Hollister Travel Guide

Planning a trip to Hollister? Read our comprehensive guide for information on the best attractions, activities, dining, and accommodations in the area.


Introduction to Hollister

Located in Southwest Missouri, Hollister offers a unique combination of cultural attractions and scenic outdoor adventures. The city is home to a variety of museums and historical landmarks, as well as hiking and biking trails, parks, and lakes. In this travel guide, we will explore the top things to do and see in Hollister, along with recommendations for dining, lodging, and transportation.

List of Places to Visit in Hollister

Below is a list of top attractions and destinations to visit in Hollister:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Hollister is rich in history and culture, with several museums and historical landmarks worth visiting.

1. Veterans Memorial Museum

The Veterans Memorial Museum is a must-visit attraction for history buffs and military enthusiasts. The museum features exhibits and artifacts from all five branches of the military, including weapons, uniforms, and vehicles.

2. Downing Street Pour House and Historical Museum

This unique attraction combines a museum with a craft brewery and restaurant. Visitors can learn about the history of Hollister while enjoying a cold beer and home-cooked meal.

3. Bonniebrook Gallery, Museum & Homestead

This artist retreat and museum is located on the former residence of renowned artist Rose O’Neill. Visitors can tour her home, view her artwork, and enjoy the natural beauty of the Ozark mountains.

Natural Attractions of Hollister: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

For nature lovers and adventure seekers, Hollister has plenty to offer. Below are some of the top outdoor activities and scenic destinations to explore.

1. Table Rock Lake

Table Rock Lake is a popular destination for boating, fishing, swimming, and other water sports. The lake spans over 800 miles of shoreline and is surrounded by scenic mountain views.

2. Henning Conservation Area

This nature preserve offers hiking trails through dense forest and scenic rolling hills. Visitors can enjoy birdwatching, fishing, and picnicking in a tranquil setting away from the hustle and bustle of city life.

3. Ruth and Paul Henning Conservation Area

This conservation area covers over 1,500 acres of picturesque Ozark Mountains, with rugged hiking trails leading to scenic overlooks and waterfalls. Visitors can see native wildlife, including deer and birds of prey.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Hollister

Hollister offers several hiking and biking trails for outdoor enthusiasts. Below are some of the top routes to explore.

  1. The White River Valley Trail System
  2. Ruth and Paul Henning Conservation Area
  3. State Park Marina Trail
  4. Lakeshore Trail at Table Rock State Park

Best Things to Do in Hollister: Activities and Tours

There are plenty of fun-filled activities and tours available in Hollister for visitors of all ages. Below are some of the top recommendations:

  1. Zipline and Aerial Adventure Parks
  2. Boat Tours
  3. Guided Fishing Trips
  4. Horseback Riding
  5. Helicopter Tours

Week-Long Itinerary for Hollister

Below is a suggested itinerary for a week-long visit to Hollister:

Day Activity
Day 1 Veterans Memorial Museum, Downing Street Pour House and Historical Museum
Day 2 Henning Conservation Area, Table Rock Lake
Day 3 Bonniebrook Gallery, Museum & Homestead, White River Valley Trail System
Day 4 State Park Marina Trail, Lakeshore Trail at Table Rock State Park
Day 5 Fishing trip on Table Rock Lake, lunch at a local restaurant
Day 6 Guided horseback riding tour, zipline and aerial adventure parks
Day 7 Helicopter tour of the Ozark Mountains, souvenir shopping

Food and Drink Scene of Hollister

Hollister offers a diverse range of dining options for visitors, with many local favorites serving up delicious Southern cuisine and craft beers. Below are some must-try dishes and local beverages.

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Fried chicken and cornbread at Downing Street Pour House and Historical Museum
  2. BBQ ribs at Danna’s BBQ
  3. Fried green tomatoes at The Keeter Center at College of the Ozarks

Local Beverages

  1. Craft beer at Downing Street Pour House and Historical Museum
  2. Wines at Mount Pleasant Winery
  3. Moonshine at Copper Run Distillery

Where to Stay in Hollister: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Hollister offers several lodging options for visitors, ranging from luxury resorts to budget-friendly guesthouses. Below are some top recommendations.

  1. Chateau on the Lake Resort Spa & Convention Center
  2. The Keeter Center at College of the Ozarks
  3. Lakeview Inn

What to Buy in Hollister: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Visitors to Hollister can take home some unique souvenirs and local products. Below are some of the top items to shop for in Hollister.

  1. Ozark Mountain Honey
  2. Handmade pottery at Hillcreek Pottery
  3. Local jams and jellies at Long Creek Herb Farm

Local Culture and Customs of Hollister

Hollister is a friendly and welcoming city with a strong sense of community. Visitors are encouraged to be respectful of local customs and traditions, such as attending a church service on Sunday mornings.

Best Time to Visit Hollister

The best time to visit Hollister is during the spring and fall seasons when the weather is mild and the scenic views are at their best. Summers are hot and humid, while winters can be cold and snowy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Hollister

Do:

  1. Respect the local customs and traditions
  2. Explore the natural beauty of the Ozark Mountains
  3. Try the delicious Southern cuisine and local crafts

Don’t:

  1. Engage in loud or disruptive behavior
  2. Litter or damage the natural environment
  3. Ignore safety warnings and precautions

Safety and Health

Safety in Hollister

Hollister is a relatively safe city, but visitors should take normal precautions to stay safe. Be aware of your surroundings in unfamiliar areas and avoid carrying large amounts of cash or valuables.

Health in Hollister

Hollister has several medical facilities and pharmacies in case of emergencies. Visitors should ensure they have adequate health insurance coverage before traveling.

Getting to Hollister: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Hollister

  1. Springfield-Branson National Airport
  2. Boone County Regional Airport
  3. Northwest Arkansas Regional Airport

Bus Stations Near Hollister

  1. Greyhound Bus Lines
  2. MegaBus

Other Options

  1. Car rentals
  2. Ride-sharing services such as Uber and Lyft

How to Get Around in Hollister

The easiest way to get around in Hollister is by car. Visitors can rent a car or use ride-sharing services such as Uber and Lyft. Biking and walking are also popular options for exploring the local area.

Where to Go Next from Hollister: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Hollister is surrounded by several nearby destinations and excursions worth exploring. Below are some recommendations.

  1. Branson, MO
  2. Springfield, MO
  3. Eureka Springs, AR

Conclusion

Hollister is a charming destination that offers a unique combination of culture and natural beauty. Visitors to Hollister can enjoy outdoor adventures, explore the local museums and historical landmarks, sample delicious Southern cuisine, and shop for unique souvenirs and local products. We hope this travel guide has provided helpful information and recommendations for planning your visit to Hollister.