The greatest thing about a road trip featuring waterfalls is that the falls are all located in beautiful state parks and natural areas, guaranteeing that the falls won't be all you see. With this Missouri waterfalls road trip map, that trip has never been easier to take. Take a hike with a beautiful waterfall rewarding you at the end. Explore a city park with numerous attractions. No matter where you find the falls, you will have fun just getting there, so take your time and look around a bit on this waterfall road trip in Missouri. Off we go on the ultimate road trip to the best waterfalls in Missouri.
Also known as Flegel Falls, the 75-foot waterfall known as the Cascades was built in the 1930s and is named for the World’s Fair Cascades that ran down Art Hill during the fair in 1904. They are located in Forest Park on a steep slope west of the Saint Louis Art Museum.
After a rain event, a large wet-weather waterfall can be enjoyed from the end of the Hickory Canyons Natural Area Trail on the east side of the county road. A nice, easy half-mile hike will take you past several rocky bluffs and overhangs on the way to the waterfall.
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Here's a video of the area:
This beauty might inspire you to take a waterfalls road trip.
Mina Sauk Falls is the highest waterfall in Missouri. It cascades 132 feet over a series of ledges into Taum Sauk Creek. It is a wet-weather waterfall that flows best after a rain. Located in Taum Sauk Mountain State Park, it is conveniently located adjacent to our next location.
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his is one of the most spectacular finds on any map of waterfalls in Missouri.
Near Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park, at the foot of Taum Sauk Mountain, is home to falls or "shut-ins" created by volcanic rock that is carved out by the East Fork of the Black River. You can approach the falls from countless angles, and at many points, the river cascades in many rivulets over and around igneous rocks worn smooth over time.
Rocky Falls in Shannon County is another waterfall that can also be considered a shut-in. Located nine miles southeast of Eminence on Highway NN, Rocky Falls cascades down sixty feet of igneous rock into a pool of cold, clear water. Rocky Falls is a popular spot with swimmers during the hot summer months, although it's an ideal destination to visit any time of the year.
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Of all the waterfalls in Missouri, this may be the most stunning.
Marvel Cave is a National Natural Landmark located just west of Branson on top of Roark Mountain in Stone County. Located 505 feet below the surface, the Waterfall Room is the lowest room on the cave tour. The source of the water is from the underground stream named The Lost River.
Grand Falls is the largest continuously flowing waterfall in Missouri. The natural falls are created by a ledge of solid chert rock that measures 163 feet across. The water from Shoal Creek then plunges 12 feet to a rock ledge. While it is not the tallest waterfall, it is a must-see while in the Joplin area, and you are guaranteed to see it flowing every time you visit.
This stunning waterfall makes us want to dive right in!
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This Missouri waterfalls road trip could just as easily work backward, from Joplin to St. Louis, or start at any point in between. There are other, lesser-known falls that you might find along the way, as well as lots of options for staying the night or catching a great meal. Do you plan on setting off on a road trip to the best waterfalls in Missouri? Let us know in the comments! Do you like wine? How about pairing your next road trip with wine and waterfalls:
If You Only Have One Day To Visit This Small Town In Missouri, Here’s Everything You Absolutely Can’t Miss
Discover the best things to do in Washington, Missouri, in just one day! Explore local art, history, unique shops, train watching, and more in this small town.
Tucked along the banks of the Missouri River, Washington, Missouri, is the perfect destination for a one-day adventure. With its rich history, thriving arts scene, and local charm, this small town offers a taste of everything that makes Missouri special. In just one day, you can explore a National Historic Trail, browse locally-made goods, take in local art, find unique old books, step into a historic factory, and even watch trains rumble by, all while soaking in Washington’s small-town hospitality. Best of all, nearly every must-see stop is within walking distance, so lace up your sneakers and get ready to explore!
Your first stop in Washington should be WashMO On the Go, a one-of-a-kind shop that doubles as the town’s unofficial visitors center. Owner Toni has thoughtfully curated a space that’s more than just a shopping experience; it's an insider’s guide to all things Washington. She knows the town like the back of her hand, so don't be shy if you have any questions. You’ll be hard-pressed to stump her!
Housed in the historic 1888 Water Works Building, the shop is a treasure trove of local history. Inside, you’ll find exhibits on Lewis and Clark, Daniel Boone, Native American history, and even a model train exhibit that kids (and adults!) will love, especially given its location right next to the railroad.
The shop showcases goods from over 72 local artisans and crafters, offering everything from handmade gifts to vintage finds, antiques, and seasonal decor.
The shop is family-friendly, featuring a 2,000-gallon fish tank with local Missouri River fish, dioramas of local animals, a Lewis & Clark boat replica, and a train car to sit in. Plus, a tactile exhibit featuring locally resourced bones, insects, rocks, and furs.
