43 Fantastic Things To Do In St Joseph, MO - Travel In Missouri (2024)

Last updated on August 28th, 2023 at 09:40 am.

Todd and I just got back from our third visit to St. Joseph, MO. We are amazed at how much there is to explore in this small town, so we keep heading back to check out more museums, restaurants, breweries and outdoor adventures. You’ll be astonished by all of the fun things to do in St. Joseph, MO.

St. Joseph was incorporated in 1851 and is a town filled with wild west history and is where the famous American outlaw Jesse James met his end. The town also played a crucial role in the Pony Express.

If you’re looking for a place with a bit of everything – history, fun, and fantastic food – then St. Joseph, MO, should be on your travel radar. It’s a friendly city with so much heart and soul, and I can’t wait to go back for more adventures!

If you want a Missouri local’s take on what to do in St. Joseph you have come to the right place – read on for my top 43 favorite St. Joseph attractions and activities!

Fun Fact: Rapper and songwriter Eminem as well as renowned American journalist and longtime anchor of the CBS Evening News Walter Cronkite were born in St. Joseph.

Getting Around St. Joseph

Getting around St. Joseph is a breeze since it’s a small town, with most of the historic sites, museums, and the charming downtown area within easy reach. Not much is more than a 5-mile drive away.

Where to Stay in St. Joseph

When deciding where to stay in St. Joseph, there are three types of accommodations to choose from. Your first option is one of the historic B&Bs. This is probably the best option if you are traveling solo or as a couple. The best B&B is the Shakespeare Chateau Inn (more on that below — see #9).

Your second option is one of the many hotels in in St. Joseph. This is probably the best option if you are traveling as a family or small group. The best hotel in St. Joseph is the Stoney Creek Hotel. Most other hotels are chains.

On the other hand, if you are traveling with a big family or as a large group, you’ll be better off renting a cabin or house. You’ll have more space and likely save some money. The easiest way to find vacation rentals around St. Joseph is on Airbnb or VRBO.

Fun Things to do in St. Joseph, Missouri

1. Jesse James Home Museum

Learn about the notorious outlaw Jesse James at his former residence, which now is now a museum. The James Home Museum has exhibits about James’ life, family, and information about the infamous James-Younger Gang. You can also see the bullet hole in the wall where he was shot and killed.

The Jesse James Home Museum in St. Joseph is just one of more than 10 places in Missouri you can visit that share the story of the outlaw Jesse James. In fact, we have a fullJesse James Roadtrip guide!

Address: 1201 S 12th St, St Joseph, MO 64503

2. Jesse James Casket

Back in 1882, when Jesse James met his untimely end, his body was taken to the Heaton-Bowman-Smith funeral home. There, an autopsy was carried out, and today, this very funeral home houses a unique and intriguing museum. Step inside, and you’ll find the original death ledger and the very casket (they called it a corpse basket) that held the legendary outlaw.

Admission to this museum is free. You’ll get to delve into the history of the mortuary profession, gaining fascinating insights into how things were done back in the day. And that’s not all – there’s an array of displays showcasing historic Missouri newspapers, offering a glimpse into major events that shaped the state’s past.

Location: Heaton-Bowman-Smith and Sidenfaden Chapel Funeral Museum | 3609 Frederick Ave., St. Joseph, MO

3. Glore Psychiatric Museum

For those interested in the unusual, the Glore Psychiatric Museum in St. Joseph provides a unique and sometimes eerie exploration of the history of mental health care.

Established in 1874 as St. Joseph’s State Lunatic Asylum No. 2, the Glore Psychiatric Museum offers an intriguing glimpse into the history of mental health treatment. Housed within the former surgery and outpatient building of the hospital, the museum not only chronicles the past of State Hospital #2 but also delves into the broader evolution of caring for the mentally ill.

During the 1940s, the hospital played a significant role in the widespread practice of lobotomies, even serving as a teaching hospital for doctors seeking to learn the lobotomy procedure. Today, the museum showcases replicas of archaic treatment devices from the 17th, 18th, and 19th centuries, shedding light on the methods employed in the past.

