bigtravelbuzzJefferson City is the capital of Missouri, located in the central part of the state. Here are some things to do and see in Jefferson City:
Missouri State Capitol: Visit the Missouri State Capitol, which is home to the state’s government offices and legislative chambers. The building’s architecture is inspired by the United States Capitol in Washington D.C.
Missouri Governor’s Mansion: Take a tour of the Missouri Governor’s Mansion, a historic home built in 1871 that serves as the residence of the state’s governor.
Missouri State Penitentiary Museum: Learn about the history of the Missouri State Penitentiary, which was in operation from 1836 to 2004. The museum offers tours of the former prison’s historic buildings and exhibits about the prison’s history.
Katy Trail State Park: This park offers hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails along the Missouri River. It’s a great place to enjoy nature and explore the state’s outdoor beauty.
Jefferson Landing State Historic Site: This historic site includes several buildings that date back to the mid-19th century, including a hotel, a mercantile store, and a printing shop. Visitors can take a guided tour to learn about the site’s history and the people who lived and worked there.
Runge Conservation Nature Center: This nature center offers exhibits, educational programs, and hiking trails that allow visitors to explore Missouri’s natural habitats and wildlife.
Cole County Historical Society Museum: This museum features exhibits about the history of Cole County and Jefferson City, including artifacts and documents from the area’s early settlers and businesses.
Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or outdoor activities, Jefferson City has something to offer for everyone.
Places to Visit in Jefferson City
Jefferson City is the capital city of Missouri, and there are several attractions that you can visit during your stay. Here are some places to visit in Jefferson City:
Missouri State Capitol: The Missouri State Capitol building is a must-visit attraction in Jefferson City. It is one of the few capitol buildings in the US that is constructed from stone and granite. Visitors can take a guided tour of the building to see the legislative chambers and other historical areas.
Jefferson City Museum of Missouri History: The Jefferson City Museum of Missouri History is a great place to learn about the state’s history, culture, and people. The museum features exhibits on topics such as the Civil War, the state’s Native American history, and the Missouri State Penitentiary.
Governor’s Mansion: The Missouri Governor’s Mansion is a beautiful historic mansion that has been the official residence of the governor since 1871. Visitors can take guided tours of the mansion to learn about its history and architecture.
Cole County Historical Society Museum: The Cole County Historical Society Museum is a small but fascinating museum that showcases the history of Cole County and Jefferson City. The museum features exhibits on local businesses, the state’s German heritage, and the history of the Missouri State Penitentiary.
Missouri State Penitentiary: The Missouri State Penitentiary was in operation from 1836 to 2004 and is now a popular tourist attraction. Visitors can take guided tours of the historic prison to learn about its history and see the cells, the gas chamber, and other areas of the prison.
Katy Trail State Park: Katy Trail State Park is a popular outdoor recreation area that spans 240 miles across Missouri. The park features hiking and biking trails, scenic overlooks, and campsites.
Runge Nature Center: Runge Nature Center is a great place to explore Missouri’s natural beauty. The nature center features exhibits on Missouri’s wildlife, plants, and habitats, as well as hiking trails and educational programs.
These are just a few of the many places to visit in Jefferson City. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, nature, or outdoor recreation, you’re sure to find something to enjoy in this vibrant city.
Best Time To Visit Jefferson City
The best time to visit Jefferson City depends on your interests and what you want to experience during your trip. Here is a breakdown of the different seasons and what they offer:
Spring (March-May): Spring is a popular time to visit Jefferson City, especially for those who enjoy outdoor activities. The weather is mild, and the area’s parks and trails are in full bloom. There are also several festivals and events that take place during this time, such as the Capital Jazzfest and the Missouri River Festival of the Arts.
Summer (June-August): Summer is a great time to visit Jefferson City if you enjoy warm weather and outdoor activities. There are plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking, and water sports, and many of the area’s attractions are open for visitors. However, the summer months can be hot and humid, so be prepared for high temperatures.
Fall (September-November): Fall is a beautiful time to visit Jefferson City, especially if you want to see the area’s fall foliage. The weather is mild, and there are several outdoor festivals and events, such as the Oktoberfest and the Missouri State Fair.
Winter (December-February): Winter is a quiet time to visit Jefferson City, and many of the outdoor activities are not available. However, the city’s indoor attractions, such as museums and historic sites, are still open for visitors. If you enjoy winter sports, nearby ski resorts offer skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities.
