Discover Sedalia, Missouri: Our Favorite 11 Things To Do
Whether you’re looking to explore the great outdoors, indulge in delicious cuisine, or experience the excitement of an event as grand as the Missouri State Fair, Sedalia has something for everyone. In this article, we’ll take a deeper look into what Nichole and I have found to be our top 11 things to do in Sedalia, MO that might inspire you to include this town in your travel itinerary.
What Is There To Do In Sedalia, MO?
Sedalia, Missouri may seem like an unlikely destination for many travelers, but this charming city has much to offer for visitors seeking unique and exciting experiences. Located in the heart of the Show-Me State, Sedalia boasts a rich history, beautiful natural scenery, and a wide range of cultural offerings that make it an ideal destination for travelers.
When we first visited, we didn’t know anything so we spent several days trying many different places our friends had recommended to us. That helped us quickly choose the ones we enjoyed the most. Plus, we always add more places to the list each time we return to Sedalia.
We wanted to know the answers to questions such as:
- What are the most popular attractions in Sedalia, MO that I should not miss?
- Which local restaurants in Sedalia, MO should I try?
- What is the best time of the year to visit Sedalia, MO to fully enjoy its attractions and events?
So here is what we have curated for you from our experiences. Be sure to let us know what adventure, attraction, hotel, or food spot we should add to our next visit. But first, here’s a handy content list to preview the journey we’re about to take.
Visit the Missouri State Fair
Held annually in August, the Missouri State Fair is one of Sedalia’s most popular events in the Midwest. Mark it on your calendar early since the area hotels and campgrounds fill quickly.
Launched in 1899, this state fair is one of the oldest in the nation. It resides on 396 acres and attracts over 350,000 visitors who come to enjoy the midway attractions, concerts, livestock shows, competitive exhibits, shopping, and more. With dozens of seasonal events happening throughout the year from auctions and trade shows to motorcycle rallies and sporting events, the Missouri State Fair is a great destination for families of all ages.
Explore Katy Trail State Park
Katy Trail State Park in Missouri is the longest rails-to-trails project in the United States, stretching over 240 miles and crossing nearly 250 bridges. It runs along the former Missouri–Kansas–Texas Railway (MKT) corridor through a majority of Missouri’s rural countryside, from St. Charles to Clinton. New sections are expanding each year to take the trail up the former Rock Island Line to Kansas City.
This trail is ideal for hikers, bikers, horseback riders, and joggers who are looking for an outdoor adventure. The park also offers amenities such as camping grounds, modern restrooms with showers, rental bike shops along the trail, and even bed & breakfast inns and restaurants near the trailhead.
Admire the historic architecture of Downtown Sedalia
Downtown Sedalia is one of our favorite places to visit simply because we love the history. It is home to some of the city’s oldest buildings and businesses, as well as some of its most unique attractions. You can explore the historic district to see some beautiful architecture and learn about Sedalia’s past.
What is known as the Downtown Sedalia Historic District, extends from 4th Street to 10th Street and includes many buildings from the late 1800s and early 1900s. The area features many of the things we love about downtown blocks including brick-paved streets, vintage storefronts, iron street lamps, and stately homes.
You can take a walking tour of the district to learn more about its history or visit one of the popular museums in town. The district has several museums showcasing artifacts from the area’s history including Native American artifacts, Victorian clothing, firearms, farm implements, photographs, and unique local art pieces.
Bothwell Lodge State Historic Site
The Bothwell Lodge State Historic Site is a state park located on the bluffs of the Osage River. It was built in 1927 as a private club by prominent businessman John Bothwell. The lodge and grounds feature classic Spanish Colonial Revival architecture and stunning scenic views of the river valley.
Visitors to the site can explore the grand main lodge, view photos and artifacts from its past, take guided tours of its grounds, and enjoy outdoor activities such as fishing and swimming along the banks of the river. It is also one of only three preserved historic sites in Missouri that cannot be altered or moved in any way.
Discover Sedalia’s Katy Depot
The Katy Depot attraction is a preserved historic railroad station in Sedalia, Missouri. Built in 1892, the depot served as the Union Pacific Railroad’s regional headquarters until 1962. Today, it serves as a museum and tourist attraction that showcases the history of railroads in the area.
