Those of us who are born and raised in the Joplin area know what a great place it is to grow up. Contrary to popular belief, this community has lots of things to do if you know where to look!  We consulted some of our Joplin locals and put together a list of some of the best options – check them out if you’re looking for some fun things to do as a family! 

Blast from the Past

The Joplin area has some surprising historical monuments and museums. If you’re looking for something that is both fun and educational, check out the Joplin Museum Complex ! The complex hosts two different museums: The History Museum, focused on Joplin’s past, featuring exhibits such as items from Bonnie and Clyde’s stay in the area, a Joplin Sports Hall of Fame, and a National Historical Cookie Cutter Exhibit! Once you’re done checking out that part, walk on over to The Mineral Museum and learn all about Joplin’s mining past. Make sure to stop by the glow-in-the-dark rocks and explore the prehistoric exhibit to see some fossils!

Just a short drive out of Joplin you will also find the George Washington Carver National Monument . Take a walk along the one-mile, self-guided Carver Trail and see the birth site of George Washington Carver, the Boy Carver Statue, and the 1881 Moses Carver house. Inside the visitor center, you’ll find information about George Washington Carver, a museum, interactive exhibits about history and science, classrooms for programs on George Washington Carver’s life, and an observation deck. Be sure to check out their special events throughout the year – Art in the Park is coming up soon on April 23rd! 

Get the Wiggles Out

If you’ve got an active kid that needs to burn some energy, we’ve got the spot for you! Take your kid on a gravity-defying trip to Soar Trampoline Park to bounce, jump, and run to their heart’s content. With activities ranging from dodgeball, wipeout, and basketball to ninja courses and foam pits, there is no shortage of things to do to help get those wiggles out! Inclusive options such as toddler time and specific times set aside to provide extra attention and sensory friendly options for those with special needs mean that this park is a great option for all families.

For a more aquatic-themed way to burn some energy, check out Ocean Adventures ! Geared towards kids 10 and under, their ocean themed play structure features 3 levels of immersive play including a triple 26′ slide into an 80,000 ball pit, mini slides, large spiral slide, mazes, tunnels, rope and obstacle courses, lookout portholes and more. They have a special area for toddlers as well and offer booking for birthday parties and events! At just $6 for a 2 hour time session, your kids are sure to have a blast. 

Summer Fun

During the warmer months, take the family on over to the Shoal Creek Conservation Education Center located in the Wildcat Glades . Learn all about the local flora and fauna in Missouri at the Nature Center, enjoy free programs and check out their Discover Nature Backpack filled with binoculars, field guides and other educational items to provide a richer experience during your hiking adventures. Explore the trails around Shoal Creek while you’re there, dip your toes in the water around the banks to cool off from the Missouri humidity, and keep a sharp eye out to spot some of the local wildlife.

Another local favorite for those summer months is the Route 66 Drive-In movie theater in Carthage, MO ! This classic drive-in movie theater operates from April through mid-September and even has a playground for your kids before the movie starts. They often feature children’s movies and are a great bargain at $4 for ages 6-12 and free for 5 and under. Don’t forget to bring your cash though! Cards are only accepted at concessions, so you will need to bring some paper money to pay the admission fee (It just adds to the nostalgia, right?). Stay for both movies or leave during intermission if your littles need to go to bed; this is sure to become one of your family’s favorite summertime memories.

The Joplin metro area is a tight-knit community with amazing schools, exciting nature trails, and fun extracurricular opportunities. Altogether, it makes for a great place to raise your kids. If you’re looking for the perfect place to put down roots in this area, give us a call! We’d love to be your Missouri new home builder and help you find the community that fits your family.