If you like the Katy Trail and its history, make a point to visit this Depot in Sedalia. There is a…read moreton of middle Missouri history to take in, souvenirs, friendly people, and it's basically right on the trail itself. The building is beautiful from the outside, and inside you'll find friendly staff eager to talk. We stayed for a while taking everything in, of note, they have some nice restrooms to boot. It's not going to be open every time you ride by, so if it is I say take a few minutes to stop by here!

I came on Memorial Day weekend and pressed my nose sadly against the glass of the (closed) gift…read moreshop wishing I could buy my husband (who has biked parts of the Katy Trail) a souvenir tee. They had tons of them on display that looked really cool. But alas, I'll just have to visit another time. The three star review from me is due to the building and grounds being lovely even though the depot was closed. It is normally open Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. (although I would recommend checking their website or office for details) This is the former Sedalia, MO train depot and it is now connected with the "Rails to Trails" program and the wonderful Katy Trail that goes almost all the way across the state of Missouri. The depot is a beautifully restored building and tours are given but not on my visit (again, so disappointed)...I'm sure it is very cool! If I come back I'll update this review with more details. We explored the grounds. The bike shop and bike rentals were open, however. I think they're owned by a separate entity (Champion Bike Shop if I'm not mistaken). They also had used bicycles for sale outside the depot. There is ample parking here. Additional tip: If you're in the area and so inclined, do check out Daum Museum of Contemporary Art.

The Missouri State Capitol in Jefferson City was a really nice surprise and much more impressive…read morethan I expected. The interior is beautiful, and it felt like there were miles and miles of hallways to wander, which made exploring half the fun. I could only look into the galleries through the windows, but even from a distance they looked spectacular and full of detail. The rotunda was a standout for me, especially standing underneath it and looking up at the dome, which is genuinely stunning. It is one of those places that quietly sneaks up on you and makes you glad you took the time to stop and explore.

I've visited three state capitols, and they're all special in their own way. The Missouri one has…read moresome history of its own, as being the fifth overall capitol building in the state of Missouri, and just the 3rd one in Jeff City. You can park in a nearby garage or simply in front or back of the building. Be sure to check out the art and statues on the grounds, including the Statue of Liberty replica and the Thomas Jefferson statue. On the first floor is mostly the Missouri State Museum (not to be confused with the Missouri History Museum in St. Louis) where you can learn a lot about the Show-Me State. I highly recommend checking out the large timeline of Missouri events they have there. I also highly recommend checking out the gift shop, which doesn't seem like they have very much to offer (that's probably a good thing!). If you have a State Capitols Passport Stamp book, they will gladly stamp it. The other floors consist, of course, statewide offices as well as several offices for legislative leaders. As you enter the 2nd floor from the staircase you'll see the Governor's office door right away. (No, he wasn't there at the time of my visit). Down the hall is the Lt. Gov's office as well. The Senate and State House chambers are on the 3rd floor. Be sure to check out the detailed mural of artist Thomas Hart Benton, located on the 3rd floor. And the Hall of Famous Missourians, which consist of a very eclectic group of people: Walt Disney, Scott Joplin, Rush Limbaugh, Walter Cronkite, Stan Musial and many others. If you're a fan of visiting state capitols, this is for you. Got extra time? Check out the Bicentennial Bridge (MO celebrated its 200th birthday in 2021) that leads to a small island across the railroad tracks. Unfortunately, there's not much else to do in Jeff City, but you know.

Unfortunately I did not get to tour the Lodge, since reservations must be made 24 hours in advance…read moreand I didn't do my proper research until the night before driving to Sedalia. The Lodge is quite striking from Highway 65 and the view of central Missouri is beautiful from the patio. I'm pretty sure that the experience would be so much enjoyable if I had been able to enter the mansion instead of just reading about it's interesting history. Even if you don't have a reservation go check out the view and what little you can see; it's only about a 3 minute drive off of US65. A cool and unique addition to the Missouri state parks system.

This is one of the best parks in Missouri! The lodge is interesting but not particularly…read moreoutstanding. But the park itself is very nice with very many trees and really nice places to have picnics. There is also a basic gym area for the children and those who have decided not to grow up completely. We are losing our places to just be out in the trees and fresh air and just relax! This is one of the best places left.

Arrow Rock SHS covers the whole village plus campgrounds south of there. If you're wanting to…read moreexplore, start with the Visitors Center, just off MO 41. Located at the Visitors Center is a museum, gift shop and theater where you can watch a 20-minute film about the history of one of Missouri's oldest settlements. The parking lot is huge so that parking should be a no-worry. Be sure to get a map of the village as there lots of historic sites noted. Many of the buildings are still standing after a century and a half, including the legendary J. Huston Tavern. Speaking of which: at this time, the tavern is temporarily closed until the State (which partly owns it) finds new ownership. I was very bummed that I did not get to eat there recently, but here's to hoping. But be sure to check out some of the old buildings like the printing press museum and the old jail. Plan on spending at least a day here.

Beautiful Place to visit and enjoy a peaceful weekend at the Upside Down Cabin and explore this…read morehistoric town. I could not of had a nicer time! And it felt like Paradise!