Blake Walsh

20 Best Things to Do in Liberty, MO

  • Published 2022/10/18

Compared to their larger counterparts, smaller cities like Liberty in Missouri offer a unique appeal.

To experience its small-town charm, try all the best things to do in Liberty.

If you think that bigger is always better, you’ll be surprised!

Jesse James, a known criminal, robbed a Liberty bank in 1866.

If you want to witness the crime scene, visit Liberty now.

Sipping wine, meandering through historic districts, and watching college sports are all enjoyable pastimes in this city in northwest Missouri.

Liberty, located on the outskirts of Kansas Metropolis, has all the benefits of a small town while still being close enough to all the conveniences of the major city.

This second-oldest town west of the Mississippi was founded in 1822 and incorporated in 1829. It took its name from the principle that Americans cherish most.

William Jewell College is located in the city with six districts on the National Register of Historic Places, a flourishing historic downtown area, and three museums.

Read on to discover the best things to do in Liberty, and let us help you make your vacation as memorable and fun-filled as possible!

Explore Martha Lafite Thompson Nature Sanctuary

Martha Lafite Thompson Nature Sanctuary

Jon Kraft / Shutterstock.com

Martha Lafite Thompson Nature Sanctuary is a lush urban retreat with at least 13 picturesque pathways, a diversified scenery, and several engaging interpretive exhibits and other features.

A naturalist’s paradise, Liberty is home to an abundance of interesting places to visit, such as this action-packed tourist hub.

Martha Lafite Thompson Nature Sanctuary

Jon Kraft / Shutterstock.com

It’s also a great place to visit if you’re on a budget and want to take advantage of nearby activities that aren’t too expensive.

The Martha Lafite Thompson Nature Sanctuary is an excellent place to spend a few hours in nature.

Hiking along scenic paths, taking in displays about the area’s animals at the nature center, and practicing your nature photography are just a few activities available.

Tour Liberty Jail Historic Site

As one of the best activities for families in Liberty, taking a sightseeing trip and experiencing the area’s many fantastic sites, including this historic landmark, is a must.

Between 1820 and 1850s, the Liberty Jail was a renowned prison in Philadelphia, and the Liberty Jail Historic Site is a tourist center that stands in its place.

Guided tours are available, as is a reproduction of Joseph Smith’s original cell, the jail’s most famous inmate, and where he was imprisoned before founding the Mormon Church.

Visit the Liberty Jail Historic Site with your children and have a good time learning about the amazing displays.

Take a guided tour of the former prison and see items like ancient photos, reconstructions, reproductions of the dungeons, and more.

Visit Jesse James Bank Museum

Jesse James Bank Museum

Jon Kraft / Shutterstock.com

There was a historical bank called the Jesse James Bank Museum in the 19th century.

In 1866, a bank heist was committed at this location.

A visit to this well-known museum is just one of many breathtaking attractions you may see while touring the city this coming weekend.

Jesse James Bank Museum

Jon Kraft / Shutterstock.com

For a reasonable charge, you may see its numerous treasures, take guided tours, and more.

Easy access and several surrounding eateries and stores make this a popular tourist destination.

The Jesse James Bank Museum is a treasure trove of fascinating artifacts, so don’t forget to bring your camera.

Get an inside look at relics and ancient banking equipment from the robbery, pictures, historical papers in period-appropriate chambers, etc.

Check Out the Terry Barnes Memorial Fountain

In front of the “William Jewell College” sign on Mill Street, you’ll find the Terry Barnes Memorial Fountain.

To get to the cement pedestal in the middle of the fountain, guests must walk around an open circle.

The ceremony took place on May 6, 2000, the same day as the re-dedication of Jewell Hall.

Terry Barnes received a bachelor’s degree in business management from William Jewell College in 1989.

He was the last of his five brothers and sisters to attend Jewell.

In addition to participating in track and football, Barnes was also an active member of the Kappa Alpha Honor Society while at the university.

Around 4 a.m., a police officer opened fire on him inside his residence.

The 33-year old cop has worked for two years in this position.

At the moment, Barnes was unarmed.

In June of the following year, he was married to Alison Brady, a classmate from 1989.

Barnes was 24 years old when he died.

In honor of Barnes’ memory, his family gave the fountain to Jewell in 2000.

Stay at Sleep Inn & Suites Indoor Waterpark

Sleep Inn & Suites is located near Worlds of Fun amusement park, easily accessible via I-35.

Your youngsters won’t be able to resist a trip to the hotel’s Liberty Lagoon Indoor Water Park, even if you travel to the theme park.

Have some fun with them.

For special occasions, there are a child pool and party area and hot tubs and adult slides.

With work or tourism on the agenda during the day, this hotel provides a setting that encourages you to unwind and sleep well at night.

Cozy mattresses, microwaves, refrigerators, coffee machines, and free WiFi are included in each room.

The hotel’s kind and knowledgeable staff members will make your trip plans easier.

