Things To Do
in Kirksville

Kirksville, located in northeastern Missouri, is a vibrant college town known for its historical significance and lush landscapes. Home to Truman State University, the city boasts a youthful energy while maintaining a rich cultural heritage. Kirksville offers a variety of outdoor activities, parks, and community events that reflect its close-knit community spirit.

Visitors can explore local history at the Adair County Historical Society Museum and enjoy the tranquil surroundings of Thousand Hills State Park.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Kirksville
morning
:

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at The Breakfast Nook, known for their pancakes and omelets. After breakfast, visit the Adair County Historical Society Museum to learn about the town's history.

afternoon
:

Head to Downtown Kirksville for lunch at The Dogwood, followed by a leisurely stroll through the Kirksville Arts Association Gallery. Explore the local shops and boutiques in the area.

evening
:

Have dinner at El Vaquero, a popular Mexican restaurant, then catch a live performance at the Truman State University.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Begin with coffee and pastries from Starbucks, then venture to Thousand Hills State Park for a morning hike and nature exploration.

afternoon
:

Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy by the lake at the park. Spend the afternoon kayaking or paddle boating.

evening
:

Return to the city for dinner at The Crossing, followed by drinks at a local pub to unwind.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Fast Food Meal$8
Coffee$4
🍕Pizza Slice$3
🚗Gasoline (per gallon)$3
🏨Hotel Night$80

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural and historical heritage.
  • Beautiful outdoor spaces and parks.
  • Friendly and welcoming locals.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Public transportation can be sparse.
  • Some attractions may be seasonal.

Places to Visit in Kirksville

Visit one of these nice places.

Thousand Hills State Park

A picturesque park with scenic views, perfect for capturing nature and wildlife.

Downtown Kirksville

Features charming architecture and vibrant street art, ideal for urban photography.

Adair County Historical Society Museum

A historical landmark that offers a glimpse into the past, making for interesting architectural shots.

Culinary Guide

Food in Kirksville

Kirksville offers a delightful mix of traditional Midwestern cuisine and local specialties, making it a great destination for food lovers.

Kirksville Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Pork Tenderloin Sandwich

A local favorite, this sandwich features a breaded and fried pork tenderloin, often served with pickles and onions.

Must-Try!

Missouri-style BBQ

Known for its rich flavors, the BBQ here typically includes smoked meats slathered in tangy sauce.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Kirksville Farmers Market

Open seasonally, this market features fresh produce, local goods, and homemade snacks.

Climate Guide

Weather

Kirksville experiences a humid continental climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are warm and humid, with temperatures averaging in the high 80s°F (around 30°C), while winters can be cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. Spring and fall are mild, providing comfortable weather and beautiful natural scenery.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting Locals

A friendly smile and a 'hello' go a long way; Midwestern charm is appreciated.

Respect Personal Space

People value their personal space; maintain a respectful distance during conversations.

Punctuality

Being on time is important in Kirksville; it's seen as a sign of respect.

Safety Guide

Safety

Kirksville is generally a safe town, but visitors should remain vigilant, especially in less populated areas at night. It’s advisable to lock vehicles and avoid leaving valuables in plain sight. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 911.

Tipping in Kirksville

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to tip between 15-20% at restaurants; rounding up is appreciated for good service.

Payment Methods

Most places accept credit and debit cards, but it's good to carry some cash for smaller vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making it a beautiful time for outdoor activities.

Summer

Warm weather with occasional rain; perfect for enjoying water activities at local parks.

Fall

Cooler temperatures with stunning autumn foliage, ideal for photography and hiking.

Winter

Cold and snowy, visitors can enjoy winter sports and festive holiday events.

Nightlife Guide

Kirksville at Night

Kirksville's nightlife is vibrant yet laid-back, with a mix of bars, restaurants, and live music venues. Popular spots include local pubs offering craft beers, as well as dance clubs that host weekend events. The Truman State University campus often features student-run activities and performances, providing a lively atmosphere for those looking to socialize.

Hiking in Kirksville

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Hickory Ridge Trail

A scenic trail that offers a moderate hike with views of the surrounding forests.

Lake Thunderhead Trail

A popular hiking destination that loops around the lake, providing beautiful views and picnic spots.

Airports

How to reach Kirksville by plane.

Kirksville Regional Airport (IRK)

Located just a few miles from downtown, this airport offers limited flights and connects to larger hubs.

Getting Around

Walkability

Kirksville is relatively walkable, especially in the downtown area, with many amenities and attractions within a short distance. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and the presence of parks encourages walking. However, outside the downtown core, walking may be less convenient due to more spread-out locations.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Students

With Truman State University nearby, a significant portion of the population consists of students, contributing to the town's youthful atmosphere.

Families

Many families reside in Kirksville, attracted by the community feel, educational opportunities, and recreational facilities.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Basketball

A popular sport among local schools and the university, with many games held throughout the year.

Baseball

Local teams and recreational leagues make baseball a favorite pastime during the warmer months.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Kirksville is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or on foot. Public transportation options are available, but they may be limited, so it’s advisable to have a personal vehicle or use rideshare services for convenience.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Kirksville.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants in Kirksville offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, especially in cafes.

Gluten-Free Options

Some places provide gluten-free menu items; it's advisable to ask staff for specifics.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Kirksville has access to healthcare facilities, including the Northeast Regional Medical Center, which provides emergency and general medical services. For non-emergency care, there are several clinics and specialists available. It is advisable for visitors to have health insurance or travel insurance in case of medical needs.

Discover United States

Read more in our United States 2025 Travel Guide.

United States Travel Guide