Impressively, the Glore Psychiatric Museum holds the distinction of being the world’s largest psychiatric museum. It has garnered national recognition and acclaim, earning a place among the “50 most unusual museums in the country.” Notably, it has been featured in esteemed publications and television networks such as The Learning Channel, The Discovery Channel, PBS, and The Science Channel.​

Admission also includes the Black Archives Museum and Doll Museum (read more below at #18 & #19).

Address: 3406 Frederick Avenue, St. Joseph, MO, 64506

4. Pony Express National Museum

Discover the fascinating history of the Pony Express, a legendary mail delivery service, at the Pony Express National Museum.

For a mere 18 months, from April 1860 to October 1861, the Pony Express left an indelible mark on the Old West, becoming a true symbol of that era. In a time before electronic communication, it served as the vital thread that connected the East via St. Joseph, Missouri and the West via Sacramento, California.

Explore the exhibits with great displays, video and audio and learn about the brave riders who once traveled the frontier.

Address: 914 Penn St, St Joseph, MO 64503

5. Pony Express Monument

The first Pony Express Statue was unveiled in St. Joseph, Missouri, on April 20, 1940, commemorating the 80th anniversary of the Pony Express.

The bronze horse and rider was created by Hermon A MacNeil, a famous sculptor, who carved the frescoes of many state capitals, as well as, the U. S. Supreme Court sculptures in Washington, DC.

Also on the bottom of the statue are four plaques sharing information about the Pony Express and it’s history.

Location: 910 Frederick Ave, St Joseph, MO 64501 (at Tenth and Frederick streets).

6. Visit the Pony Express Ferry Site

Beginning in St. Joseph, Missouri, the Pony Express trail crossed the Missouri River to Kansas. A monument located along the shoreline of the Missouri River along the Saint Joseph Riverwalk, represents the original site of the ferry crossing.

The above monument reads: On this site, April 3, 1860, a ferry carrying a horse and rider crossed the Missouri River to start a 10-day journey of 1,966 miles to deliver mail to Sacramento, California.

The race against time, elements, and a hostile land captured the spirit of Americans, helped hold California for the Union, and proved a central overland route was possible.

Operators William Russell, Alexander Majors, and William Waddell went broke without a government mail contract, and the telegraph replaced the daring Pony Express riders after 19 months of operation.

Location: Saint Joseph Riverwalk – South Entrance at N 6th St. & Francis St.

7. Chiefs Training Camp

Missouri Western State University is the place to be in the summer for die-hard Kansas City Chiefs fans! That’s right – the Chiefs have set up their training camp right here, and the best part is that all practices are open to the public. So, you can catch your favorite players in action pre-season.

Most practices are absolutely free for fans, but keep an eye out for any special dates that may be only for season ticket holders.

Location: Mosaic Training Fieldsat Missouri Western State University

8. Walter Cronkite Memorial

Walter Cronkite, a true icon in our nation’s history, held a position of utmost trust and importance in the hearts of millions from the 1960s-1980s. Interestingly, he was born in St. Joseph, making it a place of special significance for this legendary figure.

Missouri Western State University has paid a fitting tribute to this remarkable man through a self-guided tour and a memorial museum dedicated to his life and illustrious career.

You’ll find a treasure trove of TV footage, interviews, and even a replica of Walter Cronkite’s CBS news desk. On display are his Peabody Awards, George Polk Award, Emmy Awards, and an intriguing timeline that unfolds the story of his life.

If you’re a fan of journalism, history, or simply admire Walter Cronkite’s profound impact on our society, this self-guided tour is an absolute must.

Location: Missouri Western State University; 4525 Downs Drive, Spratt Hall Atrium,
Saint Joseph, MO 64507

9. Stay at The Shakespeare Chateau Inn and Gardens Bed & Breakfast

Of all the lovelyB&Bs in St. Joseph,Shakespeare Chateau Inn and Gardens B&Bis our favorite! It’s located in the Hall Street Historic district on a bluff overlooking downtown.

Every room in the B&B has it’s own unique furnishings, antiques, and art. The gilded-age mansion was originally built in 1885 in the Chatequesque architectural style. With the dark mahogany throughout, ornate carvings, 47 original stained glass windows it is truly one of the finest examples of a Victorian Age mansion in America.