Overall, the best time to visit Jefferson City is during the spring or fall when the weather is mild, and there are plenty of outdoor activities and events to enjoy. However, if you prefer warm weather and water activities, summer may be the best time for you.
Things to Do in Jefferson City
Jefferson City offers a variety of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. Here are some of the top things to do in Jefferson City:
Visit the Missouri State Capitol: The Missouri State Capitol is a must-see attraction in Jefferson City. Visitors can take a tour of the building, which includes the Senate and House Chambers, the Rotunda, and the Governor’s Office.
Explore the Katy Trail State Park: The Katy Trail State Park is a popular spot for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. The trail spans 237 miles across Missouri, and offers beautiful views of the Missouri River and surrounding countryside.
Learn about Missouri history at the Missouri State Museum: The Missouri State Museum is located in the Missouri State Capitol, and offers exhibits and displays that showcase the state’s history, culture, and natural resources.
Take a cruise on the Missouri River: Visitors can take a scenic cruise on the Missouri River, which offers stunning views of the city and surrounding countryside.
Visit the Runge Nature Center: The Runge Nature Center is a nature education center that offers interactive exhibits and displays, as well as nature trails and guided nature walks.
Tour the Missouri Governor’s Mansion: The Missouri Governor’s Mansion is a historic mansion that is open for tours. Visitors can learn about the history of the mansion and its role in Missouri politics.
Explore the downtown area: Jefferson City’s downtown area offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and galleries, as well as historic architecture and landmarks.
Attend a festival or event: Jefferson City hosts several festivals and events throughout the year, including the Capital Jazzfest, Oktoberfest, and the Missouri River Festival of the Arts.
These are just a few of the many things to do in Jefferson City. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or outdoor activities, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this charming Missouri city.
How to get around in Jefferson City
Jefferson City is a relatively small city, and most of the attractions are located within a few miles of each other. Here are some ways to get around in Jefferson City:
Car: If you have a car, it is easy to get around Jefferson City. The city has several parking options, including metered street parking and public parking garages.
Taxi: Taxis are available in Jefferson City, and can be found at the airport or by calling a local taxi company.
Bike: Biking is a popular way to get around Jefferson City, especially along the Katy Trail State Park. There are several bike rental companies in the area, and many of the attractions are accessible by bike.
Walking: Jefferson City is a walkable city, and many of the attractions are located within a few blocks of each other. Walking is a great way to explore the downtown area and see the historic landmarks.
Public transportation: Jefferson City does not have a comprehensive public transportation system, but there is a bus service called Jefferson City Transit that operates several routes throughout the city.
Overall, getting around in Jefferson City is relatively easy, and visitors have several options for transportation depending on their preferences and needs.
Where to eat in Jefferson City
Jefferson City has a variety of dining options to suit all tastes and budgets. Here are some popular places to eat in Jefferson City:
Madison’s Cafe: Madison’s Cafe is a popular breakfast and lunch spot that serves homemade soups, sandwiches, and salads.
Prison Brews: Prison Brews is a local brewery that serves craft beers and pub food, including burgers, sandwiches, and pizza.
Arris’ Bistro: Arris’ Bistro is a family-owned Greek restaurant that serves authentic Greek dishes, including gyros, moussaka, and baklava.
CC City Broiler: CC City Broiler is a steakhouse that specializes in prime rib, steaks, and seafood dishes.
J. Pfenny’s Sports Grill & Pub: J. Pfenny’s is a popular sports bar that serves pub food, including burgers, wings, and sandwiches.
Love Sushi: Love Sushi is a Japanese restaurant that serves sushi, sashimi, and other Japanese dishes.
Canterbury Hill Winery & Restaurant: Canterbury Hill Winery & Restaurant is a winery and restaurant that serves American cuisine, including steak and seafood dishes.
These are just a few of the many dining options in Jefferson City. Whether you’re looking for a casual lunch spot or a fine dining experience, there’s something for everyone in this charming Missouri city.
Famous street stalls in Jefferson City
Jefferson City is a relatively small city and does not have a significant street food scene. However, there are a few popular food trucks and carts that can be found at various events and locations in the city. Here are some of the famous street stalls in Jefferson City:
Twisted Tacos: Twisted Tacos is a food truck that serves tacos with a twist, including unique toppings like Korean BBQ, sriracha ranch, and chipotle aioli.
