In search of the best and fun things to do in Lebanon, MO? Lebanon is a city in Missouri, United States. It is the seat of Laclede County.
The city was initially called Wyota and was occupied by Native Americans. Subsequently, it was renamed after Lebanon, Tennessee.
Lebanon is popular for its “magnetic” waters, uncovered in 1889. While digging a well, a worker discovered that the waters magnetized his tools. It was also believed that the waters contained healing powers.
Lebanon is home to numerous attractions, ranging from indoor to outdoor attractions and activities. You could decide to go fishing at Bennett Spring Park, play golf, and watch movies at the theaters or take on other adventures it offers.
Here are some of the things to do in Lebanon, MO.
Things to Do in Lebanon, MO
1. Bennett Spring State Park
Bennett Spring State Park
One of the best places to visit in Lebanon, MO, is Bennett Spring State Park.
The Valley that nestles Bennet Spring created a spot for peace and leisure that has welcomed generations of eager anglers.
Bennett Spring Park is among Missouri’s earliest state parks and has continued to draw fishermen and nature enthusiasts aspiring to create new memories.
Over 100 million gallons of clear, cool water cascade from Bennett Spring daily, forming a spring branch stocked daily with rainbow trout.
Fishing is the leading activity, but Bennett Spring State Park also offers several other facilities, such as cabins, dining lodges, campgrounds, and hiking trails.
Whether you are a fishing enthusiast or looking for a place to unwind and refresh, Bennett Spring Park State Park has everything you need to make your trip memorable.
Address: 26250 MO-64A, Lebanon, MO 65536, United States
2. Natural Tunnel
Natural Tunnel, located in Bennett Spring Park, is one of the best places to visit in Lebanon, MO. It is an incredibly 300 feet long tunnel. To discover it for yourself, use the Natural Tunnel Trail.
This 7-5 mile hike is rated mild but mostly due to the length. An average hike will not have issues on the adequately marked trail.
You will come across some damp areas you must cross and will uncover the tunnel more than 3.5 miles into the hike. This is an out-and-back trail that stops at the tunnel.
Before this area’s roads were paved, locals utilized it for travel and frequently rested in the massive tunnel.
The tunnel is approximately 15 feet wide, which would easily house many travelers.
You will be astonished by the natural beauty of this trail. It is remarkable to think that this tiny stream of water was once strong enough to crumble the rock to form this natural tunnel.
Visitors will enjoy visiting this trail throughout the year. If you are exploring the tunnel during the summer and early fall seasons, make sure you use tons of bug spray and check for ticks after you are done with the hike.
Look at the on-site cabins and campsites if you want a nature getaway.
Address: Lebanon, MO 65536, United States
3. Route 66 Museum
Route 66 Museum
Among the top things to do in Lebanon, MO, is to tour the Route 66 Museum.
Route 66 operated in Lebanon for 32 years and has been decommissioned since 1957.
The city established a Route 66 museum in its library featuring an authentic 1950s car parked under the service awning, a replica indoor gas station with retro gas pumps, and a rusty guard rail.
Visitors will also find an array of salt and pepper shakers from Route 66 diners and a library of Route 66 maps and books they can read while sitting on cozy seats covered in Route 66 upholstery.
Admission to Route 66 Museum is free, but there is a donation box for you to show your gratitude.
Address: 915 S Jefferson Ave, Lebanon, MO 65536, United States
4. Lebanon Valley Family YMCA
The first Lebanon Valley Family YMCA began in 1898 when a tiny group of men assembled those interested in improving the community.
Since its beginning, the Lebanon Valley Family YMCA has been a revered voluntary institution, serving the entire community as a source of wellness, health, recreation, after-school programs, enrichment, and other services for kids and teenagers.
This nonprofit group, providing fitness classes to its members, features many amenities like a childcare zone, a sauna, and an indoor pool.
Adult and youth sports classes include volleyball, basketball, swimming lessons, and more.
Address: 500 E Elm St, Lebanon, MO 65536, United States
5. Niangua River Oasis
Niangua River Oasis is a full-service outfitter that began in 1977 by Barbara and Bob Burn.
At Niangua River Oasis, you can enjoy camping and an exciting float down the Niangua River.
They offer more than 60 acres of campgrounds on the river for campsites and RV sites with electricity and water.
They also have guesthouses and cozy cabins where visitors can relax.
Niangua River Oasis offers tubes, canoes, rafts, and kayaks, including rentals for paddles, put-in, take-out, and paddle.
After a long day of playing in the river, visit their Food Truck- Johnny T’s Snack Shack, and enjoy a delicious BBQ or a patio view of the river while enjoying a delicious meal at their restaurant.
Address: 171 Nro Rd, Lebanon, MO 65536, United States
6. Heartland Antique Mall
One of the fun things to do in Lebanon, MO, is to shop for antiques at Heartland Antique Mall.
