Things To Do
in Kirksville
Kirksville, Missouri is a small university town anchored by Truman State University, known for its friendly residents and walkable streets. The downtown square pairs historic charm with shops, cafés, and cultural venues that spill onto tree-lined sidewalks. It blends Midwestern hospitality with a strong educational footprint, thanks to local colleges and healthcare training institutions.
Nearby parks, lakes, and scenic countryside provide easy weekend escapes from campus life.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at a local café, enjoying some freshly brewed coffee and homemade pastries. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the beautiful downtown area, admiring the historic buildings and unique shops. Don’t forget to visit the Kirksville Arts Association to appreciate local art and exhibitions.
In the afternoon, head to the Thousand Hills State Park for an outdoor adventure. Go hiking on one of the scenic trails or rent a kayak to paddle on the lake, soaking in the natural beauty around you. Pack a picnic to enjoy amidst the trees and enjoy some peaceful time in nature.
As the sun begins to set, get ready for a delightful dinner at one of Kirksville's charming family-owned restaurants. After your meal, attend a local theater performance or live music event to immerse yourself in the town's vibrant cultural scene. Wind down your day with a relaxing walk around the park, enjoying the cool evening breeze.
Begin your day with a visit to the Kirkville Historic Museum for an insightful look into the area’s rich past. Participate in a guided tour to learn about the local culture and history. Enjoy a hearty breakfast at a nearby diner to fuel your adventures for the day.
In the afternoon, venture to the Truman State University campus and check out the various museums and art galleries it hosts, including the University Art Gallery. Take time to explore the beautiful campus grounds and appreciate the architecture. For lunch, try out one of the student-friendly eateries in the area for a taste of local favorites.
As night falls, consider dining at a restaurant known for its farm-to-table menu, showcasing local ingredients. Attend a lively university event or concert if available, enjoying the spirited atmosphere. End your day with a dessert at a local ice cream shop, savoring the flavors and reminiscing about the day’s events.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-5 |
| 🛏️One night in a mid-range hotel | $70-120 |
| 🚗Gas for a day of driving | $4-8 |
| 🛒Groceries for a week | $40-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close-knit university town with friendly locals
- Affordable lodging and dining options
- Good access to parks and outdoor recreation
- Walkable downtown with cultural venues
- Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
- Smaller selection of high-end dining
- Dependence on university calendar for events
Places to Visit in Kirksville
Visit one of these nice places.
Photogenic storefronts, brick sidewalks, and a lively street scene ideal for daytime and golden-hour shots.
Lush green spaces, classic campus architecture, and scenic walkways great for campus-life photography.
A distinctive brick clock tower and formal streetscape perfect for architectural photos.
Ridge-top viewpoints with sweeping views of the surrounding countryside, ideal for wide landscape shots.
Outdoor murals along Main Street provide colorful backdrops for urban photography.
Food in Kirksville
Kirksville Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Smoky, tangy sauce with tender meat, commonly found at local diners and barbecue joints.
Must-Try!
Crispy battered steak with creamy gravy, a classic Midwestern staple.
Crisp catfish fillets served with cornmeal hush puppies and sides.
Hearty chili served with warm, buttery cornbread—comfort food for cool days.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market in downtown Kirksville offering produce, baked goods, honey, and crafts from local vendors.
Occasional food trucks around campus events offering a variety of quick bites and international flavors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly hello or nod is common; address people with courtesy and, in formal settings, use titles when appropriate.
Be on time for meetings and campus appointments; plan some buffer time for traffic and parking.
Keep voices moderate in restaurants and on sidewalks, especially in the evenings around residential areas.
Safety
Tipping in Kirksville
Ensure a smooth experience
In sit-down restaurants, 15-20% is customary; smaller cafés and diners appreciate a small tip as well. Cash tips are often welcome, but cards with gratuity are widely accepted.
Cash and cards are widely accepted; mobile payments are common in many places, though some small venues may prefer cash or have minimal card processing.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm, sometimes hot and humid days with afternoon thunderstorms; bring water and sun protection; plan indoor breaks at cafés and museums.
Cooler temperatures and vibrant fall foliage around parks and campuses; excellent for outdoor photography and walking tours.
Cold with occasional snow; layering is essential; some outdoor areas may be icy; bright winter light can be beautiful for photos.
Mild days with blooming landscapes and frequent showers; ideal for nature walks and city photography.
Kirksville at Night
Hiking in Kirksville
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular hiking and picnicking area with scenic views and forested trails near Kirksville.
Additional local trails and woodlands within a short drive offering quiet day trips.
Airports
How to reach Kirksville by plane.
Small public airport with limited domestic service; typically serves regional connections via larger hubs.
Larger regional airport about 100–120 miles away with broader service options.
Major airport about 140–160 miles away in Des Moines, IA, with extensive domestic connections.
Major international gateway about 150–180 miles away in St. Louis, MO.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A substantial portion of residents are university students and staff connected to Truman State University and nearby institutions.
Many families reside in neighborhoods surrounding the university and in suburban-adjacent areas.
A steady presence of faculty, researchers, and medical professionals supports the local economy.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular college sport at Truman State University and among local leagues.
Local school teams and community leagues provide seasonal play.
Nearby lakes and rivers attract anglers and recreational boaters.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kirksville.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many downtown spots offer veggie-friendly pizzas, pastas, and salads. Ask about daily veggie specials and farm-fresh options from the farmers market; most places can accommodate substitutions with advance notice.