Top Dog-Friendly Activities and Road Trip Destinations in Missouri
This dog-friendly itinerary follows I-70 and I-44, traveling from East to West and back again, and features stops in St. Louis and other fun places to visit across Missouri. Whether you opt for a one-way journey or an entire loop around the state, do not miss out on the fantastic attractions and activities along the way.
So, let’s see what you can find on this route.
1. St.Louis – Gateway Arch National Park
Gateway Arch National Park, located in St. Louis, Missouri, is an iconic and dog-friendly national park best known for its centerpiece, the Gateway Arch. At 630 feet, this towering structure is the world’s tallest arch and symbolizes the United States’s westward expansion.
The Gateway Arch, gleaming against the city skyline, commemorates Thomas Jefferson’s vision of westward expansion and St. Louis’s pivotal role as the “Gateway to the West.” Surrounding the arch, the park offers a variety of experiences and attractions, including the historic Old Courthouse at its base. The park also features beautiful green spaces, perfect for a relaxing walk with your dog.
2. St. Louis – Malcolm W Martin Memorial Park
On the opposite side of the Mississippi River from the Gateway Arch in St. Louis, you’ll find Malcolm W. Martin Memorial Park, a scenic and dog-friendly destination in East St. Louis. The park offers stunning views of the St. Louis skyline and the iconic Gateway Arch. Visitors can relax near the Malcolm Martin statue and step back in history while enjoying the picturesque view.
3. St. Charles
St. Charles is a historic city and one of the oldest settlements on the Mississippi River. Founded in 1769, it has a rich history and was vital to the United States’ westward expansion. It served as the first capital of the Missouri Territory and was the starting point of Boone’s Lick Road, a crucial route for pioneers heading west.
One of the standout features of St. Charles is its historic downtown district. With its charming brick buildings, Main Street is home to various shops, restaurants, and art galleries. The area exudes a nostalgic ambiance with cobblestone streets, gas lanterns, and beautifully preserved architecture. Visitors can enjoy a stroll, shop for antiques, dine at local eateries, and soak up the small-town charm.
Many shops and restaurants welcome well-behaved dogs. One popular choice is Old Millstream Inn, known for its delicious Cajun and Creole cuisine, BBQ, and excellent beer selection.
4. Jefferson City
Jefferson City, Missouri’s capital, is centrally located along the Missouri River. Founded in 1821, it was named after Thomas Jefferson, the third President of the United States and the principal author of the Declaration of Independence.
A prominent landmark in Jefferson City is the Missouri State Capitol, a majestic building that dominates the city’s skyline. Completed in 1917, the Capitol is an architectural masterpiece featuring a stunning dome and classical design.
As one of the fun places in Missouri, Jefferson City offers numerous opportunities for outdoor activities, particularly along its extensive greenway. This multi-use trail, spanning 15 miles throughout the city, provides a safe alternative to walking on busy streets and offers ample outdoor recreation, relaxation, and enjoyment opportunities.
The whole map you can find HERE.
5. Grindstone Nature Area
Grindstone Nature Area spans over 200 acres and features diverse ecosystems, including forests, wetlands, and open fields. Several trails are suitable for hiking, trail running, and nature walks. Further, these trails wind through the scenic landscape, offering opportunities to observe native flora and fauna.
One of the main attractions in Grindstone Nature Area is Grindstone Creek, a picturesque waterway that meanders through the reserve. The creek provides habitat for various aquatic species and is a popular spot- for fishing and wading during warmer months.
Most trails, like Grindstone Nature Loop and Capen Park Traila, are not too long but an excellent opportunity to stretch your and your pup’s legs.
6. Kansas City
If you’re looking for a short and exciting walk in Kansas City, I recommend visiting the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. While pets are not allowed inside the museum building, they can accompany you in the sculpture garden. It offers many fantastic photo opportunities, including a shot with a giant badminton birdie.
For a great spot to enjoy exceptional beer and snacks, head to Casual Animal Brewery Company. This dog-friendly brewery allows pets inside and outside, making it a perfect place to relax with your furry friend.
7. Grand Falls
Grand Falls, located near Joplin, Missouri, is a stunning natural waterfall and a popular regional attraction. Known as the “largest continuously flowing natural waterfall in Missouri,” Grand Falls impresses with its width and the sheer volume of water cascading over it.
Formed by Shoal Creek, the falls tumble over a chert rock ledge, creating a picturesque scene as the water plunges into a scenic gorge before continuing downstream. Situated just 3 miles off I-44, it’s an easily accessible stop for road-trippers.
