The 20 Best Things to Do in West Plains, MO (2023)

West Plains is a city in Howell County, Missouri, in the Ozarks region.

The Ozarks contain two mountain ranges: the Boston Mountains and the St. Francois Mountains.

It's also a place that has developed its subculture and identity.

You can trace its history back to 1832 when Josiah Howell founded the first settlement there.

This area is quiet and peaceful, full of that country charm that many people find comforting.

Here are the best things to do in West Plains, MO:

Start at the Ozark Heritage Welcome Center

This center should be your first stop in West Plains.

At 2999 Porter Wagoner Boulevard, ElOzark Heritage Welcome Centersupports visitors and provides them with all the information and resources they need to explore the city.

If you have any questions about attractions or your planned activities, ask them here.

You can also ask the on-site staff for tips on places to visit, the best places to eat and hidden spots that you don't usually find in guidebooks.

Browse for antiques at Downtown Antiques Mall

Located in the historic West Plains Courthouse,Antique mall in downtownIt has more than 70 booths and 22,000 square meters of exhibition space.

You will find sellers of old coins, old advertisements, dolls, glass troughs, clocks, etc.

It's basically what every antique lover dreams of.

A quick peek inside this mall quickly turns into an hour-long journey into the history of various items.

There is also a bookshop with titles by local authors if you want to explore the culture of the area.

Walk around and see what you like.

You might even find more than a few unique and exciting items to take home.

And when you're done, stop by the cafeteria for a quick bite to eat and to take stock of the antiques.

Catch a performance at the West Plains Civic Center

West Plains Civic Centeris another place to visit if you want to delve deeper into the culture of the region.

It first opened its doors in 1993 and offers educational and entertainment opportunities for locals and visitors alike.

One of the highlights of the house is its magnificent theater with a capacity for 450 people.

This stage has seen high profile singers, comedians and entertainers; there were even more than a few ballet performances.

You can also rent out your convention center if you want to host a party or gathering for a large number of people.

Check out the exhibits at the Harlin Museum

The culture of the Ozarks on the West Plains has a rich, long, and varied history and is central to theMuseo de Harlinto preserve and represent these stories for the next generation.

The site houses several items of cultural and historical interest specific to the Ozarks.

One of the highlights of the place is the Lennis L. Broadfoot Collection, the complete collection of Bradfoot's art.

There are also various artifacts from WWI and the American Civil War, including photographs of the local militia and the skirmishes that took place in the area.

Buy a souvenir from Fiddlesticks Gifts and Collectibles

Here is another place where you can buy souvenirs to show your loved ones.

Fiddlesticks Gifts and Collectibles sells a variety of gifts and collectibles that make great conversation starters.

They have items for every occasion including collectibles for Christmas, Thanksgiving, St. Patrick's Day and other holidays.

You can also find porcelain mugs, story houses and original pens, among many other items.

Enjoy nature at Twin Bridges Resort

If you are looking for an outdoor adventure, Twin Bridges Resort State Highway 14 is for you.

They have RV sites where you can park your vehicle before you go camping.

You can also rent a cabin for you and your fellow passengers.

The area itself sits on the banks of the North Fork River and offers visitors great views and a wonderful atmosphere for those looking to get away from it all.

Learn about the local flora at the West Plains Community Garden

Many travelers want to experience nature and the great outdoors when on vacation, so why not go all out?

Health Haven Botanic Gardens recognizes the need for a horticultural environment to improve local health and nutrition.

The people who run it want to preserve the native plants of the West Plains for future generations to see and benefit from as their parents and grandparents did.

And they organize various events and exhibitions to educate people about this topic.

You can take one of their classes or visit their memory garden if you want to know what they are trying to do.

They also have a petting zoo and playgrounds for children to play and have fun.

Relax in Galloway Park

Park GallowayIt's the place to find some rest.

Vacation is a time to relax and refocus as it is a journey to see as many sights as possible.

When you are in Galloway Park, the quiet and peaceful atmosphere will give you the sense of tranquility you have been looking for.

Have a picnic under a clear blue sky and let the calm sink in.

Chat with your fellow travelers, catch up on each other's lives and enjoy the moment of tranquility while it lasts.

Enjoy a great meal at Ozark Pizza and Bread Co.

After a long day of sightseeing and exploring the area, you should be ready for a good, hearty meal to fill your stomach.

What food fills you up better than pizza?

Ozark Pizza and Bread Co.It's a great place to try a classic, familiar West Plains dish.

They offer a wide variety of flavors including Chicken Bacon Ranch, Greek, and Ozark Pizza.

You can also order some appetizers to start your meal or some sandwiches if just pizza isn't enough.

Hear bluegrass at the heart of the Ozark Bluegrass Association

Everyone loves music.

With many different genres, art appeals to all tastes.

The Heart of Ozark Bluegrass Association aims to spread the awareness and love of bluegrass music to as many people as possible.

Bluegrass music may not be as popular as other genres, but it's no less exciting and fun.

Developed in the Appalachian Mountains in the 1940s, it was traditionally played on stringed instruments such as the mandolin, fiddle, and banjo.

This genre emphasizes off-beat, anticipating notes rather than ahead of the beat, creating an energetic atmosphere.

The association organizes several festivals throughout the year to promote local artists and celebrate this type of music, unique to this region.

Dine at Cafe Ozark

IsOzark-CaféIt's great if you're looking for a small gift or snack in the middle of your trip.

You can also get breakfast, lunch, and dinner if you're looking for heavier fare.