Heartland Antique Mall was established in December 2000 and has grown to be one of the most extensive antique malls in the state.
With approximately 400 booth spaces and over 150 vendors, the antique store features many eye-catching items.
Heartland Antique Mall has different items under the categories of vintage, antiques, shabby chic, collectibles, primitives, crafts, flea markets, and many more.
Some items you may discover at this antique mall include glassware, clocks, wall art, military antiques, barbies, toys, dolls, vinyl records, quilts, and more.
Make sure you cancel any other plans before coming to Heartland Antique Mall. You can easily spend many hours looking at and exploring every aisle.
Address: 2500 Evergreen Pkwy, Lebanon, MO 65536, United States
7. Hammons Field
Hammons Field
Don’t miss attending a Springfield Cardinals baseball game at Hammons Field. The baseball stadium is close to the downtown district and the Missouri State University Campus.
Hammons Field also hosts the minor-league Springfield Cardinals throughout spring and summer.
While some seats at the field may be more costly than others, there are no terrible seats in the house.
This is all thanks to the gigantic scoreboard and contemporary facilities of this award-winning minor league baseball stadium.
Various theme nights at the stadium include Freedom Week with fireworks, $1 hot dog nights, and more.
Countless fun and family-friendly crowd events also take place between every inning.
This enjoyable lineup spans the whole seasons, offering amazing things to do at night all through the spring and summer.
Don’t forget to take your glove to catch a foul ball.
Address: 955 E Trafficway St, Springfield, MO 65802, United States
8. DA Vinci’s Italian Restaurant
DA Vinci’s Italian Restaurant
Dining in DA Vinci’s Italian Restaurant is one of the top things to do in Lebanon, MO. It serves one of the area’s most delicious and authentic Italian meals.
The restaurant is a great destination for a family dinner or date night.
Are you craving long-time favorites such as chicken Pomodoro, fettuccine alfredo, calzones, Strombolis, sandwiches, soups, pizza, salad, and tasty seafood entrees?
Or maybe you are bold and ready to try a new dish? Then you will want to stop by DA Vinci’s Italian Restaurant.
You will not forget the taste of their mouthwatering meals in a hurry.
Address: 1683 Southdale Dr, Lebanon, MO 65536, United States
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9. Dowd’s Catfish & BBQ
Dowd’s Catfish & BBQ serves tasty southern fried catfish, delicious barbecue dishes, mouthwatering burgers, chicken, steak, salad, and seafood.
They offer a wide variety of delicious sides to accompany your main course.
Enter their Southern Bayou-themed dining room and enjoy varieties of mouthwatering cuisines.
Dowd’s Catfish & BBQ’s hospitality is unrivaled, with many friendly faces to accommodate all visitors.
Address: 1760 W Elm St, Lebanon, MO 65536, United States
10. The Springfield Conservation Nature Center
The Springfield Conservation Nature Center
For a brief escape to nature, explore the Springfield Conservation Nature Center. In addition to being free, it is also within the city’s limit.
The Springfield Conservation Nature Center has over 75 acres of plants and animals native to the area, including forests, woodlands, prairies, and meadows.
It offers a space to get nearer to nature. There are many indoor and outdoor viewing areas where you can enjoy views of animals, birds, and other wildlife.
If you are looking for something more active, there are over 30 miles of trails.
They differ in skill level; most are beginner and moderate levels, and some trails are paved.
Local’s favorites include the wooden boardwalk area that crosses over to the creeks and marshlands.
Make sure you take advantage of one of the numerous public programs, special events, guided hikes, and workshops offered at the nature center.
If you are on a budget, carry a small lunch for a picnic and enjoy your food at one of the many covered picnic areas and tables.
The Springfield Conservation Nature Center is open throughout the year. It is a stunning place to visit regardless of the season you visit.
Address: 4601 S Nature Center Way, Springfield, MO 65804, United States
11. Boswell Park
Exploring Boswell Park is one of the best things to do in Lebanon, MO.
It houses three massive Route 66 Murals. Each mural represents much of Lebanon- Laclede Country’s Route 66 Heritage.
The Park contains two tennis courts, a playground, ball fields, Boswell, Aquatic Center, and the last surviving Camp Joy Cabin, the first tourist camp between Springfield and St. Louis.
Boswell Park is also home to the Annual Route 66 Festival on Father’s Day Weekend.
The Park’s restrooms are always neat and open twenty-four hours a day, and automated light comes on for security.
Address: 51 Drury Ln, Lebanon, MO 65536, United States
12. Pythian Castle
Pythian Castle
It was converted into an orphanage and then served as a retirement home before becoming accessible to the public.
It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It has been featured on several shows like Ghost Adventures since it has been rumored to be haunted by Ghosts.
