight is the brilliant shades of orange, red, and gold of the landscapes in the fall.

14. Go on a fall bike ride

• Location: Ballwin
• Wow Factor: The trail features a bluff with breathtaking views of the fall foliage and the Meramec River Valley.
• Need To Know: The trail is popular with hikers and bikers; just be prepared for a challenge.

If you're up for a challenge, you won't find one better - or prettier during autumn - than the Lone Wolf Trail . The difficult trail spans 1.6 miles, but Missouri State Parks advises carving out at least an hour and 40 minutes to complete. Blazed in yellow, the loop trail is lined with colorful trees and leads to a bluff overlooking the Meramec River Valley.

15. Take a drive on a scenic byway  

• Location: Mark Twain National Forest
• Wow Factor: Scenic overlooks that offer sweeping views of the Missouri fall foliage.
• Need To Know: Set your GPS to follow the scenic byway.

Meandering 24 miles through Mark Twain National Forest, Blue Buck Knob Scenic Byway is an easy way to admire the fall foliage. The scenic road passes wooded areas, farmland, and pastures, and leads to several scenic overlooks, including Indian Creek Overlook and Blue Buck Overlook. If you have time, pull over to drink in the views.

What are your favorite things to do in Missouri in the fall? Did any of them make this list? Which would you add? Let us know in the comments! Up for more fall fun? Follow this fall foliage road trip in Missouri on a one-of-a-kind autumn adventure. Before you go, though, check out the OIYS road trip essentials packing list .

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11 Things That Belong On Everyone’s Missouri Summer Bucket List

Contributor

Missouri has been my home for my entire life. Having lived near St. Louis, Columbia, and Springfield, I’ve experienced the state’s diverse regions firsthand. Inspired by these experiences, I created a Summer Bucket List for Missouri, highlighting the top eleven quintessentially Missourian activities. I once met a woman from Los Angeles who marveled at how “green everything was” here. Our abundance of natural resources makes Missouri a beautiful place to live and vacation.

1. Swim in a Quarry at Fugitive Beach

Limestone is Missouri’s most abundant quarried stone and is a huge contributor to the state’s economy. Many retired quarries are in picturesque settings, fed by natural underground springs, making waters cool and clear. Recreational quarries dot the state, but the most action-packed is The Fugitive Beach. With cliff jumping, gigantic water slides, beaches, yard games, and cabanas for rent, this place has it all! Conveniently located in Rolla, midway between St. Louis and Springfield, it is a great addition to any summer vaca.

2. Go Flower Picking at Gooseberry Bridge Farm

Missouri has a long growing season from April through October, making it an ideal location for seasonal flower farms scattered across the state. One such farm is Gooseberry Bridge Farm, which offers a “you-pick” style of harvesting for guests. Typically, these farms have a spring and a summer season, showcasing blooms like tulips, sunflowers, zinnias, and probably some unique varieties you’ve never seen before! Flower farmers love to experiment with fun, new varieties.

Goose Berry Bridge is particularly adorable with its charming addition of cute farm animals visitors can enjoy. As a Missouri Master Gardener, I can attest to the seasonality of growing fresh flowers, which often bloom in waves. When visiting flower farms, you will want to check websites and social media pages for picking times and seasons. Note that some farms may require reservations.

3. Eat Your Heart Out at Columbia Farmers Market

When you picture the Midwest, do you visualize expansive cornfields and rolling plains? That's what you’re likely to see driving along Highway 70 from St. Louis to Kansas City, but the community around Columbia also has a thriving local farming scene. In 2021, the Columbia Farmers Market was voted best in the nation! The vendors are mostly small family farmers.

Columbia is Missouri’s fourth-largest city, and thanks to the presence of the University of Missouri (Mizzou), it boasts more progressive views and growing practices. Most growers offer organic produce; animals are usually pasture-raised and fed a superior diet. Many small businesses using local ingredients also vend at the market. I like grabbing a cappuccino and fueling up with a piping-hot breakfast burrito from one of the scrumptious food vendors, then start shopping. Get all the supplies you need for the week including veggies, herbs, meat, bread, soap, flowers, cannabis, sweets, jams, fresh pasta, pickles, cured meats, cheese, honey, and so much more!

