Missouri boats plenty of unique overnight accommodations, but none can quite compare to a night inside Missouri's single most haunted location. Missouri State Penitentiary in Jefferson City is marked by its complicated, dark, and extensive history serving as a maximum security facility for a series of notorious inmates. Sign up for this exclusive tour with Ghost Tours USA and you'll experience firsthand why the Missouri State Penitentiary has gained such a disturbing reputation. A night exploring this abandoned property isn't for the faint of heart, but promises plenty of unforgettable thrills.
Even if you didn't know the extensive history of Missouri State Penitentiary, one of the oldest operating facilities east of the Mississippi, you'd probably guess at this institution's ominous past.
Built in Jefferson City along the banks of the Missouri River in the early 1830s, the penitentiary served as the main correctional facility for the state of Missouri.
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The facility was decommissioned in 2004, yet curious tourists can still visit the abandoned facility. What allures visitors isn't so much history but the prison's dark and shadowy past.
It was 1967 when TIME named the Missouri State Penitentiary "the bloodiest 47 acres in America." This was in part due to the violent riots, but mostly because of the implementation of the death penalty.
In 1937, a gas chamber was constructed in a small separate building. A total of 40 prisoners were killed in this oppressive space, which still stands today.
Sign up for a tour with Ghost Hunts USA and you'll experience an exclusive overnight tour of the property during the most harrowing hours. Tours last well into the early morning hours, when paranormal activity tends to be at its strongest.
Even in broad daylight, this historic space is undeniably disturbing. Visitors report feeling the deep despair and isolation that prisoners must have felt in the facility's 150 years of operation.
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Ghost Hunts USA has various tour dates available, which you can check by visiting their website. Think you have what it takes to brave this one-of-a-kind ghost tour? You can click here to purchase your tickets!
Missouri State Penitentiary is located at 115 Lafayette St., Jefferson City, MO 65101.
Life can certainly move at breakneck speed, but slowing down takes effort and can be downright difficult. Well, now, it’s a little easier for us to slow down, relax, and unwind. Book a stay with Postcard Cabins, a unique cluster of tiny cabins for rent in nearly a dozen cities across the United States. The tiny homes offer an ideal opportunity to unplug and recharge in a beautiful natural setting but without being too far from the excitement of the big city – in Missouri’s case, within driving distance of Kansas City and St. Louis. Are you ready for an unplugged getaway in Missouri?
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Postcard Cabins has a simple mission: To provide a comfortable place to stay “that has everything you need and nothing you don’t.” Regardless of which side of the state you live, you’ll be within driving distance of one of the two Missouri Outposts.
The Kansas City Outpost features 45 cabins on 317 acres while the St. Louis Outpost hosts 40 cabins on 198 acres. The Ozark Highlands Outpost is tucked in Osceola, a two-hour drive from Kansas City, and home to just over 900 residents. A prime destination for hunting and fishing, Osceola also features an impressive selection of shops and restaurants.
For an outdoor adventure, drive about 40 minutes to Pomme de Terre State Park, perhaps best-known for the 2.1-mile Cedar Bluff Trail. Just 45 minutes from the city, the St. Louis Outpost is tucked near Bloomsdale, a darling small town with just over 630 residents. Spend your free time exploring St. Louis, or go on a fascinating tour of Bonne Mine Terre, just a 30-minute drive from Postcard Cabins.
Once you retreat to your tiny cabin, however, you might not want to leave at all; that’s just how peaceful it is at your home-away-from-home that features a queen bed or a queen bunk bed, and a private bath.
All tiny cabins measure between 140 and 200 square feet. Each features the same amenities, so no matter at what Outpost you stay, you’re guaranteed the same cozy experience. An outdoor fire pit makes it easy to grill steaks, veggies, or s’mores. Keep your perishables in the mini-fridge.
Despite the weather outside, you’ll be comfy in your tiny home. It has both heat and A/C. And, if you really want to unplug, hide your smartphone in the cellphone lockbox then relax on the outdoor chairs.
