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Hello Adventure Travelers! Planning a trip to Missouri anytime soon?! If you're looking for a weekend getaway that combines rich history, intriguing attractions, and a dash of adventure, then pack your bags and head to St. Joseph, Missouri. Nestled on the Missouri River, this charming city offers a mix of well-known tourist spots and hidden gems perfect for couples looking to explore without the pitter-patter of little feet. From historic mansions to scenic trails, St. Joseph promises an unforgettable journey through time. Ready for a trip filled with fascinating stories and picturesque views? Let’s dive into the must-visit destinations that should be on your St. Joseph itinerary!
We've always wanted to go to this Glore Psychiatric Museum for a while. We had initially wanted to go camping but we were unable to to find a good camping site so we decided to just stay at a hotel.
Ready to book a hotel for your St. Joseph Adventure?
We've always eyed this destination but it is so far. When we did a couple of trips out to NW Missouri we always run out of time. So this time we made a deliberate decision to specifically do a trip to see this place. I am getting too far ahead of myself. There were other places we visited and this was just one of them.
St. Joseph, MO Day 1
Taking off
St. Joseph, MO which is about 4.5 hours from St. Louis. Our first stop was at Big Biscuit where we had an ok breakfast but was introduced to a BONUT.
A BONUT is a biscuit that is fried and rolled in powdered sugar. It is DELICIOUS. Am I going to have diabetes after eating it… absolutely! Am I going to eat it again given the chance? Hells yes!
This gem isn't just any museum—it's a National Historic Landmark brimming with stories from the past. Originally built in 1858 as a luxurious hotel, the Patee House played a pivotal role during the westward expansion. Imagine elegant rooms, bustling hallways, and travelers from all walks of life sharing tales of their adventures.
The museum was extensive! It had Civil War era displays collected from various donations
Inside there is a display of a "little city" that recreates what St. Joseph had looked like back in the day including a train
Horn furniture anyone????
Things to know about your visit to the Patee House Museum
Hours of Operation: The museum is open Monday through Saturday from 10 AM to 4 PM, and on Sundays from 1 PM to 4 PM.
Ticket Prices: Adults: $6, Seniors (62+): $5
Best Times to Visit: Mornings are usually quieter, allowing for a more leisurely exploration.
The Jesse James Home
Next to the Patee House is the Jesse James Home. This modest house is where the infamous outlaw Jesse James met his end. On April 3, 1882, Jesse was shot by Robert Ford, a member of his own gang, marking the end of a notorious chapter in American history.
The house is preserved just as it was in the late 19th century, complete with period furnishings and artifacts. It’s a hauntingly captivating experience, especially when you see the bullet hole still visible in the wall.
Things to know about your visit to the Jesse James Home
Location: Right next to the Patee House Museum, making it easy to visit both in one trip.
Guided Tours: Available daily, providing deeper insights into Jesse James' life and the events leading up to his death.
Ticket Prices: Adults: $4, Seniors (62+): $3,
Combo tickets with the Patee House Museum are also available.
The Wyeth-Tootle Mansion
The Wyeth-Tootle Mansion, an exquisite example of Gothic Revival architecture. Built in the 1870s, this mansion once belonged to the wealthy Wyeth family, who spared no expense in its construction. Think grand staircases, intricate woodwork, and beautiful stained glass windows.
We did not get to spend a lot of time here because there was not much too see but the first floor was worth the walk through
As you wander through the rooms on the first floor, you’ll find displays of period clothing, antique furniture, and historical photographs that tell the story of a bygone era.
After the museum we had also walked around the city to check out the murals that St. Joseph.
Things to know about your visit to the Wyeth-Toole Mansion
Hours: Open Wednesday through Saturday from 10 AM to 4 PM.
Entry Fees: Adults: $5, Seniors (62+): $4
Special Events: Check the mansion’s schedule for special events and guided tours, which can offer a more in-depth look at its history.
Murals must be key in country towns because we always find them in our travels
Dinner Recommendation for St. Joseph, Missouri
Head on to Boudreaux’s Louisiana Seafood and Steaks which serves Creole cuisine. Also how gorgeous is this building?!
I am always amazed when I find pretty good non-American cuisine and this was one of those pleasant surprises.
St. Jo's Riverfront Trail
To burn off the food we just gorged ourselves. We ended our evening with a nice walk at the St. Jo's Riverfront Trail . This 26-mile trail runs along the Missouri River, offering stunning views and a variety of outdoor activities. Whether you’re into biking, jogging, or just a leisurely stroll, the trail has something for everyone.
Things to know about your visit to the St. Jo Riverfront Trail
Trail Access: Main access points include Riverfront Park, Heritage Park, and Krug Park.