4. Go Camping in the Largest State Park at Lake of the Ozarks

Bigger is better in this case. Lake of the Ozarks State Park is packed with activities! Enjoy swimming at one of two beaches, take a cave tour, hike near small springs, get on the water in a kayak, rent a boat at one of two marinas, or picnic overlooking the lake. Lake of the Ozarks is one of the state's most popular outdoor tourist destinations; the park is conveniently located near the main restaurant, shopping, and entertainment areas. While lodging can be pricey during the peak summer season, you can find affordable options at the park’s campground outpost cabins and yurts. The park also offers basic and electric campsites if you want to bring your own gear.

5. Experience the Might of the Mississippi on a Riverboat Cruise

Toot, toot! I can hear the whistle on the Mark Twain Riverboat now. Hannibal, one of Missouri’s oldest towns, is rich in history and charm. The town boasts many historical sites and small museums. Dinner or sightseeing cruises depart from the riverfront, offering expansive views of this historic town. Hannibal is best known as the childhood home of Mark Twain, who drew inspiration from the town for many settings in his famous book, “Adventures of Huckleberry Finn.” On your cruise, you’ll hear fascinating stories about the town’s characters and history. It's a wonderful way to get out on the water and experience the might of the Mississippi. You’ll find other sightseeing cruises in places like St. Louis and Branson.

6. Chow Down on the Best BBQ in the State

St. Louis and Kansas City rival each other for the best BBQ in Missouri, but I’m playing Switzerland and showcasing a mid-state favorite. Located on historic Route 66, Missouri Hick Bar-B-Que in Cuba is renowned for its meats smoked for over 12 hours-yum! Serving the community for nearly 20 years, the restaurant is owned by a master BBQer, Dennis Meiser. A visit to Missouri Hick Bar-B-Que feels like a trip to Hillbilly Heaven (as Dennis would say), where you can enjoy your barbecue in a rustic, log cabin-like setting adorned with antique metal signs and cow hides decorating the walls. What's more "summer" than BBQ?

7. Visit the Birthplace of Route 66 Festival & Car Show

Spanning two-thirds of our continent, the Route 66 Highway is a significant part of American history. With its construction beginning nearly a century ago, it spurred tourism in the United States and helped small towns prosper by creating better connections between towns. Springfield, Missouri, is considered the birthplace of Route 66 because the name was proposed from an official there, and later accepted by the Secretary of Agriculture 1926.

The Birthplace of Route 66 Car Show in Springfield is a major event, taking over the entire downtown area of Missouri’s third-largest city and attracting nearly 100,000 visitors. Held annually in the second week of August, this three-day extravaganza features concerts, food vendors, and a parade, making it a must-see celebration of automotive culture and history.

8. Tour the State Capitol

I often marvel at our country’s historical buildings and ponder the astronomical cost of constructing such grand buildings today. That’s why I deeply appreciate the architecture and grandiose building materials of landmarks like the State Capitol building in Jefferson City. During your tour, you’ll explore the Capitol's public spaces, which continue to serve as the home of the Missouri General Assembly and state officials' offices.

If you’re interested in architecture, art, and history, the Capital Tour is perfect for you! The tour also provides access to the Missouri State Museum, which offers fascinating insights into the Show-Me State’s rich history.

You’ll have a better chance of viewing Thomas Hart Benton’s renowned artwork “A Social History of the State of Missouri” during the summer months, as the legislative session runs from January through May. Weekends offer an even better opportunity. Keep in mind that tour subjects may vary depending on the building's activities. Be sure to reserve your spot at least 24 hours in advance to secure your place.

9. Visit the City of Fountains

Kansas City’s nickname, “City of Fountains” reflects its collection of more than 200 fountains! This is a great way to get outside and explore the city. You can take a tour by street car, walk, or roll the windows down and take self-guided driving tour.

10. Meet the World in St. Louis

I'm going to go ahead and say it: the Festival of Nations is one of the coolest festivals I've ever experienced. As a food lover, I relish the opportunity to try new dishes, and this festival offers one of the most diverse culinary experiences imaginable, featuring cuisine from over 80 nations. But even if food isn't your main thang, you can still immerse yourself in multiculturalism through live music, dance, art, shopping, and experiencing traditions from around the world. The International Institute's Festival of Nations typically takes place in late August at Tower Grove Park in St. Louis.

