Liberty has a fascinating history of relaxing getaways. The town’s museum attractions highlight its ties to figures such as Mormon leader Joseph Smith and the outlaw Jesse James. Excelsior Springs, Missouri’s original getaway spa, gained famed in the 1880s for its healing waters; people from around the country flocked to the city in hopes the spring waters found there would cure their ailments. A relaxing getaways today include a stop at The Elms, one of Missouri’s best-known Getaway Spa Resorts.
Morning
A. Ginger Sue’s
Don't be crabby; instead, enjoy one of the crab omelettes at Ginger Sue's. Eggs don't float your boat? Try the banana pancakes, topped with peanut butter. Elvis would be proud.
B. The Jesse James Bank Museum
Museum attractions highlight one of the nation's most daring bank robberies; the first, successful, daylight, peacetime robbery in U.S. history. The robbery was attributed to the Jesse James gang, although no one ever was arrested for it.
C. Historic Liberty Jail
One of the coolest museum attractions in Missouri, this is a replica of the circa 1833 jail that held Mormon prophet and leader Joseph Smith and five of his followers during the winter of 1838-1839.
Evening
A. Ventana Gourmet Grill
Dine in an atmosphere of a French bistro. The menu includes steaks, seafood, pasta and other selections, plus a fine variety of wines and delicious desserts.
B. The Spa at The Elms
On relaxing getaways to Excelsior Springs, pamper yourself with spa services at one of Missouri's most famous getaway spa destinations. Spend the night at The Elms; some say it is haunted. Have dinner at the on-site restaurant and stay the night in a luxury suite.
Afternoon
A. Wabash BBQ – Excelsior Springs
Relaxing getaways to Liberty should include some good, old-fashioned barbecue. Famous for its variety of smoked meats, including award-winning ribs and chicken, Wabash BBQ offers its own dose of local history; the restaurant is situated in what was the city's train depot.
B. Hall of Waters Visitor Center and Cultural Museum
Some call it Liberty’s original getaway spa; originally built in the late 1930s as a distribution point for some of the city's healing mineral waters. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the building is available for tours. Facility houses a visitor center and city government offices.