We have so many unique places to stay in Missouri, and this just might be one of the best. Have you or will you stay at the Getaway House for an unplugged escape in Missouri? Share this article with someone you'd like to go with! For more outdoor adventures, consider visiting one of these state parks near Kansas City, Missouri.
The Show-Me State is a wonderful destination for enjoying the outdoors and staying in a cabin. Regardless of the season, you'll find a wide range of vacation rentals, from rustic and basic to fully modernized and luxurious ones that can accommodate individuals or larger groups. Here are some of the best cabins in Missouri that are definitely worth checking out.
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Luxury Cabins in Missouri
Are you looking for something extra special rather than necessarily budget-friendly? Maybe it's time to splurge or treat yourself to one of the luxurious cabin rentals in MO!
Experience the best cabin Airbnbs in Missouri with this luxurious Hornersville retreat. This cabin is nestled on sprawling land and has rustic charm and upscale amenities. Enjoy the covered wraparound porch, private fire pit, and waterfront gazebo, or unwind indoors with a feature fireplace and vaulted ceilings. Whether you're relaxing in the swinging daybed or exploring the on-site pond, this getaway promises a peaceful and indulgent escape.
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2. Luxurious Ozarks Lodge, Branson West
Address: Stone County, MO
Size: 2 bedrooms (sleeps 6), 2 bathrooms
Price: $138 average/night
Amenities: Wireless internet; Nearby activities include fishing, shopping, boating, museums, Outlet shopping, Antiquing, Water parks, and more
Located at the wonderful Ledgestone Golf Resort, an amazing premier resort in the Branson area, which has over 1000 acres with three pools, playgrounds, a golf course, trails, a private catch and release fishing lake, and an onsite restaurant. The cabin does have a fully stocked kitchen as well. Be sure to book your stay at The StoneBridge for a wonderful Ozarks vacation.
3. Log Cabin | Resort Amenities, Branson
Address: Branson, MO
Size: 2 bedrooms (sleeps 6), 2 bathrooms
Price: $108 average/night
Amenities: Wireless Internet, fireplace, fitness room, communal pool, spa whirlpool, indoor pool. Nearby activities include fishing, golf course, hiking trails, water parks, and more
This cabin is in a gated resort and is pet-friendly. It has two bedrooms, each with a television, a king-sized bed complete with a luxury mattress and linens, and a connected bathroom with a large jacuzzi tub and walk-in shower. Book your stay at this genuine log cabin to enjoy everything that Branson has to offer.
4. Outlaw Cove, Kimberling City
Address: Kimberling City, MO
Size: 7 bedrooms (sleeps 24), 7.5 baths
Price: $443/night
Amenities: Wi-Fi, TV, heat & air conditioning, washer & dryer, chef's kitchen, fireplace, private hot tub, game room, theater room, fire pit, grill, EV charger, community swimming pools, lazy river
Ratings: 5 stars
Outlaw Cove is a community of luxury rentals near Branson themed around Jessie James and the James Younger Gang. It is an incredibly fun spot for a family vacation, multi-family getaway, wedding party, or friend's getaway. The cabin has everything you need to have an incredible time from theater rooms to game rooms and high-end finishes everywhere. There is even a community lazy river! If you want your own private resort at a fraction of the cost, this mind-blowing rental should get you pretty excited.
Cabins in Missouri with Hot Tub
Staying in a cabin with a hot tub is like having your cake and eating it, too! These vacation rentals are the ultimate for stress relief and relaxation.
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5. Honey Hideaways, Ste. Genevieve
Address: Ste. Genevieve, MO
Size: 1 bedroom (sleeps 2), 2 bathrooms
Price: $360 average/night
Amenities: Valley view, mountain view, kitchen, Wi-Fi, private hot tub – available all year, fire pit, TV, washer, and dryer
Consider booking cabin getaways in Missouri, like Honey Hideaways, for an unforgettable escape. This charming mountain haven offers the ultimate relaxation with a private hot tub, where you can soak in stunning valleys and mountain views. As the sun sets, enjoy the warmth of the firepit while stargazing. With cozy furnishings and luxurious amenities, this cabin provides tranquility and privacy for your next romantic weekend getaway.
