Missouri, located in the heartland of the United States, offers a wide range of family vacation resorts that cater to all tastes and ages. From thrilling water parks and amusement parks to serene lakeside retreats and wildlife sanctuaries, Missouri has something for every family seeking an unforgettable getaway. Whether you’re looking for an action-packed adventure or a peaceful escape, Missouri’s family vacation resorts provide the perfect blend of excitement and relaxation.
Water Park Resorts
Silver Dollar City Waterpark
Located in Branson, Silver Dollar City Waterpark is an 18-acre water park that features thrilling water slides, wave pools, a lazy river, and splash pads for younger children. The park is part of the larger Silver Dollar City theme park, which offers a variety of rides, shows, and other attractions for the entire family. Visitors can enjoy the park’s signature rides, such as the Typhoon Twister, a multi-person raft ride that takes guests through a series of high-speed turns and drops.
| Attraction | Description |
|---|---|
| Typhoon Twister | A multi-person raft ride that takes guests through a series of high-speed turns and drops. |
| Kalani Towers | A pair of thrilling water slides that send riders plummeting down enclosed tubes at high speeds. |
| Wave Pool | A massive wave pool that creates the sensation of swimming in the ocean. |
| Lazy River | A peaceful river that allows guests to float and relax on inner tubes. |
| Splash Pads | Interactive water features designed for younger children to play and cool off. |
- Admission Prices:
- Adults (12+): $69.99
- Children (4-11): $64.99
- Children (3 and under): Free
Big Surf Waterpark
Situated in Excelsior Springs, Big Surf Waterpark boasts a variety of water slides, a massive wave pool, a FlowRider surfing simulator, and a family-friendly splash zone. The park offers a range of thrilling rides, including the Typhoon, a high-speed water slide that sends riders through a series of loops and turns. Families can also enjoy the park’s lazy river, where they can relax and float on inner tubes.
- Typhoon
- A high-speed water slide that sends riders through a series of loops and turns.
- FlowRider
- A surfing simulator that allows guests to try their hand at surfing without the ocean.
- Wave Pool
- A massive wave pool that creates the sensation of swimming in the ocean.
- Lazy River
- A peaceful river that allows guests to float and relax on inner tubes.
- Splash Zone
- A family-friendly area with interactive water features and play structures.
Admission Prices:
- Adults (12+): $39.99
- Children (4-11): $34.99
- Children (3 and under): Free
Lost Island Waterpark
Nestled in Waterloo, Lost Island Waterpark transports guests to a tropical paradise with its lush landscaping, exotic waterfalls, and thrilling water attractions, including a wave pool, lazy river, and multiple water slides. The park’s signature ride, the Riptide, is a high-speed water coaster that sends riders on a thrilling journey through a series of drops and turns. Families can also enjoy the park’s interactive splash zones, where children can play and explore.
- Riptide
- A high-speed water coaster that sends riders on a thrilling journey through a series of drops and turns.
- Wave Pool
- A massive wave pool that creates the sensation of swimming in the ocean.
- Lazy River
- A peaceful river that allows guests to float and relax on inner tubes.
- Splash Zones
- Interactive water features and play structures designed for children.
- Waterfalls
- Lush, tropical-themed waterfalls that create a serene and relaxing atmosphere.
Admission Prices:
- Adults (12+): $44.99
- Children (4-11): $39.99
- Children (3 and under): Free
Amusement Park Resorts
Worlds of Fun
Located in Kansas City, Worlds of Fun is Missouri’s largest amusement park, featuring over 100 rides, attractions, and live shows for all ages. From thrilling roller coasters to family-friendly carousels, there’s something for everyone. The park’s signature ride, the Prowler, is a wooden roller coaster that takes riders on a high-speed journey through a series of loops and drops. Families can also enjoy the park’s water rides, such as the Timber Wolf, a rapid river ride that sends guests plunging down a series of waterfalls.
- Prowler
- A wooden roller coaster that takes riders on a high-speed journey through a series of loops and drops.