See Intriguing Displays at Clay County Museum

Clay County Museum

Jon Kraft / Shutterstock.com

Are you looking for free activities to participate in Liberty?

Are you interested in history and looking for places to see?

If so, this museum is a must-visit.

When it comes to the Clay County Historical Society Museum (the official name), it is housed in a structure completed in 1865.

An array of interesting exhibits on local history and art may be seen throughout the museum’s several rooms.

You may discover a wide variety of memorabilia, souvenirs, and collectibles at the gift store.

The Clay County Museum’s galleries are a must-see in Liberty if you’re looking for something intriguing and one-of-a-kind.

See historical antiques, musical instruments, antique toys, maps, newspapers, and other memorabilia.

Other themed rooms include a library, a church, and an old-fashioned parlor.

Go Skating at Northland Rolladium Skate Center

You can’t go wrong with Northland Rolladium Skate Center in Liberty!

For almost 35 years, this skating center has been a household brand in the Northland, thanks to its family ownership.

One of the finest recreation centers in the Kansas City metropolitan region for birthday parties, school parties, church parties, and more, Northland Rolladium is recognized for its exciting, family-friendly environment.

We provide a broad selection of events families to participate in during our public sessions.

See what’s going on at Northland Rolladium Skate Center this month by clicking on the Special Events page!

In the Tribunes’ Best of the Northland contest, Northland Rolladium was named one of the Northlands’ Best Places to Roller Skate.

Play Bowling at Retro Bowl

This fantastic bowling alley is a favorite with both residents and visitors.

It’s warm and inviting, with many facilities to choose from.

If you’re looking for nightlife options in Liberty, don’t miss this well-known bowling alley.

There is also an onsite bar and restaurant where you may sample a variety of alcoholic beverages.

Drop by the Retro Bowl with your friends after a fun-filled day of touring and participating in several tourist activities.

Spend the evening bowling with your friends, drinking amazing drinks and beer, and indulging in mouthwatering foods like luscious burgers and sandwiches.

Learn about Local History at Clay County Archives and Historical Library

Front View of Clay County Archives and Historical Library

25or6to4, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Clay County Archives and Historical Library (CCAHL) was founded in 1979 by Jack Roberts, a circuit clerk.

Roberts argued that the county’s records should be kept in a location where anybody may easily access them.

“Preserving the Past for the Future” is the motto of the historical society’s website.

This group’s primary goal is to collect and preserve historical papers, evidence, records, and instruments.

The association may find these papers or articles useful, or they may be used to raise awareness about the association’s work.

Stroll through Historic Downtown Liberty, Inc

In the heart of Liberty’s historic area, you’ll find a unique mix of old and new.

Don’t forget to set aside some time to explore the city’s numerous beautiful downtown areas.

Museums, old churches, boutique boutiques, lovely breweries, and other enticing attractions may be found here.

Walking through Liberty’s Historic Downtown is a great way to connect with your loved ones.

Do things like visiting a brewery, having a few drinks, seeing museums, sightseeing, shopping, etc.

A massage, a salon visit, or dining at a local restaurant are just a few of the many options available to you while you’re in town.

Go Hiking at Stocksdale Park

Stocksdale Park

Jon Kraft / Shutterstock.com

There are 2.8 miles of scenic hiking trails at Stocksdale Park, making it a popular spot.

If you’re a nature lover looking for a spot to relax and recharge your batteries in Liberty, you’ve come to the right place.

Once you’ve donned your hiking boots, take a stroll through this picture-perfect park.

Because it is pet-friendly, you may bring your four-legged buddy along for fun as long as you remember to keep them leashed.

Spend valuable time with your traveling companions by enjoying various exciting activities in Liberty, such as hiking or biking around Stocksdale Park.

Enjoy the tranquility of your surroundings as you drive through towering trees, rich vegetation, and a plethora of other natural attractions.

Disc golf and fetch are available for you and your pet at this park.

Shop for Vintage Items at Liberty Antique Mall

Consider this antique mall’s outside appearance to be deceptive.

There are many hidden gems to be found at the Antique Mall.

There is a lot of diversity in the booths distributed across two levels.

It features a startling assortment of antiques, collectibles, and vintage items.

Whether you’re looking for a specific item or just looking for some advice, the personnel at this shop are here to help.

Items are also reasonably priced.

Bring Home Some Essentials from Bittersweet Apothecary

The Bittersweet Soap and Apothecary Retail Store are located in Liberty, Missouri, in a magnificent century-old mansion.

In addition to the Bittersweet Apothecary line of goods, you’ll discover a wide variety of handcrafted things produced by Jill, such as paper flowers, linen aprons, and natural skincare products.

Once inside, the exquisite scents of Jill’s handmade soaps fill the air.

You may design and manufacture your body spray, moisturizer, mineral salt, or perfume at this modern pharmacy shop’s fragrance area.

Natural cremes, cleansers, masks, facial oils, toners are all available in the skincare area.

