#QUIRKY
Roadside Attractions
June 11, 2018
Originally written by Jomel Nichols in June 2018. Updated in June 2019 by Emily Baumann
Photography by Emily Baumann, Patrick Evenson, and submitted
DEFINITION: Characterized by peculiar or unexpected traits.
Where can you find a time capsule, memorial and tombstone for a famous bull, the corpse basket that carried Jesse James (as well as the bullet hole that landed him there) and a museum dedicated to psychiatric treatments over the years? Right here in St. Joseph…So get off the beaten path and take in some unique roadside attractions like the Pony Express statue, museum, and even a giant ice cream cone!
Every city has its unique claims to fame and St. Joseph, Missouri is no exception. Our historical river town has seen many changes over the centuries, but one thing remains the same, we are “Made with Uncommon Character.” Take a road trip through the center of town on parts of the original historic Jefferson Highway system and along the way check out the eclectic stores and style of downtown. Don’t forget to take a quick detour to enjoy the murals that bring our history to life throughout the city. For the lover of historical architecture our community is full of historic neighborhoods and even cemeteries that keep the beauty of the past alive through preservation efforts of these homes and businesses.
If enjoying nature is more your speed the Parkway has been the literal “scenic route” connecting parks through town with its winding, green roadways for over 100 years. Discover treasures along the way by enjoying the interesting geocaching spots along the way. Learn about the ecology and history of the region at the Remington Nature Center along the banks of the Missouri River.
No matter what your travel preferences we recommend taking time to enjoy the small stuff, like an authentic Japanese Tea House or the interactive Walter Cronkite Memorial. These sometimes quirky roadside attractions are definitely the cure for the common road trip.
For a list of roadside attractions in St. Joseph, check out the links below to Roadside America and Atlas Obscura. Know of a roadside attraction we missed? Email us and let us know…
#NEIGHBORLY
Part of St. Joseph’s community strategic plan, Imagine St. Joseph 2040, is to keep enhancing the beautiful place we call home. From historic neighborhoods to green spaces and new trails, this is a city willing to invest in what matters. It’s a city willing to invest in what makes both old and new even better again.
#PATRIOTIC
When you think of St. Joseph you might automatically think of the Pony Express or the historic architecture, but it’s doubtful many St. Joseph residents can picture the city without the big, gray airplanes that routinely fly over town.
#WELL-PACKAGED
Who is the hardest person to buy for on your list? These are the people who “don’t need a thing.” They “have everything they need.” They “want you to spend your shopping time somewhere else.”
#ELITE
In just a short time, St. Joseph will welcome the best women’s college basketball teams in the country to the Civic Arena for the 2023 NCAA Division II Women’s Elite Eight. The 2023 Elite Eight tournament will mark the fifth time St. Joseph and the Civic Arena have hosted the prestigious tournament.
#TIMELESS
Walking into Café Belle Epoque takes you back in time. The copper tin ceiling, marble table tops, hardwood floors, wood-burning stove and jazz music seem to transport you to a period of economic glamour in historic St. Joseph.