West Plains Travel Guide

Explore the best of West Plains in Missouri with this comprehensive tour guide. Learn about the top attractions, activities, food, accommodations, and more!


Introduction to West Plains

West Plains, a charming city in the Ozarks region of Missouri, has a lot to offer to nature and outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs, culture lovers, and foodies. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing vacation or an adventure-filled one, West Plains won’t disappoint.

This comprehensive tour guide to West Plains will help you explore the top attractions, activities, food, accommodations, and more, to make your trip unforgettable.

List of Places to Visit in West Plains

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Harlin Museum: This museum showcases the history and culture of the Ozarks region through art, artifacts, and exhibits.
  • Missouri Walk of Fame: Stroll down the downtown area to explore the Missouri Walk of Fame, honoring the state’s famous personalities.
  • Old Mill Theatre: Located in Downtown West Plains, the Old Mill Theatre is the first building constructed in West Plains. It’s now a movie theater showing the latest movies.

Natural Attractions of West Plains: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Mark Twain National Forest: Covering almost 1.5 million acres of land, Mark Twain National Forest offers hiking, camping, fishing, and hunting opportunities.
  • Grand Gulf State Park: Witness the beauty of a collapsed cave system at Grand Gulf State Park, which features caves, trails, and scenic overlooks.
  • Spring Creek Trail: This picturesque hiking trail is a four-mile loop that passes through forests, hills, and valleys, and flows through streams and waterfalls.

Hiking/Biking Routes of West Plains

West Plains is a great place for outdoor enthusiasts who love hiking and biking. The city provides plenty of trails that connect to the Mark Twain National Forest and Missouri Ozarks. Here are some of the most popular ones.

  • Ozark Trail: This trail stretches for miles across the Ozark Mountains.
  • Blue Buck Knob Trail: A part of the Mark Twain National Forest, this trail is three miles long and winds through hills and forests.
  • Barren Creek Trail: This five-mile hike passes through beautiful creeks, waterfalls, and bluffs.

Best Things to Do in West Plains: Activities and Tours

  • Float the River: Take a canoe, kayak, or raft tour on the Big Piney or Current River.
  • Hunt: West Plains is a famous hunting destination that offers deer, turkey, and small game hunting.
  • Zipline Tour: Get a bird’s eye view of the Ozarks by taking a zipline tour with Adventure Ziplines of Branson.

Week-Long Itinerary for West Plains

Day 1: Arrive in West Plains and check into your accommodation. Visit the Harlin Museum and the Missouri Walk of Fame.

Day 2: Take a hiking tour on the Spring Creek Trail. In the evening, catch a movie at the Old Mill Theatre.

Day 3: Float down the Big Piney River.

Day 4: Explore the Mark Twain National Forest trails.

Day 5: Visit Grand Gulf State Park.

Day 6: Take a zipline tour with Adventure Ziplines of Branson.

Day 7: Shop for souvenirs and visit the local restaurants and breweries before heading back home.

Food and Drink Scene of West Plains

Must-Try Dishes

West Plains is known for its homestyle cooking and country-style fried dishes. Some of the must-try dishes are:

  • Fried Chicken: This staple food is served in almost every restaurant in West Plains.
  • Biscuits and Gravy: A Southern classic breakfast dish that is hearty and filling.
  • Barbeque: Smoky and flavorful BBQ is a must-try dish in West Plains.

Local Beverages

  • Missouri Wine: The state of Missouri is famous for its wines, and you’ll find several wineries in and around West Plains.
  • Ozark Mountain Coffee: This local coffee roaster offers freshly roasted coffee beans, espresso, and specialty coffee beverages.
  • Breweries: The area around West Plains has several breweries producing craft beer, ales, and lagers.

Where to Stay in West Plains: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

West Plains has several types of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference.

  • Holiday Inn Express West Plains: A mid-range hotel with comfortable rooms and a complimentary breakfast buffet.
  • Deerfield Lodge: A budget-friendly option with cozy rooms, a man-made lake, and picnic areas.
  • West Plains Motel: A basic motel with clean rooms and low prices for budget travelers.

What to Buy in West Plains: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Local Honey: Missouri honey is famous for its flavor and health benefits.
  • Arts and Crafts: The Ozark region of Missouri has a rich tradition in handmade crafts such as pottery, quilts, and baskets.
  • Preserved Food: Savor the flavors of West Plains by bringing home some homemade jams, jellies, and pickles.

Local Culture and Customs of West Plains

West Plains is a small town with a friendly and welcoming culture. People here are proud of their Ozark heritage, and you’ll find several festivals and fairs that celebrate the region’s traditions.

Best Time to Visit West Plains

The best time to visit West Plains is from April to October when the weather is ideal for outdoor activities and festivals.

Do’s and Don’ts of West Plains

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Try the local cuisine.
  • Explore the nearby natural attractions.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage natural resources.
  • Disturb wildlife or vegetation.

Safety and Health

Safety in West Plains

West Plains is generally a safe place to visit, although it’s essential to stay cautious and aware of your surroundings.

Health in West Plains

Medical facilities are easily accessible, and the town has several hospitals and healthcare clinics. Be sure to bring any medications you may need, and be cautious of ticks and other insects while hiking.

Getting to West Plains: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near West Plains

  • Springfield-Branson National Airport (SGF)
  • Memphis International Airport (MEM)

Bus Stations Near West Plains

  • Greyhound Bus Lines

Other Options

Renting a vehicle is the best option to get around West Plains and the nearby attractions. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available.

How to Get Around in West Plains

The city of West Plains is easily walkable, and most of the attractions are within walking distance from each other. However, renting a car is advisable to explore the nearby natural attractions and trails.

Where to Go Next from West Plains: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Eureka Springs, Arkansas: A charming Victorian town in Arkansas, famous for its hot springs and historic architecture.
  • Branson, Missouri: A popular tourist destination for its live music shows, amusement parks, and water sports.
  • Hot Springs, Arkansas: A scenic resort town famous for its hot springs, spa treatments, and horse racing.

Conclusion

West Plains is a hidden gem of the Ozark Mountains, offering something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, or mouthwatering cuisine, West Plains won’t disappoint. Plan your trip today, and explore the best of this charming city.