As a student going to college in The Middle of Nowhere, Missouri, I am constantly being asked by family members, friends and prospective students what there is to do for fun in little ol' Nevada. Truth be told, we have a bowling alley and a movie theater, but that's about it for activities in the small town. However, after being at Cottey College for a couple years, I have discovered a number of places to visit in the surrounding area. With a full tank of gas and a few friends, I am always ready to go on any of these 11 day trip destinations and make memories.
1. Pea Ridge National Military Park-- Garfield, Ark.
Adventure is out there! Looking for a chance to get away and spend some time in nature, exploring the outdoors? Pea Ridge National Military Park has fantastic trails that go through the natural and historical sites of the park, and the museum exhibits explore the battle and its importance during the Civil War.
2. Fort Scott, Kan.
Fort Scott, a small Kansas town, has a lot of charm. Its downtown is scattered with antique shops, small restaurants, a coffee shop and used book stores. Take a day and explore the shelves piled high with novels at Books and Grannies, the antique-filled storefront at Treasure Hunt Flea Markets, pick up a cup of coffee and study at the Common Ground Coffee Company or get your Junior Ranger badge at Fort Scott National Historic Site.
3. Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art-- Kansas City, Mo.
The Nelson-Atkins Museum is a must-see for any art lover. The museum galleries boast many exciting exhibitions and pieces, including Monet’s "Water Lilies."
4. Lake of the Ozarks
Whether it’s shopping, spending time out on the lake or visiting historical sites, Lake of the Ozarks is the place to go! The relaxing atmosphere promotes a day of stress-free fun. Lake of the Ozarks State Park is a great destination for swimming, trail hiking or picnics. With Ha Ha Tonka State Park and castle ruins nearby, more trail opportunities are available. For those who aren’t looking to spend a long time outdoors, Lake of the Ozarks is full of a large variety of shopping opportunities. With antique stores, an outlet mall and cute boutiques, Lake of the Ozarks is definitely a fun spot to stop for a shopping day.
5. Kauffman Stadium-- Kansas City, Mo.
Take the opportunity to watch the 2015 World Series Champs play a game at "The K". It’s hard to resist the enthusiastic atmosphere, ballpark hot dogs and the all-American sport. Enjoy a box of Cracker Jacks, cheer on the Royals and sing along to “Take Me Out to the Ballgame.”
6. Country Club Plaza-- Kansas City, Mo.
An auto-centric shopping center, The Plaza was built to resemble Spanish architecture. With chain stores, unique boutiques and many dining opportunities (including the ever-popular Cheesecake Factory), it fulfills any shopping wants and needs. During the Christmas season, The Plaza is completely lit in festive lights, adding to the atmosphere.
7. Walt Disney Hometown Museum-- Marceline, Mo.
The Walt Disney Hometown Museum is the day trip designed for the super Disney fan. Having arrived in Marceline at five-years-old, Walt Disney’s legacy has had a lasting impact on the town, as he rose to fame starting as an animator, then developing the world famous Disney empire. The museum is located in Marceline’s old train depot-- the spot where Disney first arrived in the small midwestern town.
8. Harry S. Truman National Historic Site-- Independence, Mo.
Check out the Harry S. Truman National Historic Site and visit the Truman home and museum to learn about the humble beginnings of a past U.S. President (and earn another Jr. Ranger Badge while you’re at it). Perhaps, this is how Macey Hensley got her start learning facts about each U.S. President!
9. BREAKOUT KC-- Kansas City, Mo.
Escape rooms are all the rage in the U.S., forcing the participants to think through a series of puzzles and games in order to escape a locked room in a limited amount of time. BREAKOUT KC has four rooms to choose from, each with a different story and keys to escape.
10. Missouri State Penitentiary-- Jefferson City, Mo.
For people looking to spend a day in a spooky setting, the Missouri State Penitentiary offers historical and paranormal tours. The penitentiary operated between 1836-2004 and has a rich history with its many famous inmates, escapees and the stories that brought the prison to infamy.
11. Zip KC-- Bonner Springs, Kan.
For adventurers looking for a thrill, Zip KC will send participants flying through the air on nine different ziplines throughout the 143-acre park. Embrace the inner adventurer and ignore the gut feeling whispering that it’s not smart to simply step off of a 65-foot platform while simply clipped onto a wire. Zip KC allows thrill-seekers to fulfill that childhood dream of flying like Superman.