Mama Lee’s Popcorn and Lemonade: Mama Lee’s is a food cart that serves fresh popcorn and homemade lemonade at various events and festivals throughout Jefferson City.
Kona Ice: Kona Ice is a food truck that serves shaved ice with a variety of flavors and toppings.
Lil’ Dub’s BBQ: Lil’ Dub’s is a food truck that serves BBQ sandwiches, nachos, and other BBQ dishes.
Hot Dawg Stop: Hot Dawg Stop is a food cart that serves gourmet hot dogs with a variety of toppings, including chili, cheese, and bacon.
While the street food scene in Jefferson City may not be as vibrant as other cities, these food trucks and carts offer a unique and tasty dining experience for visitors and locals alike.
Where to stay in Jefferson City
Luxury accommodation
Jefferson City has a few luxury accommodation options for visitors who want to indulge in upscale amenities and services. Here are some of the best luxury hotels in Jefferson City:
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Jefferson City: This modern hotel is located in the heart of downtown Jefferson City and offers luxurious amenities such as an indoor pool, a fitness center, and an on-site restaurant.
Capitol Plaza Hotel Jefferson City: This elegant hotel features a rooftop terrace with views of the Missouri River and downtown Jefferson City. Other amenities include a heated indoor pool, a fitness center, and a restaurant.
The Tiger Hotel: This boutique hotel is located in nearby Columbia, Missouri, and offers luxurious amenities such as a rooftop bar and lounge, a fitness center, and an on-site restaurant.
Baymont by Wyndham Jefferson City: This contemporary hotel offers luxurious amenities such as an indoor pool, a fitness center, and a complimentary breakfast buffet.
These luxury hotels in Jefferson City offer top-notch amenities, comfortable accommodations, and convenient locations for exploring the city’s attractions and activities.
Where to stay in Jefferson City
Budget accommodation
Jefferson City offers a variety of budget-friendly accommodation options for visitors who want to save money on their travels. Here are some of the best budget hotels in Jefferson City:
Days Inn by Wyndham Jefferson City: This affordable hotel offers clean and comfortable rooms, as well as amenities such as a fitness center and free breakfast.
Motel 6 Jefferson City: This budget-friendly motel offers simple and comfortable rooms, as well as amenities such as an outdoor pool and free Wi-Fi.
Econo Lodge Jefferson City: This budget hotel offers comfortable accommodations, as well as amenities such as a fitness center, free breakfast, and free Wi-Fi.
Quality Inn & Suites Jefferson City: This affordable hotel offers comfortable rooms, as well as amenities such as a fitness center, free breakfast, and free Wi-Fi.
These budget hotels in Jefferson City provide comfortable accommodations and convenient locations for visitors who want to explore the city without breaking the bank.
Travel Tips Jefferson City
Here are some travel tips for visiting Jefferson City:
Visit the Missouri State Capitol: Jefferson City is the capital of Missouri, and the Missouri State Capitol is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Guided tours are available, and visitors can explore the building’s impressive architecture and learn about Missouri’s political history.
Explore the Katy Trail: The Katy Trail is a 240-mile trail that runs through Missouri, passing through Jefferson City. The trail is perfect for hiking, biking, and enjoying scenic views of the Missouri River.
Visit the Missouri State Penitentiary: The Missouri State Penitentiary is a historic prison that operated for over 150 years. Visitors can take guided tours of the prison and learn about its history and the lives of the prisoners who lived there.
Enjoy outdoor activities: Jefferson City has many parks and outdoor spaces, including Binder Park, Ellis-Porter Riverside Park, and the Runge Nature Center. Visitors can enjoy hiking, fishing, and other outdoor activities in these beautiful natural areas.
Attend local festivals and events: Jefferson City hosts many festivals and events throughout the year, including the Capital Jazzfest, the Missouri River Festival of the Arts, and the Oktoberfest celebration. These events are a great way to experience local culture and meet other travelers and locals.
Plan your visit around the weather: Jefferson City experiences hot summers and cold winters, so it’s important to pack accordingly and plan your activities around the weather. Spring and fall are great times to visit when the weather is mild and the scenery is beautiful.