Having lived about 6 years of my life in Missouri, I do appreciate that we do get all 4 seasons. The spring and summer months are a bit warmer.  But this summer heat has been hot and humid.  Summer will end Sept 22.  So still lots of time to organize a day trip.  I have 10 suggestions for you to try. They all should be worth the time.

1. Float down the Meramec River

Kayaks on a gravel bar in the Meramec River, Missouri
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Get your sunblock and life vest and take a float down the Meramec River.  Perhaps a kayak option will also work.  Missouri has lots of rivers, and the profile picture is also of the Meramec River and a float trip on this river is one of the most popular. Click HERE to get details on a float trip.

2.  Take a stroll through the Shelter Gardens

Facebook Page - Shelter Gardens
Facebook Page - Shelter Gardens
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The Shelter Gardens are in Columbia Missouri and this arboretum and public garden will have some of the most beautiful flowers and scenery you will ever see.  Including the old school house in town. Website link is HERE.

3. A Trolley Ride In Hermann

Hermann Trolley - Facebook Page
Hermann Trolley - Facebook Page
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Hermann Missouri is known for their German heritage and wineries.  And a nice way to visit them is by riding their trolley.  You can secure your seat by clicking HERE.

4.  Hike under giant rock formations

Getty Images/iStockphoto
Getty Images/iStockphoto
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Elephant Rocks State Park in Leadington will give you an opportunity to hike among some amazing granite boulders. The state park is named for a string of large granite boulders which resemble a train of pink circus elephants. Check out their Facebook page HERE and their website HERE to get a closer look.

5.  Cocktails on a rooftop restaurant and lounge.

Facebook Page - The Roof
Facebook Page - The Roof
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The Broadway Hotel in Columbia has a rooftop lounge they call The Roof.  You can enjoy great food and drinks, and an amazing view.  They have igloo's in the winter time as well.  A great place to relax for sure.  Check out their website HERE.

Facebook Page - The Roof
Facebook Page - The Roof
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6.  A shaded hike to cool off at a State Park

Facebook Page - Pickle Springs
Facebook Page - Pickle Springs
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Pickle Spring Natural Area will give you 180 acres of forest to check out and hike.  Nature lovers will love this place in Ste. Genevieve. Check out their website HERE.

7.  Be outdoors and see oversized artwork

Facebook Page - Laumeier Sculpture Park
Facebook Page - Laumeier Sculpture Park
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Sunset Hills, Missouri is where you will find Laumeier Sculpture Park.  This 105 acre park will allow you to check out some of the 70+ amazing large scale sculptures that they have.  It is free and open daily.  Website link is HERE.

8.  A day at a beach

Facebook Page - Smithville Lake - Clay County Parks
Facebook Page - Smithville Lake - Clay County Parks
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Smithville Lake is just north of Kansas City.  Smithville Lake is a 7,200 acre lake and has more than 175 miles of shoreline. Beach, boat rentals, campsites and more.  Check out their website HERE.   This place is operated in partnership with the Army Corps of Engineers.

Facebook Page - Smithville Lake - Clay County Parks
Facebook Page - Smithville Lake - Clay County Parks
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9.  Visit Missouri's oldest settlement

Facebook Page - VisitSteGen
Facebook Page - VisitSteGen
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It's the oldest town in Missouri.  Population is about 4500.  But there is so much to offer.  It was just recognized as one of the best small town in the country to visit.  Read my article HERE and find out why Ste Genevieve is a place to see.

10. Homemade ice cream for your sweet tooth.

Sparky's Ice Cream - Facebook Page
Sparky's Ice Cream - Facebook Page
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Homemade ice cream in the summertime. What could be better?  The place in Columbia is called Sparky's.  The flavor combinations you can experience will be unbelievable.  More info can be found HERE.

So which one of these options sound best for you?  You have a few more months to decide.  But I hope some of these suggestions strike your fancy.

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