Jefferson City

Travel Guide
Jefferson City showing a park
Find out about the landing of European settlers in this historic state capital and marvel at its impressive domed behemoth.

Although it is the capital of Missouri, the charming Jefferson City is remarkably small and quaint. This beautiful town makes up for its size with its impressive structures, political importance and wonderful views of the Missouri River. Learn about the legal and administrative role played by the town named after the country’s third president, Thomas Jefferson.

The emblematic highlight is the majestic Missouri State Capitol, with an iconic dome that rises above the skyline. Ascend to the dome itself and enjoy the vista of the river and the city laid out beneath you. Embark on a free 45-minute guided tour of the majestic rooms, such as the Whispering Gallery. Snap photos of the façade’s eight pillars that support its pediment.

Visit the Missouri State Museum on the first floor of the Missouri State Capitol. Take a tour of its exhibits on such topics as the Civil War and the settlement of the region. Go to the nearby Jefferson Landing State Historic Site, where the first Europeans arrived before inhabiting the city.

Look to the future by chatting with students at the state’s proud Lincoln University of Missouri. Since it was founded in 1866 the school has had mostly African-American students. Tour its historic buildings.

Summers here are fairly hot and humid, leading to impressive lightning displays. In winter, see the town’s pretty buildings covered in snow.

Note that famous explorers Lewis and Clark passed through this town on their historic voyage before settlers first arrived from Europe. The town is today known by locals as Jeff.

The city is located just outside Columbia on the Ozark Plateau in the heart of Missouri. Fly to Columbia Regional Airport and drive south for 20 miles (30 kilometers) to arrive in about 25 minutes. You can also reach Jefferson City Railway Station by Amtrak. Visit other cities in the region, such as Springfield, Kansas City and St. Louis.

Jefferson City is a jewel in the political, geographical and cultural center of Missouri.

Baymont by Wyndham Jefferson City
Baymont by Wyndham Jefferson City
2.5 out of 5
319 W. Miller Street, Jefferson City, MO
The price is CA $116 per night from May 12 to May 13
CA $116
CA $133 total
includes taxes & fees
May 12 - May 13
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Jefferson City. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the ...
8/10 Very Good! (1,003 reviews)
"Clean and quiet. The nice looking guy at the front counter was very kind and polite. Great customer service."

Reviewed on Apr. 15, 2024

Baymont by Wyndham Jefferson City
Capitol Plaza Hotel Jefferson City
Capitol Plaza Hotel Jefferson City
3.5 out of 5
Jefferson City 415 W. McCarty St, Jefferson City, MO
The price is CA $99 per night from May 12 to May 13
CA $99
CA $128 total
includes taxes & fees
May 12 - May 13
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Jefferson City. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and breakfast (surcharge). Our guests praise the helpful staff ...
7/10 Good! (1,001 reviews)
"Nice place, but m had a car show next door that weekend so was loud for that reason."

Reviewed on May 5, 2024

Capitol Plaza Hotel Jefferson City
Days Inn by Wyndham Jefferson City
Days Inn by Wyndham Jefferson City
2 out of 5
2100 Jefferson St, Jefferson City, MO
The price is CA $79 per night from May 19 to May 20
CA $79
CA $91 total
includes taxes & fees
May 19 - May 20
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Jefferson City. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the ...
7.6/10 Good! (1,002 reviews)
"I think Days Inn is a good value, particularly for one-night stays while traveling. This property was a great example of how inexpensive doesn't have to mean "cheap." The only suggestion I would make is to provide full-size napkins for the complimentary breakfast. Cocktail naps don't quite get the ..."

Reviewed on May 8, 2024

Days Inn by Wyndham Jefferson City
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
The Carriage House at Parker's Place
The Carriage House at Parker's Place
Jefferson City
Stay at this cottage in Jefferson City. Enjoy free WiFi, a garden, and patios. Popular attractions Missouri State Penitentiary Museum and Cole County Historical ...
10/10 Exceptional! (17 reviews)
Cute & Clean
"Such a cute property, great location, clean with modern touches. We enjoyed our stay during a girls getaway!"

Reviewed on May 7, 2024

The Carriage House at Parker's Place
Sprawling Jefferson City Villa: Indoor Pool, Creek
Sprawling Jefferson City Villa: Indoor Pool, Creek
Jefferson City
Stay at this villa in Jefferson City. Enjoy private pools, a garden, and a pool table. Popular attractions Oak Hills Golf Center and Natural Connections Wellness ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (7 reviews)
Work trip
"Work trip in Jefferson City with five coworkers. The location was cozy and beds were comfortable. Lots of space to hang out. The kitchen was big had most everything we needed. The neighborhood with mature trees was fantastic. We were disappointed the pool table was not functional since the sticks ..."

Reviewed on Apr. 26, 2024

Sprawling Jefferson City Villa: Indoor Pool, Creek
Comfy Farm House with a back yard full of fun near Jefferson City, MO. Sleeps 6!
Comfy Farm House with a back yard full of fun near Jefferson City, MO. Sleeps 6!
Loose Creek
Book a stay at this family-friendly vacation home in Jefferson City. Enjoy free WiFi, a garden, and patios.
10/10 Exceptional! (46 reviews)
Comfortable and Cozy
"We loved staying in this farmhouse on our trip to Jefferson City (just 15-20 minutes away)! The property had a lot to offer, especially if you have kids! Everything was as described and better with all the little touches that make a getaway that much better. I enjoyed cooking in the well-stocked ..."

Reviewed on Apr. 6, 2024

Comfy Farm House with a back yard full of fun near Jefferson City, MO. Sleeps 6!
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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