Searching for fun things to do in Joplin, MO? This city has plenty of attractions and activities that will keep you busy all weekend long.
Located in the northwestern part of Missouri, Joplin is a beautiful city with lots to see and do.
Located at the beginning of historic Route 66, Joplin is a popular tourist attraction among travelers because of its breathtakingly impressive natural beauty and rich history.
Joplin’s many museums, parks, charming antique malls, and waterfalls make it a fun place to visit.
Joplin’s food scene is incredible. All the restaurants and cafes serve delicious American fare, while Joplin itself has plenty of attractions to explore. Here are some great places in this city to eat—and visit!
Things to do in Joplin mo
1- Grand Falls
Shoal Creek is a Missouri river that has produced the largest waterfall in its region. Grand Falls, one of Shoal creek’s most popular attractions lies within this area.
It is a favorite attraction of locals and tourists alike.
It offers impressive views of the beautiful landscape.
The waterfalls are always on display, even in winter when the creek is frozen over.
You can enjoy a private swimming pool where you and your friends or family will not be surrounded by too many other people.
Bring your camera to capture the spectacular beauty of these falls.
Remember to wear sturdy shoes, as the terrain is uneven.
When you come to Joplin, be sure to visit Gran Falls and take in its breathtaking views.
You should not wear strong shoes when going to the Grand Falls, as its terrain is bumpy. The Grand falls should be on your list of things to do in Joplin if you visit there.
Address: Joplin, MO 64804, 5685 Riverside Dr
2- Joplin museum complex
The Joplin Museum Complex is home to five museums, including one dedicated entirely to antique dolls and another that focuses on sports.
The complex is located in Schifferdecker Park and was originally built to support the mining boom that defined 19th-century Boulder.
The museum’s collection of mining artifacts is just part of its overall holdings, which also include glowing rocks, mammoth fossils, and jewelry made by Bonnie and Clyde.
Some of the additional exhibits and museums that can be found in the Joplin Museum Complex include the National Historical Cookie Cutter Museum, Merle Evans Miniature Circus, and the Joplin Sports Hall of Fame.
******Visitors get to learn the mining history of Joplin, and there’s also a mining shaft from way back to explain more about mining. The Joplin Museum Complex is available from Tuesdays to Saturdays.*****
Address: Joplin, MO 64801, 504 S Schifferdecker Ave
Fascinating Joplin Museum Complex
The Joplin Museum Complex is made up of five separate museums.
The museums have exhibits on four topics: sports, science, dolls, and cookies.
Schifferdecker Park houses the Joplin History & Mineral Museum, a historical museum that focuses on Joplin’s mining boom during the 19th century.
Museums often contain unique and captivating objects such as jewelry belonging to Bonnie and Clyde, mammoth fossils, glowing rocks—and much more.
Other attractions include the Joplin Sports Hall of Fame, the National Historical Cookie Cutter Museum (the largest collection of cookie cutters in America), and the Merle Evans Miniature Circus.
You can also visit the replica of an old mining shaft, which will tell you about Joplin’s history as a center for lead and zinc extraction.
A museum is an affordable option, and it is open five days a week.
The museum has two friendly cats that you can pet, making your visit more fun.
3- Candy house gourmet
Candy House Gourmet, a candy factory located in Joplin’s downtown area, produces handmade chocolates and other confections.
It was opened in 1970 and quickly became a neighborhood favorite for its delicious pastries.
This place has a huge array of desserts that will please any sweet-toothed customer.
The Candy House sells gourmet creams, fudges, chocolates, caramels, and other sweets.
They also make seasonal dessert dishes.
In the spring, they serve chocolate-dipped strawberries; in the fall, they offer a variety of baked goods made with fresh apples.
You can buy all these delectable sweets at the bakery and sample them before taking them home.
The Candy House Gourmet features handmade sweet treats.
Address: Joplin, MO 64801, 510 Kentucky Ave
Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth at Candy House Gourmet
The Joplin Candy House Gourmet is a candy factory located in the heart of downtown Joplin.
A local favorite since its founding in 1970, Bakery is the place to go for delectable desserts.