Plus, it’s just minutes away from downtown St. Joseph and on the Hall Street walking tour.

If you’re not able to stay at the Shakespeare Chateau Inn and Gardens, you should at least schedule a tour.

Check out the hotel reviews on TripAdvisor.

Address: 809 Hall St, St Joseph, MO 64501

10. Hall Street Historic Homes Walking Tour

Hall Street Historic District walking tour is a cool way to see some seriously gorgeous post-Civil War mansions from the 19th and early 20th centuries in St. Joseph. The architecture styles are diverse, like Italianate, Second Empire, Châteauesque, Romanesque, Queen Anne, and Neo-classical revival.

The best part is that Isobel McGowan, Innkeeper from the Shakespeare Chateau made a great guide booklet for the tour. It’s got all the important info about the historic homes, their history, and the different architectural styles.

So, if you’re into history and architecture, or just looking for a nice walk, you should do this tour. You’ll feel like you’re stepping back in time while exploring these beautiful mansions right in the heart of St. Joseph.

Location: Hall Street at N 7th & 8th

11. Museum Hill Historic District

Museum Hill is a neighborhood of fantastic Victorian architecture located in the river bluffs of Saint Joseph. The most notable house in this area is the Wyeth-Tootle Mansion (see more on this below at #23).

Signs mark the streets with these impressive mansions (some in beautiful shape and sadly some that are no longer taken care of and vacant).

*Museum Hill is a National-Register listed local historic district.

12. Patee House Museum

The Patee House Museum is a National Historic Landmark in St. Joseph. The building was a 140-room luxury hotel, built in 1858 by John Patee, and once served as the headquarters for the Pony Express. It now houses exhibits about the Pony Express, transportation history, and the region’s cultural heritage.

The museum has an enormous number of artifacts, displays, old-fashioned cars, lots of old and historic photos and so much more.

On the first floor is the actual headquarters for the Pony Express, and where it started on April 3, 1860.

On this floor, there is also a replica of an old-fashioned town based on St. Joseph with replica’s of everything from the post office, to a barber shop, a mercantile, and an 1854 Saloon with the original bar.

You’ll also see Civil War uniforms and relics, the 1860 Hannibal and St. Joseph locomotive and railway mail car, 1865 firefighter equipment and truck, and even the famous “Wild Thing” Merry-go-round. You will also see a 1920s style service station complete with a Model T Ford, plus antique cars, trucks, fire trucks and a 1921 race car.

On the second floor, there are hundreds of collectables ranging from light bulbs to antique perfume bottles, antique telephones and radios. There is a Buffalo Solider display and additional Civil War displays as well as a restored 1860 hotel room.

There is A LOT here. Plan for at least 2 hours, but I could see spending an entire day exploring the exhibits.

Address: 1202 Penn St, St Joseph, MO 64503

13. Bluffwoods Renaissance Festival

Bluffwoods Renaissance Festival is a 2-day event in St. Joseph that takes place every May. It started in 2022 and next year, in 2024, it will be celebrating its 3rd year. The festival runs from 10 am to 6 pm on both days.

Admission costs $15 for a weekend pass, and children aged 5 and under get in for free.

At the festival, you’ll find many unique craft vendors, tasty food, and drinks. There’s also a great lineup of performers, including singers, jugglers, and comedians. One of the exciting highlights is the fully armored knights jousting on horseback.

Location: Castle Bridge Event Center; 8403 US-59 St Joseph, Buchanan County, MO 64504

14. Schweizer Orchards

Schweizer Orchards offers a unique u-pick experience. This 86-acre family-owned farm has been growing and packing high-quality River Bend Apples for over four generations.

Schweizer Orchards operates a retail market with a wide variety of products like jams, jellies, salsas, relishes, kitchen accessories, fresh fruit, and produce. On top of that, they provide a range of fun activities, including a playground, picnic area, corn maze, apple cannon, and wagon rides in the fall.

But the real excitement comes from their u-pick option. Based on the season, visitors can pick their own apples, pumpkins, peaches, blackberries, raspberries, and blueberries, making it an unforgettable experience for the whole family.

Hours are Monday-Saturday 9am-5:30pm and Sunday 1pm-5pm.

