Missouri’s Best Family Outings for Spring Break: Spring into Fun
Spring break is a time for families to take a break from their daily routines and enjoy some quality time together. Missouri offers a variety of family-friendly activities that are perfect for spring break. From amusement parks to nature trails, here’s our list of Missouri’s best family outings for spring break.
Spring is a beautiful time to visit Missouri, with blooming flowers, warmer weather, and longer days. Families can enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and fishing in the many state parks and nature reserves. For those who prefer indoor activities, Missouri has many museums, theaters, and other cultural attractions that are perfect for families.
Whether you are looking for adventure or relaxation, Missouri has plenty of options for a fun-filled spring break. So pack your bags, grab your family, and get ready to spring into fun in Missouri.
Top Destinations for Family Fun
Spring break is the perfect time for families to get out and explore all that Missouri has to offer. From thrilling amusement parks to scenic outdoor escapes, there’s something for everyone. Here are some of the top destinations for family fun in Missouri.
Kansas City Attractions
Kansas City is home to a variety of family-friendly attractions. The Science City at Union Station is a great place to learn and have fun at the same time. Kids can explore the world of science through hands-on exhibits and interactive displays. The Kansas City Zoo is another great destination for families. It features over 1,700 animals from around the world, as well as a variety of exhibits and events.
For those who love the outdoors, the Lakeside Nature Center is a must-visit. It offers a variety of nature programs, as well as hiking trails and a playground. And when it’s time to refuel, families can head to one of the many restaurants in the city, such as Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que or Gates Bar-B-Q.
St. Louis Adventures
St. Louis is another great destination for families. The Gateway Arch is a must-see, offering stunning views of the city from the top. The City Museum is another popular attraction, with its unique mix of art, science, and play. Families can also explore Forest Park, which features a variety of museums and attractions, including the Saint Louis Zoo.
For those looking for outdoor adventures, the Ozarks are just a short drive away. Ha Ha Tonka State Park is a great place to explore nature trails and caves, while the Wonders of Wildlife National Museum and Aquarium is a must-visit for wildlife enthusiasts.
Branson Entertainment
Branson is known for its entertainment, and there’s no shortage of family-friendly options. Silver Dollar City is a theme park that offers rides, shows, and attractions for all ages. Families can also visit one of the many museums in the area, such as the Titanic Museum or the Hollywood Wax Museum.
For those who love the outdoors, there are plenty of options in the Ozarks. Families can explore nature trails, go fishing, or even go on a guided wildlife tour.
Outdoor Escapes in the Ozarks
The Ozarks offer plenty of outdoor escapes for families. There are several state parks in the area, including Ha Ha Tonka State Park and Lake of the Ozarks State Park. Families can go hiking, fishing, or even rent a boat for a day on the lake.
For those who love wildlife, the Wonders of Wildlife National Museum and Aquarium is a must-visit. It features over 1.5 miles of exhibits, showcasing a variety of animals from around the world. And for those looking for a unique adventure, families can go on a guided tour of the area’s caves and caverns.
Overall, Missouri offers a variety of family-friendly destinations for spring break. Whether you’re looking for indoor or outdoor adventures, there’s something for everyone.
Nature and Wildlife Experiences
Spring is the perfect time to enjoy Missouri’s natural beauty and wildlife. From national parks to botanical gardens, there’s something for everyone. Here are some of the best nature and wildlife experiences in Missouri for families to enjoy during spring break.
Missouri’s National Parks and Trails
Missouri is home to several national parks and trails that offer a variety of outdoor activities. Ha Ha Tonka State Park is a popular destination for hiking and exploring its natural wonders, including caves, sinkholes, and a castle ruin. Mark Twain National Forest offers over 750 miles of trails for hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking. Elephant Rocks State Park is another must-visit destination with its unique rock formations and scenic trails.
Botanical Gardens and Wildflower Walks
Spring is the perfect time to enjoy the beauty of Missouri’s gardens and wildflowers. The Missouri Botanical Garden in St. Louis is one of the largest botanical gardens in the world and features over 79 acres of beautiful landscapes and gardens. Many parks and nature reserves throughout the state offer guided wildflower walks during the spring, allowing visitors to see Missouri’s native wildflowers in full bloom.
Wildlife Centers and Zoos
Missouri is home to several wildlife centers and zoos that offer educational and entertaining experiences for families. Wonders of Wildlife in Springfield is a world-class aquarium and wildlife museum that features over 35,000 live fish, mammals, reptiles, and birds. The Endangered Wolf Center in Eureka is dedicated to the conservation of endangered wolves and offers tours and educational programs. The Saint Louis Zoo is another must-visit destination with its wide variety of animals, including farm animals, birds, and endangered species.