- Timber Wolf
- A rapid river ride that sends guests plunging down a series of waterfalls.
- Spinning Dragons
- A family-friendly ride that spins and twists through the air.
- Planet Snoopy
- A dedicated area for younger children with rides and attractions based on the Peanuts characters.
- Live Shows
- A variety of live entertainment options, including musical performances and acrobatic acts.
Admission Prices:
- Adults (12+): $59.99
- Children (3-11): $49.99
- Children (2 and under): Free
Six Flags St. Louis
Situated in Eureka, Six Flags St. Louis is home to some of the Midwest’s most intense roller coasters, including The Boss and The American Thunder. The park also features a variety of family-friendly rides and attractions, such as the Justice League: Battle for Metropolis dark ride and the Joker Free Fly Coaster. Visitors can also enjoy the park’s water rides, including the Tsunami Soaker and the Typhoon Twister.
- The Boss
- A high-speed wooden roller coaster that takes riders on a thrilling journey through a series of drops and turns.
- The American Thunder
- A steel roller coaster that features a series of high-speed loops and inversions.
- Justice League: Battle for Metropolis
- A dark ride that immerses guests in a battle against supervillains.
- Joker Free Fly Coaster
- A unique roller coaster that allows riders to experience a free-flying sensation.
- Tsunami Soaker
- A water ride that sends guests plunging down a series of waterfalls.
Admission Prices:
- Adults (12+): $59.99
- Children (3-11): $49.99
- Children (2 and under): Free
Lakeside Retreats
Lake of the Ozarks
The Lake of the Ozarks is a popular destination for families seeking a peaceful and scenic getaway. The lake is surrounded by a variety of resorts and vacation rentals, offering a range of amenities and activities for all ages. Families can enjoy water sports such as boating, fishing, and swimming, as well as hiking trails, golf courses, and various dining and entertainment options.
- Margaritaville Lake Resort
- A lakefront resort with a range of amenities, including a marina, golf course, and multiple dining options.
- Tan-Tar-A Resort
- A family-friendly resort with a variety of indoor and outdoor activities, including a water park and golf course.
- The Cove at Osage Beach
- A luxury resort with private docks, a marina, and a variety of water sports equipment rentals.
- Camden on the Lake Resort
- A waterfront resort with a spa, indoor and outdoor pools, and a range of dining options.
- Ozark Yacht Club
- A private club with a marina, indoor and outdoor pools, and a variety of water sports equipment rentals.
Table Rock Lake
Table Rock Lake, located near Branson, is a picturesque destination that offers a serene and tranquil environment for families. The lake is surrounded by a variety of resorts and vacation rentals, providing access to a range of water activities, including boating, fishing, and swimming. Families can also explore the nearby Branson area, which is known for its variety of entertainment options, from live music shows to outdoor adventures.
- Chateau on the Lake Resort Spa
- A luxury resort with a spa, indoor and outdoor pools, and various dining options.
- Stonebridge Village
- A gated community with vacation rentals, a marina, and access to a variety of water sports.
- Integrate Cabins Condos
- A collection of vacation rentals with access to a private beach and water sports equipment.
- Kimberling Inn Suites
- A family-friendly resort with a marina, indoor and outdoor pools, and various dining options.
- Moonshine Beach Resort
- A lakefront resort with a private beach, water sports equipment rentals, and a restaurant.
Wildlife Sanctuaries
Wonders of Wildlife National Museum and Aquarium
Located in Springfield, the Wonders of Wildlife National Museum and Aquarium is a world-class attraction that celebrates the great outdoors and the amazing animals that call it home. The museum features immersive exhibits that showcase the diverse wildlife of Missouri and beyond, including a vast array of aquatic life and interactive displays that allow visitors to learn about conservation efforts and the importance of protecting our natural resources.
- Aquarium
- The aquarium features a variety of marine life, including sharks, rays, and a vast array of tropical fish.
- Wildlife Galleries
- The museum’s wildlife galleries showcase the diverse animal life found in Missouri and other regions, with exhibits that highlight the unique adaptations and behaviors of various species.