Address:5455 SE State Rte FF, St Joseph, MO 64507

15. Robidoux Row Museum

Joseph Robidoux IV (1783-1868) was an American fur trader and is known as the founder of St. Joseph, Missouri. Robidoux built seven connected houses in the 1840s. It is the oldest building in Saint Joseph. It was built to accommodate settlers heading from the east coast, those waiting for their wagons to be ferried across the river to continue heading west or during the long hard winters.

Today the homes are a museum and listed in the National Register of Historic Places.

The museum showcases the history of Saint Joseph, starting from its pre-settlement days to the Westward Expansion and the Golden Age. Inside, you’ll find restored and immersive living quarters, giving visitors a glimpse of the past.

Location: Third & Poulin Streets

16. Lovers Lane

Lovers Lane is a famous road that Eugene Field mentioned in his poem “Lovers Lane, Saint Jo“. It’s found where Lovers Lane meets Northwest Parkway and has some old homes with historical significance. When Field wrote the poem in the year 1889, it was a secluded country road where he wooed his future wife.

Location: Where 18th Street meets Grand Avenue and extends a mile and a half to the northeast until it meets Ashland Avenue.

17. Beattie Mansion – A Haunted Overnight Stay

The Beattie Mansion, also known as the house on the hill, holds a storied history as one of the most haunted places in the city. Built in 1854, it was once the home of Armstrong and Eliza Beattie, with Armstrong being the city’s first banker and mayor. After their passing, the mansion served various roles, including a refuge for the homeless, aged, and orphaned.

Local psychic Mary Ann Podrasky believes that the mansion’s history of housing distressed souls has left a lingering presence, resulting in strange occurrences like voices, odd lights, and unexplained sounds. The mansion’s renovation attempts were marked by contractors experiencing paranormal activities, leading some to refuse to return.

Eliza’s spirit is said to roam the second floor, while the basem*nt holds a male entity who taunts visitors. Despite its haunted reputation, Podrasky reassures that the spirits are not evil and encourages visitors to approach with an open mind.

The mansion has attracted attention from ghost-hunting teams and TV shows and is open for tours and visits to the public. It even offers the opportunity for overnight stays, but know that no Ouija boards are not allowed.

Address: 1120 Main St, St Joseph, MO 64501

18. Black Archives Museum

The Black Archives Museum is part of the St. Joseph Museums and is housed in the same building as the Glore Psychiatric Museum. It showcases the achievements and contributions of African American citizens from St. Joseph, Missouri. The exhibits cover different periods, including the Antebellum and Civil War era, jazz legends, and local individuals who made significant contributions to civic and community leadership.

The museum was founded in 1991 by Jewell Robinson, a former teacher at Bartlett High School in St. Joseph. It features exhibits on various topics, such as the Underground Railroad, the Middle Passage, Desegregation, Education, Sports, and Music.

Address: 3406 Frederick Avenue, St. Joseph, MO, 64506

19. Doll Museum

Established in 1968 with five dolls from Orrel Andrews’ estate, the Society of Memories Doll Museum grew over 40 years. In 2011, it merged with St. Joseph Museums, Inc., housing over 1,500 dolls, toys, and unique dollhouses.

The collection features well-known dolls like Barbie® and Cabbage Patch®, alongside lesser-known ones from famous manufacturers like Simon & Halbig and Jumeau. Among the toys are tin soldiers and pull-toys that evoke the playtime of past generations.

Notable pieces include “Spike,” a papier-mâché English bulldog from the Victorian era, and “Miss Hyogo,” a Japanese Friendship Doll gifted in 1927.

Address: 3406 Frederick Avenue, St. Joseph, MO, 64506

20. Sotelo Mexican Restaurant

We had planned to visit Sotelo based on Yelp reviews. It was confirmed when several local’s also recommended it for lunch. Its an out of the way place in an unassuming building that has good things inside. The owners are from Vera Cruz and it’s authentic Mexican Food with an excellent atmosphere and good service.

The food was delicious and the margaritas were enormous! The chips were warm and the salsa had a nice kick. I had chicken enchiladas suiza and Todd had chile rellenos. The portions are big and it’s a solid choice. In fact, I posted a photo of my lunch on Instagram and I got a comment from a local who is originally from Mexico City who said here favorite places for Mexican food in St. Joseph are Sotelo and Tacos Leo for Pastor tacos.