Although Grand Falls isn’t a traditional trail, it features a rocky area perfect for exploring with your dog. Be cautious; the rocks can be slippery, but the 163-foot-wide waterfall offers a breathtaking sight. There’s also a beach area where dogs can splash in the water if they enjoy swimming. This spot provides various activities, from swimming and sunset watching to capturing beautiful photos—just be mindful of the weather, as rainy and cold days can make the experience less enjoyable.
8. Fantastic Caverns
Fantastic Caverns, known as America’s Ride-Thru Cave, lies beneath the picturesque Ozarks hills just north of Springfield, Missouri, five miles from Historic Route 66. As one of the fun places in Missouri, it is one of only four caverns worldwide that you can drive through.
Visitors embark on a one-hour journey through this underground wonderland aboard propane-powered Jeep-drawn trams, tracing the path carved by an ancient underground river. The tour covers a mile-long route, allowing guests to marvel at the breathtaking cave formations up close. From towering columns from floor to ceiling to delicate soda straws adorned with glistening minerals and tiny cave pearls in crystal-clear water, the cave presents a mesmerizing spectacle of nature’s artistry.
Friendly and well-behaved dogs are welcome to join the adventure at Fantastic Caverns. The cavern’s history is intertwined with man’s best friend; it was discovered by John Knox and his faithful bloodhound, Juno, in 1862. Knox, wary of the cave’s potential exploitation during the Civil War, kept its existence a secret until 1867.
Zen and Juno
9. Route 66 The Red Rocker
The creator of this Missouri roadside marvel must have had quite the imagination!
In 2008, the “World’s Largest Rocking Chair” debuted along historic Route 66, standing proudly outside the Fanning Outpost General Store in Cuba, Missouri, one of the fun places in Missouri. Over 42 feet tall, it claimed the title from 2008 to 2015. Though it may have slipped to second place since then, this colossal chair still commands attention and is a must-see for any Route 66 enthusiast.
Visitors from around the globe have made their mark, adorning the rocker’s base with stickers and decals—the welcoming shop staff delight in sharing stories of encounters with travelers from near and far. While there, indulge in some flavored popcorn or treat yourself to an old-fashioned bottled soda—it’s a delightful pit stop on your Route 66 adventure.
10. Mark Twain National Forrest
The vast expanse of Mark Twain National Forest sprawls across several sections of the Ozark Plateau, showcasing a diverse tapestry of landscapes. From rugged hills to expansive forests and crystal-clear rivers to captivating natural wonders, this forest offers something for every nature lover.
Outdoor enthusiasts will find endless opportunities for adventure within the forest’s boundaries. Hiking, camping, fishing, hunting, horseback riding, and nature photography are just some activities awaiting visitors. Trails of varying lengths cater to hikers of all levels, ranging from short day hikes to extended multi-day treks. The Slabtown Cave Overlook Trail, spanning just one mile, offers a fantastic vista, but you can customize your route to explore more of the area.
The forest’s scenic rivers, such as the Current and Eleven Point Rivers, beckon water enthusiasts with canoeing, kayaking, and fishing opportunities.
Mark Twain National Forest boasts designated wilderness areas for those seeking a deeper connection with nature. Visitors can immerse themselves in unspoiled landscapes, ideal for backpacking and reveling in the solitude of the wilderness.
Wildlife thrives within the forest’s boundaries, with white-tailed deer, wild turkey, black bears, and many bird species calling it home. Birdwatchers will delight in the abundance of resident and migratory birds, providing ample opportunities for observation and appreciation.
11. St Louis – Laumeier Sculpture Park
Nestled in St. Louis County, Laumeier Sculpture Park is a dog-friendly outdoor sculpture park and museum with over 60 large-scale contemporary sculptures.
At the park, art and nature intersect to create an immersive experience. It’s one of the most fun places in Missouri. Wander through wooded areas and open meadows. Discover an eclectic collection of sculptures by local talents and renowned artists from around the globe. Each sculpture’s unique style, material, and concept add to the park’s dynamic outdoor gallery, sparking contemplation and dialogue.
One of the park’s highlights is Tony Tasset’s iconic sculpture, “The Eye.” This massive, fiberglass eyeball has become an emblem of the park and a popular photo opportunity for visitors. Other notable works include Alexander Liberman’s “The Way,” a large red sculpture made from steel beams, and Ernest Trova’s “Falling Man.” Laumeier Sculpture Park offers a unique blend of outdoor recreation, cultural enrichment, and artistic exploration.
If you have a couple more days, you can visit nearby Dog-friendly Tennesssee or check out our other DESTINATIONS.
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