The best part about living in Missouri is experiencing all four amazing seasons. Summer is one of the best seasons to take trips and spend some extra time doing the things you love. Here are 10 different activities and attractions across Missouri that are worth the trip. Plan your next vacation day and visit one of these out-of-this-world summer adventures -- they're some of the best day trips in Missouri, in fact!

1. Float down the Meramec River.

Every summer requires a float trip down one of Missouri's many rivers. The Meramec is one of Missouri's more popular floating destinations.

2. Stroll through the gardens.

The Shelter Gardens in Columbia is a beautiful,

tucked-away oasis in the middle of town. Enjoy the beautiful grounds and check out the old school house that was moved to the site.

3. Ride in style to the vineyards of Hermann.

Hermann, Missouri, is known for its amazing wineries and unique German heritage. Take a day trip to Hermann and board the trolley to your favorite vineyard or restaurant. For more information, read the full article about Missouri's very own Wine Country!

4. Hike under these giant rock formations.

At Elephant Rocks State Park you can hike among Missouri's oldest rock formations. Picture a pack of pachyderms out in the wilds of the Missouri Ozarks; that sums up Elephant Rocks State Park. Just like their animal counterparts, these pink-tinged rocks are massive, weighing in at more than 600 tons and reaching heights of over 20 feet. Created from granite more than 1.5 billion years old, the boulders are popular with visitors of all ages, including the kiddos who often climb on the so-called elephant train. And in fact, these boulders are big and sturdy enough to climb; the largest elephant, dubbed "Dumbo," stands 27 feet tall and weighs 680 tons. For those not into climbing and squeezing between the pack's tight spaces, there is an ADA-accessible interpretive trail that offers an equally wonderful way to experience this natural marvel.

5. Have drinks on a swanky rooftop restaurant and lounge.

Take advantage of the warm summer evenings and grab drinks on the patio of The Roof. The restaurant is located on the top floor of The Broadway Hotel and provides stunning views of downtown Columbia. This place is also fun in the winter when they sometimes bring out the heated igloos!

6. Visit This State Park for a shaded hike with plenty of places to cool off.

Pickle Springs Nature Area is 180 acres of enchanting forest. This day trip is perfect for those who love nature or love to hike. For more information, read our full article about Pickle Springs Nature Area.

7. Get outdoors to experience some oversized artworks.

Looking for a unique place to explore? Laumeier Sculpture Park is a beautiful park tucked behind office buildings in St. Louis County. This little art oasis is great for interacting with art and nature. It's such a fun museum experience!

8. Cool off with a day at the beach.

Summer and the water just go hand-in-hand, especially in Missouri. We can lounge on one of the state’s sandy beaches that lead straight into cool lake waters, or we can spend time on the water, exploring Missouri’s many beautiful lakes. Smithville Lake in Missouri, for example, provides an idyllic backdrop for a day of kayaking under the summer sun. Smithville Lake, located just north of Kansas City has not one but two awesome sand beaches. Spend a day boating, golfing, swimming, or enjoying nature at Smithville Lake.

9. Spend the day in Ste. Geneviève, Missouri's oldest town with endless attractions.

If you’ve never been to Sainte Genevieve or if it’s been a while, you’ll definitely want to plan a day trip or a weekend getaway to this charming small town, the oldest in Missouri, that’s home to just under 4,500 people.

The tiny town of Ste. Geneviève is actually Missouri's oldest settlement. This old trading town is now full of history, vineyards, amazing restaurants, shopping, and so much more. In fact, "O Magazine" named it one of the country's most charming small towns, and once you visit, you will undoubtedly agree!

10. Celebrate summer with a visit to this unique homemade ice cream shop.

If you're looking for a one-of-a-kind ice cream shop, look no further than Sparky's in Columbia. Try refreshing flavor combinations like lavender honey or get adventurous and go for a boozy shake. Yes, please!

Have you been to any of the attractions on this list? Tell us about your experiences, and your favorite summer day trips in Missouri, in the comments below.

If your need more ideas for summer fun check out these 12 things you must do under the summer sun in Missouri.