Address: 27 Minerva Avenue, Saint Joseph, MO 64501

21. Live Music Friday & Saturday at Jake’s

A variety of local and touring acts perform live at Jakes’s Steakhouse Friday and Saturday nights from 7-10pm.

Address: 620 Edmond St Saint Joseph, Missouri 64501

22. Kris and Kates Ice Cream

Drive-through and walk up soft-serve ice cream, floats, twisters, sundaes and malts as well a few foodie treats like Frito pie, hot dogs and nachos.

They also have a gluten-free dairy free frozen treat; the Dole Whip. If you love pineapple this is a delicious treat on a hot day.

Address: 2330 N 36th St, Saint Joseph, MO 64506

23. Wyeth-Tootle Mansion

This Victorian mansion in St. Joseph showcases the elegance and grandeur of the late 1800s. Take a guided tour to admire the stunning architecture and learn about the mansion’s history.

Address: 1100 Charles St, St Joseph, MO 64501

24. Albrecht-Kemper Museum of Art

Art enthusiasts should stop by the Albrecht-Kemper Museum of Art in St. Joseph. The museum showcases a diverse collection of American art, including paintings, sculptures, and decorative art pieces.

Founded in 1913 by the St. Joseph Art League, the art museum began its journey to raise awareness and appreciation for the arts. The Albrecht Gallery was established in 1966 within the residence of Mr. and Mrs. William Albrecht.

Today, as the sole nationally-accredited museum in the region, it remains committed to arts education and supporting emerging artists in northwest Missouri, northeast Kansas, southeast Nebraska, and southwest Iowa.

Address: 2818 Frederick Ave, St Joseph, MO 64506

25. Visit the Oldest saloon west of the Mississippi River

Step into history at The First Ward House in St. Joseph, a legendary establishment known as the oldest continuously operated saloon west of the Mississippi River. This iconic venue boasts an original bar top that has witnessed the tales of time since 1878, adding to its allure and charm.

Considering its storied past, it comes as no surprise that The First Ward House has a fascinating connection to the infamous outlaw Jesse James. Having settled in St. Joseph in 1881, it’s entirely conceivable that Jesse James himself might have stepped foot in this very saloon, making it a hub of even more historical significance.

But the intrigue doesn’t end there! The whispers of Bonnie and Clyde’s visit to the establishment further add to its enigmatic allure. It’s said that these notorious outlaws passed through the doors of The First Ward House, leaving their mark on its history.

Beyond its rich historical associations, some claim that the spirits of the past may still linger within the walls of this iconic saloon, sparking rumors of haunting tales.

The First Ward House is a full bar as well as pub serving up great wings, burgers, salads and lot’s more.

Address: 2101 St Joseph Ave, St Joseph, MO 64505

26. Karaoke at The First Ward House

The First Ward House has Sunday Karaoke that starts at 8pm. It’s said to be the most popular place on Sunday nights for local servers, bartenders and other bar owners to hang out. So, if you love to sing and want to meet some locals, this is the place on Sunday!

27. Visit a Saint Joseph Brewery

St. Joseph has four diverse breweries that cater to various tastes and preferences. Angry Swede stands out for its unique location in a former bank building, complete with a secret speakeasy in the basem*nt.

1st Barrel Brewing, the newest addition, surprises patrons with an ever-changing menu of craft beers brewed in a small 1-barrel system, using unusual and creative ingredients.

D&G Pub and Grub offers more than just great beer; it’s a lively venue with concerts featuring national touring acts.

As for River Bluff Brewery, it takes the crown as the largest in town, having expanded to a new location in KCMO’s River Market. Their rich history, housed in a building on the national register of historic places, adds to the charm. Notably, their award-winning Speedliner beer is a favorite among locals.

28. Check out the Huston Wyeth Hill Scenic Overlook

The Huston Wyeth Hill Scenic Overlook is a hidden gem that offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city and its surroundings. This picturesque vantage point is located atop a hill, making it the perfect spot to capture stunning vistas of the Missouri River and the charming city below.