Overall, Missouri offers a diverse range of nature and wildlife experiences for families to enjoy during spring break. Whether you’re interested in hiking, wildflowers, or animal encounters, Missouri has something for everyone.
Cultural and Educational Stops
Spring break is a great time to explore Missouri’s cultural and educational offerings with the family. From museums and science centers to historical sites and art galleries, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Museums and Science Centers
Missouri is home to several world-class museums and science centers that offer interactive exhibits and educational programs for kids and adults alike. One of the most popular museums is the City Museum in St. Louis, which features a five-story slide, a rooftop Ferris wheel, and a giant ball pit. Another must-visit attraction is the Wonders of Wildlife National Museum and Aquarium in Springfield, which showcases over 35,000 live fish, mammals, reptiles, and birds.
Historical Sites and Landmarks
For history buffs, Missouri has plenty of sites and landmarks that offer a glimpse into the state’s rich past. The Gateway Arch in St. Louis is one of the most iconic landmarks in the country and offers stunning views of the Mississippi River. In Hannibal, visitors can explore the Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum and learn about the life and works of the famous author. For a unique experience, families can take a tour of the Mark Twain Cave, which served as inspiration for many of Twain’s stories.
Art Galleries and Exhibits
Art lovers will appreciate Missouri’s diverse range of galleries and exhibits. The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art in Kansas City features over 35,000 works of art from around the world, including ancient Chinese ceramics and contemporary American paintings. In St. Louis, families can visit the Magic House and Kaleidoscope, which offer hands-on art activities for kids.
Whether you’re interested in history, education, or the arts, Missouri has something for everyone to enjoy during spring break.
Recreational Activities for All Ages
Spring break is a perfect time to get out and enjoy the beautiful weather. Missouri has a lot to offer when it comes to outdoor activities. Here are some of the best recreational activities for all ages in Missouri.
Theme Parks and Playgrounds
Missouri is home to Silver Dollar City, a theme park that has something for everyone. It is a great place to take the family for a day of fun. The park has over 40 rides and attractions, including roller coasters, water rides, and live shows. There are also plenty of places to eat and shop.
For toddlers and younger children, Missouri has many playgrounds that are perfect for their imagination and energy. Some of the best playgrounds in Missouri include the Citygarden in downtown St. Louis, which has a splash pad and interactive sculptures, and the Discovery Playhouse in Cape Girardeau, which has a treehouse and a pretend grocery store.
Festivals and Seasonal Events
Spring in Missouri means festivals and seasonal events. There are many festivals that celebrate the season, such as the Dogwood Festival in Camdenton, which showcases the beautiful pink and white dogwood trees, and the Apple Blossom Festival in St. Joseph, which celebrates the blooming apple trees.
There are also many seasonal events that are perfect for the whole family. One of the most popular events is the Missouri Botanical Garden’s Japanese Festival, which features traditional Japanese music, dance, and food. Another popular event is the Missouri State Fair, which takes place in Sedalia and features carnival rides, live music, and agricultural exhibits.
Shopping and Dining
Missouri has many great shops and restaurants that are perfect for a day out. For shopping, the Country Club Plaza in Kansas City is a great place to start. It is a beautiful outdoor shopping center that has over 150 shops and restaurants.
For dining, there are many great options in Missouri. One of the best places to eat is in downtown St. Louis, which has many great restaurants that offer a variety of cuisines. Some of the best restaurants include Pappy’s Smokehouse, which serves some of the best barbecue in the city, and Rooster, which serves delicious breakfast and brunch dishes.
Overall, Missouri has a lot to offer when it comes to recreational activities for all ages. Whether you are looking for fun things to do with the whole family, or just looking for a day out, Missouri has something for everyone.
Exploring Missouri’s Small Towns
Spring break is the perfect time for families to explore Missouri’s small towns, which offer a variety of family-friendly activities and attractions. From wine country and culinary tours to quaint downtowns and local shops, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Here are some of the best small towns to visit in Missouri during spring break:
Wine Country and Culinary Tours
Missouri is home to some of the best wineries in the Midwest, and many offer free admission and tastings. Families can take a scenic drive through Missouri’s wine country, stopping at wineries along the way to sample local wines and enjoy beautiful views of the countryside. For those who prefer beer, there are also several craft breweries in the area.
In addition to wine and beer, Missouri is also known for its culinary delights. Families can take a culinary tour of the state, visiting local restaurants and markets to sample regional specialties like toasted ravioli and barbecue.
