Missouri
The rivers arrived first, carving their priceless art into the Missouri landscape. They were our first trails, cutting a path for hundreds of explorers and thousands of settlers. The early pioneers branched out, forming their own trails, establishing towns along the way.As you follow those first settlers through the Gateway to the West, you too will carve a path. One filled with memories from an adventure second to none. Branch out, like the pioneers did, covering the trails that launched thousands of prairie schooners.
Along the way, experience Missouri's natural beauty and neighborliness, with a lifetime of navigable rivers. Just ask the ghosts of Lewis and Clark, who started - and ended - their 1804 Corps of Discovery in St. Charles. Carve your own path of discovery along Missouri's rivers. Blaze your own trails and write your own journals.
All across the state, you'll find plenty of opportunities to take home Missouri memories. Our shops are like our rivers. No two are the same. Each offers something new. So take off antiquing through Missouri's rich history. Browse through hundreds of shops at two of the world's largest railroad stations turned into shoppers' paradise, they're the state's biggest bookends, both named Union Station - one in Kansas City, one in St. Louis. From either spot, you can do more than read about Missouri's past, you can jump right in.
Explore Missouri
Harry S. Truman Courtroom and Office
Restored office courtroom used by Truman while gresiding judge of county court in 1930s. Sound and light show, "The Man from Independence," on Truman'
Independence, MO MuseumsThe 2nd "Old Jail"
The county's first log jail burned in 1854, and a brick structure was built on Walter Street a block west of the square. It is presently undergoing reconstruction for historical preservation. It was used until 1868, and had an original cost of $3,500.
Mt. Vernon, MO Pioneer LifeC.L.N. Haines Home
The front second floor room was built for a Billiard Room. There are designed parquet floors on the first floor and stained glass windows. There is a back staircase for access to the maid's room.
Aurora, MO Historic HomesSt. Mary's Catholic Church
Up to 1883 all Catholics in the area belonged to St. Patrick's Church which was organized in 1871. But owing to the increased immigration of the Germans and Poles, some of these members requested Bishop Hogan for a parish of their own. The first St. Mary'
Pierce City, MO Historic ChurchesTable Rock Water Sports
The most exciting way to see the sights on Table Rock Lake is from the water itself in whatever form of boat you choose; whether it be an aluminum fishing boat to a luxury cruiser. There's room enough on this lake for everyone.
, MO BoatingMurals
There are several murals painted in the city including the bicentennial mural in the City Hall.
- Larry Banks, 1989; CC Anderson, '80 and '87
Seneca, MO ArtsPolk County Courthouse
The Polk County Courthouse, completed in 1907, dominates the square in the county seat of Bolivar. Both the county and the city were organized in 1835. The county covers 642 square miles and is home to about 27,000
Bolivar, MO Historic CourthousesSunset Drive In
The drive-in theatre is one of the few remaining in the area and families from Joplin and Springfield as well as farther away drive to Aurora to see movies here. It'
Aurora, MO TheatresTheron Bennett Home
Theron Bennett, nationally known ragtime composer, lived in Pierce City until returning from college 1902 when he left to begin a career where his unseen future would become the past that we can now recall as his successful contribution to the music world.
Pierce City, MO Famous HomesThe Hansard House
Dr. Hansard sold the west section of his property on Washington Street for the construction of St. Patrick's Catholic Church in 1901. The house was built circa 1872
Pierce City, MO Historic HomesGene Taylor Library and Museum
At the northeast corner of the Square is a replica of an office used by Congressman Gene Taylor during this 16-year tenure in Washington, DC. This building houses mementos of Mr. Taylor's years in public service. History on the Wild Peony fields, as well as other various memorabilia on Sarcoxie'
Sarcoxie, MO MuseumsSmithville Lake Water Sports
Boating - Smithville Lake has over 175 miles of shoreline offering excellent boating opportunities. Five multi-lane boat launch ranps and excellent parking for trailers insure easy accessibility to all parts of this 7,200
, MO Boating