Central

Day Trips

Start your day with a visit to the Missouri State Capitol, where you can admire the stunning architecture and learn about the state's history. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of Jefferson City, stopping for coffee at a local café. Don’t forget to capture photos of the iconic landmarks as you explore the area.

In the afternoon, head to the Missouri State Museum, located within the Capitol building, to delve deeper into the state's rich heritage. Following your museum visit, enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant serving authentic Midwestern cuisine. Spend the rest of the afternoon walking along the banks of the Missouri River, taking in the scenic views and perhaps renting a bike to cover more ground.

As the sun sets, find a cozy spot along the river for a picturesque picnic dinner. Afterward, attend a local theater performance or concert to experience the vibrant arts scene. Conclude your evening with a dessert stop at a local bakery, savoring a sweet treat under the starry sky.

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at a local diner, fueling up for a day of outdoor exploration. After breakfast, make your way to the Ozark National Scenic Riverways, where you can hike through lush forests and discover hidden waterfalls. Keep an eye out for local wildlife as you immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the area.

In the afternoon, venture to the Current River for a relaxing float trip or kayaking adventure, where you can enjoy the tranquility of the water. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy riverside, soaking in the serene atmosphere surrounded by nature. As you paddle, take time to appreciate the stunning limestone bluffs that line the riverbanks.

After a day of outdoor activities, return to your lodging to freshen up before dinner. Choose a barbecue restaurant to indulge in some classic Southern cuisine, savoring the smoky flavors and hearty portions. As night falls, consider a stargazing excursion in the nearby wilderness, away from city lights, to enjoy the clear, expansive skies.

Kick off your morning with a visit to the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art in Kansas City, where an impressive collection of art awaits. Spend time exploring the vast galleries, focusing on the American and contemporary art sections. Don't miss the outdoor sculpture park, which offers a unique blend of nature and artistry.

In the afternoon, grab lunch at a trendy café in the Crossroads Arts District, known for its vibrant arts community. Afterward, immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting various galleries and studios, chatting with artists about their work. Consider participating in a hands-on workshop, where you can create your own piece of art to take home.

As the sun sets, explore the lively streets of Kansas City, stopping by local shops and boutiques. For dinner, indulge in some famous Kansas City-style ribs at a renowned barbecue joint. End your evening with a jazz performance at a local venue, soaking in the rich musical heritage of the city.

Start your day at the National Civil Rights Museum in Memphis, where you can explore the profound history of the civil rights movement. The museum, located at the historic Lorraine Motel, offers powerful exhibits and interactive displays that will inspire and educate you. Take your time to absorb the stories and events that shaped the nation's path toward equality.

After your museum visit, enjoy lunch at a nearby soul food restaurant, sampling authentic Southern dishes that reflect the local culture. Spend the afternoon visiting significant civil rights landmarks, including the Slave Haven Underground Railroad Museum and the historic Beale Street. Take a moment to reflect at the nearby Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Park.

In the evening, return to Beale Street, where the vibrant nightlife comes alive with music and entertainment. Choose from a variety of restaurants for dinner, with options ranging from casual to upscale dining. Conclude your day by enjoying live blues or rock music at one of the iconic venues lining the street.

Begin your day with a breakfast food tour in St. Louis, where you can sample local specialties like toasted ravioli and gooey butter cake. Visit various eateries, learning about the city’s culinary history while tasting unique dishes. This immersive experience will set the tone for a day filled with flavors.

After your food tour, take a leisurely stroll through Forest Park, one of the largest urban parks in the United States. Stop by the St. Louis Art Museum or the Missouri History Museum, both located within the park, to explore local art and history. For lunch, find a food truck or café in the area to continue your culinary adventure.

As evening approaches, embark on a brewery tour to sample some of St. Louis's finest craft beers. Visit well-known breweries, learning about the brewing process and the city’s rich beer heritage. End your night at a local pub, enjoying live music and mingling with locals over a cold pint.

Start your morning with a visit to the Kansas City Zoo, where you can see a wide variety of animals from around the world. Catch the morning feeding times for the elephants and penguins for an interactive experience. Take your time strolling through the beautifully landscaped grounds, making sure to visit the African and Australian exhibits.

After lunch at the zoo's café, head to nearby Swope Park, where you can explore hiking trails and enjoy the outdoors. Spend the afternoon birdwatching or simply relaxing in nature, soaking in the peaceful surroundings. You may also want to visit the park’s other attractions, including the Kansas City Museum.

As the day winds down, make your way to the Country Club Plaza, known for its Spanish-inspired architecture and upscale shopping. Enjoy dinner at one of the plaza's fine dining establishments, choosing from a variety of cuisines. After dinner, take a leisurely walk around the plaza to admire the illuminated fountains and sculptures.

Kick off your day by exploring the historic Route 66 in Springfield, Missouri, often referred to as the birthplace of this iconic highway. Start at the Route 66 Visitor Center, where you can gather maps and information about the various attractions along the route. Don’t miss the chance to visit the Route 66 Car Museum to see vintage vehicles and memorabilia.

Afterward, enjoy lunch at a classic diner along the route, indulging in retro fare that harkens back to the golden age of road trips. Spend your afternoon visiting quirky roadside attractions like the giant Route 66 sign and the historic Gillioz Theatre. Take time to chat with locals who can share stories about the significance of Route 66 in American culture.

As evening falls, find a cozy spot for dinner at a restaurant that embraces the Route 66 theme, complete with nostalgic decor. After dinner, enjoy a leisurely drive along a scenic stretch of Route 66, taking in the nostalgic atmosphere and stopping for photos. Conclude your adventure with a classic milkshake or dessert at an old-school ice cream parlor.

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at a local café in Wichita, Kansas, preparing for a day of exploration. Afterward, visit the Wichita Art Museum, where you can admire American art and beautiful river views. Spend some time walking along the Arkansas River, taking in the calm waters and surrounding nature.

In the afternoon, head to the Tallgrass Prairie Preserve, where you can hike through vast expanses of native prairie land. Keep an eye out for bison and other wildlife as you explore the trails. Take a break for lunch at a picnic spot, enjoying the fresh air and breathtaking scenery.

As evening approaches, return to Wichita for dinner at a farm-to-table restaurant that showcases local ingredients. After your meal, consider attending a local performance, whether it be theater, music, or dance. Wrap up your day with a stroll through the vibrant Old Town district, where you can enjoy the ambiance of this historic area.

Kickstart your day with breakfast at a rustic lodge in the Ozarks, surrounded by stunning landscapes. Afterward, embark on a guided canoe trip on one of the pristine rivers in the area, such as the Buffalo River or the White River. Enjoy the tranquility of the water as you paddle through lush forests and rocky outcrops.

In the afternoon, take a break for a packed lunch by the riverbank, relishing the sounds of nature all around you. Continue your canoeing adventure or switch gears by hiking one of the many scenic trails in the Ozarks, leading to breathtaking viewpoints. Capture the beauty of the area with plenty of photos along the way.

As the sun sets, return to your lodge to unwind and freshen up. Enjoy a hearty dinner at the lodge's restaurant, featuring local ingredients and flavors. End your day by gathering around a fire pit for s'mores and storytelling, under the starry Ozark sky.