11. See What’s in Bloom at the Missouri Botanical Garden

Experience native Missouri flora at the Missouri Botanical Garden, including wildflowers and plants. Different plants bloom at various times of the summer, so you never know what you’ll see! Experience special exhibitions, live music, lectures, and classes. Permanent exhibitions, like the Butterfly House attraction, feature species native to Missouri and highlight their role in the local ecosystem. The park does offer an evening schedule in the cooler months and evening activities if you want to beat the summer heat.

What do you think of my top 11 quintessentially Missourian summer bucket list items? Missouri is the 21st largest state, so there are probably some fun things I missed. Check out some other seasonal activities and attractions in the Show-Me State. If you are going to hit the road this summer, check out our ultimate road trip packing list so you don’t forget any essentials.

9 Epic Train Rides In Missouri That Will Give You An Unforgettable Experience

Missouri offers a variety of scenic and themed train rides for tourism and entertainment.

Missouri train rides are a little hard to find these days, even with all of the beautiful scenery in the state. There are only a handful of regular scenic train trips in Missouri you can take, which are the first showcased below. However, in the interest of entertainment, we have included a few miniature trains in Missouri as well as two train rides in Missouri that are rides in theme parks. While trains were once a major form of transportation for much of the population, today many of the trains run simply for tourism, entertainment, and to preserve train history.

1. Dinner Train, Branson Scenic Railway

Located at 206 E Main Street in Branson, one of the best dinner train trips in Missouri will take you through 40 scenic miles in the Ozark foothills and tunnels. They also do a Polar Express train ride near Christmas for the kids. Find out more by visiting the Branson Scenic Railway website.

2. St. Louis Iron Mountain & Southern Railway

Miles of scenic train rides serving southeast Missouri, and located at 252 Jackson Blvd in Jackson, St. Louis Iron Mountain & Southern Railway sometimes features themed rides. Past themes have included Jesse James train robberies, a Santa express around Christmas time, a murder mystery dinner train, and haunted train car. Check out the St. Louis Iron Mountain & Southern Railway website for the train schedule and contact information.

3. The Belton, Grandview and Kansas City Railroad

This short-line passenger train and railroad museum in Belton takes passengers on a 5-mile, 45-minute ride through Old Towne Belton and the surrounding areas. They are located at 502 E. Walnut Street. Find out more on The Belton, Grandview and Kansas City Railroad website.

4. Missouri River Runner, Amtrak

Missouri River Runner is an Amtrak line that runs between St. Louis and Kansas City regularly, with many stops along the way. It would be a great way to explore Missouri and see some beautiful scenery. For schedules, destinations, and more visit the Missouri River Runner website.

These next few trains are either miniature or novelty, but still promise a lovely ride.

5. Wabash Frisco & Pacific Railroad Association, Glencoe

For a great family adventure, this miniature steam railroad takes you on a 40-minute, 2-mile ride along the Meramec River.

6. Frisco Silver Dollar Line Steam Train, Silver Dollar City, Branson

While visiting Silver Dollar City in Branson, take this 20-minute steam train ride through the surrounding Ozark countryside. Complete with an attempted train robbery! Visit the Frisco Silver Dollar Line Steam Train website for more information.

7. Tommy G. Robertson Railroad (Six Flags St. Louis)

A great way to see the entire park at Six Flags, the Tommy G. Robertson Railroad takes you on a steam train ride through the park and points out attractions along the way. Visit the Six Flags website for more information on the Tommy G. Robertson Railroad.

8. C.P. Huntington Miniature Train (Museum of Transportation), St. Louis

The Museum of Transportation features the C.P Huntington Miniature Train and takes you around the 129-acre museum grounds. Located at 1933 Barrett Station Road in Kirkwood, you can find out more by visiting the C.P. Huntington Miniature Train website.

9. Magic City Line Mini-Train, Moberly

Another miniature train for children of all ages, the Magic City Line in Moberly takes you over a mile through Rothwell Park. They operate seasonally, on select days. Visit the Magic City Line Mini-Train website for more information on this classic excursion.

No matter which of these scenic train rides in Missouri you take or where it takes you, we can all agree that getting there is half the fun.  Are you a fan of trains in Missouri? Tell us!

Missouri train rides aren’t the only way to have some railroad-related fun in the state. There’s also this train museum in Missouri that’s sure to delight railroad enthusiasts of all ages.

If you're on the hunt for some one of a kind activities in Missouri, we recommend taking a look at Airbnb experiences . The locals have so many intriguing options on offer.

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