- Interactive Exhibits
- Interactive displays and hands-on activities allow visitors to learn about topics such as wildlife conservation, sustainable living, and the importance of protecting the environment.
- Outdoor Adventure
- The museum’s outdoor trails and exhibits provide opportunities for visitors to explore and connect with nature, with activities such as fishing, archery, and guided hikes.
- Educational Programs
- The museum offers a range of educational programs and events, including school field trips, summer camps, and special presentations by wildlife experts.
Burr Oak Woods Nature Center
Situated in Blue Springs, the Burr Oak Woods Nature Center is a peaceful and serene sanctuary that offers visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Missouri. The center features a variety of hiking trails, where visitors can observe a diverse range of flora and fauna, including native birds, mammals, and insects. The center also offers educational programs and interactive exhibits that teach visitors about the importance of environmental conservation and sustainable living.
- Hiking Trails
- The nature center features a network of hiking trails that wind through a variety of habitats, including forests, wetlands, and prairies.
- Wildlife Viewing
- Visitors can spot a variety of native wildlife, such as white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and a variety of bird species.
- Educational Exhibits
- Interactive exhibits and displays educate visitors about the importance of environmental conservation and sustainable living.
- Nature Programs
- The nature center offers a range of educational programs and events, including guided hikes, nature workshops, and family-friendly activities.
- Visitor Center
- The visitor center provides information and resources about the nature center, as well as a place for visitors to rest and refuel.
Outdoor Adventure Resorts
Adventureland Resort
Located in Carthage, Adventureland Resort offers a wide range of outdoor adventure activities for families. The resort features a variety of high-ropes courses, zip lines, and other challenging outdoor activities that test visitors’ physical and mental abilities. In addition to the adventure activities, the resort also offers a range of amenities, including a swimming pool, a spa, and various dining options.
- High-Ropes Courses
- The resort features a series of high-ropes courses that challenge visitors to navigate a network of suspended obstacles and platforms.
- Zip Lines
- Visitors can soar through the air on a series of zip lines, providing a thrilling and adrenaline-fueled experience.
- Climbing Wall
- The resort’s climbing wall offers a challenging and rewarding physical activity for visitors of all skill levels.
- Outdoor Activities
- In addition to the adventure activities, the resort also offers a range of other outdoor activities, such as hiking, fishing, and kayaking.
- Amenities
- The resort’s amenities include a swimming pool, a spa, and various dining options, providing a well-rounded vacation experience.
Ozark Wilderness Waterways
Nestled in the heart of the Ozark Mountains, Ozark Wilderness Waterways offers a unique and adventurous family vacation experience. The resort provides access to a variety of water-based activities, such as canoeing, kayaking, and rafting, allowing visitors to explore the region’s stunning natural landscapes. In addition to the water sports, the resort also offers a range of other outdoor activities, including hiking, horseback riding, and wildlife viewing.
- Canoeing and Kayaking
- Visitors can explore the region’s pristine rivers and streams by canoe or kayak, taking in the stunning natural scenery.
- Rafting
- The resort offers guided rafting trips on the area’s whitewater rapids, providing a thrilling and adrenaline-fueled experience.
- Hiking
- The resort’s network of hiking trails allows visitors to explore the Ozark Mountains, with opportunities to spot a variety of native wildlife.
- Horseback Riding
- Visitors can experience the Ozark landscape from a different perspective by taking a guided horseback ride.
- Wildlife Viewing
- The resort’s natural setting provides opportunities for visitors to observe a variety of native wildlife, including deer, birds, and small mammals.
Missouri’s family vacation resorts offer a diverse range of experiences, catering to the interests and preferences of families of all sizes and ages. From thrilling water parks and amusement parks to serene lakeside retreats and wildlife sanctuaries, the state’s diverse landscape and rich natural resources provide ample opportunities for families to create unforgettable memories. Whether you’re seeking an action-packed adventure or a peaceful escape, Missouri’s family vacation resorts are sure to deliver an exceptional and unforgettable experience.
