69 Iconic Buildings to Explore in Missouri

Nestled in the heart of Independence, Missouri lies the 1859 Jail Museum - a hidden gem filled with history and intrigue. Once housing the likes of Frank James and William Clark Quantrill, this former penitentiary now serves as a captivating glimpse into Jackson County's past. As you wind your way through the corridors and cells, it's impossible not to imagine what life was like for the prisoners who once called this place home.

Alley Spring & Mill is a beautiful and historic attraction located in Shannon County, Missouri, that offers visitors a glimpse into the region's rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. The centerpiece of the attraction is the Alley Spring, which is one of the most picturesque and popular natural springs in the state. The spring flows from an underground source and creates a crystal clear pool that is perfect for swimming, kayaking, and fishing.

Nestled in the beautiful Jackson County sits the Amigoni Urban Winer. This family-owned winery has a rich history of taking their craft seriously while still maintaining a jovial atmosphere that fills the air. Their wines have a distinct flavor that captures the essence of the region, and with an extensive selection to choose from, every sip feels like a new adventure. The staff are highly knowledgeable and always happy to guide you through the different blends and flavors.

Located in Jackson County, Missouri, this unique transportation hub is more than just a place to catch a train. From the quirky decor to the friendly staff, you'll feel right at home the moment you step inside. And if you're a fan of history, you'll appreciate the fact that this station has been around since 1914. But don't let its age fool you, because it's been updated and modernized to meet the needs of today's travelers.

Anheuser-Busch St. Louis Brewery, located in St. Louis city, is a sprawling 142-acre facility that serves as the headquarters and flagship brewery of Anheuser-Busch, one of the largest brewing companies in the world. This iconic brewery has been producing some of the most iconic beers in America for over 150 years.The brewery offers guided tours that take visitors through the entire brewing process, from brewing and fermenting to packaging and distribution.

Beauvais-Amoureux House is a historic attraction located in Ste. Genevieve County, Missouri, that provides visitors with a glimpse into the region's rich cultural heritage. The house was built in the 1790s by Jean-Baptiste Beauvais, a prominent citizen of the town, who also served as a judge in the early 19th century. The house is a striking example of the French Colonial architecture that was prevalent in the area at the time.

This is a charming and historical gem that's worth a visit. This house served as the inspiration for the character of Becky Thatcher in Mark Twain's renowned novel, "The Adventures of Tom Sawyer." In fact, the house is located in the wee town of Hannibal, Twain's childhood home, and it's a must-see for anyone interested in literature and history. The building has been beautifully preserved and maintained, and stepping inside its walls is like stepping back in time.

The Bequette-Ribault House is a historic attraction situated in Ste. Genevieve County, Missouri, that offers a glimpse into the region's rich cultural heritage. It is named after two families that occupied the house, the Bequettes and the Ribaults, both of whom were prominent residents of the area. The house was built in 1820 in the Greek Revival style, which became popular in the United States in the late 18th and early 19th centuries.

The Bingham-Waggoner Estate, dripping with stories of the past. From the moment you set foot on the property, you're transported to a bygone era - an era where sprawling gardens, intricate woodwork, and grandiose interiors were the norm. But what really sets this estate apart from others is the sheer amount of history that's been preserved here. Each turn seems to reveal another piece of history, whether it's an original piece of furniture or an old photograph on the wall.

The Bruce R Watkins Cultural Center is a treasure trove of artistic expression. From its stunning architecture to the colorful exhibits that line its halls, this cultural center is a feast for the senses. It's clear that the designers took great care in crafting a space that honors the diverse backgrounds and experiences of the people who call this region home. Personally, I'm a big fan of the murals that adorn the walls - they're eye-catching and thought-provoking all at once.

The Campbell House Museum is a historic home located in the heart of St. Louis city that dates back to the mid-1800s. The museum serves as a glimpse into the life and times of the Campbell family, one of the most influential families in St. Louis history. The mansion, which features Italianate architecture, was built in 1851 and was home to fur trader Robert Campbell and his family for over 80 years.The museum contains a vast collection of artifacts and memorabilia.

Cementland is a unique and visionary art project situated in St. Louis County, Missouri, that blends the industrial history of the city with the artistic imagination of its creator, Bob Cassilly. The project is located on a 54-acre site that was once a cement factory and features a variety of whimsical sculptures and installations that incorporate materials recycled from the factory.

The Climatron is a unique conservatory located within the Missouri Botanical Garden in St. Louis city. The conservatory is an architectural marvel, created by the renowned architect, Tadao Ando. The Climatron is a spherical structure that houses a diverse collection of tropical plants from all over the world.The structure is climate-controlled and showcases various plants and trees that thrive in a hot and humid environment, such as palm trees, orchids, and ferns.

The Community of Christ Temple is a striking landmark that embodies the rich history and vibrant culture of the region. This impressive edifice is more than just a religious institution; it is a tribute to the innovative spirit and creativity of the people who built it. From the masterpiece of architecture that is the Sanctuary to the breathtakingly beautiful gardens surrounding the temple, the place is a true testament to the community's dedication to preserving their traditions and legacy.

The Compton Hill Water Tower is a prominent landmark in St. Louis City located within Compton Hill Reservoir Park. It stands at 179 feet tall and was built in the late 19th century to provide water pressure for the growing city. The tower is made of limestone and has a cylindrical shape with Romanesque-style architectural features.Visitors can climb the tower's 198 stairs to reach an observation deck located at the top, offering breathtaking views of the cityscape.

Felix Valle House State Historic Site is an important landmark situated in Ste. Genevieve County, Missouri. It is a unique attraction that showcases the region's rich cultural heritage and history. This site is named after Felix Vallé, the son of French immigrants who built the house in 1818. The original purpose of the house was to serve as a trading post for Vallé's father, who was a successful merchant.

The First Missouri State Capitol State Historic Site, located in St. Charles County, Missouri, is a must-visit destination for history buffs and culture enthusiasts. This site, which served as the first capitol of Missouri from 1821-1826, is a fascinating representation of Missouri's rich political history, offering visitors a glimpse into the daily lives of early Missourians and the political events that shaped the state.

The Frank Lloyd Wright House in Ebsworth Park, is a unique attraction that offers visitors an insight into the works of one of America's most renowned architects. The house was built in 1951 and features Wright's signature Usonian style, which emphasizes a seamless connection between the interior and exterior spaces.The house is a testament to Wright's design philosophy, which revolves around incorporating natural elements and light into the living spaces.

The Frenchtown Historic District in St. Charles County, is a well-preserved neighborhood that offers visitors a glimpse into the area's rich cultural heritage. The district is located along the Missouri River and covers approximately 38 acres.Frenchtown was originally settled by French Canadian fur traders and became a thriving community in the mid-1800s. The neighborhood features beautiful architecture that reflects the cultural influences of the French settlers.

General Daniel Bissell House is a historical site located in Missouri. This majestic house was built in the early 19th century and was the former residence of General Daniel Bissell, who served the United States Army during the War of 1812. Today, the house stands as a symbol of America's rich cultural heritage and is a major tourist attraction for visitors.The General Daniel Bissell House is an architectural masterpiece that boasts a remarkable combination of Federal and Greek Revival styles.