This place has a huge selection of desserts to satisfy every taste bud.
Candy House’s gourmet creams, fudges, chocolates, and caramels have made it world-famous.
They also offer a rotating selection of desserts that change with the season.
Their desserts are made from fresh strawberries and apples, which they serve in the spring and fall.
You can sample the many varieties of delicious desserts before making your selection.
Visit Candy House Gourmet for all your handmade sweet treat needs.
4- Visit Spiva Center for the Arts
Since its opening in 1974, Spiva Center for the Arts has been Joplin’s best visual arts experience.
George A. Spiva, a local art lover, and philanthropist was the namesake of this gallery.
The exhibits and displays are so well arranged that they can easily be appreciated.
The art center offers classes for children and adults.
Regularly updated rotating exhibits showcase the stunning work of local artists.
This museum also has a gift shop, where visitors can purchase artwork and other handmade items.
Support local artists by visiting Spiva Center for the Arts.
Address: Joplin, MO 64801, 222 W 3rd St
5- George Washington carver national monument
George Washington Carver National Monument is a park located near the 219-acre farm where George Washington Carver was born and nurtured.
George Washington Carver was a groundbreaking inventor, scientist, chemist, educator, and botanist.
The national monument was the first ever built in honor of an African American man.
The park contains sculptures of George Washington Carver and also offers nature trails, a discovery lab, and displays about the life of George Washington Carver.
Visitors can hike the trails, becoming more knowledgeable about their life at the same time. The environment is peaceful and beautiful.
George Washington Carver’s life and activities provide much inspiration for your visit to the museum, which should be a must-see during your stay.
Address: Diamond, MO 64840, 5646 Carver Rd
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6- Wildcat glades conservation and Audubon Center
The Wildcat Glades Conservation & Audubon Center is located at the convergence of Silver and Shoal Creeks. It is a conservation center and an educational facility for adults, children, families, communities, and other organizations interested in nature’s ways.
The nonprofit organization focuses on conserving the biodiversity and natural habitat of the Spring River watershed, which supports a wide variety of plant life.
Visitors are welcome to hike on the trail bordering Shoal Creek. The path is partially paved, and it offers stunning views as well as a wide variety of flora and fauna.
The Wildcat Center also features an aquarium where visitors can see live aquatic life, as well as numerous spots throughout the park where you can sit and enjoy its beautiful scenery.
This is a great place to visit, take some nice pictures and post them on your Instagram account. It should be at the top of your list of things to do in Joplin, MO.
Address: Joplin, MO 64804, 201 Riviera Dr
7- Cunningham park
The 2011 tornado wiped out Joplin’s oldest city park, Cunningham Park.
Volunteers completely restored the park, bringing it back to its original splendor.
The tornado memorial is an important part of the park. It was created to honor those who were lost in the storm, and it’s free for everyone to enjoy.
The complex has many amenities: playgrounds, swimming pools, basketball courts, and grills. And there’s even a gazebo!
You can also eat your picnic lunch at one of the tables in the shaded picnic area.
The best way to enjoy this park is by walking around, admiring its beauty and the local community’s efforts to restore its former charm.
Cunningham Park is a place of powerful reminders: devastation, resolve, and miracles.
Address: Joplin, MO 64804, W 26th St &, S Maiden Ln
Cunningham Park
Cunningham Park, dedicated to the victims and volunteers of the 2011 Joplin tornado, is a memorial park.
This park provides a place for family bonding by offering amenities like a picnic pavilion, swimming pool, walking trail, and playground.
The best way to spend your downtime in Joplin is by visiting this museum.
In addition to relaxing, you should visit the four memorials located inside the park: Victim’s Memorial, Volunteer Tribute Memorial, Children’s Memorial, and Butterfly Overlook.
8- Ewert Park
The Ewert Park neighborhood park is known for its excellent sports facilities.
Sports fans will want to add visiting this park—with its wide variety of amenities—to their list of things to do in Joplin, Missouri.
The park provides a playground, swimming pool, covered basketball court, and tennis courts for residents to use.
Bring extra food and drink to keep you energized during your picnic.