Best Times to Visit: Early mornings and late afternoons are ideal for avoiding the midday heat.
Safety Tips: Carry water, wear comfortable shoes, and be mindful of cyclists and other trail users.
Day 2 at St. Joseph Missouri
Next day is the big day. We have been wanting to see the Glore Psychiatric museum for the longest time. It doesn’t open until 10:00am so we drove around to see what other sites we could be missing. We want to hit everything because again… I ain’t coming back
Mount Mora Cemetery
Mount Mora Cemetery is the oldest operating cemetery in St. Joseph and also part of the National Register of Historic Places. Established in 1851, this cemetery is the oldest in the city and the final resting place of many notable figures, including pioneers, Civil War veterans, and prominent local citizens.
As you wander through the cemetery, you’ll notice the beautiful monuments and mausoleums, each with its own story to tell. One of the most interesting sections is the “Millionaires’ Row,” where some of the city’s wealthiest residents were laid to rest in elaborate tombs.
Things to know about your visit to the Mount Mora Cemetery
Visiting Hours: Open daily from dawn to dusk.
Etiquette: Be respectful of the grounds and the gravesites, and follow any posted rules.
Glore Psychiatric Museum
And finally the pièce de ré·sis·tance, Glore Psychiatric Museum. Housed in what was once the State Lunatic Asylum No. 2, this museum offers a fascinating—and sometimes eerie—look into the history of mental health treatment.
The exhibits cover a wide range of topics, from early treatments and therapies to the evolution of psychiatric care. You’ll find everything from antique medical equipment to patient art, each piece telling a part of the story of mental health care.
The museum was interesting, and maybe we had built up the awesomeness of the site in our heads that we were kind of disappointed at the exhibit. We were thinking more Missouri State Penitentiary where the cells were staged so you can really imagine the vibe. Although there were some of that it didn't really impress us as much as the Patee House Museum did.
Things to know about your visit to the Glore Psychiatric Museum
Hours: Open Monday through Saturday from 10 AM to 5 PM, and on Sundays from 1 PM to 5 PM.
Entry Fees: Adults: $6, Seniors (60+): $5
The Pony Express Museum
After being underwhelmed with the Glore Museum, we had one more destination. The Pony Express Museum. Located in the original Pike’s Peak Stables in St. Joseph, Missouri, this museum is a tribute to the daring spirit of the Old West. The Pony Express was a short-lived but legendary mail service that operated from April 1860 to October 1861, bridging the gap between the East and the West during a critical time in American history.
The Pony Express was the brainchild of William H. Russell, Alexander Majors, and William B. Waddell, who aimed to create a fast mail service across the United States. The service relied on a relay system of horseback riders, covering a distance of nearly 2,000 miles from St. Joseph, Missouri, to Sacramento, California. These brave riders, often young and fearless, faced harsh weather, rugged terrain, and the constant threat of attacks as they sped across the country in just 10 days.
The Map Room: Trace the route of the Pony Express on a detailed map that spans the length of the museum. The exhibit highlights key stations, relay points, and significant events that occurred along the way.
Things to know about your visit to the Pony Express Museum
Hours of Operation: The museum is open Monday through Saturday from 9 AM to 5 PM, and on Sundays from 1 PM to 5 PM.
Ticket Prices: Adults: $6, Seniors (62+): $5
Guided Tours: While the museum is self-guided, knowledgeable staff members are available to answer questions and provide additional insights. Check the museum’s schedule for special guided tours and educational programs.
Best Times to Visit: Weekday mornings are generally less crowded, giving you more time to explore the exhibits at your own pace.
Accessibility: The museum is wheelchair accessible, with ramps and elevators available for easy navigation.
And there you have it, folks—your ultimate guide to a weekend travel guide in St. Joseph, Missouri. From the luxurious halls of the Wyeth-Tootle Mansion to the adrenaline-filled tales of the Pony Express, this charming city offers a unique blend of history, adventure, and picturesque scenery that promises something for every travel enthusiast. Whether you're a history buff, a lover of the great outdoors, or simply someone looking for a new destination to explore, St. Joseph will not disappoint.
Hit the road and discover the hidden gems and historic treasures that make St. Joseph a must-visit destination. And when you get back, be sure to share your travel tales with us—after all, every great story deserves an audience. Happy travels, and may your journey through St. Joseph be as memorable and adventurous as the tales of the Pony Express riders!
Ready to start your adventure? Pack your bags, grab your travel buddy, and get ready for an unforgettable road trip to St. Joseph, Missouri! Safe travels!
Bonus: Did you know that Eminem (yep.. that Eminem) was born in St. Joseph. Interesting article read The Mystery of Martial Mathers
TTYL!
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