6. Pet-Friendly Branson Bear Cabin, Ridgedale
Address: Branson Cedars, MO
Size: 3 bedrooms (sleeps 8), 2 bathrooms
Price: $155 average/night
Amenities: Fireplace, grill on private deck, communal pool, spa whirlpool, private hot tub, jacuzzi bathtub, mountain/lake resort; Nearby activities include fishing, golf, and more
The whole family can enjoy a getaway to this pet-friendly cabin. Check out the path up through the flower garden and the nearby Thunder Ridge Nature Arena. The Branson Bear is a pretty special place to stay if you love that rustic log cabin feel.
7. Whispering Pines Lodge, Ridgedale
Address: Branson Cedars, MO
Size: 2 bedrooms (sleeps 6), 2 bathrooms
Price: $202 average/night
Amenities: Fireplace, spa whirlpool, private hot tub, wheelchair accessible, mountain view/lake Resort; Nearby activities include fishing, golf, hiking, boating, horseback riding, kayaking, and more; Optional services include massage, private chef
Located on a quiet street with only two other log cabins in a wooded area, this cabin features two large master suites with king-size beds and en-suite bathrooms which include jetted tubs and separate showers. There's a fully-equipped kitchen or you can enjoy award-winning restaurants close by if you'd rather not cook. Whispering Pines Lodge is a beautiful cabin surrounded by the iconic Ozarks wilderness.
8. Cypress Log Cabin, Blue Eye
Address: Blue Eye, MO
Size: 4 bedrooms (sleeps 10), 2 bathrooms
Price: $195/night
Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, TV, full kitchen, heat & air conditioning, washer & dryer, pool table, fire pit, grill, hot tub
Ratings: 5 stars
Gorgeous views of Table Rock Lake and 26 acres of land to explore! This cool log cabin has on-site hiking and biking trails and is only a five-minute walk to the lake. Plus, there is a three-hole disc golf course right on the property. It is the perfect home base for a day trip to Branson as well, which is about 30 minutes away. Easy access to golf courses nature parks and lake activities. The cabin itself is a lovely blend of rustic and modern so it is just right for your family vacation to Missouri.
Affordable Cabins in Missouri
You don't have to break the bank to take a cabin getaway in MO! There are plenty of affordable vacation rentals to choose from. The following are a few to consider, including one on the lakefront!
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9. Lake View Retreat, Climax Springs
Address: Camden County, MO
Size: 2 bedrooms (sleeps 8), 2 bathrooms
Price: $162 average/night
Amenities: Fireplace, washer and dryer, lake views
This cabin retreat offers gorgeous lake views of the Lake of the Ozarks, where you can go boating and fishing. For those who prefer hiking, check out Ha Tonka State Park which is close by. This lovely cabin getaway is ready to welcome you to your Missouri vacation in style.
10. Warren County Rustic Cabin, Marthasville
Address: Warren County, MO
Size: 1 bedroom (sleeps 6), 1 bathroom
Price: $102 average/night
Amenities: Wood-burning fireplace, free Wi-Fi, fire pit; Nearby activities include hiking, winery tours, and more
Called the Cowboy Cabin, you can really enjoy the outdoors while staying here. It features a large deck with space for grilling, and there's a bark park for your pets to be able to safely run and play, making it one of the most pet-friendly vacation rentals you can find. If you are up for a wine tour, check out Blumenhof Vineyards, Noboleis Vineyards, and the Augusta Winery, all within a 15-minute drive from the cabin.
11. Walk-in Log Cabin, Branson
Address: Indian Point, MO
Size: 2 bedrooms (sleeps 4), 2 bathrooms
Price: $99 average/night
Amenities: Free high-speed wireless Internet, electric fireplace, fully stocked kitchen, communal pool, hot tub with a brand new deck, water view (Table Rock Lake), mountain view (Ozark Mountains, Branson); Nearby activities include golf, hiking, kayaking, and more
Located in Eagles Nest Resort, this log cabin comes with amazing lake views of Table Rock Lake from the back balcony. It has been remodeled and includes all the comforts of home. Even better, the Table Rock Lake Log Cabin is an affordable way to enjoy the Ozarks.
