Experience Missouri’s rich military history and heritage while honoring veterans.
Day One
A. Museum of Missouri Military History
Exhibits date from the founding of the Missouri Militia in 1808, to today's modern Guard. Items cover the Missouri National Guard its involvement in the Civil War, World Wars I and II, and other conflicts; plus humanitarian relief efforts.
The facility is located at the Missouri National Guard's Ike Skelton Training Center, east of Jefferson City. You will need to show identification at the center's main gate.
B. National Cemetery – Jefferson City
There are more than 1,500 burial sites for veterans of wars dating from the War of 1812 to the Vietnam War. This site was originally intended to be used as a burial site for Civil War soldiers from the surrounding area, with the first burial taking place in 1861. This cemetery holds the distinction of being a final resting place for Federal and Confederate soldiers. Federal gravestones have a familiar arched top while the Confederate gravestones have a gabled angle top.
C. Lincoln University and the Soldiers Memorial Plaza
Lincoln University, one of the first historically black colleges in the United States, was founded in 1866 by the men of the 62nd and 65th United States Colored Infantries and their white officers, for the special benefit of freed slaves. The Soldiers Memorial Plaza stands as a tribute to the founders of Lincoln University.
D. Central Dairy Ice Cream Parlor
A Jefferson City tradition since the 1930s, Central Dairy Ice Cream Shop offers a wide variety of flavors (everything from vanilla to Extreme Moose Tracks) and treats for you to enjoy. It's a "must-stop" on your trip to Missouri's capital.
E. Missouri Veterans and Law Enforcement Memorials
Two memorials, located on the north side of the Missouri Capitol.The Veterans Walk is a limestone colonnade with eight columns, a terraced waterfall, and a reflecting pool.The Law Enforcement Officers Memorial pavilion honors those who gave their lives in the line of duty.
F. The Elms Hotel and Spa
A circa 1912, 153-room hotel and spa. Rest your head where the famous (Harry S. Truman) and infamous (Al Capone) have slept. Amenities include a 19,000-square-foot spa; hot tubs; pools; and a restaurant.The Elms is about a two-hour drive from Jefferson City.
Day Two
A. Harry S. Truman Library and Museum
A quick half-hour drive from The Elms brings you to a closer encounter with our 33rd President. Among his many accomplishments, President Harry S. Truman served in World War I, presided over the end of World War II and guided the nation through the Korean War.The Truman Library offers theaters, a museum store and dozens of interactive and hands-on exhibits designed to engage all ages.
B. National WWI Museum and Memorial
Only 13 miles from the Truman Library, is the National World War I Museum at the Liberty Memorial. This is the only American museum dedicated solely to preserving the objects, history and personal experiences of a war whose impact still echoes today: World War I. Housing more than 55,000 objects, the museum uses interactive technology, along with its world-class collection, to tell the story of the war through the eyes of those who lived it.
C. The Raphael Hotel
This one of a kind boutique hotel is patterned after Europe's fine small hotels. The Raphael is designed to offer a uniquely Kansas City experience, combining the intimacy and charm of a locally significant landmark with highly individualized service. Located less than a block from the famed Country Club Plaza shopping, dining and entertainment district