Quaint Downtowns and Local Shops
Many of Missouri’s small towns have charming downtown areas filled with local shops and boutiques. Families can spend the day exploring these areas, browsing unique gifts and souvenirs. Some towns, like Eureka and Cape Girardeau, also have historic districts with beautiful architecture and interesting landmarks.
Riverboat Rides and Waterfront Activities
Missouri is home to the mighty Mississippi River, and families can take a riverboat ride to explore the area. The Mark Twain Riverboat in Hannibal offers a variety of cruises, including sightseeing tours and dinner cruises. Families can also enjoy waterfront activities like fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
Overall, Missouri’s small towns offer a wide range of family-friendly activities and attractions to explore during spring break. Whether you’re looking for wine country tours, local shops, or riverboat rides, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Planning Your Missouri Spring Break
Spring break is a great time to explore Missouri with your family. With so many family-friendly options, it can be overwhelming to plan your trip. Here are some tips and resources to help you plan a fun and stress-free spring break.
Accommodation and Transportation Tips
When planning your Missouri spring break, it’s important to consider your accommodation and transportation options. If you’re flying into Missouri, Kansas City International Airport and Lambert-St. Louis International Airport are the main airports to consider. Alternatively, if you’re driving, make sure to check road conditions and plan your route ahead of time.
In terms of accommodation, Missouri offers a wide range of options to suit every budget. From hotels and motels to vacation rentals and campgrounds, there’s something for everyone. Make sure to book your accommodation in advance to avoid disappointment.
Visitor Centers and Resources
Visitor centers are a great resource for information about Missouri’s attractions, events, and activities. The Missouri Division of Tourism has a comprehensive website that includes information about all the state’s regions, including St. Louis, Branson, and Columbia. You can also find information about visitor centers and resources on the website.
Kid-Approved Itineraries
When planning your Missouri spring break, it’s important to consider activities that are kid-approved. St. Louis is home to the iconic Gateway Arch, the Saint Louis Zoo, and the Magic House Children’s Museum. Branson offers a range of family-friendly attractions, including Silver Dollar City and the Titanic Museum. Columbia is home to the Columbia Mall and the Adventure Club, an indoor playground.
Make sure to plan your itinerary in advance to make the most of your time in Missouri. Consider a mix of indoor and outdoor activities to accommodate any weather changes.
Overall, planning your Missouri spring break can be a fun and exciting experience. With the right resources and a bit of planning, you can ensure a memorable family vacation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top family-friendly attractions in Missouri for spring break?
Missouri has plenty of family-friendly attractions to offer during spring break. Families can visit the Sea Life Aquarium in Kansas City, take a ride on the Branson Scenic Railway, or explore the City Museum in St. Louis. The Ozark National Scenic Riverways is also a great option for families who enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking, and fishing.
Where can I find exciting spring break activities for kids in St. Louis?
St. Louis has a lot of exciting activities for kids during spring break. Families can visit the St. Louis Zoo, the Magic House, or the Missouri Botanical Garden. The Gateway Arch is also a must-see attraction in St. Louis. Families can take a tram ride to the top of the arch for a stunning view of the city.
What are some unique Midwest spring break destinations for families?
In addition to Missouri, there are many other unique Midwest spring break destinations for families. Families can visit the Mall of America in Minnesota, the Wisconsin Dells in Wisconsin, or the Henry Doorly Zoo in Nebraska. The Mackinac Island in Michigan is also a great option for families who want to experience a car-free island.
Can you recommend any spring break road trip ideas originating from Wisconsin?
Wisconsin is a great starting point for a spring break road trip. Families can drive to Door County for scenic views of Lake Michigan, visit the House on the Rock in Spring Green, or explore the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore. The Wisconsin Dells is also a popular destination for families with its water parks and amusement parks.
Are there any notable spring break events or festivals in Missouri?
Missouri hosts several notable spring break events and festivals. Families can attend the Missouri Cherry Blossom Festival in Marshfield, the Dogwood Festival in Camdenton, or the Ozark Mountain Spring Festival in Eureka Springs. The Silver Dollar City in Branson also hosts a Spring Ride Days event with thrilling rides and live entertainment.
How can families maximize their spring break experience in Branson, Missouri?
Families can maximize their spring break experience in Branson by visiting Silver Dollar City for its rides and attractions, exploring the Titanic Museum Attraction, or taking a scenic train ride with the Branson Scenic Railway. Families can also enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and boating at Table Rock Lake or Lake Taneycomo.
