Located on historic route 66 Joplin, MO isn’t just a small town you should just drive through without stopping.
It’s filled with history and natural wonders, Joplin is a hidden gem. Here are 21 places to stop and see in Joplin if you ever find yourself cruising down route 66.
21 Things To Do In Joplin Missouri
1. Grand Falls
One of the main things to do in Joplin is visiting Grand Falls. Grand Falls is the largest continuously flowing waterfall in Missouri. The falls are 163 feet wide, and the water flows down a 12-foot drop.
The pool below the falls is popular for fishing and swimming in warm weather. Even if you’re passing through during the cold months, the creek that feeds the falls is always full of water, which means the falls flow all year long.
2. Wildcat Glades Conservation and Audubon Center
This is a unique preserve, located where the Shoal and Silver Creek meet. It was established to preserve the chert glades and the unique ecosystem located there.
The plants and animals that live there do not co-exist together anywhere else, which makes this wetland a valuable resource in the study of biodiversity and conservation. Not only that, but it is also the home of the Dipper, the only known aquatic songbird.
3. Joplin Museum Complex
Two mining museums combine to make this museum complex, that explores Joplin’s mining roots.
You can experience an old mining shaft for yourself in the replica located in the Everette J Ritchie Tri-State Memorial Museum.
If you are interested in the history of Route 66 and the exploits of Bonnie and Clyde, stop and see the Dorothea B Hoover Historical Museum. The Joplin Sports Hall Of Fame, The Spooklight, The Cookie Cutter Museum, and a collection of fossils round out the Joplin Museum Complex.
4. Route 66 State Park
Visit Route 66 State Park to experience the spirit of old Route 66. Enjoy the tile murals designed by Jon White and Chris Auckerman, and visit the historic Pearl Brothers convenience store.
Be sure to pose for a photo op with the red replica 1964 Corvette the city has placed in the park as a reminder of the history of this historic road that was a huge part of shaping the postwar United States.
5. George Washington Carver National Monument
Established in 1943, The George Washington Carver National Monument is a tribute to the famed botanist and chemist. It is the first monument raised to an African American as well as the first monument to a non-president.
The trail established on the property that Carver called home, is dotted with scenes from his youth. The house in which he was raised is still standing, and perhaps the biggest tribute to a botanist, 140 acres of restored tallgrass prairie.
6. Candy House Gourmet
There is an unwritten road trip rule: If there is a candy store in a town, you have to stop and see it; and the Candy House Gourmet is well worth the stop! Filled with divinity, chocolate truffles, fudge, and toffee, this candy store is one-of-a-kind.
All their candies are made on-site, and they even offer a factory tour. You can see the factory in action as you browse their selection of delicious sweets. Best of all, they offer free samples.
7. Sandstone Gardens
If you love gardening or home decorating, do not pass through Joplin without stopping at Sandstone Gardens. This home and garden store is grandly displayed in a turn of the century mansion.
Wall art, garden supplies, lawn ornaments, accent lighting. It has a little bit of everything you need to decorate the inside and outside of your home. Tired from all that walking? Stop at their cafe for a bite to eat, the desserts are highly recommended.
8. Sweet Caroline’s
As if all the chocolate wasn’t enough, you can not leave Joplin without making a stop at Sweet Caroline’s.
The retro-inspired ice cream shop is located in the historic Gryphon Building. You can enjoy the architecture while sampling a few of their 32 varieties of hand-dipped ice cream. Feeling a little chilly, try one of their premium coffees.
9. Red Onion Cafe
If you’re starting to feel a little peckish, stop into the Red Onion Cafe. Located in historic downtown Joplin, you can have a bite of cuisine that is unique to the Midwest.
They cut their steaks daily, prepare their salads fresh, and cook everything to order. If you want to try something that isn’t more of the same chain restaurant fare, you should pop in and give the Red Onion a try.
10. Bonnie and Clyde’s Garage Apartment
If you are a history buff or a true crime fanatic, then while you are in Joplin, you have to take a moment to see the garage apartment where this deadly duo lived for a few weeks.
Bonnie & Clyde’s Joplin Apartment Hideout was entered into the National Register of Historic places in 2009 and it is available as a rental through Airbnb.
11. George A Spiva Center For the Arts
If you have an interest in regional art, then take some time during your stay in Joplin to view the exhibits at the George A Spiva Center For The Arts.
This art museum proudly showcases a range of exhibits that feature art produced by residents of Joplin and Missouri. They also sponsor local art contests and provide community outreach and education.
12. Frisco Greenway Trail
If you want to stretch your legs and enjoy a short hike, take a stroll down the Frisco Greenway Trail.
The trail is packed gravel, creating a smooth surface. It is a brief 3.5-mile hike that goes through mainly residential areas, with some tree cover.
13. Boots Court Motel
If you are a fan of mid-century design, stop and take a gander at the Boots Court Motel.
Located on Route 66, it once played host to stars like Clark Gable, and advertised “a radio in every room.” Narrowly saved from demolition, it is currently undergoing remodeling to return it to its former glory.
14. Worlds Largest Small Electric Appliance Museum
Located slightly outside of Joplin, the World’s Largest Small Electric Appliance Museum is a treasure trove of vintage appliances.
Hairdryers, kitchen appliances, and toasters, this small museum has a sample of electric appliances of all kinds. They are all part of the collection of Richard Larrison who has spent years building his collection. If you are interested in kitschy appliances from the past, this stop is a lot of fun.
15. Precious Moments Chapel and Gardens
Once again located slightly outside of Joplin, the Precious Moments Chapel & Gardens is exactly what it sounds like: a homage to Precious Moments figurines!
Designed by Samual Butcher, who created the figurines, the garden and chapel are filled with statues and fountains in the same adorable and unique style.
16. Joplin City Hall
Swing by city hall to see the last mural signed by artist Thomas Hart Benton. Titled “Joplin At The Turn Of The Century 1896-1906”. It was dedicated to the city of Joplin at its centennial celebration.
17. Historic Building Tour
Learn more about the history of Joplin by signing up for one of their guided history tours.
You will learn of the seedier side of Joplin when exploring the old brothels, learn the history of City Hall, which is located in an old department store. You will also see the old Frisco train station and other buildings of interest.
18. Third Thursday
If you happen to be in Joplin on the third Thursday of the month in the months of March thru October make sure you hit Main Street.
During these months they have their Third Thursday celebration. It features music, food, and local artists. It is a free event that is family-friendly.
19. Empire Market
Open every Saturday, the Empire Market offers locally grown produce, jam, and jelly, along with soap, handmade jewelry, and other goods.
Live music adds to the atmosphere. Stop on by to support the local farmers and artisans. The market is 4 seasons and is open every Saturday.
20. Ocean Adventures Indoor Playground
If you are traveling with children, you need to give them some time to run off their energy. Take them to the Ocean Adventures Indoor Playground.
This is a 3 story indoor playground suitable for children up to age 12. There is a soft play area for toddlers. Which is separate from the area for older children.
21. Joplin 44 Truckstop
Stop in and fuel up at the Joplin 44 Truckstop. This huge truck stop doesn’t just have snacks. They also host car and bike shows, have a restaurant attached, and even offer a gift shop.
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