Contents
Introduction
The American Midwest is known for upholding the traditional American values, the good-ole country vibe, which is reflected in its vast stretches of agricultural plains and mountain trails, and a hotbed of various traditional cultures and Native people.
Missouri is such a state occupying its rightful place in the American culture. Mostly known for the cities, Kansas City and St. Louis, Missouri is a calm and peaceful state to plan your travel to after getting your Esta USA.
One of the lesser-known cities, Joplin, lies on the state highway well-connected to Kansas City. It has various historic landmarks and locations, making it a famous historical town in the Midwest.
Joplin features the Shoal Creek, a tributary of the Spring River, the stream flows from bank to bank in the creek, as the largely visited and popular destination, Grand Falls waterfall.
Activities in Joplin Mo
- George Washington Carver National Monument
This national monument is located in Newton County close to Joplin’s town, inaugurated in 1943 by then-president Franklin Delano Roosevelt. It preserves the boyhood home of George Washington Carver as well as the Carver Cemetery. The area features a museum, exhibit areas for students, and hiking trails around the estate. - Joplin History & Mineral Museum
Joplin and the surrounding tri-state districts have traditionally been mining towns. The economy that shapes the towns is because of the mining industry that flourishes there. The Dorothea B. Hoover Historical Museum features artifacts that reflect on the life of the city’s early inhabitants and the famous robbers Bonnie and Clyde. On the other hand, Everett J. Ritchie Tri-State Mineral Museum displays the geological findings in the town. - McClelland Park
Located at the city center in Joplin, Mo, is famous among city dwellers for relaxing. It features disc golf courses, open areas for children to play in, playground equipment, and parks.
Joplin Shoal Creek and Grand Falls
If you are looking for some Joplin family fun or tired of visiting museums and want a place to relax and offer a picturesque atmosphere, then head to the Grand Falls.
A beautiful waterfall formation at the banks of Spring River, forming at the Shoal Creek, the Grand Falls is your average waterfall that offers a getaway.
You can get into the water, which can be chilly or average in temperature, but clean. Walking on the rocks around the waterfall can be a difficult task, so wear your best grip shoes.
Apart from that, you can get floating tubes from the nearby convenience stores.
Best places to eat in Joplin
- Red Hot & Blue
Located at 2601 S Rangeline Rd, serves the best BBQ meat and the sauce that accompanies it. Described as a southern-style restaurant, they also cater to their customers with melodic Blues music playing in the background, giving a mellow vibe to the place. - Red Onion Cafe
Considered one of the popular spots in the town to go for a date, Red Onion Cafe is located at 203 E 4th St. Some of the popular dishes to try here are the Mushroom and Rosemary garlic burger, mac & cheese, and lime cheesecake. The outlet is a cute little cafe appealing to masses of all ages. - El Vallarta Mexican Restaurant
If you feel like having some good Mexican food, then head over straight to El Vallarta, located at 2330 S Rangeline Rd. It is best known for the brilliant salsa and queso seasoned meat, guacamole, and perfectly blended lime ice-tea. The outlet features a simple architecture and design inside and out; it gets its reputation from being one of the best restaurants in town.
Downtown Joplin
Downtown Joplin is also known as the Historic district of Joplin, mainly because of multiple historically significant places and architecture.
The district’s history dates back before the 1870s and breathed life during the 1880s to 1950s, which can be seen in its buildings and monuments that feature Mission Revival, Art Deco, and Modern Movement style architecture.
A list of other notable locations, buildings, and structure include:
- Fifth and Main Historic District
- Newman Brothers Building
- Fox Theatre
- St. Louis and San Francisco Railroad Building
- Liberty Building
- Cunningham Bank
- Model Clothing Store Building
- Lichliter-Kassab Building
Verdict
As we come to a close discussing Joplin, Missouri, we can indeed conclude that it is one of the underrated historical districts not just in the Midwest but the entire USA.
And history is not the only thing worth touring for; you also get on your plate some of the best food and dessert from the state of Missouri.
Now the only thing left to do for you is check status of Esta, and if it is confirmed, get your travel bag, and plans ready.
