Jefferson City,
Jefferson City is the capital of Missouri, located along the Missouri River in the central part of the state. It is known for its historic architecture, including the Missouri State Capitol building with its distinctive white dome. The city has a population of around 43,000 people and offers a mix of urban amenities and outdoor recreational opportunities.
Jefferson City is also home to several museums, parks, and cultural attractions that showcase its rich history and vibrant community.
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Exploring Natural Beauty
morning:Start your day with a scenic walk along the Missouri River at Noren Access. After, visit the Missouri State Capitol for a fascinating tour. Don't miss stopping at Cole County Historical Society for local insights and a delightful breakfast at J Pfenny's Sports Grill & Pub 🍳.
afternoon:After a morning of exploring, head to the Runge Nature Center for some wildlife encounters and peaceful nature trails. Enjoy a delicious lunch at Cafe Via Roma, featuring authentic Italian cuisine. Explore the fascinating displays at Jefferson Landing State Historic Site.
evening:As the day winds down, savor a delightful dinner at Madison's Cafe and then head to Spectator's Sports Bar and Grill for a fun night-out 🍻.
Historical Immersion
morning:Start the day with a visit to the Museum of Missouri Military History for a glimpse into the state's military heritage. Enjoy a hearty breakfast at Southbank Gift Company & Coffee House. Then, take a leisurely stroll around the Governor's Mansion.
afternoon:For the afternoon, visit the Missouri State Museum for a deep dive into the state's history and culture. Have a satisfying lunch at Prison Brews Brewery and Restaurant, known for its unique prison-themed decor and craft brews. Explore the intriguing exhibits at Missouri State Penitentiary.
evening:In the evening, savor a delicious dinner at Arris' Bistro followed by a lively night-out at The Mission 🍹.
Outdoor Adventure
morning:Wake up early for a thrilling morning of zip-lining and outdoor adventure at Campus Coworking Space. Enjoy a delightful breakfast at The Grand Cafe, known for its charming setting and delectable dishes. Experience stunning views and explore the trails at Binder Park.
afternoon:For the afternoon, indulge in outdoor recreational activities at McClung Park, offering scenic picnic spots and a relaxing ambiance. Grab a quick bite at Love Sushi, a hidden gem for delicious and fresh sushi treats. Spend the afternoon boating or kayaking on the Missouri River.
evening:As the sun sets, enjoy a satisfying dinner at Prison Brews Brewery and Restaurant and then head to Spectator's Sports Bar and Grill for a lively night-out 🎉.
Cultural Discoveries
morning:Begin your day with an enlightening visit to the Missouri State Archives, rich in historical records and documents. Indulge in a scrumptious breakfast at Paddy Malone's Pub. Then, explore the charming corner of Capitol Avenue.
afternoon:For the afternoon, visit the Miller Performing Arts Center for a cultural showcase and captivating performances. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Central Dairy, a local favorite renowned for its delicious ice cream and dairy treats. Take a guided tour of St. Mary's Health Center, an architectural gem.
evening:In the evening, relish a delightful dinner at Arris' Bistro and then head to The Mission for a vibrant night-out 🍸.
Jefferson City Famous Food
Must-Try local dishes
Toasted Ravioli
A St. Louis specialty, these crispy breaded ravioli are filled with seasoned meats and served with marinara sauce. Sample this iconic dish at local Italian eateries like Madison's Cafe.
Must-Try!
BBQ Pork Steaks
A regional favorite, these succulent pork steaks are slow-cooked and then finished on the grill, resulting in tender, smoky perfection. Don't miss out on trying this at renowned BBQ joints such as Lutz's Famous BBQ.
German Chocolate Cake
Indulge in a slice of moist chocolate cake layered with coconut and pecan frosting. Get a taste of this classic dessert at cafes like Edelweiss German Restaurant.
Food Markets & Street Food
A food market and street food guide
Cole County Farmers Market
Open on Saturdays, this vibrant market is a treasure trove of fresh produce, artisanal goods, and ready-to-eat treats like kettle corn and gourmet tamales.
Downtown Food Truck Festival
Experience a culinary extravaganza with a variety of food trucks offering diverse cuisines ranging from gourmet burgers and tacos to specialty desserts and refreshing beverages.
Pet sitters in Jefferson City
Relax and unwind while your furry friend enjoys making a new companion!