Three Days of History, Art, and Dining Delights in St. Joseph

St. Joseph has plenty to offer groups within this 3-Day Itinerary

There is no better way to explore the rich tapestry of Missouri than a captivating multi-day itinerary that weaves together history, art, and culinary experiences in St. Joseph. Your journey begins with a deep dive into the Pony Express Museum, where you can relive thrilling tales of the legendary mail service. It continues with insightful museum visits, fascinating home tours, and fine dining experiences that capture the essence of this vibrant city. No matter your background or interests, St. Joseph is a Show-Me State gem.

Ready for more travel inspiration? Download the full Leisure Group Travel October edition and subscribe to the FREE newsletter to stay updated with the latest travel stories.

Show Me PX Museum

Enjoy These Great Attractions and More:

Pony Express Museum
Pony School
St. Joseph’s historic districts
St. Joseph Museum
Albrecht-Kemper Museum of Art
Missouri Theater

Day-to-Day St. Joseph, Missouri Itinerary

Day 1 of Things To Do in St. Joseph, MO

Start your St. Joseph journey by stepping into the world of the Pony Express Museum, where the famous mail delivery service began over 150 years ago. This museum offers a personalized and engaging tour, detailing the inception, operation, and eventual decline of the Pony Express. Your guide will walk you through interactive exhibits, sharing stories of the brave riders who crossed treacherous terrains to keep the mail running.

The museum provides an excellent mix of artifacts and hands-on activities, making the history of this short-lived but impactful service come alive. Adjacent to the museum grounds is the Pony School, a meticulously crafted replica of an 1860s one-room schoolhouse. This educational space transports visitors back in time to experience what schooling was like in the pioneer days. Tour groups can schedule an appointment for a unique session with a School Marm, who will guide participants through lessons in reading, writing, and arithmetic, just as they were taught in the 1860s. The experience is enhanced with interactive activities like spelling bees, making it a hit for both children and adults interested in stepping into the shoes of pioneer students.

For lunch, enjoy a meal in the Pony Express Community Room, a charming spot offering a peaceful atmosphere where visitors can relax before continuing their day of exploration.

After eating, hop in the car and set out on a driving tour of St. Joseph’s historic districts. Self-guided tours are quite popular in this town, because they reveal entertaining stories and local legends that often go untold in traditional museums. As you drive, you’ll pass iconic landmarks and lesser-known gems, all accompanied by fascinating narratives that connect you to the town’s deep historical roots.

In the late afternoon, head to Missouri Western State University to visit the Walter Cronkite Memorial. This impressive tribute honors the life and career of the legendary news anchor, who was born in St. Joseph in 1916.

The memorial showcases a wide array of memorabilia, from Cronkite’s early life to his time as the trusted voice of CBS News. It’s a fitting homage to a man who helped shape public opinion during some of the most pivotal moments in American history.

End your day with a delicious dinner at one of St. Joseph’s beloved restaurants. For a true taste of Missouri, Bandana’s BBQ offers mouth-watering smoked meats and traditional sides like baked beans and coleslaw. Alternatively, Fredrick Inn Steakhouse provides a more refined dining experience, where you can savor tender steaks, hearty appetizers, and classic American dishes in a cozy, upscale setting.

Travel more, stress less! Download the full Leisure Group Travel October edition and sign up for our FREE newsletter to get exclusive travel stories delivered to your inbox.

Day 2 of Attractions in St. Joseph, Missouri

Begin your day by diving into St. Joseph’s rich cultural and historical heritage at the St. Joseph Museum. This impressive institution showcases extensive exhibits on Native American cultures from 10 regions. It also features the Glore Psychiatric Museum, a fascinating look at the evolution of mental health treatment through the 130-year history of what was once the State Lunatic Asylum No. 2. One more option to consider: the Black Archives Museum offers a meaningful exploration of the African American experience in St. Joseph.

Art lovers can enjoy a visit to the Albrecht-Kemper Museum of Art, where they will find an impressive collection of 18th-to 21st-century American artwork. Stroll through the galleries and admire both traditional and contemporary pieces in this close-knit setting.

History buffs should not miss the Patee House Museum, once a grand hotel and headquarters of the Pony Express, and the adjacent Jesse James Museum, where the infamous outlaw met his end. These two landmarks provide an engaging glimpse into Missouri’s Wild West past. End your day by dining at the JC Wyatt House, an historic home with an elegant ambiance and gourmet meals. Wyatt House will round out your exploration of St. Joseph’s past with a taste of timeless hospitality.

Day 3 of Final Attractions in St. Joseph, MO

Start Day 3 with a visit to the stunning Missouri Theater, a beautifully restored 1927 Paramount movie palace that now serves as the city’s cultural hub. With seating for 1,200, this architectural gem is decorated with intricate Assyrian and Persian motifs, providing a magnificent backdrop for a wide variety of performances and events.

Next, explore the Robidoux Row Museum, which was once a series of row houses built by the city’s founder, Joseph Robidoux. This museum offers a unique look into early life in St. Joseph and the development of the town, including exhibits on fur trading and pioneer history.

Continue your tour of historic homes with a stop at the Shakespeare Chateau, a remarkable example of 19th-century Gothic Revival architecture. With its grand stained glass windows and elaborate woodwork, this mansion transports visitors to a time of opulence and elegance. For lunch, head to the Wyeth-Tootle Mansion, where you can enjoy a meal and a tour of one of St. Joseph’s most iconic homes. The mansion is a splendid example of Victorian-era architecture, complete with grand staircases, intricate chandeliers, and expansive views of the city, and it provides a great way to wind down as your tour through St. Joseph concludes.