If you like grilling food, there are barbecues in the park where you can cook your meal.
Address: Joplin, MO 64801, 846 Murphy Blvd
9- Leonard park
Leonard Park is a small neighborhood park located behind Range Line Road.
It is a simple, city-funded park that includes playground equipment for children, tennis courts, and picnic tables under an open shelter.
You may also enjoy a few games of tennis or let your children roam the fields.
The park’s walking path is popular with exercisers.
A relaxing weekend at a local park is an excellent option for breaks during your trip.
Address: Joplin, MO 64801, E 4th Street & Turk Avenue
10- Route 66 Mural Park
Route 66 Mural Park, a public park in Joplin that opened in 2013.
Route 66, an important part of Missouri’s history, is preserved at this site.
The park stands as a starting point for travelers embarking on their scenic route journey.
The murals, created by artists Chris Auckerman and Jon White, are on the inside walls of the building.
The park’s red mock 1964 Corvette is a favorite among visitors; it symbolizes the drive along long roads, like those of Route 66.
Visit Route 66 Mural Park to view the beautiful murals and learn about historic Route 66.
Address: Joplin, MO 64801, 629-621 S Main St
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11- Frisco greenway trail
The Frisco Greenway Trail is a 3.5-mile walk that may be accessed in a peaceful, less populated area of the city.
This route is well-suited for runners and cyclists due to its gorgeous scenery, which includes woodlands and scenic roads.
The Greenway is surrounded by dense forests, and residents often use it for jogging or walking.
Running, walking, bicycling—or any other sport you’re into—are just a few of the free activities to do in Joplin along this scenic trail.
Although most of the route is shaded, it’s advisable to carry water with you in case you become thirsty during your hike.
Address: Joplin Township, MO, Frisco Greenway
12- Explore Joplin
Exploring Joplin is easy because it’s such a small city.
The city’s art and music scene can be found in all its neighborhoods.
When you visit Joplin on your own, you’re free to explore its many architectural wonders and historical sites.
You may find that local residents have their own unique way of living and seeing the city.
On your travels, you’re likely to come across restaurants that serve delicious food.
Taking long and peaceful walks around Joplin will surely refresh you.
13- Northpark Mall
The North Park Mall has expanded dramatically, from a 600,000-square foot shopping center with 60 stores when it opened in 1972, to 1.1 million square feet of retail space housing over 100 shops and restaurants today.
There are many options for food in the North Park Mall food court, including Burger King, Orange Julius, and Chick-fil-A.
Kids will enjoy the Chuck E. Cheese or Tilt Studio—a place that offers laser tag, arcade games, and one-hole blacklight mini-golf.
The mall also displays photographs of local veterans who dedicated their lives to serving the country, and these photographs show veterans in full regalia.
If you want to take a day off from work and go shopping, there’s no shortage of stores at North Park Mall.
Address: Joplin, MO 64801, 101 N Rangeline Rd
14- Drury Inn & Suites
The Drury Inn & Suites offers all the luxurious amenities you could ever need for a perfect stay.
It is situated near all of the town’s best restaurants and eateries.
The hotel is well-suited to people who bring pets with them on vacation.
The amenities at this hotel make your stay as pleasant and enjoyable as possible.
Some of the amenities include an outdoor pool, a business center, a breakfast buffet, room service, and workout rooms.
The hotel also offers hospitality from 5:30 p.m.–7:00 p.m., serving complimentary drinks and snacks to all the guests during this time period.
The staff is respectful and willing to assist.
The hotel’s laid-back atmosphere, along with its many amenities, makes your vacation a perfect getaway.
Address: Joplin, MO 64804, 3601 S Rangeline Rd
15- Ocean adventures indoor playground
Ocean Adventures Indoor Playground is a great place for kids to play, and it’s one of your family’s new favorite spots.
The first section is intended for older children, with large and small slides, a ball pit filled with 80,000 balls, and obstacle courses.
The second area has padded floors and is designed for toddlers; there they can climb around on a bridge or slide down one of four short plastic chutes.
Parents can relax and enjoy a good night’s sleep knowing that their children are safely playing in the guarded play zones.
