Things to Do in Carthage, Missouri

Address:Carthage, Missouri

Carthage Missouri, nicknamed "America's Maple Leaf City" for the many maple trees that grow and change colors beautifully in the fall, is a real tourist draw. Nature's transformation isn't the only reason people come here. Located on the original Route 66 that ran through Carthage in the 1920s, the town played a vital role in the Civil War, bringing history and eventually tourism to the area. Carthage has some great downtown shops and is the home of the Precious Moments Park and Chapel, a wonderland everyone will love. Architecture buffs will love the Victorian architecture throughout Carthage.

Carthage was the site of the first official engagement of the Civil War, on July 5, 1861. Local groups stage reenactments of the Battle of Carthage, near the grounds of the State Historic Site, which commemorates the battle through an informational kiosk. If you want to learn more about the Battle of Carthage, visit the Civil War Museum.

Each October, you can participate in the Maple Leaf Festival. The week-long festival is named for the many maple trees that grow in the town. It's a tradition for parade participants to hand out candy to children, as well as other small items such as frisbees and footballs.

Visitors will love the Precious Moments Park and Chapel. Inspired by Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel in Rome, the chapel contains mural paintings from the bible and oversized depictions of the well-known porcelain figurines with their teardrop eyes and inspirational messages. The chapel sits on beautiful grounds, full of a variety of flowers, a neat island with a playhouse for kids, and a wishing fountain. Precious Moments Park and Chapel is a big place to navigate. A shuttle drives you from place to place, with a driver providing information on what you will see. Precious Moments Art Museum on Chapel Road was the home of Precious Moments creator Sam Butcher. The museum has a great collection of world treasures, art and unique furnishings from around the world. A short drive from Carthage will bring you to the Precious Moments factory, where the porcelain figurines are created.

Carthage has over 40 restaurants, ranging from hip cafes, to greasy spoons and family-friendly, casual dining experiences. Food ranges from endless buffets, to traditional, great home cooking, fast food and more.

Enjoy a great night at Carthage's Route 66 drive-in movie theater. The 50s-style movie theater shows recent releases. Movies are shown every Friday, Saturday and Sunday. What drive-in would be complete without a concession stand selling hotdogs, popcorn and delicious hot cocoa? Show up early or you won't get a good spot. Kids can entertain themselves by running around the playground area before the movie starts.

Get to Carthage by flying into Joplin Regional Airport and then driving about 35 minutes to Carthage. If you're already in Missouri, Carthage is about an hour and a half drive from Branson Missouri.