Named after Huston Wyeth, a prominent figure in St. Joseph’s history, this scenic overlook is a testament to the city’s rich heritage. The area is beautifully landscaped, providing a serene and tranquil setting for visitors to unwind and enjoy the beauty of nature.

If you have the chance, visit at sunrise or sunset; it’s a prime location for photographs.

Address:802 Prospect Ave, St Joseph, MO 64501

29. Tiny Park & overlook on Felix Street

Location: Felix Street between N 9th & N 19th Streets

30. Stetson Factory Outlet

Outlet for Stetson as well as Resistol, Dobbs, Wrangler and Charli 1 Horse Hats. They also clean and shape hats.

Address: 3601 S Leonard Rd, St Joseph, MO 64503

31. Dine at the Hoof & Horn

Dating back to 1898, the Hoof & Horn is the oldest restaurant in town.

Originally, Hoof & Horn was a saloon and brothel in a quaint two-story building. However, in 1907, the establishment took a new turn when a retired policeman stepped in and transformed it into a restaurant.

One of the secrets to their culinary success lies in their use of exclusive aged Certified Black Angus beef. This carefully selected beef ensures that every cut from their in-house butcher shop is nothing short of perfection – tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor.

So, if you’re on the hunt for a true taste of history and a dining experience that stands the test of time, Hoof & Horn is the place to be.

Address: 429 Illinois Ave, St Joseph, MO 64504

32. Summer Concerts in the Park

The Sounds of Summer Concert Series are on the 3rd Friday from May through October in Coleman-Hawkins Park which is located in downtown St. Joseph. The concerts are free and from 6:30-9:30. Most locals brought chairs or blankets for the grass areas, but we were lucky and found a park bench to enjoy the music.

Address: 7th and, Felix St, St Joseph, MO 64501

33. Buy Cherry Mash at Hyvee

Don’t miss out on a sweet treat while you’re in St. Joseph – make sure to grab some of the famous Cherry Mash candy at the local Hy-Vee store. The history of this candy dates back to 1876 when George Washington Chase, a former doctor turned confectioner, began crafting candies in the city.

Fast forward to 1918, and George’s son, Ernest Chase, came up with the brilliant idea of creating the beloved Cherry Mash candy. This treat features a luscious cherry center mashed with real maraschino cherries, encased in a layer of chopped peanuts, all covered in creamy milk chocolate.

In the roaring 1920s, Chase Candy Co. had soared to new heights, offering over 500 candy varieties. Although you can no longer take a factory tour, fret not! You can easily find Cherry Mash candy at various shops, including the neighborhood Hy-Vee grocery store.

Address: Hy-Vee; 201 N Belt Hwy, St Joseph, MO 64506

34. River Bluff Trail

River Bluff Trails Park is located in the northern part of St. Joseph, among the bluffs of the Missouri River. It offers 46 recreational trails, totaling 11 miles, perfect for bikers, joggers, hikers, and nature enthusiasts.

The park has multiuse cross-country trails and dedicated biking trails, including downhill runs and flow lines. There’s a variety of trails, from beginner-friendly youth skill zones to expert-level drops and gaps.

For bike enthusiasts, there are plenty of one-way downhill trails with jumps, gaps, and drop features that require advanced skills.

If you prefer walking, there are also miles of cross-country trails accessible to pedestrians. Plus, there’s a bike/pedestrian bridge that connects River Bluff Trails Park to Huston Wyeth Park in the south. It’s a great place to explore and enjoy nature!

Location: 802 Prospect Ave, St Joseph, MO 64501

35. Mount Mora Cemetery

Established in 1851, Mount Mora Cemetery proudly is the oldest operating cemetery in Saint Joseph, Missouri. Recognized for its historical significance, it has earned a place on the National Register of Historic Places.

A standout feature within the cemetery is the famed “Mausoleum Row,” situated near the main gate. Here, a remarkable array of mausoleums stands tall, commemorating the economic and social elites of St. Joseph from bygone times.

The twenty-one mausoleums on this iconic row, coupled with nine others scattered throughout the cemetery, serve as poignant tributes to the turn-of-the-century era of St. Joseph.