The building has been restored to its original condition and features an authentic locomotive, actual artifacts from the Union Pacific era, a full-scale model of a steam engine, and interactive exhibits focused on transportation technology.
Visitors can also take part in special events such as train rides and railroad-themed festivals. The Katy Depot is open to visitors throughout the year and offers educational programs for school groups and other organizations throughout the year.
Marvel at the Daum Museum of Contemporary Art
Located at State Fair Community College, the Daum Museum of Contemporary Art is home to an impressive collection of over 1500 works of art, including paintings, photographs, digital media, sculptures, and video installations, which are sure to captivate and inspire. Guided tours are available.
The Daum Museum of Contemporary Art was established in 2002. The museum offers three floors of exhibits and educational programs such as lectures, workshops, and classes to promote public engagement with the arts. Additionally, the museum hosts special exhibitions and events throughout the year that highlight emerging artists and new trends in contemporary art.
Taste the authentic flavors of Missouri at Kehde’s BBQ
I don’t think we’ve ever been to Sedalia and not enjoyed a meal at Kehde’s BBQ in Sedalia. The restaurant is a fully restored passenger train car from the old Missouri-Kansas-Texas railroad line. Where else can you eat amazing BBQ in an old train car?
Kehde’s is a family-owned restaurant that has been serving up delicious food for over 30 years. They specialize in slow-cooked, smoked ribs and chicken as well as pulled pork sandwiches. In addition to their signature dishes, they offer a wide variety of the side dishes you expect including fries, baked beans, macaroni & cheese, coleslaw, and potato salad.
They are open 7 days a week for lunch and dinner and also offer catering services for special events.
Experience the thrills of Balloon & Kite Fest
The annual Hot Air Balloon & Kite Festival in Sedalia is a fun-filled event for the whole family. It takes place every year and offers a wide range of activities, including tethered hot air balloon rides, kite flying demonstrations, evening glows, and live music. There are also food vendors, a petting zoo, inflatable rides for kids, and arts & crafts vendors.
Often held in mid-June, the festival draws thousands of people each year and is a great way to enjoy the outdoors with friends and family. Check the weather in advance to make sure the balloons and kites are safe to put in the air.
Visit the Sedalia Area Farmers Market
The Sedalia Area Farmers Market on the Missouri State Fair Grounds runs from early May through late October and offers a wide variety of local and regional produce from farmers in the area. The market is held twice per week, on Tuesdays and Fridays from 3-6 p.m.
During the summer months, there are additional opportunities to shop at the market with special events such as live music performances, food truck days, and educational seminars. The market also offers a variety of homemade goods and their Little Sprouts program helps kids learn where their food comes from.
Learn about the history of Sedalia at the Pettis County Museum
The Pettis County Museum showcases artifacts and curated displays about Pettis County, MO, history. The museum preserves the rich heritage of the region through its six galleries that feature relics and stories related to local history, art, industry, science, and more. Museum admission is free and located at 228 Dundee in Sedalia, MO.
The museum dates to 1943 when the Pettis County Historical Society placed exhibits in the Pettis County Courthouse. In 2006, the dream of opening a formal museum was realized, thanks to the donation of a building by the former Jewish Temple Beth El.
The museum is sponsored and is staffed by volunteers from the Pettis County Historical Society. Membership in the historical society is $15 per year or $25 for families.
Enjoy a picnic at Liberty Park
With over 30 acres of green space, Liberty Park is a beautiful destination and great for picnics, walking, and outdoor recreational activities. The park features a fishing lake, fountains, playgrounds, shelters, and sports facilities that are perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts.
In Conclusion
Sedalia, Missouri is a hidden gem that offers a unique blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. Whether you’re coming to town for some live entertainment or indulging in flavorful foods, Sedalia will not leave you disappointed.
We hope our list of the top 11 things to do in Sedalia has inspired you to plan a visit. Make time to explore all the interesting attractions that it has to offer.
Many visitors would love to know what the town’s people are attracted to. What do they do in their leader time or do in the seasons? Just commenting.
You are correct, Richard. I know we love learning those things. We’ll start putting together a list of some attractions that locals enjoy along with seasonal events beyond just the state fair and annual balloon launch. Thanks!