You may learn how to break the skincare code and find pure yet effective natural products.

There are also a few pieces of apparel and accessories for ladies and some hand-picked vintage basics.

Go Winetasting at Belvoir Winery

The Belvoir Winery is a popular wedding location, which is recognized for its rustic beauty and natural surroundings.

Wine tasting rooms, an inn, and many more amenities are available.

If you’re looking for romantic things to do in Liberty for couples, there’s no better option than spending some quality time at this beautiful vineyard and lodging.

In addition to the great environment, you may sample a wide range of white, red, and specialty wines at this establishment.

It also provides a wide range of exciting activities and programs that you and your group may participate in to make the trip even more special.

The Belvoir Winery is one of the most beautiful spots to visit right now, and it’s the perfect site to make new memories with your significant other.

Go wine tasting, wander hand in hand around its lovely grounds, snap countless photographs together, and so much more while you’re here.

You and your beloved can also participate in a murder mystery dinner or a guided paranormal investigation tour for a more adventurous experience.

Have a Blast at Above All Trampoline Park

This trampoline park is Liberty’s most popular place for families to have a good time!

Experience flying through the air on our big indoor trampoline court.

Fly in the safe zone for junior flyers or dodge and dive on our dodgeball courts.

The brand-new Ninja Course features six difficult obstacles that test your balance, strength, and agility.

A fireman’s pole serves as the last obstacle to be overcome.

Find Your Way out at Liberty Corn Maze

Others may dismiss Missouri as just another “fly-over state,” but anyone who lives there knows otherwise.

Liberty Corn Maze is open for outdoor recreation in the fall.

You may have a blast exploring one of four giant mazes, including the explorer, kayaker, and tent.

Its rope, tire, and soybean mazes are just the thing to test the mettle of the family’s littlest members.

In addition, your little farmers may try out the tractor farming simulator or swing on the irrigator pivot spider swings.

This fall, bring the family to the Liberty Corn Maze, where there’s much to do outside, and everyone will have a great time.

Learn Horseback Riding at Liberty Farm Equestrian Center

Horse enthusiasts will have a blast at Liberty Farm Equestrian Center.

Experienced horse trainer Jeff Tryon offers lessons for novices and pros alike.

His show-ready horses are kind and tractable because he believes they should enjoy their work.

He teaches and coaches riders of all ages and skill levels, from nervous beginners to seasoned veterans.

Individualized instruction is a hallmark of this learning institution.

No matter your age, from 2 to 92, the center will help you learn the necessary skills.

This property has 44 stables, a vast indoor and outdoor arena, a paddock, and a pasture, making it a full-service equestrian complex.

It also offers horse camps for all kids and adults.

Camps for kids teach participants how to care for horses and other equestrian skills, including riding, lunging, and leading, and providing them with fun activities.

Loosen up at Serenity on the Square

Do your muscles feel a bit stiff?

Once you’ve seen all that Liberty offers, it’s time to relax at Serenity on the Square.

It stands in Downtown Liberty Square, a picturesque historic district.

Its expert therapists offer massage of different types, acupuncture, energy balancing through Reiki, and life coaching through visual imagery.

It also features a yoga studio where you may practice a wide range of yoga classes appropriate for beginners to advanced practitioners.

Grab Fresh Produce from Historic Downtown Liberty Farmers’ Market

From May through October, the Historic Downtown Liberty Farmers’ Market is open every Saturday, rain or shine.

Farmers and artisans sell everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to meat and eggs, baked products, ready-to-eat meals, and unique items.

Most of the goods offered at the market come from within 110 miles of Liberty, so you know you’re supporting local farmers and businesses.

Shop for fresh fruits and vegetables and one-of-a-kind presents to show your support for local farmers and artisans.

Not sure what to get a loved one for a gift?

Buy market tokens at the Historic Downtown Liberty Farmers’ Market Visitor Booth and give those to your loved ones to use during the entire market season.

Buy Soap and Other Souvenirs from Bittersweet Soap and Apothecary

Bittersweet Soap and Apothecary, a souvenir hunters’ paradise, lies in a lovely century-old house in downtown Liberty.

You may shop for natural skin care, handmade paper flowers, linen aprons, and many other handcrafted things the owner, Jill, produces.

Jill’s workshop welcomes you with the sweet aroma of handcrafted soaps, each one unique in its delicate flavor.

In this trendy drugstore, you may use the scent bar to make your custom body spray, mineral salt, perfume, or moisturizer.

You may also find cosmetics, apparel, jewelry, antiques, books, and various trinkets here.

Stop by Bittersweet Soap and Apothecary and grab some before you head home!

Final Thoughts

Now that your hectic job schedule has been put on hold, take a well-earned holiday.

To unwind and recharge your batteries, consider visiting a picturesque city far from the masses’ hustle and bustle.

Liberty, Missouri, a charming and ancient city, is the best place for you.

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