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This museum is operated by the Missouri National Guard and is free of charge. It features displays about Missouri's involvement in every major military conflict since the Mexican War in 1846.
Tours are given for free every hour from 9AM to 4PM. The Missouri State Museum is on the first floor of the Missouri State Capitol Building and managed by the Missouri Department of Natural Resources.Today, the museum continues to showcase Missouri’s diverse history and resources. The museum houses temporary and long-term exhibits.
The area at the base of Jefferson Street, known as Jefferson’s Landing, was the site of the original river landing and the first area settled in the city. It is significant as a rare surviving Missouri River landing place. The structures in this historic site date back to 1839 making it the oldest riverfront landing on the Missouri River. As this site was later served by the railroad, several of Jefferson City’s largest businesses grew here.
You can encounter the roots of Missouri government and discover the charm and culture of the early political society at the Cole County Historical Society Museum. The building stands as a historical site, built by Governor B. Gratz Brown in 1871, and today it draws visitors as a tourist attraction. The museum has a collection of artifacts, antiques and historical documents. Notably, it is the only county museum in the country to own and display inaugural gowns of its state’s First Ladies.
The capitol building was once rated as being the fifth most beautiful on the outside and first most beautiful on the inside of all 50 United States capitals by USA Today. Completed in 1917, the Capitol covers three acres in downtown Jefferson City. Free tours are provided. They will provide you with an excellent education in the state of Missouri and the structure that represents its home.
The Supreme Court Building in Jefferson City became a permanent home for the Court at its completion in 1907 using funds from the 1904 World's Fair in St. Louis. Look for the glass floors in the library. Because the building did not have electric lights when it was built, the glass floors allowed light from the windows to filter down to the main floor. Tours of the Supreme Court are given M-F; call ahead for times.
Enjoy the natural wonders of Missouri and the fish, forests and wildlife found here by strolling through exhibits or hiking nature center trails. Inside the center you will find an indoor wildlife viewing area, a nature library, and a small gift shop. Venture outside to explore over two miles of hiking trails. The Naturescape Trail is accessible to people with disabilities. Self-guided tours are always available; advance notice is required for naturalist-led programs. Free admission.