Here are 8 stops to make between Kansas City and St. Louis during your next road trip

Road trips are a hallmark of summertime.

If you are traveling between Kansas City and St. Louis, there are several fun stops to make along the way. Whether you want to enjoy a nice resort or learn more about the state’s history, there are exciting attractions between Missouri’s two major cities.

Here’s a look at eight stops you should consider making the next time you hit the road.

Harry S Truman National Historic Site

223 North Main St., Independence

On your way out of the city, stop by the Harry S. Truman National Historic Site in Independence. Learn about the history and personal life of the 33rd President of the United States. Take a tour of Truman’s family home, learn about his time as a soldier in World War I, or take a self-guided walking tour The park is open on Wednesdays through Sundays from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Battle of Lexington State Historic Site,

1101 Delaware St., Lexington

Just a 45-minute drive east of Independence and you’ll run into the Battle of Lexington State Historic Site. The Civil War landmark still has evidence of bullet holes and cannon shots, according to Missouri State Parks. There is also a visitor’s center, gardens, a museum and walking trails. The grounds are open daily from sunrise to sunset.

Nicholas-Beazley Aviation Museum

1985 S Odell Ave., Marshall

The Nicholas-Beazley Aviation Museum is stacked with old-school airplane models, a flight simulator and other tours and attractions for the entire family. The museum hours are from Tuesday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The museum is under an hour and 30 minutes from Kansas City proper.

Shelter Gardens

1817 West Broadway, Columbia

Shelter Gardens in Columbia is a vibrant garden that includes a waterfall, gazebo, sundial and Vietnam Veterans memorial. The garden, which is located behind the Shelter Insurance corporate building, features more than 300 varieties of trees and shrubs and 15,000 flowers and plants. In June and July, the garden hosts free concerts every Sunday evening, according to Visit Columbia, Missouri. The garden is open daily from 8 a.m. to dusk.

Missouri State Capitol

201 W Capitol Ave., Jefferson City

Make sure to visit Jefferson City to see the Missouri State Capitol. The Capitol building is open year-round and offers free guided tours, which last up to an hour long. During your visit, you may see state lawmakers at work or the famous works by artists like Thomas Hart Benton throughout the halls. Tours can be scheduled by calling the museum at 573-751-2854 or visiting here.

America’s National Churchill Museum

501 Westminster Ave., Fulton

America’s National Churchill Museum is on the campus of Westminster College in Fulton. The museum explores the life and works of Winston Churchill, who served as the prime minister of the United Kingdom twice between 1940 and 1955. The museum is a tribute to Churchill’s leadership and principles. The museum is open daily from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Admission is between $6.50 and $12 per person.

Pinckney Bend Distillery

1101 Miller Street, New Haven

The Pinckney Bend Distillery has a 950-square-foot patio, where people can enjoy locally distilled spirits, listen to music or even stroll through downtown New Haven. If you want to try any of their gin or whiskey, try a patio sampler for just $7, just remember to drink responsibly. The patio is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Ameristar Casino Resort and Spa

1 Ameristar Boulevard, St. Charles

If you’re ready to wind down, visit the Ameristar Casino Resort and Spa is the perfect getaway outside of St. Louis. Whether you want to gamble or visit the 7,000-square-foot spa, there are lots to do at Ameristar. The casino has eight eateries and 130,000 square feet worth of games to check out. The casino is open daily except on Wednesdays from 5 a.m. to 6 a.m.

This story was originally published June 8, 2023 at 11:15 AM.