Secluded Cabins in Missouri
Secluded cabin rentals give you a quiet, peaceful place to unwind, away from the hustle and bustle. It's the perfect spot to kick back, relax, and recharge.
12. Rustic & Modern Riverfront Cabin, Strafford
Address: Greene County, MO
Size: 2 bedrooms (sleeps 6), 2 bathrooms
Price: $225 average/night
Amenities: Mi-fi internet (slow and spotty), wood-burning fireplace, spa whirlpool, 6-person hot tub, kayak/canoe, and UTV available with a waiver, fire pit, waterfront with access to the river, riverfront (Upper James River); Nearby Activities include swimming, fishing, golf course, hiking trails, hunting, kayaking, and more
Less than an hour from the popular tourist destination of Branson, this cabin is the perfect getaway escape. It's child-friendly but also has many amenities. The James River Cabin is a wonderful place to stay to enjoy all of Missouri's outdoor adventures.
13. The Stoutsville Cabin, Stoutsville
Address: Monroe County, MO
Size: 3 bedrooms (sleeps 6), 1 bathroom
Price: $220 average/night
Amenities: Free Internet/WiFi; Gas fireplace; Boat parking available; Nearby activities include fishing, boating, museums, antiquing,water parks, and more
This cozy cabin will meet your situation, comfortable and cozy for a romantic weekend for two, but is big enough for a family getaway. There are five acres of nature to explore around the cabin, a one-acre pond to sit by and enjoy the firepit, and two porches and a balcony with a gorgeous view.
Romantic Cabins in Missouri
Do you have a special anniversary coming up soon? Or maybe you're just a hopeless romantic type! Some of the cottage rentals in MO are perfect for a romantic weekend getaway.
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14. 43-Acre Hillside Cabin, Defiance
Address: St. Charles County, MO
Size: 1 bedroom (sleeps 4), 1 bathroom
Price: $184 average/night
Amenities: Wood stove fireplace, washer & dryer, full kitchen, fire pit
Located in the heart of wine country, this cabin is the perfect place to unplug and reconnect with nature. It comes with all the amenities needed for a peaceful retreat, including a fishing lake, resident horses, and a fully equipped kitchen. Go hiking at Katy Trail and then check out Chandler Hill Vineyards located just minutes away. This hillside cabin on 43 acres has lots to see and do during your weekend getaway.
15. Riverfront Walker Ford Cabin, Steelville
Address: Crawford County, MO
Size: 1 bedroom (sleeps 4), 1 bathroom
Price: $168 average/night
Amenities: Wireless Internet, fireplace (non-burning), fire pit, water view, waterfront, riverfront; Nearby activities include fishing, golf course, hiking trails, hunting, kayaking, and more
This super cool stone cabin is positioned on two acres right on the banks of the upper Meramec River, where you'll enjoy panoramic views of the river and the bottom hay fields. Relax next to the river, take a swim, fish, or just watch the turtles sun on the logs.
16. Hidden Hollow, Walnut Shade
Address: Walnut Shade, MO
Size: 1 bedroom (sleeps 4), 1 bath
Price: $89/night
Amenities: Full kitchen, heat & air conditioning, washer & dryer, fire pit, grill
Ratings: 5 stars
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When you think about a glamping retreat you might imagine a cramped canvas tent, but this glamping cabin in the Ozarks blows that image out of the water! The interior feels more like a luxury cabin with a full kitchen, a cozy couch, a king bed, and a full-sized bathroom. No need to hunt down fuzzy leaves with this glamping cabin. Add in the Branson area's many fun attractions and you have one memorable vacation. The rental even comes with two complimentary tickets to the Hughes Brothers Theatre.
If you are planning a getaway, we hope you have discovered a few possibilities from our best cabins in Missouri list. Of all the cabins for rent, which would be your most preferred type? Rustic? Luxury? Share your favorites with us!
If you’re not sure where to head for your next weekend's getaway, consider exploring these picturesque small towns in MO. And if you’re looking for something unique to do during your downtime, don't miss these one-of-a-kind experiences.