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Spots to Enjoy a Beautiful Missouri Sunset

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Cooper's Landing - Columbia
Les Bourgeois Vineyards A-Frame
Percheron Rooftop Bar in Kansas City
Lake of the Ozarks
Credit: FunLake.com
Missouri's National Veterans Memorial

The Show-Me State is abundant in natural wonders: crystal-clear springs, majestic bluffs, rolling hills with endless foliage. But the greatest wonder of all is witnessing a Missouri sunset as it bathes our rich land in shades of red and gold. Be sure to stick around after your day of adventuring to behold an extraordinary view.

Missouri’s National Veterans Memorial, Perryville

It’s an emotional experience, to watch the last rays of sunlight glint off the full-scale replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall. Take time for introspection and to honor those who lost their lives serving our country.

Prairie State Park, Mindenmines

Imagine the past at Prairie State Park, as you picture pioneers setting off into the unknown, while you’re surrounded by one of Missouri’s few remaining tallgrass prairies and a roaming bison herd. The scattering of wildflowers under a horizon of golden light will have you pulling out your phone to capture the moment.

Les Bourgeois Vineyard, Rocheport

Outdoor seating at the A-Frame provides the perfect venue to sip wine while admiring views overlooking the Missouri River. Snack on picnic fare or make your way to The Bistro for a heartier meal on their patio.

Loess Bluffs National Wildlife Refuge, Mound City

Birders will delight in watching the sun go down over this vast expanse of land. Catch an up-close view of migratory bald eagles, snow geese and various other species from spotting scopes mounted throughout the park. For a change of scenery, make your way along the 10-mile self-guided auto tour route.

Lover’s Leap, Hannibal

It’s no wonder author Mark Twain was so captivated by his hometown, with views like this. The bluff top vantage offers uninterrupted views of the Mighty Mississippi and city proper. If you look hard enough, you might even glimpse the Mark Twain Memorial Lighthouse in the distance.

Hughes Mountain Natural Area, Irondale  

Bring a flashlight because you’re going to have to hike for this view. From the parking lot, make your way .75 miles along the rugged trail to the top of Hughes Mountain. Be sure to watch your step when you reach the top, as the surface is riddled with block-like formations of volcanic rock known as Devil’s Honeycomb.

Top of the Rock Ozarks Heritage Preserve, Ridgedale

Be awed by the breathtaking vista as the sun sets over Table Rock Lake and the Ozark Mountains. The view from the patio at Top of the Rock is complemented by the Chapel of the Ozarks, End of the Trail sculpture amidst an infinity pool and award-winning golf course. The sight is well worth the $10 entry fee.

Lake of the Ozarks

While countless sites at the lake can offer an unforgettable sunset view, we recommend taking it in from a lakeside patio. Enjoy fresh air, delectable food and the painted sky when you dine outside at Baxter’s Lakeside Grille or JB Hook’s in Lake Ozark.

Percheron Rooftop Bar, Kansas City

The perfect conclusion to your evening awaits at Percheron. Admire panoramic views of the city skyline while savoring a craft cocktail. Hang around after sunset for a night under the stars, as the city lights up around you. Check out other rooftop bars here.

The St. Louis Wheel

Visit at dusk and you’ll be rewarded with a view from atop the observation wheel that stretches for miles over the city. Standing 200 feet tall, the wheel is equipped with enclosed, climate-controlled gondolas, and a ride lasts approximately 15 minutes. And best of all? The attraction comes alive at night, offering a show complete with 1.6 million LED lights.

No matter where your travels take you – a state park, conservation area, scenic overlook, rooftop bar or outdoor dining experience – a picturesque sunset awaits.

Share your favorite Missouri sunset photo using #MissouriAdventure.

Other notable locations:

Buzzards Roost Overlook at Mark Twain Lake State Park, Florida

Castlewood State Park, Ballwin

Cooper’s Landing, Columbia

Harry S. Truman Dam and Reservoir, Warsaw

Ruth and Paul Henning Conservation Area, Branson

Weston Bend State Park, Weston

Wyeth Hill Scenic Overlook, St. Joseph