You can capture some great photos at the end of the night in a photo booth with a beach-themed backdrop.
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16- Escape Joplin
Escape Joplin offers a magical getaway, whether you’re celebrating with friends or enjoying some time alone.
Teams of three to eight players are given one hour to complete specific tasks within an area.
The rooms are set up to promote teamwork and make them ideal venues for team-building exercises.
Escape Joplin has three escape rooms, each of which is decorated differently and based on a different theme: Christmas, pirates, and space exploration.
The path through each room is unique, containing a variety of obstacles.
The chamber’s complexity varies to accommodate every visitor’s ability level.
17- Red onion cafe
Red Onion Cafe is a standout among restaurants in the city’s Historic Downtown district.
The cafe is housed in a building that dates back 100 years and features vintage decor.
Its rustic and comfortable atmosphere makes it a perfect place to eat in comfort.
The menu offers a wide variety of midwestern specialties and American comfort food.
Red Onion Cafe is widely known for its famously delicious salads and steaks.
The salads are made from fresh ingredients, and the steaks are butchered on-site.
Among other things, French onion soup and different kinds of pasta are must-have dishes when you eat at this restaurant.
At the end of your meal, you may want to order desserts—such as their special key lime pie and limoncello mascarpone cake.
Address: Joplin, MO 64801, 203 E 4th St
18- Sandstone gardens
For a nature lover, one of the top things to do in Joplin is Sandstone Gardens.
Sandstone Gardens occupies an attractive 68-acre area and has been transformed into a 50,000-square-foot main garden showroom and Midwest home.
If you think about all the things related to home decoration—both indoor and outdoor items—the Sandstone Garden has them all.
There’s a wide variety of décor items available—ranging from sculptures to dinnerware, artwork, and lighting.
Visitors can also enjoy a gourmet lunch at the Sandstone Bistro, following their shopping excursion. The bistro is well known for its unique desserts and entrees—as well as being one of the only eateries in town open after dark.
Address: Joplin, MO 64804, 2826 Douglas Fir Rd
19- Joplin 44 Truckstop
The Joplin 44 Truckstop is a sprawling gas station and convenience store on Interstate 44.
This place is stocked with great spots to spend time while taking a road trip.
Around the area, there are over 40 restaurants, a convenience store, and other amenities.
You can enjoy their laundry and private showers as well.
The Super Truck Showroom has two trucks on display, and visitors can enjoy photo opportunities with them as well.
Address: Joplin, MO 64803, 4240 Highway 43, I-44, Exit 4
20- National Audubon Society
The National Audubon Society is responsible for maintaining and protecting the nature center inside Wildcat Park.
Those who love nature and are surrounded by plants and wildlife will enjoy the tranquil, flower-filled meadows.
The trail boasts a variety of vistas: river valleys, forest glens, and cascading waterfalls.
During your walk, keep an eye out for local wildlife.
This area is a nice place to visit because you feel closer to nature here than in the city.
Address: Joplin, MO 64804, 201 W Riviera Drive, Suite A
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Is Joplin MO worth visiting?
Joplin has beautiful galleries, parks and boutique stores, a spectacular waterfall, and much else.
What is Joplin MO famous for?
It is Joplin’s most famous saloon, having an arcade and bar in its first-floor area, gambling rooms on two-story floors, and brothels. Trolleys and railway routes made Joplin a hub in Southwest Missouri and quickly became the capital for the Lead & Zinc industry.
What does Joplin Missouri have to offer?
Joplin boasts interesting museums, stunning parks, delightful antique malls, an incredible waterfall, and many more. The food is amazing here. The restaurant and café serve delectable American food. Joplin is full of exciting activities.
Conclusion:
Joplin has many beautiful attractions, such as parks, farms, and gardens. There are also waterfalls nearby.
Tourists from around the world will enjoy this city’s urban atmosphere, which features shops and art galleries as well as fashionable restaurants.
The fact that there is so much to discover in this city makes it difficult not to fall under its spell.
You can follow this list of the best things to do in Joplin, so you don’t miss out on a fantastic trip.