For breakfast, try their tortillas or their special French toast; You can also order a breakfast burrito or classic pancakes.

The restaurant also has a few burgers and sandwiches, including the Mushroom Swiss Burger, Loaded Burger, a Club Sandwich, and an Ozark Philly Steak.

Signature specialties include Southwestern Chicken Pita, Pork on Onion Bun, Breaded Pork, Pork Chop Sandwiches and Chicken Quesadilla.

If after such a hearty meal you still want more, don't worry, this restaurant offers many more dishes.

You can also try their homemade bread or desserts to end your meal before continuing your sightseeing.

Let your kids have fun at the butler playground

Here's a treat for the kids.

After all the travel, it's now your turn to draw attention to the itinerary.

The Butler Playground is located right next to the park office and provides a fun time for all visiting children.

It is a fun playground where children can play with their friends and family members who have come from a trip, other tourist children and some local people.

You can run freely and use the slides as much as possible; It's a great way to burn off energy after a long day without much work on the part of the parents.

Your kids will also make lots of new friends along the way, so it's a win for everyone involved.

Try the delicious dishes at Hibby's Sports Grille

Who doesn't like a good barbecue?

Just the thought of a single flavorful, juicy steak fresh off the grill that smells good makes everyone's mouth water.

Hibbys Sportgrilloffers the best dishes that will surely make you fall in love with good food.

Try sandwiches and wraps like Patty Melt, Club Sandwich and Buffalo Chicken.

You can also order some of the restaurant's signature burgers to get a real feel of what this place really has to offer.

And if you don't like meat, you don't have to worry about going hungry in a place like this as there's a wide range of salads to choose from.

Drink beer at the Wages Brewing Company

IsLöhne Breweryis the premier craft brewery on the West Plains, and they're determined to make a great first impression.

Their motto is "It tastes so good in the middle of nowhere!"

Their beers justify this motto.

Entering their building you will find a warm and informal environment entirely focused on promoting the craft beers made there.

But that doesn't mean it's a boring place.

There is free fast WiFi and lots of exciting and unique artwork to keep visitors interested and engaged.

The establishment also organizes many events and festivals throughout the year to promote their products and local talent, so be sure to attend one for more fun.

Watch a race at Legit Speedway Park

High speed car racing gets your blood pumping.

Don't miss this unmissable event if you're looking for something fun and exciting.

Inlegitimate highway, the best racers will drive through the track and compete for the first prize.

Motorsport enthusiasts will fall in love with the different unique and powerful cars with all the experienced drivers pushing their full potential on the tracks.

The facility covers 80 hectares.

Various events are listed on his weekly race card, so make sure to check out as many as you can.

Watch a movie at the Glass Sword Theater

For theater lovers, the only place that makes it great is the theatreCrystal Sword Theater, which offers an exceptional movie experience in West Plains.

With 3D and 2D screens in its 6 screens with incredible sound, the cinema ensures you see the films the way they were meant to be seen.

It also operates a concession where you can get tasty snacks like popcorn, nachos and more while sitting in your comfortable seats.

The Glass Sword Theater has been in business for over 40 years and shows the latest films that you might want to see while in town.

You can find it on Lanton Road.

Treat yourself to a massage at Bloom Day Spa

After a day of adventures in the West Plains, you're sure to appreciate a good giftBloom Day Spa.

The spa offers therapeutic massages to help you relax and calm your mind for at least an hour or two.

You can choose from deep tissue massage, cupping therapy, aromatherapy, medical massage and more.

Bloom Day Spa also offers eyelash extensions, facials, and waxing.

So if you want to relax in a quiet and comfortable space, Bloom Day Spa is your best place in town.

It is located on Missouri Avenue.

Read a book at the West Plains Public Library

If you are a traveling bookworm,West Plains Public LibraryIt has comfortable reading corners so you can settle down with your book in hand.

With great resources ranging from books, magazines, eBooks, audiobooks, newspapers, films, and more, the library is a great place for kids, teens, and adults.

Children can also enjoy the various activities and resources in the children's section of the library, and teenagers also have their own section.

The library also has a genealogy section if you need to find something from your roots or do some research.

The West Plains Public Library is located on West Broadway.

Shop for fresh produce at the Go Farm Farmers Market

Shop for fresh meats, vegetables, fruits, plants, herbs, crafts, baked goods, dairy, homemade jams and more atVisit the Farm Farmers Market.

Many local farmers and vendors collect their produce to bring to the market's pop-up shop.

Here you will find many local products to take home, including handicrafts, clothing and much more.

There's lots of good stuff to see at the farmers market, which is a great way to support local entrepreneurs.

Go Farm Farmers Market is located on Washington Avenue in downtown West Plains.

Play golf at West Plains Country Club

Featuring an 18-hole championship course through the spectacular foothills of the Ozarks,Western-Plains-Country-ClubIt's a beauty in the beautiful grounds of the region.

The 6,100 meter long golf course was designed by Marvin Fergason, a well-known architect.

Bermuda's tree-lined fairways, bunkers and water hazards make the game even more challenging.

After your tee time, you can dine at their restaurant, which has stunning views of the golf course.

There is also a pro shop for your golfing needs.

West Plains Country Club hosts leagues and tournaments for all levels throughout the year.

final thoughts

West Plains is a tranquil place that conjures up images of lazy mornings and lazy afternoons.

It is the right place if you are looking for a bit of tranquility, the perfect destination for people who want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Book a trip now!