Open seven days a week, WashMO On the Go is the perfect place to grab a snack, pick up maps of the area, and even get your National Parks Passport stamped (the shop is located on the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail). I was surprised this stop made it on the National Parks list, and it made me want to explore further what parks are included in the National Parks system; check out the link.
Take in Local Art in Washington, Missouri
If you’re going to visit a local art gallery, you’d want to go to the one owned by the head of the local arts council, right? Room for Art in Historic Downtown Washington, Missouri, has some of what you might expect: beautiful oil paintings, watercolors, and photography, much of it showcasing local scenery. But I love this gallery's approachability and community-driven spirit through the goods it offers. In addition to fine art, local artisans can make usable pieces, like handcrafted leather keychains, wallets, walking sticks, greeting cards, and fiber arts (they make great gifts). It's the perfect blend of art you can admire and art you can take home.
Visit a Historic Factory, the First and Last of Its Kind
One of Washington's most unique stops is the Missouri Meerschaum Company, the only remaining factory in the world that still manufactures corn cob pipes. I know, corn cob pipes? Stick with me here; this place has over 150 years of rich history!
The on-site museum tells the story of the company’s beginnings in 1869 and features an impressive collection of documents and correspondence from famous literary figures and military personalities who enjoyed their pipes. A tour guide will walk you through the factory’s history and the craftsmanship that has kept the company thriving for over a century. Even if pipes aren’t your thing, it’s hard not to respect the legacy of this factory. They sell tobacco, “cob wear,” and natural pipes from their Cornabis Collection, a nod to Missouri’s legal cannabis scene. This was one stop that local guide Toni from WashMO On the Go insisted you can't miss!
Washington Is One of the Best Places in Missouri to Watch Trains
Even if you’re not a rail fan, there’s something captivating about watching trains in Washington, Missouri. I feel like the steady rhythm of the wheels on the tracks, the distant whistle, and the sheer power of these machines can be mesmerizing. Trains evoke a sense of exploration and movement, a reminder of the open road or, in this case, the open rails. The anticipation of spotting a train builds excitement; hearing it approach, seeing it emerge in the distance, and feeling it rumble by is exhilarating, much like birdwatching when you spot a rare species.
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Here Are Three Ways You Can be a Trainspotter in Washington, Missouri:
1. The Amtrak Station
Housed in the historic 1923 Missouri Pacific Railroad Depot: Amtrak Train Station Washington, Missouri, also serves as a visitor center and home to the Mid-Missouri Fine Arts Gallery. Here, you can watch trains go by while waiting in the passenger room or exploring the depot’s history.
2. Rennick Riverfront Park
Just a block from downtown, this riverfront park in Washington, Missouri, is steps away from the railroad and offers an unobstructed view of trains passing by, with the Missouri River in the background. It’s the perfect spot to relax and take in both natural and mechanical beauty.
3. Marquart's Landing
For a more up-close-and-personal train-watching experience, grab a bite to eat at Marquart's Landing, a restaurant practically perched on the railroad tracks. Sit out on the amazing patio, and you’ll feel the vibrations and hear the sounds of trains passing right next to you.
And here’s a bonus stop for train enthusiasts: while it’s not the real thing, the Iron Spike Train Museum is still worth a visit. The museum features model trains of various scales on working tracks, exhibits on train history, and a library dedicated to railroading.
If you only have one day to spend in Washington, Missouri, you’ll be amazed by how much this small town has to offer. From its rich history to its vibrant arts scene, Washington is a perfect mix of heritage and local charm. What are some of your favorite small towns in Missouri?
Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts
If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.
Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.
There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.
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Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.
Why We Love Them: How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them: Shop this candle and more on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.
Why We Love It: We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)
Why We Love Them: It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes, especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them: Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website. Price (at time of publication): $149
Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers, too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It: Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication): $32
Why We Love Them: The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them: Yoto is available on their website and Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $69.99 for player
Why We Love Them: The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel! Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94
Why We Love Them: If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them: Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website. Price (at time of publication): $131.75
Why We Love Them: I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $69.99
Why We Love Them: All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication): Varies by Product
Why We Love It: It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L. An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."
Where to Buy Them: Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication): $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)
Why We Love Them: The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $50
Why I Love It: This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshellfive years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It: Buy it now on REI. Price (at time of publication): $179 (both men's and women's)
Why We Love Them: I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City. Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them: Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $19.78
Why We Love Them: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication): $9.70
Why We Love Them: The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110
Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks. These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It: I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication): 3/$15.00
Why I Love It: I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle, especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them: The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $27.95.
Why We Love Them: This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 for 8 cubes
Why We Love Them: I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned. It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication): $88
Why We Love Them: We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $17.66
Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It:Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication): $195
Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-testedthis high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150
Why We Love It: Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It:Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $149.99
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If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...