Pythian Castle offers different tours, including a history tour, ghost tours, a murder mystery tour, and a private ghost investigation.
To see the castle during the day, schedule a history tour where you will learn about the extraordinary past of the castle.
Pythian Castle was once utilized as an entertainment venue by the military to increase the morale of soldiers that were recuperating from sickness or injury.
It even has an operating movie theater and a bowling alley. If you are courageous, schedule the ghost tour at night.
A paranormal group leads the tour, so you will have professionals using cutting-edge technology to speak with the ghostly residents.
It’s an 8-hour paranormal training where you will be taught about the group’s investigative methods and everything about the paranormal.
Address: 1451 E Pythian St, Springfield, MO 65802, United States
13. Riverfront Campground & Canoe Beauty
Riverfront Campground and Canoe Rental are situated on the edge of the Niangua River, close to the Bennett Spring State Park, a well-known trout fishing haven.
They offer more than 200 acres of prime campsite facing the clean and stunning Niangua River.
By camping here, whether by pitching a tent or wheeling an RV, you will discover that the camping experience at Riverfront is memorable and serene.
Riverfront Campground & Canoe Beauty is family owned and friendly, so take the whole crew for an unforgettable outdoor outing.
They rent kayaks and canoes and organize float trips down the meandering and scenic Niangua.
If you have never visited this section of the Missouri countryside, you are in for a lovely treat.
Address: 13 Riverfront Trl, Lebanon, MO 65536, United States
14. Springfield Art Museum
Springfield Art Museum
Established by a small group of women in the early 20th century, these art connoisseurs can now be appreciated for the commencement of the Springfield Art Museum.
Springfield Art Museum is home to more than 10,000 works of art in its permanent collection.
Initially, the museum’s collection concentrated on American works from the 1700s. Over time the collection rapidly grew to pottery, textiles, painting, and other works from Asia and Europe.
Springfield Art Museum also offers temporary exhibits with changing collections after collaboration with artists from all around the globe.
You can go outside to see the massive sculptures exhibited all over the grounds.
If you have children, they will adore the Family Art Lab and Book Nook, which features many art supplies, games, and books.
At the reception desk, ensure you obtain your complimentary take-home project bag that contains free art supplies and instructions for projects influenced by works in their collection.
Entry to Springfield Art Museum is always free, and donations are also allowed.
Address: 1111 E Brookside Dr, Springfield, MO 65807, United States
15. Mizumoto Japanese Stroll Garden
Mizumoto Japanese Stroll Garden
The Mizumoto Japanese Stroll Garden provides a serene setting that offers peace of mind.
Mizumoto controls traditional Japanese garden landscaping stretched over seven acres.
Some of the most notable features include a moon bridge, a meditation garden, and a big koi lake with stepping stones.
Additional garden features include a beautiful Zig-Zag Bridge and a traditional teahouse.
The Eye-catching Mizumoto Japanese Stroll Garden is the ideal place to carry a book or a date or enjoy the surroundings.
Admission to the garden is 4 dollars for adults, which helps maintain this serene tourist attraction.
The Mizumoto Japanese Stroll Garden is in Springfield, MO, 53 minutes from Lebanon, MO.
Address: 2400 S Scenic Ave, Springfield, MO 65807, United States
16. Fantastic Caverns
Fantastic Caverns
Fantastic Cavern has been among the top family-favorite Springfield attraction for over 70 years. A Farmer’s dog uncovered it in the 1860s, and then it was subsequently explored by a group of women explorers.
The Caverns was first converted into a ride-through attraction in the 1960s.
Everyone can partake, regardless of mobility, since it is on a jeep-drawn tram.
Jump on for a ride-through experience where walking is not needed on the hour-long tour.
From the mini-jeep, you can see all the cave formations, including mineral straws, giant columns, stalagmites, stalactites, and cave pearls.
An experienced guide will provide you with the history and how the cave was formed millions of years ago.
It is also available to visit all through the year. The caves retain a steady 60 °F every season, so it is comfy to visit regardless of when you visit the city.
No reservations are required to see this unique cave system
Address: 4872 N Farm Rd 125, Springfield, MO 65803, United States
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Plan Your Trip to Lebanon
You can’t be in need of what to do in Lebanon, MO, as the city has many attractions that will match any tourist’s interests.
Parks such as the Bennett Spring State Park provides many amenities for various recreational opportunities.
The city also features the Route 66 museum, an excellent attraction for car lovers.
Additionally, outdoor lovers will appreciate the natural tunnel hike, which comprises a mysterious tunnel, and Boswell Park, which serves as a terrific place for kids to commune with nature.
With all these attractions and more, there is no doubt that Lebanon is truly a fantastic city to visit.
So what is the delay? Start preparing for your trip to Lebanon, MO, today!