8 Things to Do in Excelsior Springs That You Shouldn't Miss

Jesse James, son of a Baptist minister, was born at the family home in Kearney, Missouri, in 1847. Barely 16, he followed his older brother, Frank, into the Civil War. While Frank was a member of Quantrill’s guerillas, Jesse rode with Bloody Bill Anderson. When the war ended, Jesse returned home and joined other former Confederate guerillas in a life of outlawry. Jesse’s boldness and flamboyance as a bank and train robber, combined with sensational publicity from newspapers and dime novels, soon made his a household name. A tour through the restored home will take visitors back to where the legend began. Before walking the trail to the farmhouse, a twenty minute movie recaps the history of Frank and Jesse James and exploits of the outlaws. The museum displays the world’s largest collection of James family artifacts. Jesse’s boots and Frank’s surrender letter tend to captivate visitors. Guests then follow the paved winding trail to the farmhouse and walk along the creek where, as young boys, Frank and Jesse spent much of their time playing. In the yard of the family home is Jesse’s original burial site, the place where his mother once sold souvenir rocks from his grave for twenty five cents. Upon completion of the tour guests will want to browse the museum's gift shop. A wide variety of books relating to the period are available as well as t-shirts, mugs, and many other souvenir keepsakes. The Jesse James Farm and Museum is owned and operated by the Department of Clay County Parks, Recreation, Historic Sites and Tourism.

A 100-acre lake with a paved bicycle path around it, plentiful fishing, a picturesque campground and choice picnic spots make Watkins Mill State Park an ideal place for an afternoon or longer. Located near the Kansas City area, the park has ample fishing opportunities and an abundance of whitetailed deer and wild turkeys to watch. The park is adjacent to the Watkins Woolen Mill State Historic Site, a National Historic Landmark.

Fence Stile Vineyards & Winery is a family run vineyard & winery located just 40 minutes from downtown Kansas City and is set in the rolling hills of scenic Excelsior Springs, Missouri. We believe wine is an experience to be savored and shared. We are committed to creating quality, affordable wines with a personal touch. Our unique winery offers wine tastings, wine & other beverages, winery & cave tours, gift baskets, wine merchandise and wine accessories for sale. You can enjoy a glass of wine on the patio overlooking the vineyards or in the indoor tasting room. The outdoor fire pit is a great place to gather with family and friends on cozy evenings and we have an indoor fireplace as well. Join a painting party, an outdoor movie or live music. Private tastings, tours, events & WiFi available.

Four Horses and a Dog is a vineyard and winery that began in 2008 and is located in Excelsior Springs, Missouri. Our hours are Friday, 4-8 p.m., Saturday, 12-5 p.m., and Monday-Thursday and Sundays by appointment.

Description: A "green spa" owned by Mother and Daughter Licensed Aestheticians. Always striving to provide superior service at affordable prices in a warm and inviting atmosphere. New for 2010 is the amazing Carbon Infrared Sauna! Open 9-5 Tuesday through Saturday. After hour appointments and spa parties available. Gift Card sales and Spa Finder Cards accepted. Members of ASCP(Associated Skin Care Professionals), DEP(Downtown Excelsior Partnership) Excelsior Springs Chamber of Commerce.