Within the hallowed grounds of Mount Mora, you’ll encounter the final resting places of significant historical figures, including three Missouri governors, as well as M. Jeff Thompson, known as “The Swamp Fox” of the Confederacy. The cemetery also pays homage to the daring spirits of the past, with two Pony Express riders and two of Quantrill’s Raiders finding their eternal rest here.

Address: 824 Mt Mora Rd, St Joseph, MO 64501

36. Find one of the 36+ Statues in Town

Discover the artistic heart of St. Joseph by taking a stroll through downtown and throughout town and immersing yourself in a St. Joseph Sculpture Walk. There is a diverse collection of sculptures; from thought-provoking abstracts to life-size creations.

The exhibit runs annually, from mid-June to mid-May, making it a seasonal treat for both locals and visitors alike.

As you wander through the charming streets, keep an eye out for numerous permanent statues that pepper the town, adding even more artistic charm to this picturesque city.

37. Frontier Casino

St. Jo Frontier Casino has over 400 video poker and slot machines, all “ticket-in, ticket-out” for convenience. They also offer various table games like Mississippi Stud, Craps, and Trilux Blackjack.

There are other games available, including Keno, Diamond Point Progressive, Gold Stacks 88, Buffalo Gold, Bao Zhu Zhao Fu, Lightning Link, and more. If you get hungry while playing, they have dining options like Jo’s Coffee, Winner’s Bar & Grill, and Fireside Sports Bar & Grill.

Address: 777 Winners Cir, St Joseph, MO 64505

38. Corby Parkway

St. Joseph has a beautiful Urban Trail system with lush green scenery along most of its route for a nice bike, walk or run. You can choose from various routes to customize your trail experience, whether you prefer a shorter or longer hike. Some sections of the trail have steep hills, adding a bit of challenge to your walk. As you walk, you’ll also pass through a residential area with some lovely homes along the way.

• Length: 15.8 miles
• Trail end points: Ferndale Ave. south of Karnes Rd. and Hyde Park at Southwest Pkwy.

39. Remington Nature Center

Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the Remington Nature Center in St. Joseph. The center offers exhibits about the region’s wildlife, habitats, and conservation efforts. Enjoy scenic views of the Missouri River from the center’s observation deck.

It’s much more than a nature preserve. It tells the story of the evolution of animals and humans from the Eurasia and Pleistocene through displays; a timeline of over 10,000 years ago to the 1800’s.

There are also displays showing what St. Joseph was like in the 1800’s, about the Civil War, the 1866 Chisolm Trail and railroad expansion through St. Joseph.

Address:1502 McArthur Dr, St Joseph, MO 64505

40. Krug Park

1859 two German brothers; William and Henry Krug immigrated to St. Joseph and started a packing plant business. In 1889 they donated 10 acres to the city to be used as a park and within a year that had been increased to 20 acres and by 1936 the family had donated a total of 162 acres making Krug Park the largest in the city.

Today Krug Park is known for its beautiful gardens, walking trails, and a charming carousel. There is even a small waterfall and fishing for trout in the lake! Take a leisurely stroll and enjoy the peaceful ambiance. Or you can take the loop drive around the park.

Inthewinter, the park has some ofthemost beautiful drive-thru Christmas lights!

Address: 3500 St Joseph Ave, St Joseph, MO 64505

41. Murals

There is a downloadable murals tour, but you will also see several murals just exploring the historic old town of St. Joseph between 6th & 7th and Francis & Edmond.

42. St. Joseph River Walk

2.3 mile paved walking and biking trail from Heritage Park, through Riverfront Park, and south to Robidoux Landing. Along the path are scenic overlooks of the Missouri River, interpretative signage about Native Americans, The Pony Express and Joseph Robidoux (for whom the city was named).

43. Take a Self Guided Auto Audio Tour

The National Park Service have a Auto Tour Route Interpretive Guide through Western Missouri To Northeastern Kansas that includes St. Joseph. This tour shares the story of pioneers who gathered to prepare for their journey at Independence and St. Joseph, Missouri for westward expansion, the Pony Express and more historic sites.

There you have it… 34 of the best things to do in St. Joseph! Did we miss anything? Let us know in the comments below.