So you’ve chosen Missouri as the backdrop for your elopement. First of all, hell yeah—you’ve made an amazing choice. Missouri isn’t just flyover country; it’s a damn treasure trove of local charm, nature, food, and culture. Whether you’re getting hitched in Springfield, Kansas City, St. Louis, or even Columbia, there’s plenty to do to make your elopement feel more like a getaway. And hey, while you’re at it, why not soak up the local culture, eat some killer food, and throw back a drink (or three)?
Here’s your ultimate guide to making the most of your time in Missouri—because your wedding deserves more than just “I do” and deuces.
Springfield (417 Area): Small-Town Vibes with Big Personality
Springfield isn’t just Bass Pro and Route 66 nostalgia (though those are fun too); it’s full of hidden gems that’ll make your stay unforgettable.
Eats & Drinks
- Gailey’s Breakfast Café: Start your day with hearty brunch vibes. Their stuffed French toast and biscuits will have you saying, “Can I get married here instead?”
- Tie & Timber Beer Co.: A cozy craft brewery perfect for kicking back with some local brews. Bonus: It’s dog-friendly, so bring your pup along for the ride.
- Corner 21: If you’re craving bold flavors and a cozy atmosphere, Corner 21 is your go-to spot. This locally loved Taiwanese joint serves up dishes that pack a punch, like their spicy beef noodle soup or iconic spicy tofu. Whether you’re on a noodle binge or looking for the perfect bubble tea to cap off your meal, this is the kind of place that’ll have you planning a return trip before you even leave. Bonus: It’s casual enough to pop in after a long day of exploring but delicious enough to feel like a treat. And yes, you will have leftovers.
Attractions
- Fantastic Caverns: Take a ride-through cave tour because, hey, who doesn’t want to say they went spelunking on their elopement trip?
- Wonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium: It’s not your average aquarium—think immersive exhibits and enough photo ops to fill your Instagram for a month.
- Springfield Botanical Gardens: A gorgeous spot to stroll (or sneak in some bonus wedding portraits).
Seasonal Fun
- Ozark Empire Fair (July): Funnel cakes and carnival rides? Yes, please.
- Cider Days (September): Sip on cider while browsing local arts and crafts.
Kansas City: Where Art and BBQ Collide
KC brings big-city energy without losing its Midwestern charm. If you’re craving culture, food, and a damn good time, this is the place to be.
Eats & Drinks
- Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que: The Z-Man sandwich is basically a rite of passage.
- Parlor KC: A trendy food hall with something for everyone—from pizza to ramen, all under one roof.
- Julep Cocktail Club: Craft cocktails served in a cozy, speakeasy-esque space. Cheers to your newlywed glow.
Attractions
- Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art: Stroll through the sculpture park and take a breather from all the wedding excitement.
- Country Club Plaza: Think shopping, dining, and architecture that’s downright romantic.
- Boulevard Brewing Company: A must-visit for craft beer lovers. Go for the beer, stay for the views from their beer hall.
Seasonal Fun
- Boulevardia (June): A beer, music, and food festival that’ll have you feeling like a local in no time.
- Plaza Lights (November-December): KC goes all out with its holiday decor. Perfect for winter elopements.
St. Louis: Gateway to an Incredible Time
From iconic landmarks to local gems, St. Louis is packed with things to do that’ll turn your wedding trip into a mini vacation.
Eats & Drinks
- Pappy’s Smokehouse: The ribs here are no joke. Pair it with their sweet potato fries, and thank me later.
- The Venice Café: Quirky, artsy, and full of eclectic charm—this spot screams “offbeat and unforgettable.”
- Niche Food Group Restaurants: For upscale dining, hit up one of their spots like Sardella or Pastaria.
Attractions
- Gateway Arch: A total must-do. Whether you ride to the top or admire it from below, it’s iconic for a reason.
- City Museum: Part playground, part art exhibit—this is a can’t-miss, especially if you love quirky vibes.
- Forest Park: It’s bigger than Central Park and has everything from a zoo to stunning gardens.
Seasonal Fun
- Shakespeare in the Park (June): Pack a blanket and enjoy free theater under the stars.
- LouFest (Fall): Music, food trucks, and the best of STL vibes.
Columbia: The Perfect College Town Escape
Columbia might be smaller, but it packs a punch with its food scene, artsy vibes, and proximity to nature.
Eats & Drinks
- Broadway Brewery: Locally sourced dishes with an impressive lineup of craft beers.
- Sparky’s Homemade Ice Cream: Grab a scoop of something weird and wonderful—like lavender honey or goat cheese.
- Shakespeare’s Pizza: Because what’s better than pizza on your wedding weekend?
Attractions
- Rock Bridge Memorial State Park: Perfect for a pre-wedding hike or some nature-filled downtime.
- The District: Columbia’s downtown area is packed with shops, restaurants, and bars.
- Artlandish Gallery: A fun spot to browse local art and pick up a unique keepsake.
Seasonal Fun
- True/False Film Fest (March): Celebrate your love story with a side of indie film magic.
- Roots N Blues Festival (September): Live music and local eats—it doesn’t get much better.
Why Missouri Is Perfect for Elopements
Still not convinced? Missouri’s mix of urban and rural vibes makes it a dream location for couples looking for something different.
- Accessibility: KC and STL are major hubs, so getting here is easy.
- Nature at Your Fingertips: Rivers, forests, caves, you name it—Missouri’s got it all within a short drive.
- Local Charm: From dive bars to high-end restaurants, there’s something for everyone.
- Affordability: Let’s be real—Missouri is way more budget-friendly than, say, a destination wedding in Napa or New York.
Pro Tips for Making the Most of Your Stay
- Plan for a Blend: Mix outdoor adventures with city excursions to keep things interesting.
- Ask Locals: They’ll point you to hidden gems you won’t find online.
- Season Matters: Fall is peak season for weddings in Missouri, but each season has its own perks.
- Get Creative with Your Photos: Whether you’re downtown or deep in the woods, your elopement pics can feel as unique as you are.
Missouri may not be the first place that comes to mind for an elopement, but that’s what makes it so damn special. Whether you’re sipping craft cocktails in KC, exploring caves in Springfield, or taking in the skyline in STL, this state has everything you need for a fun, relaxed, and unforgettable wedding adventure.
So, grab your love, pack your bags, and let’s make this the most epic elopement weekend ever. Your story starts here, and trust me—it’s gonna be one hell of a tale.
