St. Joseph

Day Trips

Begin your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring freshly brewed coffee and homemade pastries. After breakfast, stroll through the historic downtown area, taking in the beautifully preserved 19th-century architecture. Visit the St. Joseph Museum to learn about the city’s rich history and its role in westward expansion.

After lunch at a nearby bistro, head to the Pony Express National Museum, where you can delve into the fascinating stories of the riders who braved the frontier. Spend some time exploring the quaint shops and galleries along Frederick Avenue, picking up unique souvenirs and local art. Wrap up your afternoon with a peaceful walk through the scenic Krug Park, enjoying the lush greenery and tranquil atmosphere.

As the sun sets, find a cozy spot at a local restaurant to indulge in some classic Midwestern cuisine. After dinner, take a stroll along the Missouri Riverfront, where you can enjoy the picturesque views and watch the boats glide by. Conclude your evening with a visit to a local brewery for a taste of regional craft beers.

Start your day at the Albrecht-Kemper Museum of Art, where you can admire a diverse collection of American art from the 18th century to contemporary pieces. Enjoy a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the artists and their works, making sure to take notes on your favorites. Afterward, relax in the museum's garden, surrounded by beautiful sculptures and nature.

For lunch, head to a nearby eatery that specializes in farm-to-table dishes, showcasing the best of local ingredients. Post-lunch, visit the Missouri Theatre, a historic venue where you can catch a matinee performance or simply admire the stunning architecture. Explore the nearby galleries and artist studios, engaging with local artists and learning about their creative processes.

As evening approaches, attend a live performance or concert at the Missouri Theatre, immersing yourself in the vibrant local arts scene. Following the show, enjoy a casual dinner at a trendy restaurant offering eclectic dining options. Wrap up your night with a stroll through the downtown area, where you can enjoy the ambiance of the city lights.

Kick off your day with a hearty breakfast at a riverside café, overlooking the scenic Missouri River. Afterward, rent a kayak or canoe for an exhilarating adventure on the water, paddling along the river while enjoying the stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Take breaks on small islands to stretch your legs and appreciate the natural beauty.

Rejuvenate with a picnic lunch at a riverside park, where you can relax under the shade of trees and enjoy the sounds of nature. Spend the afternoon exploring the walking trails along the riverbank, keeping an eye out for local wildlife and enjoying the fresh air. If you're feeling adventurous, consider trying stand-up paddleboarding for a fun new challenge.

As the sun sets, find a picturesque spot along the river to catch the breathtaking sunset. Head to a nearby restaurant known for its seafood dishes, indulging in fresh catches of the day. End your evening with a relaxing walk along the river, reflecting on the day’s adventures.

Start your day with a visit to the historic St. Joseph’s Pony Express Monument, taking in the significance of this landmark in American history. Enjoy breakfast at a nearby diner known for its hearty portions and friendly service. Afterward, take a guided tour of the Missouri State Penitentiary, where you can learn about its storied past and notorious inmates.

After lunch, visit the Jesse James Home Museum, where you can explore the life of the infamous outlaw and view artifacts from his time. Stroll through the surrounding neighborhood to appreciate the historical homes and learn about the area’s lore. Conclude your afternoon with a visit to the Wyeth-Tootle Mansion, a beautiful example of Victorian architecture filled with art and history.

Enjoy dinner at a historic restaurant that offers dishes inspired by the region's past. After your meal, consider attending a local ghost tour to learn about the haunted history of St. Joseph, visiting sites that are said to be spooky. Finish your night with a nightcap at a local bar, sharing stories from the day.

Start your day with breakfast at a charming diner that serves classic American breakfast dishes and strong coffee. Afterward, embark on a guided food tour of St. Joseph, where you'll visit local markets and specialty shops to learn about the area's culinary scene. Enjoy tastings of local cheeses, chocolates, and other artisanal products as you go.

For lunch, visit a popular farm-to-table restaurant that showcases locally sourced ingredients in its menu. Post-lunch, continue your food adventure by visiting local breweries for tastings, learning about the brewing process, and sampling a variety of craft beers. Don't forget to ask about seasonal brews and any special releases.

As the sun sets, treat yourself to a gourmet dinner at one of St. Joseph’s acclaimed restaurants, indulging in a multi-course meal prepared by a talented chef. After dinner, explore a dessert shop known for its delectable sweets and pastries, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. Wrap up the evening with a nightcap at a local speakeasy-style bar, experiencing the unique drink offerings.

Kickstart your day with a hearty breakfast at a family-friendly restaurant before heading to the St. Joseph Zoo for a day of animal encounters. Spend your morning walking through the zoo, marveling at the diverse range of animals and participating in interactive exhibits. Don't miss the chance to watch the animal feeding sessions and learn about their habitats.

After exploring the zoo, enjoy a picnic lunch in the nearby park, giving the kids a chance to play and burn off some energy. In the afternoon, visit the nearby Pony Express Museum for an educational experience that the whole family will enjoy. Engage with the interactive displays and learn about the history of the Pony Express in a fun way.

As evening approaches, head back to the zoo for their special evening events, which may include nighttime animal viewing or educational talks. Afterward, have dinner at a local family-friendly restaurant that offers a kid’s menu and casual ambiance. Conclude your family day with a trip to an ice cream parlor for a sweet treat and a chance to recap the day’s adventures.

Begin your day with breakfast at a beachfront café, enjoying the sound of the waves while you sip your coffee. After breakfast, head to the nearby beaches, where you can relax on the sandy shores or take a refreshing dip in the water. Spend the morning sunbathing or building sandcastles with the family.

For lunch, pack a picnic or grab a bite from a beachside food truck offering delicious snacks and meals. Spend your afternoon indulging in various water sports like jet skiing or paddleboarding, or simply enjoy the beach atmosphere with a good book. If you're feeling adventurous, consider renting a boat for a few hours to explore the nearby coastline.

As the sun sets, find a scenic spot on the beach to watch the stunning sunset over the water. Head to a nearby seafood restaurant for a fresh catch of the day, enjoying the local flavors and relaxing atmosphere. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the beach, savoring the cool evening breeze and the sound of the waves.

Start your day with breakfast at a local café, fueling up for a day of outdoor adventures. Head to the nearby Loess Bluffs National Wildlife Refuge, where you can explore the trails and observe various bird species in their natural habitat. Bring binoculars for an enhanced viewing experience and take time to appreciate the beautiful landscapes.

For lunch, enjoy a packed picnic at the refuge, surrounded by the sounds of nature and the sights of wildlife. Afterward, continue hiking the trails and visiting the observation towers for panoramic views of the refuge and its inhabitants. Don’t forget to take photos of the stunning scenery and any wildlife you encounter.

As the day winds down, return to St. Joseph for a casual dinner at a farm-to-table restaurant that emphasizes local ingredients. After dinner, take a scenic drive along the Missouri River to unwind and reflect on the day’s experiences. If time permits, enjoy an evening stroll in a nearby park to savor the peaceful surroundings.