Girls’ Weekend Trips in Missouri

Missouri's first and largest region in the National Register of Historic Places runs parallel to the Missouri River. The brick-paved streets are home to one-of-a-kind boutiques and shops, located in restored buildings that date to the 1800s. Numerous restaurants, bakeries and pubs provide plenty of opportunities to refresh and refuel while you shop.

Explore a collection of locally owned and operated shops in a quaint shopping neighborhood in Branson. The products are unique, ranging from handcrafted gifts and accessories to sweet treats and gourmet foods. In addition to the boutiques and specialty shops, there are a pair of eateries, including a 50’s-style diner with singing servers!

This 15-block district in Kansas City is one of the Midwest's major shopping, dining and entertainment destinations. The area - featuring century-old Spanish-inspired architecture and an array of fountains, sculptures and mural - has more than 150 upscale shops and dozens of restaurants, night clubs and hotels.

Founded in 1859, the Missouri Botanical Garden is the country's oldest botanical garden in continuous operation. The National Historic Landmark, located in St. Louis, features 79 acres of gardens and historic structures. Indoor and outdoor displays include the Climatron tropical rain forest, Kemper Center for Home Gardening, Japanese Garden, George Washington Carver Garden, historic Tower Grove House and the seasonal Doris I. Schnuck Children's Garden.

For outdoor fun, you'll find more than 38 miles of hiking, backpacking and equestrian trails winding through this 6,393-acre park, located near Troy. The park also offers camping, a lake for fishing and swimming, picnicking, and a visitor center.

Giant, billion-year-old granite boulders stand end-to-end, like a train of pink circus elephants at this state park in Belleview. A mile-long trail (with Braille signage) winds among these geologic wonders and takes you past the remains of a former mining operation. Afterward, cool off at Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park, featuring a geological “waterpark” with chutes, pools and waterfalls. If you want to extend your getaway to two days, stay at the park’s cabins.

With 970 acres of rolling hills and windswept meadows, Powell Gardens – Kansas City's botanical garden – offers breathtaking display gardens, a nature trail and beautiful architecture. The Marjorie Powell Allen Chapel, designed by architect Fay Jones, is a quiet place for reflection and inspiration.

Enjoy the decor inside or patio seating at James Beard Award-winning chef Michael Smith's restaurant in Kansas City. The menu includes Mediterranean tapas and an extensive selection of wines.

For a variety of options, visit St. Louis Union Station. A balance of nostalgia and renovation, the historical building is a mixed-use complex featuring fun attractions and several eateries. Dine at the 1894 Café for a taste of classic American fare, The Pitch – a soccer bar for sports fans – or The Train Shed, where contemporary cuisine and creative cocktails make up the menu. After, indulge in a delicious dessert at the Soda Fountain. With confectionary creations delivered by spoon or straw, each sweet treat is designed to delight your inner kid with an over-the-top twist.

Creative burgers and boozy shakes take center stage at Black Sheep Burgers and Shakes, with three locations in Springfield. A variety of cocktails and beer is also available.

Savor some mouthwatering barbecue at Danna’s in Branson. The meat is specially prepared, marinated with a flavorful rub and slow smoked until it’s falling off the bone. In addition to barbecue, Danna’s is well known for its burgers – handmade from fresh beef or turkey and cooked to order. For those with a sweet tooth, try the rich, buttery Memphis Rolls. They taste like a yummy doughnut, and you’ll be asking to order a dozen to go.

Overlooking Lake of the Ozarks, The Lodge of Four Seasons is a peaceful getaway. Indulge in a relaxing treatment at Spa Shiki, have a great meal and conversation at the restaurant, and when the weather allows, take in the view from the outdoor patio - where every sunset is an event.

Located in the Ozark Mountains overlooking Table Rock Lake, Big Cedar Lodge is a remote haven of natural beauty and outdoor adventure. The resort's collection of lodges, cottages and cabins provide the perfect place to relax with friends after a day on the lake. Big Cedar is home to numerous restaurants, a breathtaking spa, championship golf courses, an expansive shooting facility and Fun Mountain, a 50,000-square-foot activity center.

The first AAA Four Diamond hotel in St. Charles offers 397 luxurious suites with oversized baths, sunken living rooms and floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the Missouri River or the city of St. Charles. A 7,000-square-foot luxury spa includes a state-of the-art fitness center and a spa boutique.

Located just steps from Kansas City's famed Country Club Plaza, The Raphael Hotel is a one-of-a-kind boutique hotel with European-style elegance and charm. Housed in a historic landmark building, The Raphael delivers a blend of vintage hospitality with individualized service. The hotel's signature restaurant, Chaz, features an award-winning wine list that complements seasonally inspired dishes.