Jefferson City by the Missouri River

The capital of the state of Missouri, Jefferson City is located on the northern edge of the Ozark Plateau on the southern side of the Missouri River. This region is called Mid-Missouri and is just about mid-way between the two larger urban areas of Kansas City and St. Louis in the state.

Missouri State Capitol was completed in 1917. Inside the building is the Missouri State Museum. The amazing artwork inside the capitol was done by artists like American artist Thomas Hart Benton and Welsh artist Sir Frank Brangwyn. You can get a free guided tour.

On the ground floor, you’ll find the Missouri State Museum is a popular tourist attraction. It exhibits around 125 Civil War battle flags many of which were captured by Missouri units during the Civil War. Admission is free.

The Bicentennial Bridge is a 12-foot-wide pedestrian/bicycle bridge that connects the Missouri State Capitol Complex to the 30-acre parkland located north of the Union Pacific Railroad. The bridge spans the railroad and slopes down to Deborah Cooper Park on Adrian’s Island. Here people can enjoy the riverfront.

Next to the capitol, you’ll find the Lewis and Clark Monument. It overlooks the Jefferson Landing Historic Site and the Missouri River.

The Jefferson Landing State Historic Site includes the historic Christopher Maus House.

Lohman’s Landing Building has a general store and a warehouse from the 1850s.

The Union Hotel includes the Elizabeth Rozier Gallery exhibiting the state’s history, art, and culture. On the ground floor of the hotel building is the Amtrack train station.

The Missouri Governor’s Mansion is a historic place reflecting the history of Missouri. Tours can be booked.

Carnahan Memorial Garden is located next to the Governor’s Mansion. It has lovely flower displays, trees, pools, and walkways. It was named in honor of Governor Carnahan. The venue can be reserved for special occasions and weddings.

The Missouri State Penitentiary is the oldest prison in Jefferson City. It was opened in 1836. Taking a prison tour you can see the cells of renowned heavyweight champion celebrity Sonny Liston and James Earl Ray. This prison was named by Times Magazine as the “bloodiest 47 acres in America” due to its dark past.

Runge Nature Center has different trails exhibiting the natural resources of Missouri, marine life, birds, wildlife, and forests. In the indoor wildlife viewing area, you can see exotic animals. There is a nature library and a gift shop for souvenirs. Among the highlights is the 3,580-gallon fish aquarium. For children, there are interactive activities. Outside of the center are hiking trails.

Binder Park is a natural preserve with a lake. Visitors can enjoy boating and fishing on the lake. There is space for picnicking and softball fields to have a softball game. There are RV campgrounds available with amenities, barbecue grills, and electrical hookups.

Hough Park also has a lake for canoeing and fishing. On the other side of the park is the Oak Hills Golf Center.

Katy Trail State Park is situated along the former Missouri-Kansas-Texas Railroad. It is the longest rail trail available for recreation in the country. The park is great for hikers, cyclists, and nature lovers. It is near the Missouri River.

The Missouri Farm Bureau log home is listed as one of the most important historical sites in Missouri. It is located at the back of the Missouri Farm Bureau. This kind of structure was used in the 1800s. The tour lets you learn about the agricultural history of the state during that time, seeing exhibits, and informative videos.