Rolla
Day Trips
Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Rolla's hidden gems and unique experiences!
Arrive in Rolla and settle into your accommodation. Take a leisurely walk to explore the downtown area, soaking in the local shops and cafes. Don't forget to grab a hearty breakfast at a local diner to fuel your adventures ahead.
Venture to the Missouri University of Science and Technology for a campus tour, appreciating its beautiful architecture and rich history. Visit the nearby Missouri S&T Gallery of Arts and Science to view stunning exhibits. You can end the afternoon with a stop at the local co-op for unique snacks and souvenirs.
Dine at a classic Rolla eatery, sampling regional specialties that highlight local flavors. Enjoy a peaceful walk at the nearby Lalo's Mexican Restaurant for some festive atmosphere. Wrap up the day with a refreshing drink at a local bar or brewery while mingling with locals.
Start your day with an energizing breakfast and then gear up for a day in nature. Head to the Mark Twain National Forest, where you can explore a variety of hiking trails amidst stunning scenery. Enjoy the tranquility as you absorb the fresh air and beautiful views.
Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at the forest, surrounded by nature's beauty. After lunch, continue your hike or try your hand at bird watching for a glimpse at local wildlife. Capture the breathtaking landscape with photos to cherish the memories.
Return to Rolla and treat yourself to a delicious dinner at a barbecue joint known for their slow-cooked meats. Share stories of your adventure with fellow travelers at a cozy restaurant. If you're in the mood, check out a local event or live music performance to conclude the day with entertainment.
Enjoy breakfast at a local favorite known for its unique breakfast items, fueling up for a day of cultural exploration. Visit the Rolla Historical Museum to learn about the town's rich history and heritage. Marvel at the artifacts that tell the story of the area’s past.
Explore the nearby Old Courthouse for an insight into local governance and architecture. You might also want to stroll through the beautiful local parks, taking in the peaceful surroundings. Grab a casual lunch at one of the local cafes, enjoying a relaxing ambiance.
Spend your evening at a community theater show, which often showcases local talent and creativity. Savor dinner at a family-run restaurant known for their welcoming atmosphere. Call it a night with a dessert from a local bakery, enjoying a sweet ending to your vibrant cultural day.
Recharge with breakfast before embarking on an adventure at the Rolla Hidden Valley Hunt Club. Spend your morning taking part in activities like zip-lining or off-roading. Get your adrenaline pumping as you navigate various outdoor challenges.
After an exciting morning, have a picnic lunch at the site or head back into town to try a food truck offering delicious street food. You could also visit a local escape room, challenging your problem-solving skills with friends or family. Take a moment to relax and talk about your favorite experiences so far.
Cap off the adventure with a fun dinner at a sports bar, where you can enjoy hearty food and watch a game. Engage in friendly conversations with locals who share your enthusiasm for sports and adventure. End the day with twilight stroll around a nearby lake, reflecting on the day’s excitement.
Begin your day with a curated brunch at an art café that combines culinary delights with local artwork. Spend the morning at the Rolla Arts and Crafts Fair, browsing through unique handmade goods and crafts by local artisans. Engage with the artists and perhaps find a special souvenir.
Continue your artistic exploration by attending a pottery or painting workshop, allowing your creativity to flourish. Have lunch at a nearby restaurant that supports local artists by showcasing their work on the walls. Continue immersing yourself in the local art scene, visiting local galleries or pop-up art stands.
Enjoy dinner at a bistro that features decor and artwork from local artists, creating a uniquely vibrant atmosphere. Participate in an open mic night or art showcase, allowing for an interactive experience with fellow art lovers. As the evening wraps up, reflect on your artistic experiences while enjoying dessert at a cozy cafe.
Start your morning with a picnic breakfast in a nearby park, soaking in the sunshine and fresh air. After breakfast, enjoy a nature walk or biking in the park’s scenic trails. Keep an eye out for local flora and fauna that call the park their home.
Spend your afternoon participating in recreational activities, perhaps playing frisbee or joining a community play group. Grab a casual lunch from one of the food stalls in the park while enjoying the ambiance. Engage with locals or fellow visitors, sharing stories about your travels.
Conclude your day with dinner at a nearby steakhouse that’s known for its inviting ambiance. Participate in any evening events taking place in the park, like music or movie nights. As dusk settles, relax and enjoy the peaceful landscape illuminated by soft lights.
Fuel up with breakfast then embark on a self-guided tour of Rolla's historical landmarks. Start with the Rolla Depot and learn about railroad history in the area. Every stop along the way informs you of the town's vibrant past.
Continue to explore landmarks such as the First Baptist Church and the historic Route 66 drive. Enjoy a tasty lunch at a diner that has a rich history of its own. Afterward, visit the local library to discover more about Rolla's historical archives.
End your historical journey with dinner at a restaurant that reflects the classic Americana vibe, perhaps invoking nostalgic memories of days gone by. Check out any historical reenactments or storytelling events happening locally for a fun twist. Share your learned stories with new friends over dessert.
Indulge in a leisurely breakfast at a local café, allowing yourself to unwind. Consider taking a morning yoga class at a wellness center, centering yourself with peace and mindfulness. Enjoy the gentle start to the day, letting go of yesterday's stresses.
After a refreshing morning, enjoy a spa day! Book a massage or facial to rejuvenate your body and mind. For lunch, choose a healthy option from a local health food restaurant to continue the relaxation.
Spend an evening at a serene winery or vineyard, learning about local wines while enjoying a flight tasting. Dine at a rustic restaurant that prides itself on fresh farm-to-table cuisine, savoring every bite of your meal. As your trip comes to its end, reflect on the peaceful experiences over a glass of wine under the stars.
Start your final day with a hearty breakfast at a café where you can reminisce about your favorite moments of the trip. Walk around Rolla, revisiting sights that made an impression on you. Consider picking up any last-minute snacks or gifts to take home.
Spend your last afternoon leisurely strolling through your favorite areas, or perhaps revisiting a local park to soak in your surroundings one last time. Delve into a quick lunch at a local bistro, ensuring to savor the flavors of Rolla one more time. Take time to reflect on the wonderful experiences and beauties you've encountered during your stay.
Enjoy a farewell dinner at a scenic restaurant that offers a beautiful view, cherishing the moments of togetherness. Engage in conversations about your next adventures, making plans to return to Rolla in the future. Conclude your trip with a walk under the stars, enjoying the peace of the night before departure.