We were looking for a way to beat the heat, and decided on going to Stark Caverns. I hopped online…read moreto purchase tickets, and saw that we would need to purchase one for my 18-month old grandson also. Unfortunately, there were not enough available tickets for all three adults and him. I called out to the Caverns to explain the issue and ask if it would be okay. Matt, who answered the phone, said it would be no problem and to just go ahead and purchase the adult tickets. Upon arrival there was ample parking and it was a beautiful place. We headed into the gift shop and checked in for our tour and checked out all of their wares. Gracie led our tour of the caverns. She was so knowledgeable and just a sweet girl. The tour was a great way to spend part of the afternoon. Everyone in our tour group (ages 1-40+) really seemed to enjoy it! If you have some time to spare, you don't want to miss this family friendly, educational, tour.

Genuinely cool cave. There are algae fossils in there from when Missouri was underwater millions of…read moreyears ago, which is a wild thing to stand next to. Sadly our guide Macy was less "passionate cave enthusiast" and more "reciting a script she's said a thousand times and stopped listening to herself." I still don't know how this part of Missouri used to be an ocean based on the tour. She gave the exact same intro four separate times. Not because groups were bumping into each other, just straight up robot mode, probably from also trying to work in the photo package pitch every single time. Ask a follow up question and you'd get a shrug dressed up as an answer. A kid asked about a mineral and got a confident "nope, not that" immediately followed by "I'm not really a gem expert," which, ma'am, pick one. Nobody could tell us where all the clay that used to be in the cave went (there's a lot of water now after the excavation), how the bootleggers pulled off their operation, or whether the cave's ever taken earthquake damage. Also they sell alcohol at the gift shop right before you head into a dark cave, which feels like a liability seminar waiting to happen. What indigenous tribe did the skeleton remains belong to? How did you know it was an indigenous person(s)? What is the difference between an arrowhead and a spear, and when did those relics be given to be on display? She said the stairs were built by child labor because there are child sized handprints in the concrete, but provided no evidence of truth or why. Was it his 18 kids? No one knows. At least it was cool inside while the weather was hot outside. The cave has a story to tell. Macy just wasn't the one telling it. Would recommend the cave, would not recommend Macy. She already told us she's had a bad Yelp review, and I'm sad to say I understand why.

My granddaughters were visiting again and I took them to the water park and they had a great time…read more The place was very clean and has a women's and family locker room with showers. There's locker's availble as well. There's a concession stand with limited food and drinks but very reasonable. Zero entry, most of the pool areas are 3'6 deep to 3'. There are baby slide, a medium wide slide and a large slide as well as a basketball hoop, innertubes and a deeper area for the larger kids and adults. There are plenty of lounge chaise and tables with an umbrellas. They take cash or checks, no debit or credit cards. Nice for the locals and those who are visiting the area. My only suggestion is that the teenagers working there, learn how to say "Thank You" when taking money either for entry or at the concession stand.

This was one of our family's favorite summer fun spots. ...sadly besides learning that they would…read moreprefer nursing mother's not come here, they still charge $5 and no longer have tube floats....

The food was very tasty and if you want to take it home . The time that was told to pick up was…read moreright on time.

The food and serixe are always amazing here. The food is super cheap, huge portions, and so food…read more The grilled shrimp, pretzels, quesadilla, and sweet potato fries are my top favorites so far. The salads are good as well. We couldn't ask for better service . We were recently there after closing due to a storm and thet were nice enough to go back to the kitchen and srsy late to feed us. The servers are always friendly and attentive, usually a lot of college kids and they are great.

Rock Bridge State Park is one of my favorite Missouri trials because of the views and…read moreaccessibility. This park is wonderful for people of all ages; especially for families! We love exploring the Devil's Icebox Cave and the Sinkhole short trail. There are parts on the trail that are easily accessible by following the wood-planked walkway, but there are also "off the beaten path" trails and spots to ride your bike. Rock Bridge State Park is absolutely beautiful and is a "Must Visit" outdoor spot in Columbia, MO!

I take my granddaughters here every chance I get. Love playing in the water in the caves. And they…read morelove the pathways and steps. I usually end up carrying one or both back out as they are exhausted. Afterwards a nice nap had by all!

We tried all three mini-golf places in Osage Beach, and I'll review all three. Putt n stuff is most…read moretraditional with windmill, plinko, tunnels, et. Almost all greens were very clean and newly laid with tee off squares. There is water, hippos, crocodiles, gorillas, windmills and hills and curves. Maybe a little older but overall most fun if you are ok with letting chance help or break your score. In 2026 it was $11 for first round , $5 for second round. Pirates Cove seems newer. It has simpler greens to navigate (less chance more skill), you have a little more control over your score, but not as unique as far as ball play. The pirates and ship are fun for pics and if you read the pirate fun facts that can be fun. It has a couple places where you can put in a quarter for fish food and feed the fish. That was actually pretty cool. It has a large waterfall as well. Cost: $13, $7 for second round, but go to a visitor brochure stand and there are coupons for $1-2 off sometimes. Last is Sugar creek. This one is best if you are looking for a quiet oasis. It reminded me of the Ewok village, as you kind of feel like the putting greens are elevated with wood holding them up. Mostly just rocks and angles to work around so you have almost total control of your score. Not as challenging, but very cool, shady, and absolutely gorgeous with neatly potted, well maintained plants everywhere. Love the miner town buildings and feel. Some leaves on the greens simply because of the number of large trees, but well kept up. Cost $14, 7 for second round. This one has a lot of steps to get down to it, but fewer steps along the way. Hope this is helpful. You really can't go wrong with any of them.

Very nice people and very nice mini course - we only played 18 holes but enjoyed it very much. Many…read morevery creative holes with water hazards!! Too much fun.