Things To Do Near George Washington Carver National Monument
A trip to George Washington Carver National Monument is a chance to learn more about this man and his remarkable life. See the approximate location where the cabin he was born in stood. Appreciate Carver’s love of nature by seeing the statue of him as a young man. Then, visit the garden with its brown picket fence where he grew peanuts and recorded their daily changes. Then, see the statue of the mature Carver. Stop at the visitor center to learn even more about this man’s extraordinary life and the hardships he overcame.
Hiking Trails
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Lakeside Forest Trail
The Lakeside Forest Trail starts at the entrance to Lakeside Forest Wilderness Area in Branson. Wander down the 315 stone steps to see beautiful views of Lake Taneycomo. Then, continue following the trail as it runs by a waterfall and cave. This is an excellent place for a family hike, and your children will love the nearby nature playground.
Location
Lakeside Forest Wilderness Area, 412 Owen Lane, Branson, Missouri 65616
Length
3.0 miles
Intensity
Easy
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Roark Creek Trail
The Roark Creek starts at Branson Landing in Branson. Then, this paved trail runs to North Beach before ending at Stockstill Park. Most of this trail is paved so that wheelchair users can easily navigate it.
Location
Branson Landing, 100 Branson Landing Boulevard, Branson, Missouri 65616
Length
3.2 miles
Intensity
Easy
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Henning Conservation Area Loop Trail
Start this hike at the parking lot on Missouri 76 West near the Ruth and Paul Henning Conservation Area. Hike down the stairs and follow the trail on down the rocky hillside. Enjoy views of waterfalls and cascades by following the route to the left. Climb the path back up the hill and hike through the open glade until you reach your starting point.
Location
Missouri 76 West, Ruth and Paul Henning Conservation Area, Branson, Missouri 65616
Length
5.7 miles
Intensity
Moderate
Sightseeing
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Neosho Federal Fish Hatchery
The Neosho Federal Fish Hatchery is the oldest continually operating hatchery in the United States. Tour the building to learn how the staff raise rainbow trout to be stocked in ponds as far away as New Mexico. This is a fabulous place for a picnic along the pond’s edge.
Location
East 520 Park Street, Neosho, Missouri 64850
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1872 Neosho Colored School
See where George Washington Carver got his first formal education by visiting the 1872 Neosho Colored School. The Carver Birthplace Association has lovingly restored the building. Learn the exciting story of how this building was discovered inside a dilapidated rental home. Builders had constructed the house around the school, so it was hidden on the inside.
Location
630 Young Street, Neosho, Missouri 64850
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Wildcat Glades
The Wildcat Glades is a beautiful place to visit, especially in the spring when the wildflowers are poking through their heads through the chert sediment. Many of these plants have a waxy substance around their parts that seals in moisture. While you can go hiking at this location, there is also a short scenic drive through it.
Location
201 Riviera Drive, Joplin, Missouri 64804
Museums
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Newton County Museum
The Newton County Museum features three buildings. During your visit, you can see the display of law enforcement memorabilia in the restored jail. Then, tour the one-room schoolhouse and the log cabin.
Location
121 North Washington Street, Neosho, Missouri 64850
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Shoal Creek Conservation Education Center
Learn more about Missouri plants, fish, and wildlife by visiting the Shoal Creek Conservation Education Center. The staff often give interpretative programs. There are great paths to bike along.
Location
201 Riviera Drive, Joplin, Missouri 64804
Nearby Shops and Restaurants
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Urban Art Gallery
See artwork created by about 15 local artists at Urban Art Gallery. They often host special shows and events. Jewelry, paintings, and photos are usually for sale.
Location
511 South Main Street, Joplin, Missouri 64801
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Candy House Gourmet
Find hand-dipped chocolate creations at Candy House Gourmet. Many of the recipes used have been handed down in Ozark families for years. You will find a wide assortment of regular and seasonal candies.
Location
321 South Main Street, Joplin, Missouri 64801
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DeCarlo’s Italian Café
Head to this downtown Neosho restaurant for fabulous Italian creations. You can also often find Southern comfort foods on their menu. If you need to feed a group, they do catering.
Location
127 East Main Street, Joplin, Missouri 64801
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Norma’s Diner
You do not want to miss the chance to eat the great breakfast cooked just the way you want it at Norma’s Diner. Come back later for hamburgers. Then, make it your evening dinner stop where you can find fabulous daily entrees on the ever-changing menu.
Location
1901 South Main Street, Joplin, Missouri 64801