Jefferson City offers many different ways to explore: the Missouri State Capitol and historic sites tell the story of the state, while museums, art and outdoor trails offer other points of interest.
The Capitol, art and history
The Missouri State Capitol features stained-glass windows, murals, carvings and sculptures. The works depict Missouri's history, legends and cultural achievements. Thomas Hart Benton's mural Social History of Missouri is located in the House Lounge. The Missouri State Museum offers free, year-round tours of the Capitol. Tours are not available on New Year's Day, Easter, Thanksgiving or Christmas, including the days on which these holidays are actually or alternatively observed. Reservations are required at least 24 hours in advance. Since the schedule may change, check the dates before your trip.
Near the Capitol, the Lewis and Clark KATY Trailhead Plaza commemorates the expedition's camp in this area on June 4, 1804. The Jefferson Landing State Historic Site includes the 1839 Lohman Building and the 1855 Union Hotel; the Union Hotel is closed for rehabilitation work. The Lohman Building houses an interactive exhibit about the history of Jefferson Landing: Witness to History was added in 2023. Since the exhibit program may change, check visitor information before setting out.
The Missouri Governor’s Mansion has been the official residence of Missouri's governors since 1872. All visitors must reserve at least 48 hours in advance for the free tours. Check visitor information before your trip. The Missouri State Penitentiary offers another perspective on the city's history: it housed prisoners for 168 years before the prison was decommissioned in 2004. The Missouri State Penitentiary Museum displays memorabilia and a replica cell that illustrates living conditions at the time.
Museums, art and nature
The Museum of Missouri Military History displays artifacts from the American Revolutionary War to the present day. Outdoor exhibits include an F-15 Eagle, an F-4 Phantom II, a Sherman tank, a Sheridan tank and a C-130 Hercules. Adults must show ID at the main entrance when visiting the museum; check this entry requirement before your visit. A monument marks the mass grave of 118 men buried at Jefferson City National Cemetery. The cemetery is open daily from sunrise to sunset.
Capital Arts offers both exhibitions and hands-on art activities: nine exhibitions featuring works by local artists are held each year. The pottery studio offers wheel-throwing and hand-building classes. There are also classes, workshops and holiday programs covering a wide range of artistic techniques. Class availability may change, so check the program in advance.
Runge Conservation Nature Center combines public programs with exhibits featuring live animals. It also has a large fish aquarium and a wildlife viewing area. A visit here offers a different focus from the historic collections and exhibits around the city.
Trails, river crossings and getting here
Katy Trail State Park offers recreational opportunities for cyclists, walkers, horseback riders, nature lovers and history enthusiasts. The Katy Spur connects North Jefferson Trailhead with the Katy Trail, runs one mile south and ends at a pavilion. The Missouri River Pedestrian/Bike Bridge provides cyclists with a safe, car-free crossing of the Missouri River. The Jefferson City Greenway Skywalk Trail also crosses the river. Separately, the Carl R. Noren Access provides access to the KATY hiking and biking trail.
The daily Amtrak Missouri River Runner serves Jefferson City. The station is conveniently located for exploring downtown attractions on foot. Check the schedule before your trip.
For the regional travel overview: Cole County.
