Destinations across the Show-Me State bring the magic of the holidays to life.
The weather is cooler, the Christmas tree is up, and familiar tunes fill the air. It’s time for a holiday getaway. Destinations across the state turn their focus to warmth, tradition, and wonder. Bask in the glow of dazzling lights, savor sweet goodies, and see everything the Show-Me State has to offer.
Christmas Country Church Tour in Perry County
One of southeast Missouri’s most beloved winter traditions brings tidings of comfort and joy. The Christmas Country Church Tour features dozens of century-old places of worship across the region. Self-guided tours bring the season to life for every guest at their own pace.
Take in a simple one-room sanctuary and a sweeping architectural marvel of a chapel, and feel the same sense of wonder. Revel in Christmas music, live performances, stunning decor, and unforgettable sights as history and the holidays commune in this unique experience.
Mizumoto Japanese Stroll Garden in Springfield
Visitors are accustomed to the colorful plants of the Springfield Mizumoto Japanese Stroll Garden, but other bulbs are at work around Christmas. Their Gardens Aglow display brings hundreds of thousands of dazzling lights to the garden’s unique structures and landscaping.
The dazzling winter wonderland immerses visitors in the beauty of Christmas. Lights, tunnels, framed installations, water features, and more transport visitors to a world full of whimsy and spirit. The affordable adventure makes for a perfect stroll through a truly unique winter world.
St. Charles Christmas Traditions
As Missouri’s original capital city, St. Charles is full of traditions and history, and those qualities are at their most whimsical around the holidays. For a full month, St. Charles Christmas Traditions turns the clock back on Main Street with Dickensian flair. Complete with costumed characters, chestnuts roasting on an open fire, and international holiday customs on full display, Christmas Traditions is a truly interactive celebration in St. Charles.
In 2024, NBC’s The Today Show described the event as “The Merriest Main Street in America.” Join thousands of revelers by the light of the gas lamps for a one-of-a-kind experience.
While in St. Charles, stop by a special spot for baked goods that will bring back cherished memories of holidays past. Visit Grandma’s Cookies for a nostalgic treat that’s attracted generations of cookie lovers for decades, and enjoy delicious oversized cookies guaranteed to spark Christmas joy.
Union Station, Kansas City and St. Louis
There are many Christmas stories about traveling, but even if a trip along the rails isn’t part of your holiday agenda, Union Station should be. The stations in St. Louis and Kansas City both deck the halls for the festive season.
In St. Louis, take a ride on the Polar Express. Board vintage train cars, savor sweet treats and hot chocolate served by dancing chefs, and listen to a reading of the classic story. Sing along to carols and await a visit from Santa Claus himself. The station also features light shows and more to brighten up the experience.
In Kansas City, Union Station’s Holiday Reflections features music, animation, and interactive displays. Enjoy an enchanting taste of Christmas with attractions for children and adults alike. Other fun events at the station include laser light shows and classic Christmas movie screenings.
For visitors looking forward to a holiday full of traditions, history, and breathtaking colors, Missouri is the place to be. The Show-Me State shines like a string of lights at Christmastime for an unforgettable season
