Jefferson City Travel Information
Jefferson City, population 39,000 is the center of government for
Missouri. This capital city is a great starting point for exploration
of the state’s history and the Missouri River valley. The city
has many historically and architecturally significant buildings, homes
and churches. The domed capitol building rises above the Missouri
River on a bluff. Tours of the building feature Thomas Hart Benton
murals and the Missouri State Museum. The renaissance revival style
Governor’s Mansion is also open for tours throughout the year and
during the holiday season candlelight tours are offered. The
Missouri River holds its own history. Native Americans, steamboats,
traders and Lewis and Clark paddled the river. Jefferson Landing
State Historic Site provides a glimpse into the city’s steamboating
past. The best views of the river and valley are by barge, boat, bike,
foot and railway. The Katy Trail State Park, open for hiking and
biking, follows the river east past bluffs and farmland. By railroad,
explorations of Missouri wine country are easy. Jefferson City
is located 30 miles south of Columbia and 40 miles northeast of the
state’s premiere water sports venue, Lake of the Ozarks. It is
accessible via U.S. Highways 50, 54 and 63 and by Amtrak. There are a
dozen hotels and several bed and breakfasts in the area.
| 
